The confirmed coronavirus cases in India neared the 28,000-mark on Monday with 872 deaths. Of the 27,892 cases, 20,835 are active, while 6185 are recoveries. Entering the last week of the 40-day lockdown imposed to stem the transmission of COVID-19, Prime Minister Modi held video conference with Chief Ministers of nine states today to plan the exit strategy from the ongoing lockdown. However, most of the states have decided to extend the lockdown in COVID-19 hotspots and allow activities in the green zones.
It is learnt that all the states wish to continue the restrictions on inter-state transportation including air and railway transport. Therefore, the ban on such travel would continue post May 3. Assuring thatthe economy is in good shape, there has been no announcement or assurance on the demands made by various states for more funds and economic package.
Globally, cases are nearing the 3 million mark, according to Johns Hopkins University, with 2,971,669 confirmed. At least 206,549 people have lost their lives in the coronavirus pandemic.
British Prime minister Boris Johnson returned to Downing Street on Sunday evening, where the government is headquartered, for the first time since he was admitted to hospital with COVID-19 on 5 April, reported The Guardian.
Italian Prime minister Giuseppe Conte told the nation in a televised address “if you love Italy, maintain distance” as he announced a plan that will see the country slowly ease lockdown measures from 4 May.
The Guardian reports, on Tuesday, New Zealand’s restaurants, cafes and takeaways will be back in business. Under the move to level-3 restrictions, which come into force at midnight on Monday, New Zealanders have been told to work and study from home, “unless that is not possible”. Anyone going out must obey social distancing rules. Businesses can open, but cannot physically interact with customers and “low-risk” recreation activities will be allowed.