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COVID-19: Press Releases and Updates in March by the Government of India and the World Health Organisation [HTML and PDFs]

A compilation of press releases issued by the Government of India through the Press Information Bureau, Delhi, for the month of March 2020.

Press Releases on COVID-19 issued by the Government of India

March 31, 2020

168. Updates on COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The prevention, containment and management of COVID-19 in the country are being monitored at the highest level and various actions have been initiated in collaboration with the States. Hon’ble Prime Minister is regularly monitoring and reviewing the situation with top officials of the concerned Ministries/Departments and States/UTs. 6.29 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609627]. Click here for PDF .

PIB Press Releases – COVID-19NOVEMBEROCTOBERSEPTEMBERAUGUSTJULYJUNEMAYAPRILFEBRUARYJANUARY Source: Press Information Bureau, New Delhi

167. National Testing Agency postpones Joint Entrance Examination (Main) April-2020 - Ministry of Human Resource Development

In continuation of PUBLIC NOTICE dated 18.03.2020 issued by the National Testing Agency regarding postponement of the ensuing JEE (Main) April 2020 examinations scheduled on the 5th, 7th to 9th and 11th April 2020, NTA has further notified that as of now the examination is proposed to be held in the last week of May 2020. Exact date will be announced after assessing the situation in the coming weeks. 5.39 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609602]. Click here for PDF .

166. India's success key to global fight against Corona virus, says Vice President - Vice President's Secretariat

Vice-President of India and Rajya Sabha Chairman Shri M.Venkaiah Naidu has lauded the efforts of the central and State governments and the resolve, response and cooperation of the people leading to successful implementation of the first week of the nationwide lockdown announced to contain the spread of Corona virus in the country with a population of 130 crore. 5.39 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609603]. Click here for PDF .

165. No Shortage of Medicines to combat Covid-19 outbreak; - Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India is continuously monitoring distribution and addressing issues of availability, supply & local related issues of medicines with the help of other Departments and States/UTs. A Central control room [011-23389840] has been set up in the Department, which is working from 8 am to 6 pm. 5.10 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609588]. Click here for PDF .

164. Ayurveda’s immunity boosting measures for self care during COVID 19 crisis - AYUSH

In the wake of the Covid 19 outbreak, entire mankind across the globe is suffering. Enhancing the body’s natural defence system (immunity) plays an important role in maintaining optimum health. We all know that prevention is better than cure. While there is no medicine for COVID-19 as of now, it will be good to take preventive measures which boost our immunity in these times. 2.31 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609524]. Click here for PDF

163 . Dr. Harsh Vardhan reviews the sampling and testing strategy for COVID 19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare held a meeting with senior officials of ICMR, Department of Science & Technology, Bio-technology and CSIR to review the sampling and testing strategy for COVID-19, here yesterday. There was an elaborate discussion on the issues like procurement of reagents, website integration, data management and analysis, dashboards, research studies both planned and done so far etc. 1.09 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609485]. Click here for PDF .

162. Office of Principal Scientific Adviser issues manual on homemade masks: Masks for Curbing the Spread of SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus - Ministry of Science & Technology

The Office of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India has issued a detailed manual on homemade masks : "Masks for Curbing the Spread of SARS-CoV-2 Coronavirus". 11.09 a.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609463]. Click here for PDF .

161. Cargo flights carry medical supplies to eastern and southern parts of the country; private airlines also carry out critical supply operations - Ministry of Civil Aviation

The Cargo flights were operated to carry medical supplies to Southern, eastern and north eastern regions on 30 March 2020. 10.50 a.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609459]. Click here for PDF .

160. More than 280 units in SEZs, manufacturing essential items like pharmaceuticals and hospital devices, are operational - Ministry of Commerce & Industry

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have been a significant contributor to the exports from India over the past years, contributing approximately 18% of India’s total exports. 10.40 a.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609456]. Click here for PDF .

March 30, 2020

159. Food Processing ministry forms Task Force in the wake of Covid-19 to resolve problems of industry: Harsimrat Kaur Badal - Ministry of Food Processing Industries

Union Food Processing Industries Minister Smt. Harsimrat Kaur Badal assured industry representatives that a dedicated Task Force had been established to resolve all problems being faced by the food processing and ancillary industries during the current Covid-19 lockdown. 7.33 p.m. IST . Read more... [ https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609355 ]. Click here for PDF .

158. Prime Minister's video conference with the Heads of Indian Missions - Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi held a videoconference with the Heads of all of India’s Embassies and High Commissions worldwide at 1700 hrs today. This conference—the first such event for Indian Missions worldwide—was convened to discuss responses to the global COVID-19 pandemic. 5.16 p.m. IST . Read more... [ https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609352 ]. Click here for PDF .

157. Premium payment period for Postal Life Insurance & Rural Postal Life Insurance extended upto 30th April 2020 - Ministry of Communications

In view of the threat posed by the outbreak of Corona Virus (COVID-19), and the complete lockdown across India, Directorate of Postal Life Insurance(PLI), Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications has given an extension of period for payment of their due premium of March 2020 upto 30 April 2020 without charging any penalty/default fee. 5.16 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609288]. Click here for PDF .

156. Govt gives benefits to farmers on crop loan repayments due to Covid-19 lockdown - Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare

In the wake of lockdown due to ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the Government has extended the benefit of 2% Interest Subvention (IS) to Banks and 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI) to all farmers upto 31 May, 2020 for all crop loans upto Rs.3 lakh given by banks which have become due or are becoming due between 1 March, 2020 and 31 May, 2020. 4.51 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609282]. Click here for PDF .

155. Transportation of essential commodities to various parts of the country by Indian Railways continues at full speed - Ministry of Railways

While the country is completely locked down due to the pandemic of Coronavirus, Indian Railways continues to work round the clock to ensure availability of essential commodities through its uninterrupted freight services. 4.30 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609277]. Click here for PDF .

154. Technology by Pune based Startup incubatee of Scitech Park to disinfect Maharashtra hospitals in Covid 19 fight - Ministry of Science & Technology

A technology has been developed by an incubatee company of Scitech Park, Pune which offers an effective solution for India’s fight against Covid 19 by reducing the viral load of infected areas within a room significantly within an hour. 4.07 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609269]. Click here for PDF .

153. COVID-19 Update: Availability of PPE kits, N95 masks and ventilators - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The prevention, containment and management of COVID-19 in the country are being monitored at the highest level and various actions have been initiated in collaboration with the States. 3.45 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609263]. Click here for PDF .

152. PM interacts with social welfare organizations - Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today interacted with representatives of organizations working towards social welfare, via video conference. 3.15 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609258]. Click here for PDF .

151 . Government ensures Cargo flight operations for medical supplies to various parts of the country - Ministry of Civil Aviation

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) is coordinating with state Governments for supply of medical equipment and related essential items needed for protection against and testing of COVID-19. 10.43 a.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609195]. Click here for PDF .

March 29, 2020

150. Initiation of Disciplinary Proceedings against Four Officers of Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) for Dereliction of Duty regarding containment of spread of COVID-19 - Ministry of Home Affairs It has been brought to the notice of the competent authority that the following officers, who were responsible to ensure strict compliance to the instructions issued by Chairperson, National Executive Committee, formed under Disaster Managment Act 2005 regarding containment of spread of COVID-19, have prima facie failed to do so. 10.25 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609176]. Click here for PDF .

149. Cargo Air Flights will be used exclusively for transporting medical equipment and emergency goods to North Eastern States- Dr. Jitendra Singh - Ministry of Development of North-East Region Union Minister for DoNER  Dr Jitendra Singh has disclosed that Cargo Air Flights will be used exclusively for transporting medical equipment and emergency goods, besides other essential items. to North Eastern States, in the wake of Lockdown situation. 8.49 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609145]. Click here for PDF .

148. MHA issues an Addendum to the Guidelines regarding Nationwide Lockdown to fight COVID-19 - Ministry of Home Affairs Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued an addendum to the guidelines, and subsequent addendums, to all Ministries/Departments, regarding the Nationwide lockdown to fight Corona Virus. 7.28 p.m. IST.

The second addendum lays down additional categories of essential goods and services exempted under the Disaster Management Act 2005, with respect to the 21- day lockdown. [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609101]. Click here for PDF .

147. Modi Government dedicated to alleviate sufferings of People during the 21-day Nationwide Lockdown to fight COVID-19: Union Home Minister - Ministry of Home Affairs With the overall vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to alleviate sufferings of the people during the 21-day nationwide lockdown, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah has communicated to the State/UT governments to take appropriate measures to ensure effective implementation of the lockdown measures on maintaining social distance, while mitigating the economic hardship of the migrant workers during this period. 6.35 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609073]. Click here for PDF .

146. National Book Trust, India of MHRD to launch 'Corona Studies Series' books to provide relevant reading materials for all age-groups for the post-Corona readership needs - Ministry of Human Resource Development Realising the extraordinary psychological, social, economic and cultural significance of Corona Pandemic for the human society in times to come,  National Book Trust, India,  the national body for book publishing and book promotion  under the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India,  is launching a publishing series titled  'Corona Studies Series'  to document and to provide relevant reading materials for all age-groups for the post-Corona readership needs. 4.45 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609029]. Click here for PDF .

145. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Insurance Scheme for Health Workers Fighting COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare As per the announcement made under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package, the launch of ‘Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Insurance Scheme for Health Workers Fighting COVID-19’ has been approved with the following conditions: 5.14 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609041]. Click here for PDF .

144. Prime Minister Narendra Modi says social distancing is the most effective way of fighting against COVID-19; urges countrymen to protect themselves and their families - Prime Minister's Office "Many soldiers fighting the Coronavirus are not in the confines of their homes but outside their homes. These are our front line soldiers-especially our brothers and sisters on duty as nurses, doctors and paramedical staff. I spoke to some of them to express my gratitude for their service and to keep their zeal going. Their sincerity and commitment also helps me in keeping up my spirits" 4.02 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1609009]. Click here for PDF .

143. MoD employees to contribute one day salary to PM-CARES Fund; Rs 500 crore contribution expected - Ministry of Defence Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has approved a proposal for the contribution of one day salary by the employees of Ministry of Defence to the PM-CARES Fund to fight Covid-19. It is estimated that around Rs 500 crore will be collectively provided by the Defence Ministry to the fund from various wings, including Army, Navy, Air Force, Defence PSUs and others.

The employees’ contribution is voluntary and those desirous of opting out will be exempted. 3.05 p.m. IST . [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608993]. Click here for PDF .

142. PM addresses 10th Episode of 'Mann Ki Baat 2.0' - Prime Minister's Office Addressing the 10th Episode of 'Mann Ki Baat 2.0', Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi apologized for taking tough decisions, reiterated that the battle against COVID 19 required some tough decisions. 3.05 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608985]. Click here for PDF .

141. Center directs States to ensure no movement of People across cities - Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Cabinet Secretary and MHA are in constant touch with State Chief Secretaries and DGPs. Video Conferences were held by Cabinet Secretary & Home Secretary yesterday evening and today morning with Chief Secretaries & DGPs. 1.44 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608984]. Click here for PDF .

140. Shri Dharmendra Pradhan donates one month's salary to PM National Relief Fund - Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Steel Shri Dharmendra Pradhan has  donated his one month's salary to Prime Minister National Relief Fund for relief work following outbreak of COVID-19. In a Tweet, Shri Pradhan said "In these difficult times, let us stand for those who need us the most. In view of #Covid-19 pandemic, I have donated my one month’s salary and released Rs 1 Crore from my MPLADS fund to PM National Relief Fund to help bring a smile to the underprivileged." 12.43 p.m. IST . [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608966]. Click here for PDF .

139. Union Labour Ministry notifies amendment in EPF Scheme to allow withdrawal of non-refundable advance by EPF members in the event of outbreak of pandemic - Ministry of Labour & Employment Union Ministry of Labour and Employment has issued notification GSR 225(E) amending EPF Scheme 1952 to allow withdrawal of non-refundable advance by EPF members/subscribers in the wake of COVID -19 pandemic in the country. 12.14 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608961]. Click here for PDF .

138. Over 1.75 Lakh people visit Business Immunity Platform website in a week; - Ministry of Commerce & Industry The Invest India Business Immunity Platform, hosted on the website of Invest India, India’s National Investment Promotion & Facilitation Agency, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is working 24X7 as a comprehensive resource to help businesses and investors get real-time updates on India’s active response to COVID-19 (Coronavirus). 12.10 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608959]. Click here for PDF .

137. Vice President appeals to Rajya Sabha MPs to contribute from MPLADS funds to combat COVID-19 - Vice President's Secretariat The Vice President of India and Rajya Sabha Chairman, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu has appealed to all Members of Parliament to contribute at least Rs. 1 crore initially from their MPLADS funds to supplement the Government’s efforts in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic. 12.02 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608955]. Click here for PDF .

136. PM at the helm of India’s Fight against COVID-19 - Prime Minister's Office Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is continuing his interactions with various stakeholders in India’s fight against COVID-19. 11.29 a.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608953]. Click here for PDF .

March 28, 2020

135. Shri Amit Shah chairs the 3rd Review Meeting since March 25 on preparations to fight the COVID-19 epidemic - Ministry of Home Affairs Union Minister for Home Affairs, Shri Amit Shah chaired a review meeting on preparations to fight the COVID-19 epidemic, in New Delhi today. This is the third review meeting since the nationwide lockdown began on March 25, in the wake of this epidemic. 10.13 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608941]. Click here for PDF .

134. Don't let your workers go away, Shri Piyush Goyal tells the industry and trade associations; - Ministry of Commerce & Industry The Minister of Railways and Commerce & Industry Shri Piyush Goyal has told the industry and trade associations to take care of their employees and workers in this hour of crisis and distress. 5.52 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608872]. Click here for PDF .

134.As per the directions of the Prime Minister, Government commits all support to Migrant Workers during lockdown period: Shri Amit Shah - As per the directions of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Government has committed all support to Migrant Workers during lockdown period, said Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah here today while reviewing the country's preparedness to contain the spread of COVID-19. 5.37 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608867]. Click here for PDF .

133. Appeal to generously donate to 'Prime Minister's Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM CARES Fund)' - Prime Minister's Office

The pandemic of COVID-19 has engulfed the entire world and has posed serious challenges for the health and economic security of millions of people worldwide. In India too, the spread of coronavirus has been alarming and is posing severe health and economic ramifications for our country. 4.36 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608851]. Click here for PDF .

132. Access  to the National Online Education Platform SWAYAM and other Digital Initiatives of HRD ministry has tripled in the last one week - HRD Minister - Ministry of Human Resource Development

The Ministry of HRD through its Online/Digital Education Initiatives is trying to ensure that students can continue their learning sitting at their home, during this lockdown period.Union HRD Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank'has appealed to the students to take advantage of these learning platforms and put their valuable time to good and optimum use. The response to this has been overwhelming. 2.23 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608791]. Click here for PDF .

131. PM interacts with AYUSH practitioners - Prime Minister's Office Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today interacted with AYUSH sector practitioners via video conference. 1.16 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608774]. Click here for PDF .

130. Agriculture-Farming and allied activities exempted from Lockdown - Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Government has granted relaxation in the nationwide lockdown for activities related to agriculture-farming and allied activities with a view to address problems being faced by the farming community. 12.33 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608785]. Click here for PDF .

129. DEPwD urges M/O Home Affairs to ensure minimum support services to persons with disabilities during Lockdown Period - Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has urged the Ministry of Home Affairs to ensure minimum support services to Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) during the lockdown period. 12.33 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608757]. Click here for PDF .

128. Ministry of Coal working to ensure maintenance of critical coal supplies during the COVID-19 lockdown period: Pralhad Joshi - Ministry of Coal Union Minister of Coal, Mines and Parliamentary Affairs Shri Pralhad Joshi has ensured that Coal supplies are declared as an Essential service and directed all the officials of Ministry of Coal to work harder to ensure that critical coal supplies are maintained during the lockdown period due to COVID 19 pandemic so that power and other critical sectors are unaffected due to the current situation. 12.14 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608754]. Click here for PDF .

127. GeM takes a number of initiatives for procurement of goods and services by Government departments in the fight against COVID-19 Pandemic - Ministry of Commerce & Industry Government e-Marketplace (GeM), a Special Purpose Vehicle under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has taken a number of initiatives in the fight against COVID-19 Pandemic. 12.07 p.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608752]. Click here for PDF .

126. India's response to COVID outbreak - Ministry of Information and Broadcasting India's response to COVID-19 has been pre-emptive, pro-active and graded. India had already put in place a comprehensive response system at its borders much before WHO declared it as a public health emergency of international concern (30th January) 11.03 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608727]. Click here for PDF .

125. Power minister approves major relief measures for power sector - Ministry of Power Despite the lockdown imposed to contain the spread of the COVID 19 pandemic, the whole workforce of the power sector – generation, transmission, distribution and system operations - is working round the clock  to keep all homes and establishments lighted.Shri R.K.Singh, the Union Minister of Power, has said  that in this time of crisis, the Ministry of Power is committed to provide 24x7 supply of electricity to all consumers. 10.40 a.m. IST . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608718]. Clcik here for PDF .

 

March 27, 2020

124Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' directs Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan  to provide buildings to local administration for temporary housing of suspected COVID-19 cases - Ministry of Human Resource Development

Keeping in view the  situation created by COVID-19, Union HRD Minister Shri Ramesh pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has directed Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan to provide buildings to local administration for temporary housing  of suspected  covid.19 cases. 9.08 PM IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608668]. Click here for PDF .

123. National Testing Agency Postpones National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET)  UG May-2020 Ministry of Human Resource Development In view of the hardships faced by the parents and the students due to COVID-19 epidemic, the National Testing Agency has postponed the ensuing NEET (UG) May 2020 examination scheduled to be held on the 3 May 2020. 9.02 PM IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608667]. Click here for PDF .

122. Efforts of DRDO in nation’s fight against COVID-19 - Ministry of Defence The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) ready with four different items - hand sanitizer, ventilators, N99 Masks, and Body Suits, - ready to be deployed in 'War against Corona'. 8.33 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608649]. Clcik here for PDF .

121. Additional essential Goods and Services relating to Agricultural Operations included in the Exempt List - Ministry of Home Affairs The second addendum lays down additional categories of essential goods and services, relating to agricultural operations, exempted under the Disaster Management Act, with respect to the 21- day lockdown. 8.16. p.m. IST, PIB Delhi.Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1608644]. Click here PDF Click here for 2 nd Addendum to Guidelines PDF .

120.Indian Navy's Mobilises IL38 - Ministry of Defence Ilyushin transports 60,000 Face Masks from Delhi for Goa Health Workers. 6.54. p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608611]. Clcik here for PDF.

119. Indian Railways has decided that the period from 22.03.2020 to 14.04.2020 shall be treated under “Force Majeure” - Ministry of Railways Ministry of Railways has decided that the period from 22.03.2020 to 14.04.2020 shall be treated under force majeure and none of the following mentioned charges shall arise for this period:- 6.38 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608603]. Click here for PDF .

118 . Vice President donates a month’s salary to Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund - Vice President's Secretariat The Vice President of India and the Chairman Rajya Sabha, Shri M Venkaiah Naidu today contributed a sum equivalent to a month’s salary to the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) to strengthen the government’s efforts in combating COVID-19 outbreak in the country. 6.24 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608592]. Click here for PDF .

117. Post Offices provide basic postal and financial services during COVID-19 lockdown - Ministry of Communications

During the lockdown to curtail the spread of COVlD-19, Post Offices are providing basic postal and financial services. Priority is being given to delivery of essential Items through the postal network. Facility of withdrawal and deposit under Post Office Savings Bank and India Post Payments Bank is also available. ATM facility and AEPS (Aadhar Enabled Payment System) are made available in Post Offices for withdrawal of cash from accounts standing in any bank. 5.45 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608576]. Click here for PDF .

116. President and Vice President hold discussions with Governors, LGs and Administrators of States and UTs on COVID-19 Response - President's Secretariat

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, along with the Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu, today (March 27, 2020) held a video-conference with all Governors, Lieutenant Governors and Administrators of all States and Union Territories to find ways to complement the efforts of the Government of India and the State Governments in meeting the challenges arising from the outbreak of COVID-19. 5.45 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608549]. Click here for PDF .

115. Indian Railways making all efforts to ensure availability of essential commodities through uninterrupted freight services - Ministry of Railways During the last 4 days, approximately 1.6 lacs wagons carried supplies to keep the supply chains functional. 4.39 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608547]. Click here for PDF .

114. Cantonment Boards gear up to COVID-19 challenge - Ministry of Defence Sixty two Cantonment Boards spread over 19 States/Union Territories, across the country, with a population of approx. 21 lakh  (including military and civil) have geared up to the challenge posed by Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Instructions have been issued to all the Cantonment Boards to identify beds in hospitals/health centres and guest houses for any eventuality. 3.20 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608522]. Click here for PDF .

113. Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organization takes various measures to address the problems faced by Petroleum, Explosives, Oxygen and Industrial Gas Industries - Ministry of Commerce & Industry Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organization (PESO), under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has taken various measures to ensure uninterrupted supply of Oxygen to hospitals and other health care facilities and also to address the problems faced by Petroleum, Explosives, Fireworks, and Industrial Gas Industries due to nationwide lockdown for containment of COVID-19 pandemic. These include: 11.27 a.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1608473]. Click here for PDF .

March 26, 2020

112. Dr. Harsh Vardhan reviews current status, and actions for management of COVID-19 with States/UTs through VC - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan held a meeting to review actions and preparedness for COVID-19 management through video conferencing with Health Ministers, Chief Secretaries of States and UTs and other related officers of the Health Departments, here today. 7.59 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1608404]. Clcik here for PDF .

111. IAF Continues its Assistance towards Containing the Spread of Covid-19 -Ministry of Defence Indian Air Force continues to take measures to provide all possible assistance to the civil administration across the country in containing the spread of COVID-19. 6.22 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1608363]. Click here for PDF .

110. Finance Minister announces Rs 1.70 Lakh Crore relief package under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana for the poor to help them fight the battle against Corona Virus - Union Ministry of Finance The Union Finance & Corporate Affairs Minister Smt. Niramla Sitharaman today announced  Rs 1.70 Lakh Crore relief package under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana for the poor to help them fight the battle against Corona Virus . 5.12 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1608345]. Click here for PDF .

109. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh reviews Ministry of Defence action plan to deal with COVID-19; - Ministry of Defence Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held a review meeting with senior officials of Ministry of Defence (MoD) on the action plan of the Ministry to deal with the COVID-19 situation, here today. 2.23 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.nic.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1608307]. Click here for PDF .

March 25, 2020

108. First Day of Lockdown: Army Absorbs 277 more Evacuees from Iran, Orders Work from Home for HQ personnel - Ministry of Defence On the first day of the 21-day Lock-down period, Army facility in Jodhpur received 277 evacuees from Iran that included 273 pilgrims. The evacuees included 149 women & six children were transferred on IA Flights from Delhi to Jodhpur and screened on arrival at Jodhpur airport before being taken to the medical facility which has been designed not just for isolation but also for mental & physical wellness through a regimented routine including some sports and recreational activities. 6.54 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=1608146]. Click here for PDF .

107. GOM reviews current status, and actions for management of COVID-19: Dr. Harsh Vardhan highlights critical importance of social distancing, home quarantine protocols & supporting Doctors/Medical staff combating COVID-19 - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare A high level meeting of the Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 was held at Nirman Bhawan, here today under the chairpersonship of Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare. 6.04 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1608126]. Click here for PDF .

106. Ordnance Factory Board earmarks 285 beds for COVID-19 isolation wards - Ministry of Defence Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) has designated 285 beds for isolation wards in handling Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases. 1.53 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1608062]. Click here for PDF .

March 24, 2020

105. Government of India issues Orders prescribing lockdown for containment of COVID-19 Epidemic in the country - Ministry of Home Affairs The COVID-19 epidemic has affected many countries and the World Health Organisation has declared it 'Pandemic'. 9.10 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=200655]. Click here for PDF .

104. UPDATE on COVID-19 - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare The prevention, containment and management of COVID-19 in the country are being monitored at the highest level and various actions have been initiated in collaboration with the States. Hon’ble Prime Minister is regularly monitoring and reviewing the situation with top officials of the concerned Ministries/Departments and States/UTs. 7.51 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi.Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=200651]. Click here for PDF .

103. Dr Harsh Vardhan visits NCDC Control Room, Lab and Testing Facilities - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare visited National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) Control Room and the Testing Laboratories, and reviewed the current status with Dr S K Singh, Director (NCDC) and senior officials, here today. He also interacted with the NHM MDs and senior surveillance officers of the States/UTs through a Video Conference. 2.07 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi.Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1607892]. Click here for PDF .

March 23, 2020

102. Supply of body coveralls, N-95 masks, and 2-ply/3-ply surgical masks for healthcare professionals to combat COVID 19 cases - Ministry of Textiles Government working with various industry bodies and manufacturers to streamline supply chain, remove bottlenecks and maintain a steady supply; Supply of body coveralls from indigenous manufacturers commenced. 4.29 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=200618]. Click here for PDF .

101. Impact of Coronavirus on Indian ports - Ministry of Shipping No impact on cargo vessels; however, international cruise vessels from foreign destinations not allowed to call Indian ports till March 31, 2020, as per directions of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. 6.54 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi. Read more...   [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607787]. Click here for PDF .

100. Operations of domestic schedule commercial airlines to cease operation from midnight of March 24, 2020 - Ministry of Civil Aviation All domestic commercial flights will stop operations from midnight of March 24, 2020; restrictions will not apply to cargo flights. 4.49 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607740]. Click here for PDF .

March 22, 2020

99. Preventive measures to contain the spread of COVID 19 - Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions HoDs to draw up roster of staff required to render essential services and they alone will be asked to attend offices till March 31, 2020. 5.23 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607620]. Click here for PDF .

98. Cabinet Secretary reviews COVID 19 status with Chief Secretaries of States; important decisions taken to check the disease -  Cabinet Secretariat All train services, including suburban and metro services, will be suspended till March 31, 2020; state governments to operate only essential services in 75 districts with confirmed COVID 19 cases. 2.18 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607606]. Click here for PDF .

March 21, 2020

97. Appeal to observe janta curfew from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on March 22, 2020 - Prime Minister’s Office Re-up: Appeal by Prime Minister to observe janta curfew from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on March 22, 2020 and salute efforts of health staff by clapping/clanging vessels from balcony/doorstep at 5 p.m. 6.37 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607520]. Click here for PDF .

96. Govt caps prices of hand sanitizers, masks; States/UTs asked to maintain essential supplies - Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Govt has capped retail prices of hand sanitizers at Rs. 100 for a 200 ml bottle; 3-ply surgical masks not to exceed Rs. 10; 2-ply masks not to exceed Rs. 8; distilleries asked to ramp up production of ethyl alcohol and provide to manufacturers of deodorant sprays to ensure no shortage of hand sanitizers. 7.20 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607528]. Click here for PDF .

95. Students to continue their learning by making full use of available digital e-learning platforms: Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' - Ministry of Human Resources Development HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ asked students to make full use of digital e-learning platforms during the closure period; some of the digital initiatives/platforms available for school education are Diksha, e-Pathshala, and National Repository of Open Educational Resources (NROER) while those for higher education are Swayam and Swayam Prabha. 6.42 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607521]. Click here for PDF .

March 20, 2020

94. Export of masks, ventilators, and textile raw materials for masks and coveralls prohibited - Ministry of Commerce and Industry Directorate General of Foreign Trade issued a notification prohibiting the export of ventilators, surgical/disposable masks and textile raw materials used for masks and coveralls. 3.20 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607312]. Click here for PDF .

93. Secretary, Consumer Affairs, Food and Civil Supplies, reviews availability of essential commodities across states - Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution States and UTs told to ensure that there is no shortage of essential supplies and hygiene products; some states are offering hygiene products through fair price shops, which others can emulate; states can lift food grain supplies for up to six months to pass on to retailers so that consumers can stock at home. 8.44 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607442]. Click here for PDF .

92. Vaccine research on coronavirus - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare With an eye on global efforts under the WHO to accelerate and fund priority research that can contribute to curtailing this outbreak and preparing for future outbreaks, the govt is regularly reviewing the situation to ensure adequate supply of medicines to patients; hygiene items and masks are declared essential commodities up to June 30, 2020; advisory under Legal Metrology Act, 2009 permits states to ensure sale of hygiene items at maximum retail price. 3.23 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607316]. Click here for PDF .

March 19, 2020

91. Text of Prime Minister’s address to the nation on combating COVID 19 - Prime Minister’s Office In his address to the nation, Prime Minister appeals for a people’s curfew on March 22, 2020 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; At 5 p.m., people could come to their balconies/doorstep/windows and clap their hands or clang vessels to thank doctors, paramedics and health workers for their tireless work to contain the spread of COVID 19; He urged senior citizens above 65 years to not leave home for a few weeks. 9.15 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607254]. Click here for PDF .

90. Price of alcohols used in manufacturing hand sanitizers capped under Essential Commodities Act, 1955 - Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution The government has notified an order under the Essential Commodities Act to declare a price cap prevailing as on March 5, 2020 on the alcohols used for manufacture of hand sanitizers up to June 30, 2020; states are empowered to notify central order in Gazette and take necessary action as per prevailing situations in respective states. 8.49 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607249]. Click here for PDF .

89. High-level Group of Ministers reviews current status and actions for prevention and management of COVID 19 - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Incoming flights to India will not be allowed to land and disembark passengers a little after midnight of March 22, 2020; Nearly half of the government employees to work from home and the rest to have staggered office timings; States to issue orders to regulate all services except for essential services; All educational institutions, theatres, museums, gyms, exam centres etc. to remain closed. 7.54 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607242]. Click here for PDF .

88. Precautions to be taken in the light of Novel Coronavirus (COVID 19) - Ministry of Human Resources Department All university exams rescheduled to after March 31, 2020; all institutions to have helplines and to be in touch with students electronically to prevent anxiety. 4.17 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607142]. Click here for PDF .

March 18, 2020

87. PM chairs review meeting on COVID 19 - Prime Minister’s Office Discussed ways to strengthen India’s preparedness and further testing facilities. PM will address the nation at 8 p.m. on March 19, 2020. 10.38 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607033]. Click here for PDF .

86. MHRD issues direction to UGC, AICTE, NTA, NIOS, CBSE, NCTE and all autonomous organisations under it for the postponement of all examinations till March 31, 2020 as a precautionary measure in the wake of Novel Coronavirus (COVID 19) - Ministry of Human Resources Development All ongoing examinations to be rescheduled to after March 31, 2020; JEE mains to be rescheduled and new date to be announced after March 31, 2020; All institutions to maintain contact with students and teachers by electronic means to keep them fully informed so as to prevent anxiety. 11.30 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1607035]. Click here for PDF .

March 17, 2020

85. Update on COVID 19: Advisories and guidelines for containment and prevention - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Travel of passengers from Afghanistan, Philippines, and Malaysia to India prohibited till March 31, 2020; Guidelines issued on clinical management of COVID 19, for dead body management, and for private labs initiating COVID 19 testing. 8.05 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606838]. Click here for PDF .

84. Additional travel advisory for Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID 19) - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Travel of passengers from Afghanistan, Philippines, and Malaysia to India prohibited till march 31, 2020. 10.29 a.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606659]. Click here for PDF .

March 16, 2020

83. High-level Group of Ministers reviews current status and actions for prevention and management of COVID 19 – Ministry of Health issues comprehensive advisory on social distancing - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Comprehensive advisory on social distancing; Closure of all educational institutions, non-essential travel to be avoided, private sector employees to be encouraged to work from home, minimise or reschedule meetings, sports events to be postponed and religious gatherings to be avoided. 7.44 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606637]. Click here for PDF .

 

March 15, 2020

82. PM proposes setting up of COVID 19 Emergency Fund for SAARC countries - Prime Minister’s Office Prime Minister proposed the creation of a COVID 19 Emergency Fund with India making an initial offer of US $10 million; India is putting together a Rapid Response Team of doctors and specialists with testing kits and equipment as stand by for SAARC countries; He suggested creation of a common research platform to coordinate research on controlling epidemics in South Asia. 6.58 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606472]. Click here for PDF .

81. PM's concluding remarks at video conference of SAARC leaders on combating COVID 19 - Prime Minister’s Office Suggested setting up of nodal experts from each country to have similar video conferences to follow up on discussions. 6.44 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606469]. Click here for PDF .

80. PM's remarks on the way forward at video conference of SAARC leaders on combating COVID 19 - Prime Minister’s Office PM proposes to create a COVID 19 Emergency Fund with India making an initial offer of US $10 million; India is putting together a Rapid Response Team of doctors and specialists with testing kits and equipment as stand by for SAARC countries; He suggested creation of a common research platform to coordinate research on controlling epidemics in South Asia. 6.15 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606468]. Click here for PDF .

79. PM's opening remarks at video conference of SAARC leaders on combating COVID 19 - Prime Minister’s Office PM said government made special efforts to reach out to vulnerable groups, worked to quickly ramp up capacity through training of medical staff, and increased diagnostic capabilities from one lab to 60 labs in two months. 5.19 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606462]. Click here for PDF .

March 13, 2020

78. Update on COVID 19 – death of a 68-year-old woman in West Delhi - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare A 68-year-old woman from West Delhi, who tested positive for COVID 19, died due to co-morbidity (diabetes and hypertension). 10.53 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606408]. Click here for PDF .

77. Update on COVID 19 - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare India has evacuated 1,031 persons, including 48 nationals from countries such as Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh, China, USA, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa, and Peru; 890 evacuees from COVID 19-affected countries discharged after 14 days isolation and having tested negative as per protocols. 7.06 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606388]. Click here for PDF .

March 12, 2020

76. Update on COVID 19 – death of a 76-year-old man from Karnataka - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare A 76-year-old man from Karnataka, who tested positive for COVID 19 on his return from Saudi Arabia, is confirmed to have died of co-morbidity (hypertension and asthma). 11.37 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606196]. Click here for PDF .

75. Update on COVID 19: Preparedness and action taken - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare India’s response to COVID 19 initiated on January 8, 2020 with point of entry surveillance; From February 1, 2020, India has evacuated 900 persons from COVID 10-hit countries; all existing visas suspended till April 15, 2020; 73 confirmed cases of COVID 19 in the country. 3.45 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606079]. Click here for PDF .

 

March 11, 2020

74. High-level Group of Ministers review – Revised travel advisory issued - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare All existing visas, except diplomatic, official, UN/international organisations, employment, and project visas, suspended till April 15, 2020; All incoming travellers with travel history to China, Italy, Iran, Republic of Korea, France, Spain, and Germany, will be quarantined for 14 days. 10.18 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606056]. Click here for PDF .

73. High-level Group of Ministers reviews current status and actions for prevention and management of COVID 19 - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Presentation about the various travel advisories in view of the evolving global situation; universal screening for travellers from 12 countries; 83 passengers who arrived from Italy quarantined at the army facility in Manesar. 7.21 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1606050]. Click here for PDF .

72. Update on COVID 19 – India evacuates its citizens from Iran - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare First batch of evacuees from Iran landed on March 10, 2020 with 25 men, 31 women, and two children on board; all evacuees are asymptomatic at present; 108 samples received from Iran on March 7, 2020; six scientists from ICMR stationed in that country. 3.57 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605972]. Click here PDF .

March 10, 2020

71. Update on COVID 19: Cabinet Secretary chairs high-level review meeting - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Passengers with travel history to China, Hong Kong, Republic of Korea, Japan, Italy, Thailand, Singapore, Iran, Malaysia, France, Spain, and Germany to undergo self-imposed quarantine for 14 days; Foreign nationals with visas to India who have history of travel to these countries and are yet to enter India now have their visas suspended; fifty confirmed cases reported in the country till today. 8.37 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605899]. Click here for PDF .

March 9, 2020

70. Evacuation by India of its citizens and other nationals from COVID 19-affected countries - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Japanese cruise ship Diamond princess, carrying 3,700 passengers, faced a COVID 19 outbreak when 705 passengers tested positive, 16 of them being Indians; On February 27, 2020, an Air India flight evacuated 124 passengers from Port of Yokohama in Japan and housed at the army facility in Manesar; On February 26, 2020, IAF evacuated 112 Indians from Hubei province in China and housed them at ITBP camp for 14 days. 9.36 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605860]. Click here for PDF .

69. Update on COVID 19 – One new case found - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare One new case reported from Punjab; 44 confirmed cases in the country so far. 8.50 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605855]. Click here for PDF .

68. Update on COVID 19 – New cases found - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Four new cases reported from different parts – one each from Ernakulam in Kerala, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Jammu. 12.29 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605759]. Click here for PDF .

March 8, 2020

67. Update on COVID 19 – New cases found - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Five new cases confirmed in Kerala with travel history to Italy taking the total confirmed cases in the country to 39; Ministry issued guidelines on when and how to wear a mask. 7.44 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605744]. Click here for PDF .

March 7, 2020

66. Update on COVID 19 – New cases found - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Three news cases – two from Ladakh and one from Tamil Nadu – found positive; 108 samples received from Iran in the morning; Six scientists from ICMR stationed in Iran; Equipment and reagents worth about Rs. 10 crore dispatched to Iran to set up a lab there. 7.16 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605685]. Click here for PDF .

65. Prime Minister reviews the situation on COVID 19 with ministries concerned - Prime Minister’s Office Issues related to need for continued vigil at all airports, seaports, and land border crossings, community level surveillance, and ensuring availability of sufficient beds for isolation were discussed. 5.17 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605671]. Click here for PDF .

March 6, 2020

64. Update on COVID 19: Cases and management - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare One more tested positive for COVID 19 taking the total number to 31; All international passengers mandated to undergo universal medical screening. 12.10 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605499]. Click here for PDF .

March 5, 2020

63. Update on COVID 19 cases - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare 30 confirmed COVID 19 cases reported; 6,49,452 passengers screened at airports. 7.17 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605458]. Click here for PDF .

62. Ministry of Shipping reviews preparedness against COVID 19 at all major and non-major ports of the country - Ministry of Shipping All ports to ensure availability of thermal scanners and sufficient personal protective equipment and ensure 100 per cent thermal screening of passengers and crew. 6.42 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605441]. Click here for PDF .

61. Update on COVID 19: Additional travel advisory - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Passengers travelling from Italy or Republic of Korea will require certificate of having tested negative for COVID 19 from designated laboratories authorised by health authorities of those countries. 2.17 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605351]. Click here for PDF .

60. Suo Moto statement by Dr. Harsh Vardhan Minister of Health and Family Welfare, on March 5, 2020 in the Rajya Sabha in view of a large number of reported cases all across the world and reported cases in India of Novel Coronavirus (COVID 19) and the steps taken by the Government of India - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare All regular visas granted to nationals of Italy, Iran, South Korea, and Japan, who are yet to enter India stand suspended; Visas to all foreign nationals with history of travel to China, Iran, Italy, South Korea and Japan stand suspended; screening of passengers at 21 airports, 12 major seaports and 65 minor seaports initiated; Govt evacuating Indian nationals from COVID 19-hit countries; National Institute of Virology, Pune, the nodal lab, established capacity for molecular diagnosis of COVID 19; Testing of clinical samples initiated in 15 labs, 19 more prepared to test samples. 12.07 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605332]. Click here for PDF .

59. Update on COVID 19: Cases and management - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare 29 confirmed cases detected; universal screening mandated since March 4, 2020. 11.49 a.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605329]. Click here for PDF .

March 4, 2020

58. PMO reviews corona virus response and preparedness - Prime Minister’s Office Principal Secretary to Prime Minister, P.K. Mishra, chaired an inter-ministerial meeting to review preparedness and response to COVID 19 outbreak; Govt to introduce universal screening at all international airports and seaports through use of thermal imagery equipment; Decision taken to rapidly implement opening of proper testing, isolation, and quarantine facilities across the country. 5.35 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605217]. Click here for PDF .

57. Update on COVID 19: New cases confirmed - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare New patient tests positive for corona virus – wife of an already confirmed Italian patient, in Jaipur. 3.07 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605115]. Click here for PDF .

March 3, 2020

56. Cabinet Secretary holds a review meeting on COVID 19 - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare States requested to hold coordination meetings with related ministries and arrive at possible quarantine facilities in the states, augment isolation wards and hold meetings with hospital associations to identify isolation wards. 7.57 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605049]. Click here for PDF .

55. Update on COVID 19 – Case from Jaipur confirmed positive - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare One case confirmed from Jaipur; patient in isolation and stable. 7.36 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1605046]. Click here for PDF .

54. Update on COVID 19 – Revised travel advisory - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare All regular visas given to nationals of Italy, Iran, South Korea, and Japan, who have not yet entered India, stand suspended; Visas granted to foreign nationals with travel history to China, Iran, Italy, South Korea, and Japan, who have not yet entered India, stand suspended; Indian citizens advised to refrain from travel to China, Iran, Republic of Korea, Italy, and Japan. 1.31 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1604942]. Click here for PDF .

53. Update on COVID 19 – Six cases with high viral load in Agra - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Six cases with high viral load detected during sample testing in Agra; they had come in contact with COVID 19 patient in Delhi. 1.02 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1604938]. Click here for PDF .

March 2, 2020

52. High-level Group of Ministers reviews current status and actions for prevention and management of COVID 19 - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan said travellers from 12 countries are undergoing universal screening at earmarked aero-bridges at airports; screening done at 21 airports, 12 major seaports and 65 minor seaports and land crossings; 15 diagnostic labs functional and 19 more to be operational soon. 7.02 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1604909]. Click here for PDF .

51. Update on COVID 19 – Two more positive cases reported - Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare One positive case of COVID 19 detected in New Delhi and another in Telangana. 2.28 p.m. IST, PIB Delhi . Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1604813]. Click here for PDFReturn to PIB Releases – COVID 19