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No. people attended from NIZAMUDDIN CONGREGATION TRIGGERS TELANGANA SI. Name of No. of No the District Suspects 1 Adilabad 30 2 B Kothagudem 11 3 GHMC 603 4 Jagityal 25 5 Jangoan 4 6 J. Bhupalpally 1 NATIONWIDE SCARE 7 J Gadwal 5 n DEATHS OF 6 TELANGANA ATTENDEES JUST TIP OF THE ICEBERG? 8 Karimnagar 17 9 Khammam 27 PNS n HYDERABAD 10 Mahabubabad 6 With reports of scores of 16 new Covid-19 11 Mahabubnagar 11 Covid-19 positive patients sur- 25-30 from 12 Mancheriyal 10 facing in various states, includ- 13 Medak 2 ing Telangana and Andhra each district positive cases in State 14 Medchal 3 Pradesh, from among those attended’ who had attended the Tablighi l All linked to Delhi congregation 15 Mulugu 2 Jamaat ijtema, (a religious con- "This year, there are l 16 Nagarkurnool 4 gregation) in Nizamuddin of about 1,600 to 2,000 Barring 4 districts, people from 29 districts 17 Nalgonda 45 New Delhi from March 13 to Tablighi Jamaat members 15, there is now almost a who attended the of TS participated in the religious meet 18 Nirmal 25 nationwide scare about the congregation in Delhi from HYDERABAD: In all, 16 more people tested Covid-19 positive in 19 Nizamabad 80 urgent need to trace and isolate Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, taking the total to 77 cases as of Tuesday. According to 20 Peddapally 6 or quarantine potential carri- Telangana. About 25 to 30 Health Minister Etela Rajender, 15 of these patients are either those ers of coronavirus. Over 2,000 members attended from who attended the Tabilghi Jamaat's meeting in Nizamuddin or their 21 R Siricilla 9 people from the two Telugu each district," a press contacts. All 77 patients are now being treated in various hospitals in 22 Rangareddy 13 States were present at the con- release from the Tablighi the state. A total of 1,030 people from TS participated in the religious 23 Sangareddy 22 gregation, apart from several Jamaat said. Most of the gathering. Six of them have since died due to coronavirus. Out of 80 thousands more from other attendees left Delhi on attendees from Nizamabad, one person died. Five from Gadwal had 24 Suryapet 10 states in India. Besides, over March 17 and reached participated, with one of them succumbing to coronavirus. The 25 Vikarabad 13 1,800 foreigners attended the their respective native remaining four deaths were reported from Hyderabad. A total of 603 26 Wanaparthy 3 meet. places by March 18, the people from Hyderabad attended the congregation, in addition to The worst part is that, release added. attendees from 29 other districts of Telangana. There were no 27 Warangal R 1 according to alarming reports, attendees from Kamareddy, Asifabad, Narayanpet and Siddipet to the 28 Warangal U 38 over 8,000 people from across congregation. In all, there were 45 participants from Nalgonda, 38 29 Yadadri 4 the globe attended the religious from Warangal Urban, 27 from Khammam; 25 each from Jagityal and gathering in different spells Nirmal and 22 from Sangareddy. Less than 20 turned up at the Total 1030 over the last month. Some meeting from the other districts. The government has urged people ANDHRA PRADESH 2,000 of these attendees chose who attended the meeting to visit Gandhi Hospital and get themselves to stay back at the venue and tested for coronavirus. The government has even asked their relatives Name of No. of who may be having Covid-19 symptoms to visit the hospital. SI. they were the ones who were No the District Suspects ‘rescued’ in the last two days The Telangana government has launched a massive hunt to trace the after the Telangana govern- participants and their primary contacts. Meanwhile, Etela said that 1 Srikakulam 0 ment alerted the Centre that six dialysis, thalassemia, sickle cell patients would need blood transfusion 2 Vizianagaram 3 of the recently notified Covid- for which the Health Department would be making transport 19 patients from TS had attend- Men wearing protective masks wait for a bus that will take them to a quarantine facility, amid concerns about the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in arrangements. He instructed the police not to stop them. 3 Visakha R 1 ed the ijtema. Nizamuddin area of New Delhi 4 Visakha C 41 In all, 1,830 people were 5 E.G. Dist 6 found by the Delhi police in the the ijtema at Nizamuddin to Over 2,000 people from the two Telugu 6 Rajahmundry 21 last two days at the Tablighi States were present at the congregation, inform the officials concerned. Jamaat’s Markaz, which literal- It also requested people with 7 W.G. Dist 16 ly means headquarters, in apart from several thousands more from other information about the atten- A ticking bomb, on the move 8 Krishna 16 Nizamuddin area of Delhi, states in India. Besides, over 1,800 foreigners dees to alert the government. he surfacing of Covid-19 positive cases in various states following the religious congregation at the 9 Vijayawada 27 where the religious congrega- attended the meet. When contacted, TTablighi Jamaat Markaz in Delhi's Nizamuddin now sounds like a ticking bomb on the move. For, six tion was held. The attendees Nizamabad Collector Narayana of the persons who attended the meeting and returned to Telangana have since died from the virus and 10 Guntur U 45 have since become a key source Reddy said as of now more positive cases have emerged from at least five regions viz J&K, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and the 11 Guntur R 43 of Coronavirus spread in the lectors and police personnel are tals here and one each in than 200 people (either related Andaman & Nicobar Islands. According to reports, five of the seven fresh Covid-19 positive cases in 12 Prakasam 67 country, officials confirmed. on the job to locate people who Nizamabad and Gadwal towns to or came in contact with the Tamil Nadu pertained to those who are among the 1,500 from the state who had attended the religious The Telangana administra- came in contact with them after succumbed, according to an 53 people who attended the congregation. Seven people tested positive for Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu on Tuesday, with the total 13 Nellore 68 tion has intensified its efforts to their return. Family members official press release. Till religious congregation from number rising to 74.A Srinagar-based businessman who attended the congregation in Nizamuddin 14 Kurnool 189 trace all contacts of the atten- of the deceased have been Monday night, Telangana the city) have been quaran- travelled by air, train and road to Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and back to Jammu and Kashmir before he died of 15 Kadapha 59 dees, following the death of six quarantined depending on the reported 77 Coronavirus pos- tined. "One person is still in COVID-19, raising fears he may have infected many others along the way. Among his possible victims is persons who attended the symptoms they showed,” offi- itive cases, of which 14 have Delhi and with one death now, a doctor battling for life in a Jammu hospital. In Jammu, the businessman met up with his doctor 16 Ananthapur 73 meeting. "We estimate over cials said. been discharged upon suc- all the 51 (who had been to friend and both addressed a religious meeting in a mosque in Samba on the outskirts of the city. The 17 Chittor 20 1,000 persons might have Two of the six died in cessful treatment. Delhi) are under quarantine," doctor, now in a Jammu hospital in a critical condition, belongs to Rajouri district of Jammu region, 18 Tirupathi 16 attended the congregation in Gandhi Hospital and one each The government has urged Reddy said. officials said. TOTAL 711 Delhi. Respective district col- in two different private hospi- all those who participated in 2 CORONAVIRUS In sharpest spike yet, JEE Mains 140 of 603 attendees from postponed OUTBREAK Hyderabad yet to be traced 21 more test positive to last week WORLD INDIA NAVEENA KAVI of May Confirmed n HYDERABAD for Covid-19 in AP PNS n HYDERABAD Cases 828,306 1616 n Hyderabad is now in the eye of PNS VIJAYAWADA National Testing Agency the Covid-19 storm that has (NTA) on Tuesday released an unnerved many states follow- In an alarming increase in the official notification regard- ing the religious congregation number of COVID-19 cases in ing the postponement of Joint 40,735Deaths 47 at Nizamuddin in New Delhi the state, as many as 21 persons Entrance Examination (JEE) as 140 of the 603 people from were tested positive for the mains 2020. According to the the city who participated in virus on Tuesday, taking the notice, the exam, that is sup- meeting remain untraced. total number of infected people posed to be held from April 5 On Tuesday, 463 homes to 44. to 11, has been postponed to 174,454Recovered 148 were inspected by civic and According to a health bulletin the last week of May 2020. k health officials. Commissioner released by the Director of 2 GHMC D S Lokesh Kumar Health and Family Welfare, AP, town in Anantapur district said that the addresses of it was observed that of the 21 and are close contacts of a untracked people were "inad- persons who tested positive for Saudi Arabia-returnee from TODAY STATE-WISE CONFIRMED equate" and efforts were being the people who attend the Officials have been busy the infection, 18 had attended Karnataka. Patient-26 is a 31- ALMANAC made to track these 140 peo- congregation are devout and so identifying the persons who the Tablighi Jamaat ijtema in year-old male from Chirala CASES IN INDIA ple. disconnected from worldly attended the gathering at Delhi or was a contact of the aand a close contact of Patient- Month & Paksham: What is worrying the affairs that they do not have Nizamuddin in the second person who attended the reli- 16 while Patient-27 is 32- Chaitra & Shukla Paksha Kerala 241 Maharashtra 302 authorities most is the futility even TVs in their homes. Nor week of March and tracing all gious congregation. As per the year-old male, also from Panchangam: of all efforts to get potential do they read newspapers. It their contacts, particularly health bulletin, Patient-24 is a Chirala of Prakasam district. Tithi: Ashtami: 03:39 am (Next Day) Delhi 120 Karnataka 101 carriers to voluntarily report appears that they do not care those with whom they might 10-year-old boy while Patient- They all attended the ijtema. Nakshatram: Ardra: 07:29 pm Uttar Pradesh 101 Telangana 92 and thereafter isolate or quar- what is happening in the have interacted. 25 is a 34-year-old female. Time to Avoid: (Bad time to start antine themselves. For, most of world. 2 Both are from Lepakshi 2 any important work) Gujarat 74 Tamil Nadu 124 Rahukalam: 12:19 pm – 01:51 pm Rajasthan 93 Jammu and Kashmir 55 Yamagandam: 07:45 am – 09:16 am Varjyam: NIL Madhya Pradesh 66 Punjab 41 Secretariat officer who attended Nizamuddin meet under watch Gulika: 10:48 am - 12:19 pm Haryana 43 PNS n HYDERABAD Good Time: (to start any important Andhra Pradesh 44 The official, MohdAyub Khan, was present in Delhi from March 13 to March 16 work) West Bengal 27 Bihar 21 The Government of for the community meeting. Khan works as a section officer at the Animal Amritakalam: 09:10 am - 10:49 am Ladakh 13 Andaman and Nicobar Islands 10 Telangana has ordered Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Departmen Abhijit Muhurtham: NIL an in-depth medical HYDERABAD Chandigarh 15 Chhattisgarh 8 investigation of a section officer of the Animal MohdAyub Khan, was Fisheries Department. avirus positive patients WEATHER Uttarakhand 7 Goa 5 Husbandry Department, present in Delhi from The order was passed are undergoing treatment Forecast: Clear after it was found that the March 13 to March 16 for on Tuesday in the wake of in various government Temp: 39/25 Odisha 4 Himachal Pradesh 3 official participated in the the community meeting. reports that some of the facilities. According to Humidity: 71% religious congregation at Khan works as a section attendees who returned to the health wing, the con- Sunrise: 06.10 Manipur 1 Mizoram 1 Nizamuddin, where some officer at the Animal the city were potential dition of all the patients is Sunset: 06.29 Puducherry 1 Last updated: 31 March 2020 at 4:17 PM of the attendees contract- Husbandry, Dairy carriers of Covid-19. stable and they are recov- Current Weather Conditions ed Covid-19. The official, Development and At present, 77 coron- ering. Updated March 31, 2020 5:00 PM HYDERABAD | WEDENSDAY | APRIL 1, 2020 hyderabad 02

ntouchability appears to no longer be a crime Utoday as the concept of social distancing, introduced to Unity, but at a distance is the buzzword these days the countrymen by Prime Minister Narendra Coronavirus is considered Police Training Colleges? Academy in Hyderabad which crores of lives, in effective Modi, has caught on a powerful weapon to defeat The entire country is on tenterhooks, Had the faculty of those was named after Patel. implementation of social dis- like wildfire in the the virus. institutions taught this? What The essence of these words tancing. wake of The entire country is on facing the dreadful prospect that we would be the reaction of the of Patel needs to be brought to This can be understood Coronavirus. tenterhooks, facing the may slip into stage-3 — the police if the public starts the minds of trainees at lower from the heavy crackdown by The buzzword PIN dreadful prospect that community transmission stage. If behaving like them? Will they level institutions like state- the police and paramilitary these days is ‘unity POINT we may slip into stage-3 — the really be in a position to even level police academies and forces to ensure 'social distanc- at a distance’, albeit community transmission stage. this happens, the situation has the answer such queries? regional level PTCs. ing' across the country. without the customary hand- If this happens, the situation potential to spiral out of control Knowingly or unknowingly, Meanwhile, the people of AP This is perhaps the only shake, as India battles the has the potential to spiral out the police personnel of AP are have got a morale booster mantra or the only way left for dreaded infection that has of control. pushing their bosses into an from the news that the first the government to ensure peo- enveloped the entire world, Covid-19 was brought to the can only be done by avoiding reputation of their police forces embarrassing position. person infected by ple’s safety and not turn anoth- barring the Arctic and country by foreign returnees contact with those infected. If which resorted to brutal lathi- Naturally, the state govern- Coronavirus in the state has er Italy that miserably failed to Antarctic regions. and is now spreading to citi- this is not done, suffice to say, charge on general public. M D RATNA KUMAR ments are cautious and not tak- full recovered. More remark- foresee the situation and take While we do our bit in this zens with no travel history lakhs of people are at risk of The penchant for the cops to Senior Journalist ing a tough stand against the able and heartwarming news is corrective measures. fight against Covid-19 by abroad. Thus far, this set of infection. wield their lathis is leading erring police personnel so as that this patient is a 65-year-old One last thing to be men- observing the lockdown till people with no travel history That's why the Central gov- them to lose respect; the gen- not to weaken the 'moral and suffering from ailments tioned here is that Telugu lan- April 14, we must remember have been closely moving with ernment seems to be solely eral opinion is that the police severely cane the people? strength ' of the police. like hypertension and diabetes. guage got international fame, that this ‘untouchability’ is a the foreign-returnees. depending upon the concept of should observe restrain. Which Section permits them “Police personnel should Unfortunately, the migrant being described as'Italian of the necessary evil in view of the Strictly speaking, there is no social distancing. The way police personnel to use such filthy and unprint- not lose their cool under any workers in North India, more East' by well-known poet larger interests of the nation specific situation in recent his- Thus far, this concept have been behaving with the able language? Would the provocation. specifically New Delhi, have no Panuganti Lakshmi and safety of 1.3 billion people tory that the government can appears to be yielding results in people to the extent of using women members of families of If they lose their cool, they such morale booster nor a Narasimham. of the country. draw experience from and places where the lockdown is filthy language is highly objec- those police personnel approve then cease to be the police” is leader who would gather the Ironically, everybody is hop- Encouraging countrymen stop the spread of the virus. being strictly implemented. tionable and is being con- that language and publicly the message of country's first courage to take them to safe- ing that this proud state of not to be ‘in touch' with fellow Health experts are very clear Unfortunately, governments demned, even by family mem- support their dear ones for home minister Vallabhbhai ty, like Moses did to his peo- Telugu people doesn’t become citizens to break the chain of about one thing— the only way of various States have had to bers of cops themselves. behaving like this? What Patel. These words are ple. another Italy that is devastat- possible mass contact that can to stop the spread of the virus use force to implement the Which Section of the CrPC morals do the police personnel inscribed for the benefit of the The government is putting ed by the havoc caused by spread the dreaded is to stop getting infected. This lockdown, at the cost of the allows police personnel to learn in Police Academies and trainees at National Police its entire faith, and risking Covid-19. Jagadish comes to the rescue of stranded labourers Hurdles cleared n PNS SURYAPET The workers went to A group of 26 workers belong- Pulichintala Project in ing to Pachya Thanda in search of work. Suryapet constituency, who Because of the for seed producers were stranded at the Andhra - Telangana border managed lockdown, the project PNS n HYDERABAD to reach their homes on works have been Monday evening. They affected. They were Telangana Seeds Producers expressed their gratitude to stranded in Andhra Association leaders on Tuesday Power Minister G Jagadish Pradesh and called on B Vinod Kumar, Reddy for his intervention Vice-Chairman, Telangana leading to their safe return. managed to reach State Planning Board at his The workers went to the inter-state border quarters here and urged him to Pulichintala Project in search on Sunday ensure that there would be no of work. Because of the lock- The workers belonging to the Pachya Thanda who were stranded at the Andhra-Telangana border hiccups in transportation of down, the project works have seeds. They brought to the been affected. They were notice of Vinod Kumar prob- stranded in Andhra Pradesh lems being faced by them in and managed to reach JAMAAT ATTENDEES UNDER QUARANTINE: JAGADISH transporting seeds not only in the inter-state border on Telangana but also in other Sunday. ower Minister Jagadish Reddy on Tuesday spoke to Collectors of Nalgonda, Bhongir-Yadadri and Suryapet districts and told them that all the states because of the lock- The police at the border did Ppersons who took part in Tablighi Jamaat, a religious meeting in Delhi, are in quarantine and described them as safe. He appealed to the down. not allow them to crossover to people not to give credence to rumours. In all, 31 from Nalgonda district, 12 from Yadadri district and 11 from Suryapet district took part in They told the vice chairman the lockdown. Because of the DIG immediately created a Telangana citing rules. The prayers at a place of worship in Delhi. All of them are under the strict monitoring of the Medical and Health Department, he said. The of the state planning board that police putting hurdles in trans- WhatApp group with the stranded labourers managed government officials also confirmed this. Therefore, the Minister appealed to the people not to get carried away by rumours being circulated there are over 400 seed pro- portation of seeds, even work- police, seed procuers and to find phone number of about them. He exhorted the people to partner with the government's fight against coronavirus. The police and doctors, besides the sanitation cessing units in the state and ers would not be able to reach transporers. She asked the Jagadish Reddy and called workers have been putting strenuous efforts to rein in the virus as part of the state government's initiative. Under such circumstances, the over three lakh farmers pro- the processing units to process seed producers to report their him up, who not only ordered Minister exhorted people to remain clam and not get carried away rumours. duce seeds. the seeds, they told Vinod problem through the district authorities to ensure The seed processing units Kumar. In fact, 80 per cent of WhatsApp group. their safe return to Pachya process paddy, maize and cot- the country's seeds needs are On behalf of the seed pro- Thanda. He kept on monitor- Collector Vinaykrishna Reddy The RDO coordinated with arrangements to send them to safe return of the tribals. He ton seeds and supply them to being met by Telangana. But, ducers GV Bhaskar Rao and ing the situation till they deputed Kodad RDO to bring the police authorities and got their village on Monday. also called on the labourers all over the country. During the police have been posing ASN Reddy thanked Chief reached home safely. back the stranded workers medical examination con- ZPTC of Chivvemla vil- who returned to Pachya than- the prevailing crop harvesting problems to internal move- Minister K Chandrasekhar Acting on directions from getting them duly medically ducted on the workers till lage Sanjeev Naik thanked da to enquire about their well season, police have been ment of seeds in the state, they Rao, B Vinod Kumar and Jagadish Reddy, district examined. Sunday evening. They made the Minister for ensuring the being. obstructing movement of seeds lamented. Telangana Seeds Federation to the processing units in spite Vinod Kumar contacted director Kesavulu and to of the fact that Chief Minister DGP on the issue immediate- Agriculture Minister Niranjan K Chandrasekhar Rao exempt- ly. The latter appointed DIG Reddy for solving their Nizamuddin ed transporting of seeds from sumati as the nodal officer. The problem. In sharpest spike yet, congregation JEE Mains 21 more test... triggers... 140 of 603 attendees Continued from Page 1 year-old and 39-year-old Continued from Page 1 postponed respectively from Guntur town The health bulletin says that and contacts of Patient-10 who A senior official of Gadwal from Hyderabad... Patient-28 is a 28-year-old attended the Delhi meeting. district said the immediate to last week male and a close contact of According to the health bul- contacts of the deceased Continued from Page 1 Patient-14 who attended the letin, Patient-34 is 32-year- were also being identified of May It may be mentioned Delhi meeting, while Patient- old, Patient-35 is 59-year-old, and quarantined. "His Over 200 teams, compris- here that six of 29 is a 28-year-old female and Patient-36 is 44-year-old, (deceased's) son and daugh- Continued from Page 1 ing personnel drawn from a close contact of Patient 28. Patient-37 is 28-year-old, ter-in-law and two grand- Harish Rao assures Police, GHMC, Revenue, those who attended Patient-30 is a 39-year-old Patient-38 is 46-year-old, children were shifted to According to the notice, the Medical and Health the congregation male who attended the Delhi Patient-39 a 35-year-old and Gandhi Hospital after they exam, that is supposed to be Departments, have been meeting; all the three are from they all are from Prakasam dis- reported to the district all help to migrants held from April 5 to 11, has deployed to track them and from TS succumbed Karampudi of Guntur District. trict who attended the Delhi administration with fever. been postponed to the last check their status. In all, 74 after contracting Patient-31 is a 65-year-old meeting. A 65-year-old Patient- The son and daughter-in-law PNS n SIDIDPET housed at DXN Industries at week of May 2020. The people were showing symp- coronavirus. Four of female from Krishna district 40 is a Madina returnee. As have tested positive and are Mandapall, 320 in double bed- admit card for the same will toms of coronavirus and and a close contact of a person many as 147 samples have under treatment," the official Telangana State Finance room houses at Narsapur, 680 be released after April 15, health issues; they were these deaths were who attended the Delhi meet- been tested of which 21 were said. Minister T Harish Rao assured members at Mutrajpally R&R 2020. Earlier, on March 18, rushed to Gandhi and Fever reported from ing. Patients 32 and 33 are 42- COVID-19 positive. In a sudden spike in that all the 10,300 migrant Colony near Gajwel, 300 2020, NTA had released an hospitals. Andhra Pradesh, 17 persons labourers from other States members at Markook Camp, official notice regarding the In all, 348 people are now Hyderabad tested positive since Monday who are working in irrigation 600 people at Tunki Bollaram postponement of the JEE under home quarantine, night. A majority of them projects across Siddipet dis- R&R Colony. Similar distrib- mains exam scheduled to be while 41 others have been Health officials tracing those had also attended the ijtema trict, will be provided 12 kg of ution has been taken up in held on 5, 7, 9 and 11 April moved to government centres gation with help from Amirs in Delhi. With this the num- rice free besides Rs 500 per various other places too. 2020. Union HRD Minister, for quarantine due to lack of appointed at state and district who visited Markaz, CM told ber of total cases in the AP head. The Minister assured the Ramesh Pokhriyal facilities at home. levels as they are expected to VIJAYAWADA: Most of the 17 persons who tested positive for rose to 40. The Minister was speaking labourers that the govern- announced the same on It may be mentioned here have lists of the attendees. COVID-19 on Tuesday, have a link to the Tablighi Jamaat ijtema The Andhra Pradesh gov- after launching the distribu- ment would take care of their Twitter. that six of those who attend- The Telangana government (congregation) at Nizamuddin area in Delhi. Health officials are now ernment has identified 711 tion of rice and cash on well being during the lock- "Taking into account var- ed the congregation from TS has urged people to inform tracking down the people these members of the Tablighi Jamaat people who returned from Tuesday. On the occasion, the down period. He urged them ious hardships of parents succumbed after contracting officials about persons who came in contact with. This was disclosed by officials during a the ijtema. Out of this, Minister said that the govern- to approach the officials if any- and students to travel to var- coronavirus. Four of these might have attended the gath- review meeting chaired by CM YS Jaganmohan Reddy. Of the newly around 140 are yet to be ment will treat all the migrant one among them showed ious examination centres, I deaths were reported from ering by calling to 104 or 100. detected cases in the state, most had participated in the Tablighi traced. Most of the attendees workers in the State as part of symptoms of Coronavirus have advised @DG_NTA to Hyderabad. The government also urged Jamaat meeting. The State health officials are gathering information from the state hail from Telangana family. such as cold, cough, fever and postpone JEE (Main) April- The authorities are trying attendees from the state to from the event organisers, police and railways officials (as the Prakasam district, in the Harish supervised the dis- throat infection. The Minister 2020," Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal to identify persons from TS voluntarily come forward and patients had travelled by train), and from various other sources. areas around Chirala, tribution of the rice and cash said they will be provided tweeted. who were part of the congre- report to the officials. Ongole, and Nawabpet. to 360 migrant labourers medical treatment free of cost. Liquor shops, bars and pubs COVID-19 to remains closed till April 14 84% Indians feel recovery will take up to 1 year PNS n HYDERABAD directed all the deputy com- PNS n NEW DELHI and analysis firm Velocity MR. taken. while travelling abroad in missioners of prohibition and The survey involving 2,100 "The survey shows that as a future. The survey also found The Prohibition and Excise excise, asst. commissioners of Nearly 84 per cent Indians people was conducted in cities precautionary measure, 81 per that many could not make Department has issued prohibition and excise feel that recovery from coron- including Delhi, Mumbai, cent people have started wash- changes in their day-to-day an order extending and district prohibi- avirus epidemic will take 6 Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, ing their hands more frequent- activities even if they wanted the date of closure tion and excise offi- months to one year time, a new Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow, ly than before and 78 per cent to. While 58 per cent men- of all the bars, cers of Telangana survey said on Tuesday. Out of Ahmedabad and Jaipur. While have started avoiding crowded tioned that they could not clubs, tourism bars, state to close all the 94 per cent respondents who 70 per cent respondents feel places as and when possible," buy groceries and daily essen- liquor shops and bars, clubs, tourism are aware about the Covid-19 older people and also people said Jasal Shah, Managing tials during non-peak hours, toddy shops up to bards, liquor shops disease, 75 per cent are with pre-existing conditions Director and CEO, Velocity 46 per cent could not avoid April 14 from March and toddy shops upto extremely concerned about the are more vulnerable to be MR. travelling for work-related pur- 31 in view of the April 14. He warned disease while only 52 per cent infected by the virus. However, Another important high- poses and 25 per cent were not COVID-19 virus impact. that any deviation in the are aware of the virus type 63 per cent said this can be light is that 72 per cent of those given the provision to work The director of the depart- matter would be viewed seri- spreading the disease, said the tackled with if proper hygiene surveyed said they will be from home by their organisa- ment, Sarfraz Ahmad, has ously. survey from market research and necessary precautions are more cautious and responsible tions.

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RIME German nationals stranded in CORNER Online dating apps finding MAN DETAINED FOR city evacuated by relief flight SPREADING FAKE PNS n HYDERABAD NEWS ON more love amid lockdown A group of 39 German nation- CORONAVIRUS NAVEEN KUMAR Houseparty to play games," als stranded in Hyderabad he Detective Department of n HYDERABAD said Soniya Bisht, another user. were evacuated by a special Tthe Cyber Crime Police of "I can now have first meets relief flight operated by Air Hyderabad apprehended a man Online dating apps and plat- on video and build an emo- India from Rajiv Gandhi and issued a notice to him for forms have spiked up activity tional connection with a man International Airport here on circulation of an audio clip in the last few weeks both in over the physical. Three weeks Tuesday. which is depicted to be a terms of download and time- no-contact means you will be The group of Germans com- telephonic conversation spent-on, as people are seeking able to drop the fakes and prising 19 females, 17 males between a reporter and a out company during shutdown engage with the ones that are and two infants reached doctor of Apollo hospital in period and are stuck at home truly wanting to have some- Hyderabad International which the doctor warned that quarantine. thing more," she added. Airport from various places in Covid-19 would show its power People are perhaps looking Dating apps are evolving to the city and left for Mumbai for and would infect lakhs of for things that make them feel cope with the shifting demand their onward journey to population if precautions are good and happy in these diffi- and habits. Bumble, which has Frankfurt. not taken and ten lakh cult times and online dating seen a 35 per cent increase in A spokesman of GMR-led population may die. Officials could be one of the ways to messages, has launched in- Airport said all passengers Terminal Operations, Airside handling Covid-19 relief and received a complaint from the achieve that, said Dr Shweta app video calling, while Hinge were serviced through the Operations, Airport evacuation flights. Earlier, it PRO of Apollo Hospitals, Rakesh, a psychiatrist from Social media points to another says 70 percent of its users are fully-sanitized Interim Operations & Control Center handled IndiGo medical evac- Jubilee Hills about the audio Hyderabad. interesting trend where discussions up for a digital date. International Departures (AOCC), Air Traffic Control uation flight on March 28. A clipping being circulated "People have certainly come There has been a 188 per Terminal (IIDT), which was (ATC), Central Industrial IndiGo, through this flight, through WhatsApp groups and out of the woodwork. I have in dating apps and platforms are cent increased mentions of kept ready for the evacuation. Security Force (CISF), evacuated its crew stuck in other social media. This audio noticed how my matches want becoming coronavirus-centric coronavirus on OkCupid pro- Earlier, the special flight, a Immigration, Customs and Hyderabad. clipping is depicted to be a to talk more. The conversation files in March. Indian Tinder Boeing B787-8 aircraft, land- others were deployed. Meanwhile, RGIA's cargo telephonic conversation is no longer surface level, with users described a rise in longer ed at Hyderabad International Special screening and safe- terminal is fully operational to between a reporter and a generic questions about work "Conversation on the apps dating apps, or dating app dis- conversations. Airport from Chennai, where ty measures were in place dur- keep the vital link of essential doctor of Apollo hospital in and what we got up to over the oscillate between the latest cussions are becoming corona- "Tinder understands that some German nationals board- ing the flight's handling to pro- supplies completely alive. The which they are spreading false weekend, but has shifted slight- coronavirus news, the ups and centric. our members are oftentimes ed it. tect against the Covid-19 threat cargo is working round the news which is causing a great ly deeper: reflections on how downs of working from home, "My friends have forwarded meeting new people in-person, The aircraft will leave for including thermal screening clock in close coordination fear in the general public and we're feeling, how we're spend- and what they've been watch- me essay-length messages from and, given the current environ- Frankfurt from Mumbai, prior to terminal entry, with various agencies to keep thereby affecting the reputation ing our time and what the ing on Netflix," he said. men on dating apps and social ment, we wanted to remind where some more Germans mandatory social distancing rolling the critical chain of of their hospital. plans are for the year," said Meanwhile, social media media and others have noticed them of the precautions they will board the relief flight. enforced through special queu- essential supplies like medi- Steve Abraham, a techie from points to another interesting their exes getting back in should take," the company To meet this emergency ing arrangements at all passen- cines, vaccines, medical equip- ONE ARRESTED FOR Madhapur who actively uses trend where people are chang- touch. More people want to said, citing the World Health requirement, a select group of ger processing points. ment, pharma raw material CREATING FAKE GO the online dating applications. ing their interaction patterns in call, we've all downloaded Organization. personnel from GHIAL The Hyderabad Airport is and defense goods. ON OPENING WINES he Detective Department of MAKING IT EASY Tthe Cyber Crime Police of Minister inspects shifting of KTR comes to Hyderabad on Tuesday, arrested a person for circulating a fake the rescue of government order with the signature of Director of LB Nagar vegetable market cloth vendors prohibition and excise department claiming that wine PNS n HYDERABAD Niranjan appealed PNS n HYDERABAD shops would be open from 29th March. The arrested Minister for Agriculture S to the people to A group of six cloth vendors person has been identified as Niranjan Reddy on Tuesday lend their support hailing from Tamil Nadu were 38-year-old K Sanish Kumar, inspected the arrangements to the state's stranded in Balakonda of aka Sunny, a resident of Uppal. to shift the LB Nagar vegetable Nizamabad district without Due to the sudden imposition market near Saroor Nagar efforts to rein in proper food or shelter. The of the lockdown, wine shops Stadium on Tuesday. The shift- the virus. CM is families of the traders reached were shut suddenly and eager ing of the market is proposed constantly out to DMK President MK tipplers spread this news like to ensure people buy vegetables Stalin who in a tweet to wildfire on social media observing social distance. monitoring the Municipal Administration platforms. Based on a Addressing a gathering, the situation to rule Minister KT Rama Rao and complaint from the Deputy Minister said that the govern- out any issues Telangana Chief Minister said, Superintendent of Police, State ment took measures to supply "Vendors from TN are stuck Task Force, Excise Department, vegetables to people through in Kisan Nagar, Balakonda a complaint was registered. mobile rytu bazaars at afford- (Nizama bad District) without Investigation revealed that able prices. Apartment number, the Minister added. be recalled that the CM is gen- proper food or shelter. Request Kumar started the circulation of Residents purchase vegetables and fruits at mobile rytu bazaar on Tuesday. Government arranged 254 mobile vehicles for dwellers can contact the Niranjan appealed to the erous to provide relief to the your intervention. Please con- the fake order with signature of people in twin cities in 504 areas. mobile rytu bazaars on mobile: people to lend their support to migrant labourers too. tact Rasamurugesan President Director of prohibition and 7330733212 to find out tim- the government's efforts to The Chief Minister is taking of TN Small Vendors Develop excise department in the social ings of the mobile rytu bazaar rein in the virus. Chief measures with fore sight to rein ment Association." (sic) While media which specifies that visiting their area, he said. Minister K Chandrasekhar in the virus. Therefore, he Stalin referred the issue to statewide all the wine shops ‘IPM gave Unemployed youth who Rao is constantly monitoring sought complete support of the KTR at around 10.14 am who will remain open from OP wings in hospitals wish to set up mobile rytu the situation to rule out any people to the Chief Minister's responded by 10.21 am saying, 29/03/2020, from 14:00 hrs to bazaars should also contact the problem to the people. It may efforts. "We will take care Stalin Sir". 17:30 hrs. Police said that necessary notices were also given to five others who further circulated training to wear a deserted look the fake order to others. PNS n HYDERABAD draw at least 500 to 600 Cyberabad GHMC distributes relief among migrant workers doctors’ patients a day. Currently, their PROPERTY PNS n HYDERABAD Out patient departments of number does not cross 30 per cops extend PNS n HYDERABAD not only government hospitals day. OFFENDERS HELD, Institute of Preventive but also corporate hospitals Some other private and cor- validity of Soon after the announcement BOOTY WORTH RS 8 Medicine Director Dr receive fewer patients these porate hospitals completely from the Chief Minister K Shankar has said that the state days due to coronavirus out- did away with the OP depart- Chandrasekhar that no one L RECOVERED government has been imple- break. However, some corpo- ment services. But some other service passes should be hungry, Mayor Dr he Nacharam Police arrested menting all measures to rate hospitals have been reach- hospitals have been running PNS n HYDERABAD Bonthu Rammohan, Civil Tfive automobile offenders on check the virus and felt that ing out to patients through tele the OP along with the Supplies chairman M Srinivas Tuesday. The gang was involved the spread of the virus can be medicine and e-consultancy Emergency Medical Services The Cyberabad Police have Reddy and MLA Muta Gopal in five cases, said the Police, checked provided people take services. e-consultancy ser- Department. extended the validity of the has distributed 12 kg rice and adding that six bikes were adequate precautions. vices. e-consultancy services. In the wake of the coron- passes of essential services Rs 500 to each migrant work- seized so far. The arrested The lockdown declared on Serpentine queues in front avirus threat, many people and individuals up to April er in Musheerabad persons have been identified as the state will help break the of Osmania Hospital OP have postponed their non- 15. Earlier, the Telangana Constituency on Tuesday in Mohd. Mosin Shareef, 20, Zaki virus chain, he said laying department have been absent. essential surgical treatments government had in its order coordination with the Civil Khan, 20, Sarfaraz Khan, 21, emphasis on precautions like On an average, at least 2,000 and other treatments which dated March 28, extended the Supplies Department and Mohd. Amair Khan, 24 and washing hands with soap or to 2,500 patients visit the OP are not life threatening. People Covid-19 lockdown related GHMC. The number of migrant workers in the Asan bin Mohemmed, 22. cleaning them with sanitiser department per a day as are not visiting hospitals unless orders till April 14, on par Speaking on the occasion, According to the Nacharam as frequently as possible in a against the present which is it is absolutely necessary. with the central government the Mayor said that Telangana GHMC are 34,283 and quantity of rice Police, the five accused persons day. The transmission of the less than 200. There was no However, prior to the Covid- directives. is the first state to announce is 411.396 metric tons were apprehended based on disease can be arrested by guarantee that a patient stand- 19, the hospitals used to burst Hence, Cyberabad Police lockdown in the country, this credible Information at people having symptoms. ing in queue is likely to get an at the seams. During the past Commissioner VC Sajjanar shows how the Chief Minister's Musheerabad. They confessed Laying emphasis on having OP slip generally. 10 days, there was complete- requested pass holders of foresight in respect of the ularly the construction sector migrant workers in the to their involvement in five balanced diet, the IPM direc- The condition was more or ly turnaround in the situation. essential services in the intensity of Covid-19 effect. are the worst hit, due to which GHMC limits is 34,283 and cases. The value of the bikes tor suggested people to do less the same earlier. One Many hospitals for want of police commissionerate to The Chief Minister announced the migrant workers are suffer- quantity of rice to be distrib- recovered is approximately regular workouts. The symp- cannot hardly step anywhere patients have been wearing note that the validity has lock down in order to safe ing. Since they are part and uted is 411.396 metric tons at worth Rs 8,00,000, said toms of the virus are charac- near the NIMS out patient deserted look. been extended. guard the people of Telangana parcel in economic develop- Rs 32.73 per kg and total cost officials, adding that three more terized by fever, throat pain department during normal During the normal days, The passes issued by the to control the spread of coro- ment of state the Chief comes to Rs 1,34,64,991in bikes were yet to be recovered. and difficulty in breathing. days. Only 40 to 50 patients Gandhi and Osmania Cyberabad Police are valid in navirus in the state. Minister has announced that addition to this Rs 500 is to be The arrested persons are being “IPM gave necessary train- visit the OP in the post Covid- Hospitals used to handle 5000 Cyberabad Hyderabad and Further, he said due to lock- the government will come to given to each migrant worker produced before a court for ing to doctors treating the 19 scenario. A corporate hos- to 6000 OP patients and at Rachakonda police commis- down the activities of most of rescue them. and total amount comes Rs judicial remand. virus affected,” he said. pital in Hitec City used to least 500 to 600 surgeries. sionerates. the sectors close down, partic- The total number of 1,71,41,500.

Man sets his Traffic surges on online learning platforms home on fire, Varsities advise students to pursue online courses during lockdown attempts suicide PNS n HYDERABAD K VENKATESHWARLU n HYDERABAD Principals of all the colleges were told A 60-year-old man attempt- to sign-up to learning apps to provide ed suicide by setting his flat The lockdown has forced access to their students to more than on fire at Attapur in everyone across the nation to 3,800 courses and 400 specialisations Cops book 50,000 Rajendranagar on Tuesday confine to their residences due morning. to coronavirus outbreak. The man was identified as Educational institutions includ- Speaking to The Pioneer, JNTUH planning director cases in one week Md Adam Shafi, formerly ing the state-run colleges and rector and registrar of JNTU Dr BN Bhandari said that the known as C Mrutyunjaya schools were also shut tem- Hyderabad Prof. A Govardhan efforts are taking place to PNS n HYDERABAD Apart from cases booked Rao. Rao is always paranoid porarily. While this is the case said that the University initiat- stream line the track of acad- through different cameras, and suspects that his family across the country, the students ed this programme to provide emic calendar to ensure that The Hyderabad Traffic Police around 4700 cases were also turned against him. pursuing professional courses access to various courses and not to be affected the lives of has booked a record number booked by the traffic cops Police tried to counsel him, including Engineering, MCA upskill their knowledge. All the students. As per the universi- of cases, 50,000, in one week deputed on service at different but in vain as he even refused and Pharmacy were using this students under the university ty norms, the JNTUH will for violating the lockdown junctions in the city. to seek help from specialists. free time during the lockdown were advised to learn the adopt the methods to benefit regulations. The department will upload In a bid to kill himself, Rao to pursue online certificate online courses and utilise the students at this time, he said. The highest number of the photos along with the fine tried slitting his throat. He courses which would benefit AICTE, most of the varsities in pals of all the constituent and free time during the lockdown A III year engineering stu- 46,100 cases booked were amount on the website and then opened the valve of the them in their future. Telangana including Jawaharlal affiliated colleges offering pro- period. dent A Vamshi enrolled with through CCTV camera also a message will be sent to cylinder and set the home The University Grants Nehru Technological fessional courses in Telangana He said that the University an online learning platform footages. Apart from the the violators and they will have ablaze. Neighbours informed Commission (UGC) and All University and Osmania state to sign-up to online learn- made an MoU with a global said that it will help him devel- CCTV cameras installed at to cough up the penalties. police and fire department. India Council for Technical University advised their stu- ing platforms to provide free online training platform op skills in research as it is an different junctions, cases were Moreover, if someone's vehi- Fire officials broke down Education (AICTE) directed dents to pursue online cours- access to their students to named Coursera, which is pro- advanced course. He said that also booked through handheld cle is seized then they will have the door and found Rao lying the universities to help the stu- es to upskill themselves to more than 3,800 courses and viding online classes according it is a three-month course cameras and surveillance cam- to get is released after appear- on the floor. He sustained no dents in this regard. Following compete at global arena. 400 specialisations from top to students requirements and which can help him pass the eras installed at different loca- ing before the court, said the injuries and was unconscious the directions of the UGC and As part of it, all the princi- universities. providing certificates. time by improving knowledge. tions. police. due to suffocation. HYDERABAD | TUESDAY | MARCH 31, 2020 hyderabad 04

t’s pertinent to note that no other issue or inci- Ident created such a panic Infusing confidence in people, the Telangana example the world over after the Second World War than the Coronavirus pandemic. these foreign returnees inter- Telangana was the first state that farmers, Rythu Bandhu Samiti ready in isolation wards of ance, to be vigilant and alert. The Government, on a day- acted. teams, media and a host of hospitals for coronavirus This is the time to explore the to-day basis, has been moni- The state government constituted special task force teams to other agencies are working patients besides another 1,400 alternative and time-tested toring, assessing, studying the authorities were able to iden- identify those who came from abroad to the round the clock to prevent beds in ICUs. The Gachibowli systems of medicine and try to situation carefully and giving tify 25,937 such people, and Coronavirus spread. Stadium will be converted, in find out whether they have any all the necessary guidelines, put them under quarantine. State after March 1, 2020 and also identifying The government is prepared the next two to three days, into solution to offer which can be instructions to the administra- They have been under surveil- people within the state, those with whom for any eventuality, even if it’s an exclusive isolation facility tested and verified. This is the tion at all levels. lance by 5,746 teams and their these foreign returnees interacted a full-blown crisis. for Covid-19 patients. The time for all of us to act unit- To begin with, the quarantine period would start However, people should Gandhi and King Koti edly and decisively. In the Government sought to know ending from March 30 and by complement and supplement Hospitals are also kept ready. weeks and months to come, we the reasons behind the out- April 7. the government efforts by The government had placed should show our resilience, break and spread based on the The Telangana government COVID-19 tests. The CCMB per person and Rs 1,500 in ensuring that they stay order for 500 new ventilators; commitment, dedication and virus timeline from its epicen- was the first to request Prime labs can test about 800 samples cash, the state government indoors, maintain social dis- a pool of 11,000 doctors was our united efforts to eradicate tre, Wuhan in China. Minister Narendra Modi to a day. CM made this request had ensured that no one in the VANAM JWALA NARASIMHA RAO tancing and avoid gathering in being prepared that includes Coronavirus not only from our Telangana’s dedicated scien- ban the arrival and taking off many days before anyone state, including the migrant CPRO to Chief Minister groups and not panic. Any the 8,000 existing doctors. soil but also from the world. tists, medical professionals, of the international flights to realised the danger of this workers, the marginalised, deviation from these norms The remaining comprising World Health Organization specialists in the field of virol- prevent people coming from epidemic. orphans, old age persons, des- would only result in diversion retired doctors, PG medical (WHO) Executive Director ogy and officials concerned, abroad to the country, some of To create more awareness titute are starved. Over 3.5 lakh attender ranging from 75% to of government energy from students and medical interns. Michael Ryan has rightly said did remarkable research and whom might carry the virus. but not fear or panic among migrant labourers in 10%. other more important matters. A financial package for these that India has tremendous spadework on the matter and It was also the first State to talk the people, periodical media Telangana would also get 12 kg The government is fortunate People of the State should professionals is also being capacity to deal with the coro- came up with many valid about the sealing of the inter- briefings are taking place by of rice free, shelter, medical aid to have wonderful, committed not take the situation lightly worked. navirus outbreak and, as the observations. state borders and ban public the Chief Minister. The and Rs 500 per person to tide and dedicated official machin- with a ‘nothing-will-happen- All private hospitals, sports second most populous coun- Telangana was the first state transport both intra and inter- attempt is to infuse confi- over the crisis. ery in the state. Employees, to-me’ attitude. stadia, multiplex complexes, try; it would have enormous that constituted special task state. dence in the people. As part of austerity mea- staff of the Medical and The State is fully geared up malls would also be kept ready impact on the world's ability to force teams to identify those The PM readily agreed to In the case of a major pan- sures to meet the urgent needs Health, Electricity, Water to combat the deadly virus and to be temporary hospitals if deal with it. India will deal who came from abroad to the KCR’s proposal to allow the demic like Corona, the most of the people, the Government works, Sanitation, Police, para- it would facilitate treatment of need be. with it successfully. As Indians, State after March 1, 2020 and Centre for Cellular and affected are the poor, margin- has imposed cut in the salaries medics, hospital watch and 60,000 patients, if the need This is not time to complain we have been taught genera- also identifying people within Molecular Biology (CCMB) alised and migrant workers. of public servants right from ward staff, Ministers, officials, arises. or indulge in blame game. This tion after generation that the state, those with whom labs in Hyderabad conduct Besides providing 12 kg rice Chief Minister down to an elected representatives, SHGs, A total of 11,000 beds are is the time to maintain bal- whole world is one family.

SALARY CUTS Tipplers defy curbs to score a peg KCR taking advantage of In view of lockdown, some wine shop and bar owners selling liquor in black market PNS n NIZAMABAD normally sells between Rs 10- shops were reported from pandemic, alleges Congress 20 is now being sold at Rs 50 Hyderabad, while one person Taking advantage of the weak- a bottle. who could not get liquor PNS n HYDERABAD ness of tipplers, wine shop When Excise jumped from fourth floor of a All-parties Bandi Sanjay and bar owners are allegedly Superintendent Dr Naveen building in Jubilee Hills area on Telangana Pradesh Congress diverting liquor stocks into Chandra was approached for Friday night. Elsewhere, anoth- Committee (TPCC) Treasurer condemn move asks KCR to the black market and making his response, he said that he er man who escaped from his Gudur Narayana Reddy a killing by selling liquor at would cancel licence of shops house in search of toddy was strongly opposed the decision PNS n HYDERABAD exorbitant rates, nearly at three and bars if they are found sell- run over by an unidentified of State government to cut the rethink decision or four times the MRP. ing liquor illegally. The depart- vehicle in Sangareddy district. salaries of employees, includ- All-party meeting held here PNS | Hyderabad Meanwhile, there were ment has constituted three He was tied to a pole by his ing Class IV, outsourcing and on Tuesday demanded the state Telangana BJP chief Bandi reports of habitual tipplers teams to check this. He family members as he was contract employees and government to withdraw the Sanjay Kumar on Tuesday developing severe withdrawal appealed against selling liquor behaving strangely. described it as 'hasty' and 'ill- imposition of cuts on salaries of urged Chief Minister K symptoms. Tipplers have been and adulterated toddy unau- Also, a fake government timed'. government employees. All Chandrashekhar Rao to purchasing liquor at prohibitive thorisedly. order purportedly issued in the "Chief Minister K party leaders Chada Venkat deposit the funds allocated cost and emptying their pock- Apart from liquor, adulterated toddy is It may be recalled that more name of Director of Chandrashekhar Rao is Reddy (CPI), Thammineni into the bank accounts of 14 ets. Indiscriminate sale of than 2,400 liquor retail outlets Prohibition and Excise depart- wrongly trying to take advan- Veerabhadram (CPM), M lakh construction labourers liquor is taking places at many being sold rampantly in Nizamabad. and over 700 bars in Telangana ment allowing liquor shops to tage of an epidemic to cut Kodandaram (TJF), L Ramana through Direct Benefit places across the city, it is Over 2,400 liquor retail outlets and over have been closed eversince the be opened for two and half down the salaries of employees (TTDP), P Rangarao (CPIML Transfer (DBT). alleged. 700 bars in TS have been closed in view Chief Minister K hours a day from Sunday, led and pensions. He should first New Democracy), S He said that the Central In the city, liquor traders are Chandrashekhar Rao to much confusion among the disclose the figures of funds Venkateshwararao (CPIML Labour Department gave ruling the roost as the excise of lockdown announced the lockdown to liquor traders as well as the spent by the State Government New Democracy), Thandra clear directions to transfer officials look the other way. contain the spread of coron- liquor consumers in the State, to deal with the Coronavirus Kumar (MCPIU), Janakiramulu the amounts to the accounts Some of the tipplers under avirus. on Saturday. However, the wine and the estimated revenue loss (RSP), Prasad (CPIML), M of building construction unavoidable circumstances, rates. many places in the wake of Two instances of desperate dealers said that it is a fake to the State's exchequer due to Rajesh (CPIML-Liberation), B labourers while allowing the forced by addiction, are pur- This apart, adulterated toddy close of toddy shops, toddy liquor addicts making vain order that is being circulated lockdown. While expenditure Surender Reddy (Forward state government to spend chasing liquor at exorbitant is being sold rampantly at depots. A bottle of toddy which attempts to break into liquor on WhatsApp. to deal with the Coronavirus Block) demanded the state gov- Rs 2,300 crore CESS for the situation should be the top pri- ernment to convene a meeting same. Bandi Sanjay ority, it cannot be used as an with all-party leaders to discuss addressed a letter to the excuse to cut salaries of gov- on various issues in view of pre- Chief Minister in this regard Jithender ernment employees," Narayana vailed conditions. on Tuesday. Cancel tenders invited for Reddy said. slams KCR for He welcomed the decision for a cut by 75% in the salaries of CM, State cabinet, Shabbir: Move will salary cuts Kaleshwaram: Revanth MLCs, MLAs, State PNS n HYDERABAD PNS n HYDERABAD works for Kaleswaram project. Corporation Chairpersons, He said that the contract com- Local Bodies representatives demoralise the staff BJP leader and former MP AP TPCC working president and panies had announced holi- and said they cut could be of Jithender Reddy on Tuesday Malkajgiri MP Revanth Reddy days on account of lockdown. Kirana 100% as most of them are PNS n HYDERABAD working relentlessly slammed Chief Minister K on Tuesday demanded Chief "It is not possible for the rich. Further, 60% cut in for the last 10 days Chandrashekhar Rao for Minister K Chandrasekhar contract companies to pre- merchants to salaries of IAS, IPS IFS and Former Minister to prevent the imposing cuts in the salaries of Rao to rereview the decisions pare estimates by sending their other such Central services Mohammed Ali spread of government employees by 50- taken in regard to serving field-level staff to the spot? he observe bandh Officer might be approved. Shabbir strongly Coronavirus in 60 per cent. notices to the farmers of pointed out. He demanded However, he said 50% cut in condemned the the State. "Almost "Telangana is the only state Medipally Nanakram Guda the state government to cancel PNS n KAMAREDDY the salaries of all other cate- decision of State all departments are in the country to take such village in Rangareddy district the tenders immediately or gories of employees was not government to cut involved in anti- stringent and extreme mea- for referendum on April 3 else one can understand that Traders of essential com- acceptable. salaries of government Coronavirus opera- sures. This is despite and calling tenders for water tion for the sake of Pharma the government has motives modities on Tuesday The Congress leader said employees and slash pay- tions. While the Health, Government of India request- pumping works for City, he alleged in his letter. behind calling tenders. announced to observe bandh that the Class IV, outsourcing ment for pensioners. He also Police, energy and municipal ing all the private and public Kaleswaram Project and He said that the act is noth- The MP also found fault with from Wednesday in the town and contract employees were demanded a White Paper on administrations departments employers to not cut salary of imposing cuts in the salaries of ing but playing games with the the Chief Minister for cutting to register their protest already drawing less salaries State finances explaining the are working on 24-hour basis any employee. At a time, when the employees. lives of the people. He termed the salariesof government against 'police excesses'. and they were not revised sudden economic crisis that to provide essential services to all government officials, espe- Revanth Reddy on Tuesday the government's decision to employees. The MP reminded President of the Kirana mer- ever since the formation of gripped the Telangana. common people during lock- cially the police force is work- wrote a letter to the Chief conducting referendum on the Chief Minister of his state- chants association Yellanki Telangana State. Now a cut by Shabbir Ali, in a statement down period, employees of ing round-the-clock to combat Minister in this regard. In his April 3 as 'foolish act'. He ments made a few days ago ask- Srinivas alleged that the 10 per cent will have a nega- on Tuesday, said that the move other departments are taking the Covid-19 pandemic, this letter, Revanth slammed the reminded the Chief Minister ing the private companies to police were harassing the tive impact on their person- would demoralise the govern- care of logistics and other salary cut will be highly dis- Chief Minister for violating his that the Centre had announced give full salaries to their merchants. He alleged that al finances. ment staff which has been managerial asks. couraging and demotivating," own decisions. lockdown till April 14. He employees. Welcoming the the police have caned many he said. Chief Minister's salary The Chief Minister asked said that tension prevailed imposition of cuts in salaries of members of the association cut decision clearly shows the the people to maintain social among the people on land public representatives, IAS offi- and made a special mention mismanagement of state funds. distance, but at the same time acquisition. He demanded the cers and other higher officials, of the CI Jagadish and found 15 food The state government has inef- he made the revenue officials government to cancel the pro- the MP however found fault fault with his attitude. He said Officials intensify ficiently managed the state to serve notices to the farmers posed referendum on April 3. with the government for impos- that the merchants would centres to finances, due to which it is under Nanakramguda village He also found fault with the ing cuts in salaries of fourth not reopen their shops till a unable to fight the coronavirus asking the farmers to attend for Chief Minister for inviting class employees, out sourcing perceptible change in the precautionary serve lunch menace. referendum for land acquisi- tenders for water pumping and contract employees. police behaviour is noticed. PNS n WARANGAL messages In view of the lockdown COVID TRACKER imposed for containment of AVINASH DEEPAK PULI ACP Surender and the spread of coronavirus, the n MAHBUBNAGAR Warangal East MLA Deputy DM Chandu Nannapuneni Narender Index of panic up but trust in Modi govt intact District administrations in the naik visited the along with several other phil- erstwhile Mahabubnagar dis- Patel Road and anthropists set up 15 food PNS n NEW DELHI variable looming over peo- The survey is based on a sample size of trict have intensified the pre- centres for the hungry and ple's lives across the world. cautionary measures as they traced the needy in the city. The index of panic as per the To a question on whether 1,187 respondents. The field work for found the occurrence of fresh suspects before Minister for Women and IANS-CVoter Covid Tracker people are afraid that they the survey was done on March 26-27 Covid-19 cases in the region. sending them to Child Welfare Satyavathi has shot up in the week end- will get the virus, 48.3 per Three families of Patel Road Rathod, who inaugurated the ing March 29 with more peo- cent agreed, a sharp increase in Shadnagar town attended the isolation food centres near Pochamma ple, around 22 per cent, afraid of 9.2 per cent over last week. In the current week, the num- will get worse. the Markaz Tabligi meeting in Maidan on Tuesday, appreci- that they or someone in the In turn, the number of peo- ber of people who agree with On becoming more aware Delhi. Following this, ated the efforts of the MLA in family can catch the coron- ple who disagree went down this proposition is down by about cleanliness, 87.2 per Collector Amoy Kumar direct- Rajendranagar quarantine providing food for the poor avirus. to 46.5 per cent from 59.5 per 15.4 per cent compared to last cent of the respondents said ed the officials concerned to centre in a special vehicle. in these trying times. The index of panic has cent last week, a fall of 13 per week to 44.3 per cent while they yes, up by 15.7 per cent shift those three families to the Also, the Nagarkurnool offi- Speaking on the occasion, gone up sharply as compared cent which implies that less those who disagree has gone from last week. The index of Hyderabad for isolation. cials traced 11 persons, who MLA Narender said about to the tracker results for the people now disagree with this As many as 83.5 per cent up by 10.3 per cent to 45.8 per preparedness measures by A total of eight members attended Nizamuddin con- 150 persons would be fed at week ending March 23. The formulation. respondents agreed that the cent clearly indicating that how much rations/medicines from these three families were gregation. DMHO Sudhakar each center every day. “The survey is based on a sample In the net effect, there is a Indian government is han- fewer people think that the or money for these essentials in the list of visitors at the Lal said that one among these people who are working in size of 1,187 respondents. 22 per cent shift towards dling the coronavirus crisis fear is hyped. and for how many days is Markaz congregation and of was tested positive for Corona the frontline of fighting with The field work for the survey people who agree that they well while only 9.4 per cent However, with several life available in the house. these, three persons belong to while the report of one more the coronavirus like the san- was done on March 26-27. are afraid they well get coro- disagreed which is down 4.3 altering events happening According to IANS CVoter Shadnagar. Two from person is still awaited. The itation workers, doctors and The responses and trends navirus. Despite the index of per cent from last week. In over the last week including Covid Tracker, 68.7 per cent Nandigama and three from remaining nine persons were the policemen are also wel- come in a week after the panic going up, the trust in correlation to the index of the national lockdown, the have made stoked up for less Koththur were also identi- tested negative, he said. come to these centers. We are national lockdown the government remains very panic going up, the index of index of optimism is down by than 3 weeks while 31.4 per fied. Meanwhile, Minister V taking all measures to prevent announced by Prime Minister high. The approval ratings of complacency among the pub- 3.3 per cent to 39.9 per cent cent are already storing essen- ACP Surender and Deputy Srinivas Goud on Tuesday the spread of the disease in Narendra Modi, cases in the Narendra Modi govern- lic has gone down. respondents who think that tials for more than three DM and HO Chandu naik vis- distributed ration and five the district. The vegetable India crossing 1,000 and ment's handling of the Covid- The number of people now the situation will get better weeks. On being asked if you ited the Patel Road on Tuesday hundred rupees each to the market has been shifted and USA, Italy, Spain reeling 19 crisis have actually gone up who agree that the fear of over the next month.57.5 per are getting essentials at a and traced the suspects before 4,141 identified migrant work- set up in 32 acre area at under the crisis caused by the to 74.1 per cent in this week coronavirus is exaggerated is cent of the respondents think higher price now, 60.9 per sending them to the isolation. ers of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Azamjahi Mills ground to pandemic. All round, coron- compared to 70 per cent in down by a massive 25.7 per the situation will get better cent said yes while 28.7 per These eight members were Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, ensure the people maintain avirus is the single largest the previous week. cent compared to last week. while 17.6 per cent think it cent respondents said no. quarantined and sent to the Chhattisgarh and Kolkata. physical distancing,” he said. HYDERABAD | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 1, 2020 nation 05

SHORT READS CORONAVIRUS: AAP MLA Atishi Nationals of UK, France among seeks strong action against Nizamuddin 281 foreigners found at Markaz PNS n NEW DELHI AAP MLA Atishi on Tuesday MP: Army man, three PNS n NEW DELHI sought strong action against the Nizamuddin Markaz others held for robbery Nationals from the UK and Markaz Nizamuddin authorities for organising a JABALPUR: Four persons, France are among 281 foreign- three-day congregation, which including an Army personnel ers out of 1,830 people who were later led to a spurt in coron- and a minor, were arrested for found by the Delhi police in last says it has not violated avirus cases in the area, and allegedly robbing a man during two days at Nizamuddin's asked why the Delhi Police did the COVID-19 lockdown in Markaz Masjid, where a reli- not take any step despite the Madhya Pradesh's Jabalpur city, gious congregation, held in mid- any provisions of law government prohibiting such police said on Tuesday. The March, has become a key source gathering to check the spread Madhotal police arrested Army of coronavirus spread in the PNS n NEW DELHI different countries, including of the virus. of people from March 13-15, man Amit Raikwar, Sumit country, officials said. Indonesia and Thailand. Delhi's Nizamuddin area when Delhi government Raikwar (24), Rakesh Burman Most of those who were Markaz Nizamuddin, the place The Markaz statement has been identified as one of orders had expressly forbidden (21) and a 17-year-old boy, found at the facility have been where a religious congregation referred to the directive of the the hotspots of COVID-19 in gatherings or more than 200 police station in-charge Anil shifted to different quarantine left several people affected with Delhi government to take legal India after several people test- persons on 13th March itself," Gupta said. On March 29, Jai centres and isolation wards of coronavirus, on Tuesday said it action against the Markaz ed positive for the virus in the the Kalkaji MLA said in a Ram Sahu was driving home, hospitals. A total of 1,830, including these foreigners has not violated any provision administration. "During this past few days. tweet. when the accused intercepted A total of 1,830, including of the law and offered its premis- entire episode, Markaz More than 2,000 delegates "Moreover, notification by his car and Amit Raikwar, who these foreigners from 16 coun- from 16 countries, continued to stay at the es for setting up a quarantine Nizamuddin never violated any from countries such as Delhi government on March was in his Army uniform, asked tries, continued to stay at the Tablighi Jamaat's Markaj even as a 21-day facility. Markaz Nizamuddin, provision of law, and always Indonesia and Malaysia 12 stated that anyone with a him to furnish a pass permitting Tablighi Jamaat's Markaj even as nationwide lockdown was imposed on which is the international head- tried to act with compassion attended the Tablighi Jamaat travel history from COVID-19 him to drive during the lock- a 21-day nationwide lockdown quarters of Tabilghi Jamaat for and reason towards the visitors congregation in Nizamuddin affected countries have to self- down, he said. Amit Raikwar was imposed on March 24, March 24, according to officials close to 100 years, will cooper- who came to Delhi from differ- West from March 13-15. isolate, then why did the wielded a knife, while others according to officials. ate with the authorities, it said ent states. It did not let them At least 24 people who were administrators of the Markaz were armed with lathis, the The foreigners were from Nicobar Islands (21), Rajasthan Telangana, who succumbed to in a statement. violate the medical guidelines at the headquarters of the not ensure isolation of resi- official said. Indonesia (72), Sri Lanka (34), (19), 15 each from Himachal the infection, had also attended Delhi government on by thronging ISBTs or roaming Tablighi Jamaat have been dents coming from those Myanmar (33), Kyrgystan (28), Pradesh, Kerala and Odisha, the congregation. Tuesday said twenty-four peo- on streets," the statement said. diagnosed with COVID-19, countries?" she said in anoth- Malaysia (20), Nepal and Punjab (9) and Meghalaya (5). Officials said Markaz office ple, who took part in a religious The statement said the prompting the authorities to er tweet. Barred to go to M'luru Bangladesh (9 each),Thailand In last one month, at least bearers informed police about congregation at Markaz Markaz would like to humbly cordon off the area and Atishi also targeted the for treatment, one (7), Fiji (4), England (3), one 8,000 people, including foreign- the presence of about 1,200 Nizamuddin earlier this month, offer the entire premises as a increase testing. Delhi Police, asking why no each from Afghanistan, Algeria, ers have visited the premises, people on March 25 after the have tested positive for the quarantine facility to help the Tagging a Delhi govern- action was taken by it. more Keralite dies Djibouti, Singapore, France and most of them have either lockdown was announced. novel coronavirus. authorities tide-over the chal- ment order which prohibited "What action did Delhi KASARAGOD: A 49-year-old and Kuwait. returned to their respective Some of these people were Delhi Health Minister lenge of current pandemic. assembly of over 200 people, Police take against the large critically ill patient died on Remaining 1,549 people were places or currently in other escorted out of Delhi by police. Satyendar Jain said 700 people "Visitors/guests/devotees/wor Atishi sought strong action religious gathering at the Tuesday after Karnataka police from Tamil Nadu (501), Assam Markaz facilities in different On March 26, again about 2,000 who attended this congregation shippers from across the globe against the administrators of Nizamuddin Markaz from allegedly denied permission to (216), Uttar Pradesh (156), parts of the country, thereby people gathered at the Markaz have been quarantined while throng the place for pre-sched- the Nizamuddin Markaz (cen- March 13-15, when there were allow his ambulance to cross Maharashtra (109), from having a link in some positive facility. Even though the Markaz around 335 people have been uled programmes and all the tre). orders from Delhi Govt pro- the border at Thalpadi on the Madhya Pradesh (107), Bihar cases in those states. office bearers sought the help of admitted to hospitals." programmes are decided a year "Strong action should be hibiting gatherings of more Kasaragod-Mangaluru national (86), West Bengal (73), Apart from six Indonesians, police and civil authorities to Besides, participants from in advance in order to facilitate taken against the administra- than 200 people? Strong action highway, police said. According Telangana (55), Jharkhand (46), who tested positive in send these people out of the city, across India, the congregation visitors from far-off places to tors of the Nizamuddin needs to be taken by MHA to police, Sekhar of Manjeswa- Karnataka (45), Uttarakhand Hyderabad, one person each the road, rail and air traffic were was attended by people from plan their participation," it said. Markaz who organised a 3-day against concerned police offi- ram near here died of cardiac (34), Haryana (22), Andaman from Jammu and Kashmir and completely shut by then. religious gathering, with 1000s cers," she said. arrest. He was being taken to Mangaluru for follow-up treatment. Critically ill patients from Kasaragod have since long People throng being thronging the multi- Tracking COVID-19 ‘super spreader': speciality and high-tech hospitals in the neighbouring shops as state as it is closer than the facilities in the neighbouring lockdown is From J-K to Tablighi event to UP districts of Kerala. 4 seriously ill PNS n NEW DELHI On March 16, the business- patients have died since Karna- relaxed man, little suspecting that he taka closed the borders follow- PNS n MANGALURU A Srinagar-based businessman might be a full blown case of ing the lockdown. A pregnant travelled by air, train and road COVID-19 and a carrier of the woman was delivered of a baby People in Dakshina Kannada to Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and virus, took a flight to Srinagar in the ambulance as its entry district thronged supermar- back to Jammu and Kashmir from where he drove to Sopore was blocked at Thalapadi. Domestic airlines, kets and shops selling gro- before he died of COVID-19, in north Kashmir, about 54 km ceries and vegetables during and may have infected many away. Two days later, he 2 booked for sharing the nine-hour relaxation in others, including a doctor bat- returned to his home in objectionable video the lockdown on Tuesday, tling for life in a Jammu hos- Srinagar, again by road. transport over 15 tons even as repeated requests for pital, officials said on Tuesday. "He complained of chest THANE: An FIR was registered maintaining social distancing The businessman, who trav- pain and normal flu on March against two persons, went unheeded. elled to Delhi to attend a 21 and was taken to a nearby including a Shiv Sena leader, of medical supplies In the city, people resort- Tablighi Jamaat congregation, hospital and later to the super for allegedly sharing a video of ed to panic buying after three died on March 26 in a Srinagar specialty SKIMS hospital in the local police assaulting a PNS n NEW DELHI cargo requisitioned by days of total lockdown and hospital, 19 days after he set off Soura on the outskirts of man during the COVID-19 State/union territories govern- the news being spread that for the national capital. city's Nizamuddin West area under quarantine after author- Srinagar," an official said. lockdown in Ulhasnagar town Amid the lockdown imposed to ments & postal packets," Puri shops would be asked to shut He could have infected died on Monday. ities dug out their details. Doctors were initially of the of Maharashtra, police said on help curb the spread of coron- said. The Civil aviation ministry for another three days from scores of people during his trav- Being referred to as a "super In Jammu, the businessman opinion that he had a pollen Tuesday. The Ulhasnagar police avirus, domestic airlines and has formed a committee to Wednesday. els and about 300 people have spreader" by some, officials met up with his doctor friend allergy, common in Kashmir on Monday registered a case cargo operators along with the facilitate movement of cargo The shops were crowded been put under quarantine said the Kashmiri businessman and both addressed a religious during spring. The next day, against former corporator and Indian Air Force have transport- across the country during the 21 and long queues were seen because of him, officials said. left Delhi on March 9 and took congregation in a mosque in however, his condition deteri- Sena leader Vijay Sawant and ed 15.4 tons of medical supplies day-lockdown period. The min- right from the morning. Recapping his movements, a sleeper coach of a train for Samba on the outskirts of the city. orated and he was shifted to the Raju Idani, while no arrests in 62 flights between March 26 istry is facilitating the cargo Though the district admin- they said he left by air from Deoband, where he attended a The two were together till Chest and Disease Hospital in have been made so far, senior and March 30, said Civil movement using hub and spoke istration had asked the peo- Srinagar to Delhi on March 7 meeting at the Darul Uloom March 16 and stayed at a lodge, the city where he died on inspector Rajendra Kadam said. Aviation Minister Hardeep model. "Cargo hubs have been ple to wear masks while going to attend the congregation of seminary. Two days later, on since sealed, in Bari Bramhmana March 26. The duo had shared a video Singh Puri on Tuesday. created at Delhi, Mumbai, out for purchases, the advice the Tablighi Jamaat, an ortho- March 11, he took another outside Jammu city. The elderly gentleman was showing the police beating upa "The cargo essentially includ- Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kolkata. was taken only by a few. The dox Muslim organisation at the train to Jammu. The doctor, now in a Jammu the first coronavirus fatality in man during the lockdown on ed COVID-19 related reagents, Hubs feed to spokes at authorities have expressed centre of the coronavirus Tracking the travel history of hospital in a critical condition, Jammu and Kashmir, which several WhatsApp groups, he enzymes, medical equipment, Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Agartala, their concern over the behav- spread with 24 of the 2,000 odd the man, who was in his mid- belongs to Rajouri district of has reported 55 cases. As news said, adding that posting such testing kits & personal protective Aizwal, Imphal, Coimbatore, iour of the public and are participants testing positive. 60s, officials said many of the Jammu region, officials said. At spread about the death, officials contents on social media is equipment (PPE), masks, gloves Thiruvananthapuram," it said in considering a change of strat- Six people in Telangana who passengers travelling with him least 45 people from his area began tracking his movements banned during the lockdown. & other accessories of HLL & a press release. egy to manage the situation. attended the meeting in the in the trains have been put have been quarantined. closely. CM asks pvt doctors to do chest Minister reviews COVID-19 sampling, testing strategy PNS n NEW DELHI ty control mechanism and pro- tocol needs to be developed and X-ray of COVID-19 suspects Union Health Minister Harsh implemented by the Indian PNS n THANE doctors and asked them to wash Vardhan on Tuesday reviewed Council of Medical Research their hands repeatedly and take the COVID-19 sampling and (ICMR) immediately. Another leopard Maharashtra Chief Minister care of their health. testing strategy and said all The health minister held the Uddhav Thackeray has asked State Cabinet minister and efforts should be made to pro- review meeting with senior offi- spotted in private doctors in the state to NCP Leader Jitendra Awhad cure testing kits immediately cials of the ICMR, Department carry out the chest X-rays and said he has facilitated setting up for supply to laboratories. The of Science and Technology, Bio- Chandigarh hemogram of coronavirus sus- of eight community clinics in minister directed officials to technology and Council of pects. This can arrest the ailment the city which will cater to the ensure states have all the required Scientific and Industrial PNS n CHANDIGARH at the initial stage and would needs of citizens. facilities and do not face short- Research (CSIR). There was an help the patient, Thackeray said Thhe Thane Municipal age of testing kits, reagents or elaborate discussion on issues Police on Tuesday asked res- during a discussion on Monday Corporation and the local IMA equipment. Eastern states and the UT of government or private labs, like procurement of reagents, idents in the city's southern with a Thane-based private doc- Chapter have jointly prepared a Extra support will be given to Ladakh, the health ministry Vardhan directed and said qual- website integration, data man- Sectors to stay indoors after tor, who is part of the team pro- panel of doctors to provide states and union territories that said in a statement. There should ity assessment of the kits will be agement and analysis, dash- there were reports of a leop- viding medical assistance to enquired about the facilities, assistance to citizens during do not have laboratories and test- be no comprise in the quality of done regularly. boards, research studies both ard being sighted in the area. people for coronavirus. He also including masks, available to this critical time. ing facilities as well as to North testing kits procured by the He said for this a clear quali- planned and done so far. "We received information that a leopard was seen in the area. Some pug marks had also been noticed. However, we intimated the wildlife Mamata blooms amid corona gloom B'luru cops told to shift stranded officials and a search was on," Inspector Baldev Kumar, PNS n KOLKATA Station House Officer (SHO) She nonchalantly wipes the dirt on her migrant labourers to marriage halls of Sector 34 police station She walks briskly into a crowd- hand with her spotless white saree and here, said. ed marketplace, admonishes PNS n BENGALURU ical aid. Many of them opted to He said that residents have people for the unnecessary hub- nimbly walks through the multitude to go to their home towns by been asked to stay indoors as bub, picks up a broken brick and board her car on way to inspect The Bengaluru police walk. a search is being conducted. draws a circle around her. One hospitals, sirens of the pilot car blaring Commissioner Bhaskar Rao on Amid reports of police high- "Residents have been asked more circle and then the other, Tuesday instructed his subor- handedness and misbehaviour to check their lawns and and brusquely asks people how dinates to shift migrant labour- with media personnel, Rao backyards or other such to exercise social distancing in Banerjee has been following this Lok Sabha polls, clinching 18 of ers stuck on the highways to directed the men in khaki not places where the wild animal the trying times coronavirus has routine apart from holding offi- the states 42 seats, has called it a marriage and community halls to pester them and demand could be hiding," the SHO brought in its wake. cial meetings to review the situ- publicity stunt, but Didi (elder in the city. any passes issued by the said. Nobody takes umbrage at her ation and addressing press con- sister) is unfazed, and is doing In a wireless message to his department as the identity Police were also using curtness, and all quietly step into ferences, deftly concealing her what she loves to do mostbeing subordinates whose video he cards issued by their respective drone-fitted with camera to the circles in front of a depart- sisterly concern under a stern among people, distributing food shared with the media too, Rao ments have been made for offices were sufficient. conduct the search. mental store in the bustling less white saree and nimbly countenance, as coronavirus and giving a pep talk to doctors said these halls have been their stay, food and medical Similarly, the policemen On Monday, a leopard- Posta Bazaar, many drawing walks through the multitude to continues to ravage the world. and paramedical staff. Close booked on the directions of the facilities. The direction came should not ask the state gov- like animal was spotted in their own circles and patiently board her car on way to inspect West Bengal has had 26 afflic- watchers of Bengals political State government. amid mounting problems of ernment, central government Chandigarh's upscale Sector waiting for their turn to buy hospitals, sirens of the pilot car tions so far of whom three died. scene feel that Banerjees outreach The police commissioner the migrant labourers from dif- and the high court officers and 5 residential area on Monday essential supplies. blaring. The BJP, which has emerged in times of distress will indeed asked the joint commissioners ferent parts of the country who employees to display passes morning, following which it She nonchalantly wipes the For the last three weeks West as the main challenger to endear her to the masses. TMC to shift these labourers to are stuck in the city without and said their identity cards was rescued by forest and dirt on her hand with her spot- Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees ruling TMC after the means Mamata Banerjee. these halls where arrange- any job, shelter, food and med- were enough to let them go. wildlife officials. HYDERABAD | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 1, 2020 op nion 06 www.dailypioneer.com facebook.com/dailypioneer | @TheDailyPioneer | instagram.com/dailypioneer/ PAPER WITH PASSION Costly human error Nizamuddin shrine turns Delhi into a COVID-19 cluster. The Hope in Kerala model Govt must ban congregations altogether, monitor markets ust when we were reading about Patient 31 in South Korea, who had infected thousands It was because of organised testing that Kerala, a State with one of the best Jby interacting at a church congregation and sparked a swirling spiral of COVID-19 cases in healthcare infrastructure, could effectively treat the patients infected with Coronavirus that nation in just a couple of weeks, we have a super-spreader, actually spreaders, in Delhi. What is most worrying is that there could be many Patient 31s, not one, and as they moved to dif- ferent parts of the country, they have carried the virus even to distant Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Faith is meant to give us courage, wis- dom and hope and not lead us to irresponsible destruction in the time of a global pestilence. Faith is about the sincerity of prayer AMIT SENGUPTA and creating hope, not a mindless pursuit of rituals codified by humans. Most sig- n Kerala, god’s own lush green coun- nificantly, no supreme being would reward human error. So ignoring all social dis- try, it is as real as it can be. Some stu- tancing rules to avoid the Coronavirus, hundreds of pilgrims had been staying at dents belonging to this State, study- Nizamuddin’s 100-year-old mosque complex, which has a six-floor dormitory, since ing in Hyderabad, were stranded at the Karnataka-Kerala border last a two-day gathering of the Tablighi Jamaat from March 13 to March 15. Some 280 week.I They wanted to come back to their were foreigners and had not been quarantined. The gathering, which featured ser- State but were stuck and in dire straits. mons, was attended by Tablighi members from Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Nepal, One of them google “searched” for Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan’s number. Myanmar, Kyrgyzstan and Saudi Arabia. Members had also come from hotspots This was at 1 am, post midnight. This stu- like England and France. Not only that, some of the top missionaries from Indonesia, dent was desperate and was just trying her with which we share easier visa rules, entered the country on a tourist visa, avoid- luck. The phone rang and guess who received the call? The Chief Minister him- ing disclosure on the purpose or nature of their visit. Many of those who attended self. It is reported that Vijayan told the stu- then travelled to other parts of the country, making contact-tracing an almost impos- dent not to worry (don’t worry child…) sible job as they had bled into communities, families and society in general. For and that he would find a solution. In moments, she got the number of the top example, the Srinagar preacher, who died last week, had visited the Deoband sem- administrative functionaries in Wayanad inary in Uttar Pradesh and on his return to Kashmir, held multiple gatherings. More and when they reached the slated spot, than 100 people from Kashmir attended the gathering and a massive exercise is another official was waiting for the stu- on to track them down. Some pilgrims who attended died in Hyderabad. To be fair dents with a vehicle to transport them safely back to their homes. Once they to the police, they had information about a congregation on March 24, when around reached their destinations, the girl student 1,200 people were inside the mosque complex, and had escorted them to the air- called the Chief Minister back to thank port the following day. But on March 26, two days into the national lockdown, peo- him. Vijayan said that he was happy that they had reached safely and asked them social security, healthcare and checked. This was an arduous Prime Minister for the entire they need not disclose their ple started gathering at the mosque again without informing. When the police found to quarantine themselves. administrative measures. task but medical teams and vol- country). The financial package identity. This is truly democrat- out, already 2,000 people had assembled inside. Real-time stories, bordering on myths, So how did Kerala tackle the unteers went from compart- includes `1,320 crore to disburse ic governance where the citizen Of course, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has a tough job containing the entire have been circulating about Vijayan and migration crisis? First, much ment to compartment checking two-months welfare pension in is given the utmost dignity by the his no-nonsense, simple and hard-work- before the country took notice, passengers and testing them. All advance; `1,000 to families not Government. Nizamuddin cluster, a rather crowded area of Delhi. For starters, he ordered a police ing Health Minister, KK Shailja, the as early as in March, it had put those travellers taking a bus went eligible for other social welfare Free prepaid recharge has case against the mosque administration over gross negligence. One shudders to “teacher” who has openly said that her up health desks at airports to through a similar process. All of pensions; `100 crore for free been provided to those under think not how many are out there but how many they met and greeted. This cost- actions are determined by the advice of screen passengers coming from this was done with immense foodgrains to families in need; observation. The students’ wing experts and scientists and practical and abroad. Foreigners cooperated, dignity, patience and efficiency `50 crore for subsidised meals at of the Communist Party of India ly human error means that the Government should crack down on all faith-based long-term solutions. The manner in no one was harassed. Testing and as fast as it could be done. `20 and a `500 crore health (Marxist) has been manufactur- and any social congregations with an iron hand and maintain a strict vigil at all such which the issue of migrants and visitors, and quarantine became a must There are around 5,000 fully- package. Loans worth `2,000 ing sanitisers and distributing potential convergence zones, social or religious, with military precision. This should both inside and outside the State, has been even as hospitals and isolation equipped shelters in Kerala, crore will be made available them to the public. Civil society addressed reflects just this. Thousands of centres were kept ready. Even which are now catering to around through the Kudumbashree and women’s groups have been include markets, too, given the overcrowding at Mangalore today. Massive surveil- Keralites work abroad, especially in the while doctors and nurses and two lakh migrant workers. Not a scheme, a highly successful pro- roped in to provide relief. District lance and community testing along the lines of what South Korea carried out will Gulf, and the State is a tourist hub with other hospital staff were single labour has been allowed to ject accessible to the remotest administrations are working with now take place at Nizamuddin. In South Korea, they had tested all church mem- foreigners enjoying its dense green pic- given all the facilities at move out. They all seem to be region. A sum of `2,000 crore ward and local level representa- turesque landscapes, its endless backwa- Government hospitals, private content to stay at their new has been earmarked for employ- tives, including the panchayats. bers for the virus. So, even though the number of cases rose after the tests, it did ters and safe scenic towns as also its vast ones were sounded off by the “homes.” Significantly, the ment guarantee programmes. Hence, even in a centralised sys- manage to slow the rate of new cases. We may have identified the Nizamuddin coastal regions and sunny beaches. district administration to be Government prefers to term Further, all arrears will be cleared tem, the process of implementa- cluster but what of the many returnees who have met people socially and in their As tens and thousands of migrant ready for patients and that, too, them “guest workers,” giving by the State Government by tion is totally decentralised, eas- workers and the poor thronged the high- free of cost. them the due dignity and respect April, amounting to `14,000 ily accessible and efficient. families, blissfully unaware of being vectors and carriers? Despite more than 1,000 ways in Delhi and its neighbourhood, If one person tested positive, they deserve. crore. Cinema hall owners have The current mission is to active cases and signs of local transmission, the Government claims there has been mostly heading towards Uttar Pradesh and all his/her contacts were tested, Rations for three months been given an entertainment tax create a huge volunteer force. no community spread in the country. But it is no rocket science to understand that Bihar, the 21-day lockdown announced by too. All domestic travellers were have been provided. Their shel- reprieve. Former doctors have been asked given India’s population density, this has happened already. Undoubtedly, the ris- Prime Minister Modi has all but collapsed asked to follow self-quarantine, ters are clean and sanitised. The food issue was nipped in to join the healthcare system in the capital and the Hindi heartland. which they dutifully followed. There is running water, soap, the bud with 1,000 food centres, again. Be it healthcare or dras- ing toll and confirmed cases on the tracker every day are causing large scale fear There are now genuine fears that these Concerted counselling over the sanitisers and proper sanitation restaurants and hotels offering tic measures taken during nat- and panic. So what India needs now is an effective communication strategy like in workers, having travelled in congested phone and through inter-person- systems. Medical centres and free food to those in need and ural catastrophes like massive South Korea and Japan, one which should say why the figures are climbing because spaces, without any healthcare safety, al contact was given to people counselling are available 24X7. community kitchens were oper- floods or even during the spread often hungry and penniless, might lead to under isolation or those under- Volunteers and State officials are ational everywhere. Door-to- of Nipah virus, the people of of more testing and why protocols need to be followed to save lives. We must under- a major medical crisis in the rural hinter- going treatment. Indeed, it was always at hand. No wonder, the door food, too, was distributed. Kerala and its Government have stand that we need test kits, protective gear and apparatus on a large scale to counter land, which apparently has remained because of organised testing that “guest workers” are happy and Significantly, as the Chief galvanised resources, communi- the monster that has swamped us. With economy in the doldrums, layoffs, State insulated from the epidemic/pandemic. Kerala, a State with one of the best grateful. Apart from other mea- Minister reiterated in one of his ties, religious institutions, the This would be disastrous and lead to healthcare infrastructure, could sures, one of the most significant candid press conferences (unlike youth, women and students Governments halving salaries and the Centre expected to roll out welfare measures a total failure of the laxman rekha drawn effectively treat the patients steps taken by the State the one held by Prime Minister) repeatedly and successively to for mass treatment and care, we are already up to the gills. We have to ride the arc by the Prime Minister in his 8 pm televi- infected with the virus. As their Government is to announce where he took all questions by the collectively combat the crisis at with patience and by doing the right thing. For God won’t forgive us either for doing sion address to the nation or his doctrine numbers grew, they were quick- social security schemes and media and explained the finest the most invisible grassroots of “stay at home” to maintain ly identified, given treatment financial package for them. The details of the relief operations terrain. That is why, yet again, the wrong one. Faith leaders should be used to propagate this message instead. “physical/social” distancing in a bid to stop and quarantined. None like following steps are significant: undertaken by his Government, the State seems to be on a the pandemic from entering Stage-III Bollywood actor Kanika Kapoor A special package of `20,000 those who are embarrassed or shy strong and solid footing, even as and, thus, become viral and fatal. This hid their travel history either in crore has been announced to to ask for food, too, have been the virus seeks to damage and would also jeopardise the efforts of States Kerala or in West Bengal. overcome the COVID-19 threat. provided with the “secret” phone ravage the world. A year later like Kerala and West Bengal, which have All entry points for railways (Compare this with the `15,000 numbers. Food and other ameni- (The writer is a senior Many international sporting bodies were in denial about the countered the crisis with effective, all-round and buses were thoroughly crore package announced by the ties will be delivered to them and journalist) impact of the Corona epidemic; they have finally woken up S O U N D s the viral scourge of Coronavirus swept across BITE the world, national, provincial and local People should limit the I always spotted that there was The Government must liberally Disinfectant spray. Time to Governments found themselves scrambling to amount of their food. It something about her (Alia help States tide over the crisis. sanitise our politics, not A is already summer and Bhatt) but didn’t use her talent We do not know how long this migrant workers reaching deal with the spread of the deadly infection. However, they should not be at all. I actually don’t feel I [lockdown] will continue. A lot Bareilly to go home. They sporting authorities — from the Board of Control confined to the kitchen full-fledgedly ever directed her depends on whether the build India, treat them for Cricket in India (BCCI) to the International Olympic all the time. the way I would like to do. pandemic will be contained. with dignity. Committee (IOC) — were found with their heads Odisha CM Film-maker Chhattisgarh CM Congress leader buried in the sand, refusing to accept the impact of —Naveen Patnaik —Karan Johar —Bhupesh Baghel — Kapil Sibal the virus on their schedules. While the BCCI relent- ed and postponed the Indian Premier League (IPL) season to mid-April, though it is yet to call off the L E T T E R S T O TH E EDITOR tournament, the IOC alongside the Tokyo Games organising committee and the Be kind to the poor the corporates have donated for Japanese Government persisted with the notion that the games would not be delayed Grieving in Corona times the cause. It’s shocking that polit- until last week. It was the infection of some athletes at a qualifying tournament in ical parties, who call themselves London and the outcry that followed that forced the IOC’s hand. Now, the sport- Sir — It was shocking to hear he outbreak of Coronavirus has changed the way the champions of the poor, have that police personnel are adding we live. It’s almost like we are waging a war against not made donations from their ing body and the Japanese Government have announced a year’s delay of the Summer to the plight of migrant workers. Tan invisible enemy. It’s like we hear of a new telluric own funds. This despite the fact Olympics, which would start July 23, 2021. The latter, rendered jobless by shock every day. The virus, which has claimed more than that some of them have their cof- While we are living in times, where it is impossible to forecast what will hap- the sudden imposition of a 25,000 people worldwide, is reshaping many aspects of fers overflowing. Are funds meant national lockdown, were forced death, from the practicalities of handling infected bod- only to secure power? pen by July 2021, one can hope that a cure for the condition is found. Hopefully, to jump like frogs and take the ies to meeting the spiritual and emotional needs of those Shruti Jain a preventive vaccine as well. The postponement of the Games is tragic for athletes, long journey home on foot. left behind. Churches have become makeshift mortuar- Via email many of whom have spent virtually every waking minute of their lives ever since Reports of brutality against the ies. Disturbing images of military vehicles transporting labourers have emerged from bodies of Coronavirus victims to the crematorium in Italy All Fools' day the flame was extinguished at Rio De Janeiro preparing for the games in Japan. across the country. The police have shocked the world. Most people passed away in The health and safety of these athletes and the thousands of officials, volunteers have also reportedly beaten up a hospital room without a relative or friend to hold their and spectators is the overriding concern. This must be at the top of authorities con- essential service providers and hand or share their fear. Sir — The first day of the month ordinary people for stepping Corona has had its own playbook. One is that death phone and video calls to the family. It seems as if the April is called All Fools’ Day or cerned. So a year’s delay gives the authorities enough wiggle room to plan for almost out of their homes to purchase caused by the virus cannot be dealt with as a matter of virus is determining not only our everyday lives but even April Fool’s Day. On this day, every contingency. The Olympics might be delayed by a year, but it increasingly necessary items. In their everyday life. Another is that the bereaved must remain the rules by which we live life, or mourn. people take delight in playing seems that the BCCI will very shortly have to call off the IPL. Football leagues in overzealousness to implement alone with their loss. Funerals are currently taking place In his study, History of Death, French historian practical jokes on each other. The the curfew, it seems that law in northern Italy with unprecedented speed and in the Philippe Ariès demonstrated that the relationship custom started in Rome when Europe will have to plan around how to crown their champions. There is talk of enforcers themselves are violat- absence of mourners. Waiting lists are long and by law, between Western man and death changed dramatical- king Leopold of Belgium, who games being played in closed door environment but playing any contact sport would ing what they swear by. people are still not allowed to meet. Because people can- ly in the 19th century. Until then, death had been a famil- was married in Rome, was made be irresponsible right now. Many fans, particularly of Liverpool Football Club, might However, it was heartening not visit one another, friends and relatives cannot gath- iar companion for the millennia, an accepted part of life. a fool of by his sister-in-law when to hear that Kerala Chief er in person to share memories of the deceased. No com- But modern man, according to Ariès, has suppressed he went to his father-in-law’s be mighty disappointed but the fairest solution right now would be to declare all Minister Pinarayi Vijayan was forting embrace can take place and there is no funeral the idea of death, pushing it aside out of fear. palace on the first of April by leagues for all spring and summer sports in 2020 null and void. That may not be quick to condemn the inhumane ceremony to participate in together. The bereaved must, Javvadi Lakshmana Rao mistake as he had been invited fair to clubs like Liverpool but a uniform solution will have to be found as condi- treatment of the labourers and is it seems, find support from within themselves and with Visakhapatnam there on first of May. Today, cen- taking steps to accommodate turies later, April Fool is played tions in Europe and the US are not conducive to sports being played at the current them in the State. He followed up on people on a large scale. Of time. Thankfully, there are a lot of classic sporting moments available online and his announcement of a mammoth hotel owners will follow his exam- Donate wholeheartedly workers. Left stranded, huge sums course, this year is too sombre. some great sports movies and documentaries available to stream in the meantime. economic package with the assur- ple and act with kindness towards of money are needed to provide Jubel D’Cruz Athletes might be disappointed, particularly Indian athletes, who expected to do ance that all basic facilities will be the poor and the helpless in this them with food, shelter and other Mumbai provided to the migrant workers. hour of crisis. Sir — There’s no doubt that the basic needs. In a welcome gesture well in Tokyo, but this is as good a time as any to prepare even harder to win glory One hopes that other politicians, Kajal Chatterjee worst-affected due to the spread many people, including celebri- Send your feedback to: next summer, if not this one. police personnel, landlords and Kolkata of Coronavirus are the migrant ties, sports personalities and even [email protected] HYDERABAD | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 1, 2020

www.dailypioneer.com analysis 07 FIRSTCOLUMN POINTCOUNTERPOINT Out-of-the-box HARRY AND MEGHAN HAVE LEFT CANADA FOR THE NO PLANS TO ASK THE US GOVERNMENT FOR US. HOWEVER, THE US WILL NOT PAY FOR THEIR SECURITY RESOURCES. PRIVATELY FUNDED solutions needed SECURITY PROTECTION. THEY MUST PAY. SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE. The current crisis has somewhat highlighted the —US PRESIDENT —DUKE OF SUSSEX need to incorporate edutech within the DONALD TRUMP PRINCE HARRY mainstream education system This too, shall pass SHRUTI BASU BHUSHAN CHANDOLA A blizzard that lasted 45 days, depleting rations for the soldiers and the remains of a n a desperate bid to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandem- colleague in the same tent. This is what it means to be isolated in the Siachen Glacier ic, Governments across the world have taken many drastic steps. ISeveral countries, including India, have opted for a complete lock- down, mandating the closure of schools, offices and universities alike. In India, even prior to the countrywide lockdown, several State Governments had issued notifications for the closure of universities to prevent the spread of the virus among students. As all the univer- sities and colleges across the country are closed, a significant ques- tion arises regarding the continuation of education. A large number of students are being affected in the midst of the semester with uncer- tainty about the time of re-opening of these institutions of higher edu- cation. ANIRUDDHA CHAKRAVARTY However, it is essential to minimise educational disruptions as the impact of the same is long-lasting. Difficult times like these require ometimes one wonders whether it is even innovative solutions. Even the Central Government has acknowledged real or has a Robin Cook medical thriller the same and issued a “COVID-19 Solution Challenge” wherein peo- Scome to life? What used to be in the pages ple have been asked to share technology-driven resolutions for the prob- of a novel has now become a part of our lives, lems thrown up by the outbreak. Thousands of firms across the coun- with medical teams walking around in protec- try are also adopting technology to enable their staff to work from home. tive suits, huge isolation wards covered in miles A similar approach has been taken by schools and universities, which of plastic, people dying in huge numbers, sani- are using technology to facilitate the learning process of the students tisers being sprayed everywhere. It’s like a bad from the safety and comfort of their homes/hostels. dream. And what of the economic impact of the While institutions like Delhi University, Jamia Millia Islamia and the Coronavirus outbreak on the world? Suddenly, there are no flights, trains or buses. The malls Indian Institute of Mass Communication are taking classes online and and market places are closed, so are other places also making study material available to students on a weekly basis to of entertainment. It is the same story with edu- maintain continuity in the learning process, some universities are try- cational institutions and amid the nationwide ing to conduct online classes and to replace in-class assessments lockdown all one can see are deserted roads and with online ones. Others, like the Amity University have also shifted service lanes, social distancing and the accom- the entire post-graduate curriculum online while others are using micro panying silence. Though these are necessary groups on WhatsApp and e-mails to send materials to the students. measures to prevent the spread of the Many universities including the OP Jindal Global University have made Coronavirus. Ultimately, at the personal level, it the remote access of their e-resources available, thereby allowing their means one thing and that is isolation. students to undertake research from home. Several other universities The present situation takes me back to the year 1992. I was a young Major, just out from the are also under the process of developing mechanisms to offer remote Defence Services Staff College and instead of learning opportunities, alternative assessments and extensions. going on a staff appointment as is generally the Despite the initiatives being undertaken by the universities to pro- policy after the course, I went back to my bat- mote online classes, there are several issues which need immediate talion, as it was going for a tenure in the Siachen attention. The success rate of conducting such classes is contingent glacier. I was to command a Company in the glac- THE ISOLATION on openness to new technology and the availability of infrastructure ier in one of the most challenging picquets. The THAT WE across the country. Online classes require persistent connectivity which altitude was around 19,000 feet and recorded WILL FACE importantly, we were completely cut off could last out with our “one-tablespoon and I thought I must share my story may also be an area of concern. Furthermore, not all courses can be temperature around minus 45°C, with a wind not only from the battalion at Base rice meal a day.” with my countrymen/women, especial- NOW DUE ly in relation to isolation. taught completely online and subjects involving practical pedagogy may chill effect going to around minus 65 °C. The pic- TO THE Camp but also from our families and Fourth, resolute leadership. involve fieldwork which cannot be completed at home. Furthermore, quet was on top of an ice wall and due to vari- loved ones. In those days, we had no Personal example had to be set by doing All the factors that made us come ous factors, it was impossible for helicopters to CORONAVIRUS mobile phones or SAT phones to stay exactly what everyone else was expect- out successful from our tenure in the apps and tools such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom have experienced come there. This, therefore, led to a big challenge, OUTBREAK connected with our families or enter- ed to do, including having the same glacier, exist in our country today. Our outage across Europe due to an increased number of users. that of getting our daily survival rations from the AND THE tain ourselves to while long hours of rations, irrespective of rank. Also, such strong will-power, which we have dis- Technology has the potential to completely alter the education sec- closest helipad. RESULTANT boredome away. We knew that if any- extreme conditions needed certain played many times under different cir- tor. According to a report by KPMG, the Indian online education indus- It was the month of February and a few days LOCKDOWN thing happened to us, nobody could precautions, otherwise, within hours cumstances and during wars, exemplary try will grow from 1.6 million users in 2016 to 9.6 million users by after taking over from the relieving Unit, the IS MUCH help because it was just not physically one could lose a limb or one’s life. One leadership and the organising capabil- 2021. The importance of the online education industry has grown mul- weather got nasty. Once the weather packs up SIMPLER AND possible to do that. And we still had such example was that after you went ity of our country and our deep spiri- tifold in the past few months and innovative education solutions are there, it is a completely white-out condition. EASIER AS about two months more of our sched- out (even to relieve yourself, even if for tual understanding, irrespective of the need of the hour. However, online education and edutech in India Visibility becomes so limited that if you stretch COMPARED TO uled tenure to complete. We, therefore, a few seconds), it was mandatory to whichever religion or faith we follow. are still not a part of the mainstream education system for the most your hand, you can’t see your fingers. The snow WHAT WE had to be at our mental and physical wash your feet in warm water on The isolation that we will face now part. It is necessary to introduce capital and investments in this sec- blizzards are so strong that if you are not well best. coming back. Not doing so would result is much simpler as compared to what grounded, you can just be blown off. Under such EXPERIENCED IN Can there be any greater form of in frost-bite. I observed the initial signs we experienced in the glacier. Today, tor to integrate edutech with mainstream education. conditions, movement from one place to anoth- THE GLACIER. isolation than what we went through in of frost-bite on one soldier who was not with so many facilities available, this is In the recent years, esteemed universities like Harvard, Stanford, er means certain death. Therefore, it’s total iso- TODAY, WITH SO 1992? However, we overcame all chal- adhering to the directions. When I an opportunity to spend quality time Yale and Oxford have been providing online courses accessible all over lation. MANY lenges and came out successful. At the noticed his lackadaisical attitude on the with family, to read, to catch up on var- the world through platforms such as EdX, Coursera and Udemy. Similarly, The challenge was further accentuated FACILITIES end of our tenure, my men and I de- second day, I had to literally kick him. ious hobbies, to contemplate and to in India, the Department of Higher Education has undertaken the National because the poor weather conditions continued AVAILABLE, inducted without another casualty. It saved his limb and life in the end. meditate. Mission on Education through Information and Communication for a long period, nearly 45 days. With no move- THIS IS AN So, what kept us going? Lastly, one had to find inner peace. We also need to care about those Technology to leverage the potential of ICT in providing the best infor- ment of men possible, rations started diminish- OPPORTUNITY As I look back, first, it was our will Once a day we would collectively pray affected by the virus and their families, mation accessible to all learners in the country, free of cost. Under ing steadily and I had to severely restrict our TO SPEND to overcome all challenges. We knew and sing hymns — out of tune, rustic within the permitted rules. We need not this mission, initiatives such as the National Online Education Platform meals so that we could last longer. We came down QUALITY the gravity of the situation but never let but from the heart. My lifeline was my hug them physically but can show them SWAYAM and the National Digital Library have been developed. SWAYAM to one meal a day which consisted of only one it affect us adversely. It only strength- Walkman and a cassette of Anup our sympathy in any feasible manner or two tablespoons of rice and nothing else. TIME WITH ened our will-power and our cama- Jalota’s bhajans. The batteries of the so that we can share their trauma. offers interactive online courses for students, which are prepared by Our survival depended entirely on kerosene FAMILY, raderie grew as our difficulties Walkman were the most precious and As I understand, the challenge is the best teachers in the country and are available, free of cost to any oil because, not only was it required for cook- TO READ, TO increased. I used to keep them in the inner pock- not going to end soon and therefore, we learner. The National Digital Library, on the other hand, is designed to ing, we needed it most for melting blue ice into CATCH UP ON Second, our strong belief that our et of my down-feather jacket which we have to bank entirely on our capabili- hold content of any language and provides interface support for lead- water, without which we would have got com- VARIOUS organisation was firmly with us. I used to wear 24x7. The body temper- ties to see us through — our example ing Indian languages. The access to SWAYAM and other Digital Initiatives pletely dehydrated. The stocks of kerosene oil and HOBBIES, TO used to talk to my Commanding ature kept the batteries alive, otherwise will be followed by the world. has tripled in the last one week. other items were at a critical stage which would CONTEMPLATE Officer once a day (who was in the within hours they would have got dis- As the situation improves, which, It is in adverse times like these, the mettle of a nation is tested. last only a few days, even with rationing. And AND TO MEDITATE Battalion headquarters at the Base) and charged in such weather conditions. with our engaged commitment I’m cer- The Indian Government should be applauded for its hard work in keep- nobody could predict when the weather would we both knew that, physically, it was There is one thing I still have to do — tain it will, we, of course, need to look ings its citizens safe. However, once the situation is under control, the clear up. impossible to help us in that situation. to thank Anup Jalota for my life. inwards. There could be many, but I focus must be shifted to develop overall infrastructural capacities to At this stage, another tragedy befell us, when But his reassurances were enough for All the soldiers of my Company would like to focus on two aspects — one of our colleagues, a Sepoy, attained martyr- me and my men to know that whenev- have since retired but even now, these first, nature versus virtual world and facilitate edutech. dom, falling to one of the extreme high-altitude er it would be possible, they would do brave soldiers enquire about my welfare second, “The world has enough for The digital initiatives, which were always considered secondary complications. With the weather still nasty, we anything to help us. over a phone call and that makes my everyone’s need but not enough for to the traditional education systems, are now at least being consid- could not even send his mortal remains down Third was planning for the even- day. everyone’s greed.” ered as an alternative. The current crisis has somewhat highlighted to the Base Camp. Hence, his remains were kept tuality. Though I never expected the sit- Old soldiers are supposed to “fade Does that sound familiar? It is the need to incorporate edutech within the mainstream education sys- with us in our tent. uation to turn out the way it did, I did away.” I was happy doing that after going to be a longish battle.....and we tem. Now, you can imagine the situation — bliz- expect disruptions due to the weather. retirement — participating in some vol- will win. (Bhushan is a Senior Research Assistant and Chandola is Research zard outside, no movement possible, rations Accordingly, we had prepared mental- untary events and diligently listening (The writer is a retired military Assistant at OP Jindal Global University. The views expressed are per- down to a bare minimum, the mortal remains ly and I had controlled the rations. It to my wife. However, today, the coun- veteran and former Director- sonal) of our colleague with us in the tent and most was because of this planning that we try is facing an extraordinary situation General of the National Cadet Corps) Time for the Govt and the Opp to work unitedly The Opposition is within its rights to ask questions about the Government’s readiness and the Government, too, is duty-bound to remain accountable. Both should keep aside their political agenda as the priority is dealing with the pandemic it, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has in view of the outbreak and the ing tax breaks, interest subvention, are with you but…!” Within hours al parties and leaders who have which affects each State, each eco- accused President Donald Trump social distancing that the deferment of liability, extra measures of Rahul Gandhi declaring his sup- taken the lead in the fight against the nomic sector, each business and the of “playing politics” with the virus Government was advocating for for migrant labourers and the unor- port, party spokesman Abhishek Coronavirus. Most non–BJP ruled health of each family. What do the outbreak to which the latter the public. The Opposition accused ganised sector workers. Manu Singhvi came out with a States supported the “Janta curfew.” people of India want? They are look- responded by calling her “incompe- the Modi Government of ignoring Sonia has also asked the scathing criticism of the lockdown Chief Ministers like Naveen Patnaik, ing to a genuine leadership both tent.” The Speaker hit back saying, the threat that the Coronavirus Congress chief ministers to gear up and the plight of about one crore KC Rao, Jagan Mohan Reddy, E from the Government and the “Lives are at stake. This is not a time posed to the health of the Members for the situation and the Congress migrant workers. “You have height- Palaniswami and Arvind Kejriwal Opposition. The Opposition, too, for name-calling or playing politics.” of Parliament and running the has activated its All India Congress ened the nerves of the people of this have responded positively to Modi’s has the responsibility to come up What both said applies to Indian House in order to install a BJP Committee (AICC) general secre- nation because of your unprepared- initiatives. These regional satraps with policy options and the politicians also. Government in Madhya Pradesh. taries, Pradesh Congress Committee ness,” he said. It is the same with have come up with their own relief Government must also listen to it. KALYANI SHANKAR While Prime Minister Modi How has the Congress, the (PCC) presidents, legislature party other Opposition leaders, be it measures. While, West Bengal Chief Together, they should be able to has shown his leadership qualities main Opposition party dealt with leaders and heads of frontal organ- Mamata Banerjee, Pinarayi Vijayan, Minister Mamata Banerjee cope with the unprecedented pan- s the Opposition supporting the by persuading the people to observe the issue? While the party has been isations to help people. Sitaram Yechuri, Mayawati or D announced a `200-crore fund to demic. Both should not fail the peo- Narendra Modi Government’s a one-day “Janta (people) curfew” careful to avoid any antagonistic Former Congress chief Rahul Raja. The BJP, however, has geared tackle the disease, Kerala’s Vijayan ple at a time like this. Indeed the Iefforts to contain the and has successfully taken it forward public posture at a time when the Gandhi, who was critical Modi’s way up its machinery along with the full has announced a `2,000 crore finan- Opposition is within its rights to ask Coronavirus pandemic in the coun- by putting the entire country under nation faces a war- like situation, it of handling the pandemic, on March support of the Rashtriya cial aid plan. At the State level, too, questions about the Government’s try? Is the Government doing a 21-day official lockdown, the has stressed certain key issues. 28 pledged his personal support to Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). the Opposition parties in their readiness and its response and the enough? Opposition thinks that the Though delayed, Congress chief the Prime Minister in a letter but What is heartening is that the respective regions have offered to Government, too, is duty-bound to One should not raise eyebrows Government is not doing enough. Sonia Gandhi wrote to Prime also appealed for a nuanced State Governments and the Centre work with the Government, except remain accountable. Both should if the Opposition parties in the This was evident during the cur- Minister Modi, pledging her party’s approach. He urged the PM to are working in tandem in tackling for a few States like Tamil Nadu. keep aside their political agenda as country do not praise the Union tailed Parliament session when the support to the national lockdown, come up with a safety net for the the pandemic. Cooperation between All this goes to show that the the priority is dealing with the Government’s efforts though they Opposition raised questions on the adding that she also had certain sug- poor and a road map with a time- the Centre and the States fortunate- collective political will that is need- pandemic. Therefore the response are forced to give support reluctant- Government’s tackling of the pan- gestions. frame. ly continues at the official level and ed to deal with a critical stage in the should be reflected in political ly. Even in the United States (US) demic. In fact, even running the In her letter, Gandhi had urged Congress leaders, who spoke in health is one such area where States transmission of the virus, is by and unity. despite the pandemic outbreak and session became difficult as the the Centre to consider announcing a shriller voice earlier, now speak in have never withheld their cooper- large there in the country. India is (The writer is a senior the Government’s efforts to combat Opposition wanted it to be curtailed sector-wise relief packages, includ- a muted tone. They are saying, “We ation. Interestingly, it is the region- facing an unprecedented challenge, journalist) HYDERABAD | WEDENSDAY | APRIL 1, 2020 money 08 CAPSULE Centre asks states to ensure Confusion prevails over three-month moratorium normal functioning of banks PNS n MUMBAI PNS n NEW DELHI ments and Union Territory With many getting payment administrations to their field reminders, confusion prevails The Centre has asked all states functionaries to ensure that among borrowers, term-plan and Union Territories to ensure bank branches remain func- investors and credit cardhold- normal functioning of banks tional. ers over the implementation of and ATMs during the lock- "Cash management and the three-month moratorium CIL arm SECL down period as the Rs 27,500- maintenance agencies of ATMs on all loan repayments amid striving relentlessly crore financial package are allowed, banks are permit- disruptions caused by the coro- to produce coal to announced under the Prime ted to remain open and func- navirus outbreak. Minister Garib Kalyan Yojana tional for extended working As part of measures to alle- meet power will be disbursed in coming hours, if necessary, on March viate hardships faced by peo- NEW DELHI: Coal India arm days. 30 and 31 for their annual clo- ple, the Reserve Bank, on SECL on Tuesday said it is In a communication to chief sure and government busi- March 27, announced a slew of striving relentlessly to produce secretaries of all states and ness. steps, including a three-month coal to meet the power Union Territories, Union "Local district/state/police moratorium on loan repay- Many borrowers, credit cardholders and generation requirement of the Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla administrations are in pre- ments. mutual fund investors have received nation grappling with the said many state governments Banks, ATMs including IT vendors for paredness to coordinate with Many borrowers, credit coronavirus pandemic. An have issued instructions for banks during the disburse- cardholders and mutual fund SMSes from their lenders reminding SECL official said coal reduced working hours of banking ops, bank correspondent and ment of money to the people investors have received SMSes them that they need to maintain production is crucial at this banks, functioning of limited ATM op, and cash management have covered under PM Garib from their lenders reminding sufficient balance on the due date time when hospitals across number of branches, restric- Kalyan Yojana," he said in the them that they need to main- the country are being used to tion on movement of person- been exempted from lockdown letter sent on Monday. tain sufficient balance on the treat corona-affected people. nel related to filling cash in Banks, ATMs including IT due date. Among others, such even though the person is yet On Sunday, her husband got "SECL is striving relentlessly in ATMs and their maintenance vendors for banking opera- messages have been received to activate his credit card. a call from his insurance producing coal to meet the among others. cial package under the Prime branches, ATMs and business tions, bank correspondent and by people who have taken On Saturday, a Navi broker regarding payment power generation requirement He however, said smooth Minister Garib Kalyan Yojana correspondents (BCS), Bhalla ATM operation, and cash personal, auto and home loans. Mumbai homemaker who towards a plan taken from of the country," the official banking operations and relat- under which approximately said. management services have An SBI Cards customer has a monthly investment HDFC Ergo. said. Moreover, manufacturers ed activities across the country Rs 27,500 crores are going to be In view of these facts, the been exempted under the from the city received an SMS plan from ICICI Lombard An American Express of face masks, sanitisers, are essential. disbursed during this week home secretary said, necessary guidelines on the lockdown on Sunday asking him to pay received a message asking credit card customer from the ventilators, other medical Further, the central govern- and in the coming weeks to the instructions may please be measures issued under the the minimum balance for pay- her to maintain the EMI city also received a payment equipment, medicines required ment has announced a finan- targeted public through bank issued by the state govern- Disaster Management Act. ment on the annual charge amount in the bank account. reminder on Monday. for the treatment, need uninterrupted power supply, he added. "In its effort to meet the energy requirement of the ‘Complete Future Generali country, SECL has produced Sensex rallies 1,028 pts; energy, Unity Group exempts record one million tonne (MT) India announces of coal in a single day on allocated Friday, highest ever, by any FMCG stocks soar merchants at its malls relief grant for company till date," the official exports of red PNS n MUMBAI PNS n NEW DELHI said. The company is also ‘active' agents sensitive in fighting against sanders’ Equity benchmark Sensex Realty firm Unity Group, PNS n MUMBAI coronavirus. It is contributing PNS n NEW DELHI surged over 1,028 points on the which has four shopping funds under CSR to various last day of the 2019-20 fiscal on malls in the national capital, Non-life insurance company districts, in its command area, The Commerce ministry has Tuesday, led by gains in ener- will not charge rent for the Future Generali India he added. Coal India (CIL) permitted the Andhra Pradesh gy, financial and FMCG stocks month of April worth Rs 10 Insurance on Tuesday said it accounts for over 80 per cent government and Directorate of amid recovery in global peers crore, to provide relief to its will give a relief grant of Rs of domestic coal output. Revenue Intelligence to com- even as the number of Covid- retailers and other merchants 50,000 each to its 'active' plete exports of allocated 19 cases continued to mount. affected by the nationwide agents, if they or their imme- Europe sends quantities of red sanders wood The 30-share BSE barome- lockdown. diate family members are by December 31. ter settled 1,028.17 points or Unity Group has exempted erties are gravely impacted at tested positive for COVID- medical gear to Iran "Government of Andhra 3.62 per cent higher at all merchants at its ‘Unity this initial stage itself, the 19. The company said the through first Pradesh and the Directorate of 29,468.49. One' malls and ‘Vegas' mall retail sector became an instant move is aimed at supporting Revenue Intelligence have Similarly, the NSE Nifty from paying rent for a month, victim as soon as the intensi- 'active' agents who are work- sanction-bypass been allowed up to December rose 316.65 points, or 3.82 per said Harsh Bansal, Director, ty of the coronavirus spread ing amid the coronavirus BERLIN: European nations 31, to complete the process of cent, to close at 8,597.75. Unity Group and Pratham became known. outbreak. have delivered medical goods export of respective allocated ITC was the top gainer in domestic investors turned pos- closed in the red. Group. "We will continue to do "While the world is dealing to Iran in the first transaction quantities of red sanders the Sensex pack, rallying over itive amid rebound in global Stocks in Europe were also "The total rent waiver will everything we can to support with the COVID-19 pan- under the Instex mechanism wood," Director General of 7 per cent, followed by peers as most Asian bench- trading on a positive note in be about Rs 10 crore," he told the retailers and maintain demic, our agents have been set up to evade American Foreign Trade (DGFT) has Reliance Industries, ONGC, marks ended higher on recov- early deals. PTI. business continuity until the instrumental in creating sanctions on Tehran, the said in a notification. Tata Steel, Tech Mahindra, ery in China's manufacturing International oil benchmark Unity Group has more than crisis ends," Bansal said. awareness and getting so German foreign ministry said The wood is an endan- Sun Pharma and SBI. during March as authorities Brent crude rose 3.60 per cent 300 retailers in various loca- Since 1996, Unity Group many people insured so that Tuesday. "France, Germany gered species protected under On the other hand, relaxed anti-disease controls to USD 27.37 per barrel in tions of Delhi including has delivered more than 15 in the time of need, they are and the United Kingdom the Convention of IndusInd Bank plunged near- and allowed factories to futures trade. Dwarka, Rohini, Janak Puri Million Sq Ft across 150 real taken care off. So it's our turn confirm that INSTEX has International Trade in ly 15 per cent. Maruti, Bajaj reopen. On the currency front, the and CBD Shahdara. estate projects across Delhi- now to take care of them," the successfully concluded its first Endangered Species of Flora Finance and Titan were the Bourses in Shanghai, Hong rupee appreciated marginally "Due to this coronavirus NCR. It is developing a lux- company's managing director transaction, facilitating the and Fauna. It is illegal to pos- other laggards. Kong and Seoul ended up to 2 to 75.54 against the US dollar pandemic, retail sales and ury housing project at Karol and CEO Anup Rau said in export of medical goods from sess and sell the same. According to traders, per cent higher, while Tokyo in intra-day trade. footfall of commercial prop- Bagh here. a statement. Europe to Iran. These goods are now in Iran," the ministry said in a statement.

REC contributes Rs Sonalika Tractors RBI may cut interest rates by 150 cr to PM CARES fund extends warranty 100 bps in FY21: Fitch Solutions NEW DELHI: State-run REC on PNS n NEW DELHI PNS n NEW DELHI Tuesday pledged Rs 150 crore under PM CARES fund to fight India's Youngest and fastest The RBI is likely to cut bench- against COVID-19. "REC growing tractor brand, mark interest rate by another Limited... has pledged to Sonalika Tractors has come up 100 bps in 2020-21 fiscal and donate Rs 150 crore to the with yet another measure in continue to employ all policy Prime Minister's Citizen the midst of the prevailing tools at its disposal to support Assistance and Relief in coronavirus pandemic. growth and financial stability SBI staff commits Emergency Situations (PM Furthering its people-first It announced to contain the impact of CARES) Fund to support approach and offering ser- extension of Covid-19 pandemic on the India's fight against vice delight to its customers, economy, Fith Solutions said Rs 100 cr for PM fund coronavirus", a PFC statement the company has announced warranty on its Tuesday. The RBI cut benchmark repurchase PNS n NEW DELHI employees, Rs 100 crore will said. Besides, the one-time extension of warranty on its tractors by 3 The Reserve Bank of India (repo) rate by 75 basis points and its be donated to the Fund, it contribution to the newly- tractors by 3 months for the (RBI) cut benchmark repur- reverse repurchase rate by 90 basis Employees of SBI have added. formed emergency fund, customers whose warranty is months for the chase (repo) rate by 75 basis donated Rs 100 crore to the "It is a matter of pride for REC's employees will scheduled to lapse in the peri- existing customers points and its reverse repur- points at an emergency meeting Prime Minister's relief fund State Bank of India that all voluntarily contribute one od of March, April and May chase rate by 90 basis points to fight the coronavirus pan- our employees voluntarily day's salary to the PMNRF. 2020. at an emergency meeting on demic. came forward to pledge their REC is committed to Speaking on the initiative, tough situations. We shall be March 27, bringing the rates back within the RBI's 2-6 per its policy rates by another The country's largest two days' salary to the PM participating in corporate Mr. Raman Mittal, Executive honouring extension of war- to 4.40 per cent and 4.00 per cent target range will provide 100 bps by end-FY2020/21 lender in a statement said its CARES Fund. We at SBI India's response to COVID-19 Director, Sonalika Group, said, ranty by 3 months considering cent, respectively, from 5.15 room for the RBI to ease (April-March) as well as con- around 2,56,000 employees would keep continuing our through funds, community “At this crucial time, we stand the circumstance of pandem- per cent and 4.90 per cent, monetary policy further over tinue employing all policy have decided to contribute support to the government in welfare plans and through committed to support the ic where customers are sup- previously. the course of the year to sup- tools at its disposal to support two days' salary to the PM all its endeavours to address leveraging its expertise to offer farming commu nity and have posed to be homebound. Our In an outlook for India's port the economy. growth and financial stability CARES Fund. the challenges of this pan- assistance, the company said. taken optimal measures to toll free number is functional interest rates, Fitch Solutions "We at Fitch Solutions as the economy gets severely With this collective effort demic,” SBI Chairman stay responsive during these with limited resources." said an easing of inflation expect the central bank to cut hit by the Covid-19 pandem- and commitment of SBI Rajnish Kumar said.

Coronavirus: Samsung, LG to provide kits to hospitals Pak approves Vodafone, Idea offers PNS n NEW DELHI LG Electronics India on Tuesday said it Rs 1,200 bn To help authorities and people has also partnered with Akshaya Patra prepaid validity extension increase preparedness against Foundation to sponsor one million relief package Covid-19, electronic majors meals to migrant labourers and daily Samsung and LG have pledged PNS n ISLAMABAD to offer products and protective wage workers equipment like surgeon gown, Pakistan has approved a Rs face masks, glove, refrigerators, 1,200-billion relief package to water purifiers, among others, ments, local authorities, and ment and citizens fight the deal with the growing coro- to hospitals. healthcare professionals to pre- covid-19 pandemic in India. navirus crisis in the country LG Electronics India on pare a broad and meaningful Tata Trusts & Tata group as COVID-19 cases rose Tuesday said it has also part- strategy to win this battle together have pledged Rs 1,500 sharply, claiming the lives of nered with Akshaya Patra together,” Samsung India in a crore - by far the highest by 25 people and infecting over Foundation to sponsor one statement. any corporate. Reliance 1,800. million meals to migrant COVID-19 infection, which Industries chief Mukesh The package was approved PNS n NEW DELHI crore pre-paid connections labourers and daily wage work- refrigerators and TVs to the pitals and other facilities, along originated in Wuhan in China, Ambani has also committed a by the Economic until April 17 as well as cred- ers, who are struggling amid hospitals for their with air purifiers in medical has spread across the world further Rs 500 crore to the Coordination Committee Vodafone Idea on Tuesday ited talk time of Rs 10 in these the 21-day lockdown in the quarantine/isolation wards, facilities. and claimed around 34,000 Prime Minister's COVID-19 (ECC) in a meeting chaired announced extension of valid- accounts. country. covering 50 state and district The India unit of Samsung lives. Countries like South fund, topping up over the by Adviser to the Prime ity on prepaid plans availed by State-owned telecom oper- "With the rise in confirmed hospitals across the country. said it will also support local Korea, Spain, Italy, Iran and the multi-crore initiative of India's Minister on Finance Dr low income customers using ators BSNL and MTNL too cases of COVID-19, LG has Samsung India, on the other police by providing cooked US have been badly hit. first coronavirus hospital, Abdul Hafeez Sheikh on feature phones till April 17, have announced they will taken a pledge to support hand, will provide preventive food packets to local commu- In India, the total number of meals to the needy, and fuel to Monday. and Rs 10 talktime credit to extend validity period of their India's fight against the pan- kits to hospitals, which includes nities around its manufactur- COVID-19 cases has risen to emergency vehicles. It now awaits a formal nod help such users stay connect- prepaid mobile services till demic. LG is committed to a surgeon gown, face mask, ing facility. 1,251, while the death toll Infosys Foundation, the from the Cabinet led by ed during the lockdown to April 20 and offered Rs 10 offer active support to people gloves, preventive eye wear, "Samsung is committed to touched 32. To combat the philanthropic arm of Infosys, Prime Minister Imran Khan. contain coronavirus pandem- additional talktime even after in need in this current situa- hood cap and shoe cover. work together with the people spread, the government had has committed Rs 100 crore, Radio Pakistan reported ic. zero balance, to enable users, tion," it said in a statement. It will also provide infra-red of India in this hour of difficul- announced a 21-day lockdown while a number of other com- that the meeting of the Telecom operator Bharti especially poor and underpriv- LG Electronics India will thermometers and public ty. Over the last few days, our that ends on April 14. panies are also extending sup- Cabinet, chaired by Prime Airtel on Monday had ileged, to stay connected dur- donate products like water addressal systems that can be teams have engaged round-the- Corporate India has been port efforts towards fighting Minister Khan, was in announced an extension in the ing the 21-day nationwide purifiers, air conditioners, used by the authorities at hos- clock with various govern- rushing in to help the govern- COVID-19 in India. progress here. validity period of more than 8 lockdown. Follow us on @TheDailyPioneer facebook.com/ dailypioneer

Wednesday April 1, 2020 NOT JUST A PIECE OF CAKE yderabad-based sculptor and home baker Radha Dhaka Listed among is making the most of her expertise in sculpting to bake beautiful bust cakes. She is better known for sculpting India's top 10 cake H people on whichever cake is ordered. Apart from her work being published in the International Cake Masters Magazine, she has also managed to secure a place for herself artists, Radha among the top 10 cake artists of India. Speaking to The Pioneer, Dhaka says, “I’ve been in this field Dhaka's work of for more than 30 years now, but started making bust cakes only 10 years ago. I decorated many cakes for my children, fami- sculpting people ly and friends. As a sculptor I thought, why not make my art- work on cakes to make them more beautiful.” on cakes has made When asked how she learnt the art of sculpting people on Radha Dhaka cakes, she replies, “I took no formal course, but taught myself her a name to by watching videos on YouTube. I started baking cakes for birthdays, wedding anniversaries and other functions for reckon with, people.” Good reviews for Dhaka’s work began spreading by word of mouth who, then, began receiving formal orders among from customers. Speaking on why bust cakes have become a huge demand Hyderabadis, now, she shares, “People are always intrigued by the newest work in the market. I capitalised on that and went with especially flow.” But what about the competition from big cake mak- ers? Dhaka informs that most bakeries in Hyderabad have very limited varieties of cakes. That’s when her creativity celebrities. The comes in. “These bust cakes are a hit because they have a surprise element to them. Also, we use quality ingre- Pioneer's dients for our products and prepare them under hygien- ic conditions, hence the good word about our work,” V SATEESH she adds. Dhaka is also a hot favourite among celebrities in town. REDDY, speaks “These cakes take time to make given the perfection they demand. For celebrities, I source their pictures to the star, from the internet, others send me their pictures. I have received tremendous response from celebrities whose work too, for my work,” she gushes. On her work being featured in the International recently Cake Masters Magazine, Dhaka credits social media for her work having reached the jury’s eye. featured in the “I keep posting my work on various social media platforms. Since I was connected to the baking International community on social media, my works reached to the International Cake Masters Magazine members,” she informs. Cake Masters Dhaka has now taken up the task of teaching other women the art of baking to help them Magazine become financially independent. She conducts var- ious workshops in the city when she finds time, to help women hone their skills of baking.

yderabad-based actress what’s going happen the next. In an exclusive Pranavi Manukonda I love it when they bless me H entered the film indus- and love my character so ‘DO NOT try as a child artist dearly.” Telugu poets conversation with ‘DO‘DO NOTNOT through movies like Routine Love Story, Uyyala V SATEESH REDDY, Jampala, Tripura, and OPEN TO DO FILMS... Savyasachi. She bagged the Pranavi is also open to work- television actress Pranavi TAKETAKE Nandi award for Best Child ing in films. “I have been receiv- rise to the Artist in the film Uyyala ing offers, but nothing concrete Manukonda talks about Jampala. It was only later that has taken shape because of my she began taking up roles in TV tight schedule. But I am definite- her interest in acting OUROUR ROLESROLES serials like Bharyamani and ly looking forward to them, Pasupu Kunkuma. once I’m done with my commit- occasion since childhood, Pranavi’s first lead role came ments,” she assures. for the serial Evare Nuvvu, On being asked if she has a hile the Coronavirus receiving the Nandi Mohini in Zee Telugu. She is favourite, she replies, “I’ve pandemic has SERIOUSLY'SERIOUSLY' currently working for the seri- always looked up to Savitri garu. forced people to stay Award as a child al Ganga Manga. I’m also a huge fan of Samantha W indoors, it did bring Akkineni’s acting. These two are out the artist, poet, my inspiration.” designer, musician and artist artist, impact of NANDI AWARD in a lot of people. PUSHED ME TO Capitalising on the free TV serials on IMPACT OF time that most people have as DO BETTER... SERIALS... a result of the quarantine, people, love The 28-year-old was always Inampudi Shreelaxmi, a interested in acting ever since Pranavi also talks about the renowned Telugu poetess and for Hyderabad she was a child. She says, “I love impact her serials have on peo- founder of Telugu Women cinema since my childhood and ple because women are shown in Bhadrachalam Kavi Writers Forum, named and more decided what I want my career poor light, thanks to their neg- Aksharayan, encouraged to be right then. Fortunately, my ative roes. Telugu poets to make the parents were very supportive “Serials are not real stories and most of this time to write, and encour- it’s all fiction. Yes, in most of the record and send in their aged me,” serials, women are the ones who poems centered around the Pranavi informs. don negative roles, but I theme ‘Coronavirus’. She then “I loved dancing don’t think it has any collated and put them up on and practiced impact on people, a YouTube channel called and per- because they know ‘Return Gift 2 Corona’. formed a lot. it’s not real,” she As quirky as the name That’s how I out of the tells us. “Serials sounds, Shreelaxmi stum- got noticed are all about enter- bled open this idea after and was taining the audi- Telangana Chief Minister K offered a BOX ence and I per- Chandrashekhar Rao, during movie. The sonally would J Padmavathi one of his speeches, asked Nandi award want to appeal to poets to use art to create pushed me to people to not take awareness among citizens. It do better,” she adds. our roles seriously,” she adds. was then that she formulated it with help from Harikrishna Mamidi, director, depart- TELEVISION ENTRY... AUDIENCE TRAVEL ment of language and culture, After acting as a child artist in WITH US... Telangana and started the a few films, she began getting channel. offers to work in serials. She On various serials competing The YouTube channel has shares, “I worked for serials against each other on OTT plat- poems by over 250 poets like Bharyamani and Pasupu forms, Pranavi says, “Audience from across the two Telugu Kunkuma as a child artist. For always travel with serials. OTT states of Telangana and my lead role in Evare Nuvvu platforms create tough competi- Andhra Pradesh. These Mohini, I received a tremendous tion in urban areas. But in rural poems speak on various response for my acting skills. areas, people always love to Jalaja Rani issues concerning the virus, Right now I’m playing Ganga’s watch serials on TV, as a family.” including precautions, calls to character in the serial Ganga adhere to the lockdown, a Manga. Ganga belongs to a sense of gratitude that the tribal community who lives in a LOVE FOR virus brought with it for the wealthy house,” she reveals. HYDERABAD... things we have left, humourous take on COVID- Not surprisingly, Pranavi loves 19, among others. LOVE MY CHARACTER the Hyderabadi biryani. She The initiative is a first of its SO DEARLY... informs, “My family belongs to kind effort in the World Tadepalligudem of West Literary Front, as it is a digi- She is also receiving positive Godavari district, but I was born tal dais, where poets from dif- reviews for her role from senior and brought up in Hyderabad. I ferent places come together actors in the television fraterni- love the culture and traditions of on one platform to present ty. She adds, “When I go out, the the city, especially the biryani,” Dr S Suvarna Devi their work. audience ask me questions about she signs off. 10 health Hyderabad Wednesday April 1, 2020

our stuck at home and if generates the energy for releasing action on the vocal cords and its you havent figured out a constituents such as nicotine, flavour adjacent structures. This causes the routine to keep you sane and aroma compounds. However, inner space of the vocal cords as yet, youre probably the chemical reaction created by the known as vocal folds to fill with Y turning to more ciga- heat along with the cigarette com- physiological fluid, leading to rettes then you normally ponents gives rise to many harmful increase in thickness. Hence, they do. smoke constituents. The tar and vibrate more slowly and irregularly, SMOKING But here’s what you should know, other irritants in the smoke causes and produce a more severe and smoking has many side effects one swelling and other reactions on the harsh voice. If the irritation contin- of which is the impact on your throat cover of the cords. ues, what is a simple discomfort can and vocal cords, thus affecting your The most obvious effect of tobac- turn into an edema or swelling, voice. At first you may notice some- co consumption, through cigarette which in many cases requires thing is amiss when your normal smoking or otherwise, on the voice surgery. WAY TOO MANY voice gets a little bit husky. Soon you is the transition to more severe tones. Repeated, long-term smoking might find it develops a lot of The human voice is formed by a suc- causes tissue damage leading to croaking when you try to speak up. cession of vibratory cycles, and the cancer. Cancer can develop in the Dr Atul Kumar Mittal, Director & more cycles per second a voice has, larynx or voice box. Laryngeal can- Head of Department of ENT, Fortis, the sharper it is, and the fewer cycles, cer can spread to other parts of the Memorial Research Institute, the more severe. The more cigarettes body such as the back of the tongue CIGARETTES Gurugram reveals the details on are smoked, the more the number of and lungs. Smokers are more at risk Smoker’s Voice. cycles decreases. While nonsmokers of premature death caused by laryn- The hoarse raspiness you hear and have voices with an average of 206 geal cancer than non-smokers. It has feel is what one calls as Smoker’s cycles per second, the voice of those been clinically proven that when Voice. Smoker’s voice, typically, who smoke half a daily package goes doctors referred their patients with DURING refers to a gradual reduction of the down to 199 cycles, and reaches 183 hoarse voices (not caused by upper pitch of the voice, where the voice cycles in those who smoke more respiratory infections) lasting more can become masculinised. The than 10 cigarettes a day, values than 2 weeks on to the E.N.T. spe- effects are mostly perpetual because close to the masculine ones. cialists for a look at the voice, the of changes in the structure of the Smoking causes irritation of the stage at which throat cancers were vocal fold. The most significant throat. The chemical component of discovered dropped significantly LOCKDOWN? way to protect your voice is to never smoke exerts a continuous irritating compared to those who were not smoke or to stop smoking. referred on, and survival rates Everything we inhale passes right increased. across the vocal cords. Our voice is Quitting smoking is one of the a result of the vibrations caused by THE TAR AND OTHER best decisions one can make for one’s the vocal cords. Ease in these vibra- IRRITANTS IN THE health. People who smoke are at tions result in a smooth, natural greater risk of having illnesses such voice. These sensitive and delicate SMOKE CAUSES as cancer and heart disease. vocal cords can adversely react to However, giving up smoking can irritants like allergens, dry air, dust, SWELLING AND OTHER reduce your risk and put you on a chemical odors, smoking, reflux, etc. REACTIONS ON THE path to better health. Someone has The burning end of a cigarette rightly said, “Smoking is an answer reaches a temperature of about COVER OF VOCAL to the most existential question: 9,000 C. The lighting of a cigarette CORDS How are you going to die.”

reathing has direct relation to BREATHING WITH ones mental health; and it can be easily ascertained if a person is THE WORD OM B in anxiety or in peace just by fol- Sit and take a deep breath. Make the voice lowing their breathing pattern. of om through the open mouth and pull air When in confined spaces or from the navel in the first phase. May the dealing with anxiety in lockdown, if you sound as long as possible. Repeat the process COVID-19: focus on your breathing, it will help you man- again while pulling air from the chest and age the anxiety. It starts right from our res- then from the throat. This should be prac- piratory system as we observe the sound of tised thrice for each phase. our breathing while inhaling and exhaling. Sudhanshu Rai Life Coach and Focus on Motivational Speaker shares some key tips RELAXED BREATHING to keep you both physically and mentally Sit or lie down and follow your breathing relaxed. The following exercises can play an normally. Just make the process normal with important role in managing anxiety while at no sound of breathing. Keep the focus on home during a lockdown: your breath while inhaling or exhaling. breathing for ANULOM VILOM Sit calmly and in a straight posture, balanc- WHEN IN CONFINED SPACES OR ing the shape of the spine. Make use of the DEALING WITH ANXIETY IN thumb and ring finger to control the process. mental Use alternate breathing process, i.e. Inhale LOCKDOWN, IF YOU FOCUS ON from one nose and exhale from the other. Breathing must be slow and steady. Follow the YOUR BREATHING, IT WILL process for at least 10 minutes. While inhal- HELP YOU MANAGE THE ing or exhaling, observe the air flowing wellbeing through your nostrils and reaching organs. ANXIETY

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ARCHIE CALVIN AND HOBBES

GARFIELD REALITY CHECK SPEED BUMP CROSSWORD

NANCY

SUDOKU Yesterday’s solution

GINGER MEGGS

Rules l Each row and column can contain each number (1 to 9) exactly once. l The sum of all numbers in any row or column must equal 45. 11

The George tollywood Hyderabad Wednesday April 1, 2020 Reddy actor speaks to Was skeptical about NAGARAJ GOUD about playing a bold role in Sin: aha’s original Sin, his role that represents many men out THIRUVEER in the society an more fter impressive out- most people around him. “As ings in George I started looking for other Reddy and the THE SCRIPT HELPED avenues to make a career, I recently released HIM TO UNDERSTAND realised my interest in acting CCC receives A Palasa 1978, actor because it offered me the Thiruveer is now PRESSING ISSUES LIKE chance to be a different man in receiving rave reviews for his DOMESTIC VIOLENCE every second film. I used to turn in aha’s original Sin. A AND SEXUAL ABUSE IN read actors profiles in newspa- social drama about domestic pers while pursuing studies more donations violence and marital rape, the DEPTH and understood that that there show, directed by Babu Baga about marital rape as I started is a theatre arts course. One of ctor Nara Rohith, who Busy fame Naveen Medaram, going through the script pages my friends suggested me to has been missing in also features Deepti Sati and last year. I still doubt if many enroll in Telugu University action for nearly two Jeniffer Piccinato. Thiru is people know a thing about it. theatre programme and I did A years, will be donating naturally on elated with the At the risk of not making a that. The programme helped Rs 10 lakh each to reception. “The role’s purpose generalised statement, Anand me to overcome my inhibitions CMRF of both Telugu has been achieved as people are represents many men out in like speaking with people. states in their battle against coron- disgusted with me, so much so the society.” However, I’m still an introvert. avirus. That’s not all. The actor has some felt like assaulting and Continuing in the same If I don’t have work, I’d rather also announced Rs 10 lakh to killing me. I’m also happy for vein, he goes on, “After I gave be at home. I don’t think I can Corona Crisis Charity (CCC), the fact that we’ve discussed a successful audition for the make an eye contact with a girl which is aimed at providing relief the issue that we’ve set out to role, I was skeptical about still, which is why my friends to daily wage employees of the achieve, in a sensible way,” he playing a bold role. Soon after, were shocked to see my bold industry. tells us in an interview. the makers handed over me turn in Sin. Some even won- Sundeep Kishan too announced In the show, the actor plays the one-line order of the script. dered whether it’s me,” he a contrinution of Rs 3 lakh to CCC, Anand, an employee with the There is a fine line between laughs wide. while simultaneously assuring that social welfare department who boldness and vulgarity and I Things are looking bright for he will take care of 500 plus employ- has two faces. While he comes feared that if I associate with the actor up next. “What ees working at his Vivaha across as a nice and innocent the latter, I will get stereotyped worked in my favour is that I Bhojanambu chain of restaurants in guy to his colleagues, the other and will be branded as cheap. had George Reddy, Palasa 1978 Hyderabad. Actors Saptagiri and C side shows him abusing his Plus, these are my early days in and Sin release with in a space Venkata Govindara pledged to wife and disrespecting her the industry. However, the of five months. People and donate Rs 2 lakh each respectively wishes. “Anand doesn’t even script cleared all my miscon- industry personalities have to CCC. Majili producers Sahu and see wrong in an affair outside ceptions. The role was differ- started taking a notice of me. Harish Peddi announced a contri- marriage and his mother sides ent to my previous turns and My next is with Priyadarshini bution of Rs 5 lakh. Actor Nikhil with him. He is an educated I felt I can enjoy while playing Ram. It’s a mystery thriller and who recently donated masks and ignorant,” he informs, adding it. I placed my trust in the I play a key role in it. I’m also sanitary kits to doctors has now that the script helped him to whole team.” in the process of singing some come forward understand pressing issues like A theatre arts student, Thiru more films,” he states, adding to donate domestic violence and sexual never dreamt of acting aspira- that as long as a role engages hand sani- abuse in depth. “In fact, as tions begin with. Growing up, him-even its duration is five tizers to someone who has a post-grad- he just didn’t want to associate minutes-language is not a bar- cops uation degree, I got to know with a mechanical life like rier to him. deployed at various parts of Hyderabad. Disha floored by Bunny's dance moves fter Shilpa Shetty recreated Allu Arjun’s hook-line step from Buttabomma recently impressed by its choreography, its Disha Patani who is now floored by A the stylish star’s dancing prowess. SUNDEEP KISHAN Taking to her Instagram account, the ANNOUNCED A Bollywood bombshell posted a video of the viral hit song Buttabomma from Ala CONTRINUTION OF Vaikunthapurramuloo and tagged Allu Arjun RS 3 LAKH TO CCC, asking him, “@alluarjun how do you do it”. Prompt in his response, the actor replied, “I love AMONG OTHER music. Good music makes me dance. Thank you for the compliment.” Awestruck, Disha ACTORS LIKE NIKHIL reposted it with her reply, “Thank you for inspiring all of AND NARA ROHITH Ravi Chavali us”. This is not the first time Disha has expressed her fond- ness for the Allu boy who is her favourite Telugu star. Five and Radhamohan years ago, she said she would not miss an opportunity to work with him, even if it means special appearance along- side him in a special song in his film. “I am a huge fan team up again of Arjun. I admire him so much that I would not mind sharing screen space with him in a song. I am sure the avi Chavali, who directed films experience of working with him even in a song will like Samanyudu, Victory and be amazing because he is a great dancer, too,” Disha Daggaraga Dooranga among had said back then. R others, is staging a comeback Wonder if they would come together for a film in with a web show. While details the future. about the show are sketchy, we hear it’s a thriller and is being produced by Sri Sathyasai Arts chief KK Radhamohan, who produced Chavali’s last notable film Pyaar Mein Padipoyane. A source said, “The show is being made for web platform aha which is looking to increase its original content. Allu Aravind entrusted the production responsibilities to Radhamohan after coming to know that the producer shoots the film in budgets. The show was in the final stages of completion when Covid1-19 outbreak hit it.” Another film on Coronavirus damage ays after we’ve reported that Awe fame Prasanth Varma is making a film on THE FILM WILL EXAMINE WHY Covid-19, comes news INDIANS STUDYING ABROAD D about another film on the ARE TRANSPORTED BACK IN pandemic and the damage it caused and is continuing to do so. AIRCRAFTS AND WHY LABOUR Titled Vishwak, the film, directed by FORCE WHO MIGRATED TO debutant Venu, will examine why Indians studying abroad are transport- CITIES ARE MADE TO WALK ed back to the country in aircrafts and ON ROADS TO REACH THEIR why labour force who migrated to met- ropolitan cities for a better future are VILLAGES made to walk on roads to reach their the society in a dramatic fashion,” the villages. “Indian daily wage workers makers said. who help to build India have opted to T Anandam and Balakrishan are joint- walk hundreds to miles to reach their ly producing the film under Golden destinations, with some still struggling Duck Productions, while P Satya Sagar to cross the state borders. The film will is composing the music. The teaser of examine these two different sections of the film will be released on April 3. HYDERABAD | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 1, 2020 sport 12 IPL IN OCT-NOV IF T20 WC IS POSTPONED

IANS n NEW DELHI

ith the coronavirus No IPL, no salary outbreak bringing the Wworld to a standstill, sporting events across the world concerns for franchises have either been postponed or NEW DELHI: No play, no pay. overheads ranging between `75 cancelled and the Board of This could well be the fate of play- to 85 crore. Control for Cricket in India ers, who have signed up for this How can we pay if there’s no (BCCI) is now looking at the year’s IPL, which has been post- action,” he asked. “From Premier October-November window to poned and seems unlikely to go League, La Liga, players are tak- host the 13th edition of the ahead unless BCCI figures an ing pay cuts. Also there is no cer- Indian Premier League (IPL). alternate window. tainty anywhere as to when But the move can only be pos- “The system of IPL pay- things will get normal,” the offi- sible if the ICC decides to post- ments is that 15 per cent is paid cial, who has been part of at least pone the mens T20 World Cup a week before the tournament IPL 10 editions, added. that is to be held later in the starts. 65 per cent more is paid Both of them said in unison year. during the tournament. The that BCCI needs to see what can Speaking about the possibil- remaining 20 percent is paid be done even though they under- ity, a BCCI official said that within a stipulated time after the stand that the parent body stands David Warner and Steve Smith train during Aus practice session AP while there have been talks tournament ends,” a senior offi- to lose close to `3000 crore. with regards to hosting the IPL cial of an IPL franchise said. “It’s not just the Dhonis and in the October-November win- “The BCCI has specific the Kohlis who will be affected. Smith, Warner presence will give dow, it will only be possible if guidelines. Obviously, no player Surely they would feel the pinch the World T20 to be played in will be paid as of now,” he added. but for many first-timers, the `20, Aus edge: Paine on India series Australia from October 18 to Another franchise official 40 or 60 lakh is serious life-chang- November 15 is postponed. clarified that salaries of players are ing money after all the hard work. PTI n HOBART Smith not lone option “At present, there is a lock- not insured for a pandemic. Hope BCCI has a plan in place,” down of borders and while “We will he said. he experience of 15,000 for Test captaincy Australia has said it is a poten- not get any BCCI treasurer Arun TTest runs between Steve IANS n SYDNEY tial six-month lockdown, things money from Dhumal, however, said Smith and David Warner can change with an improve- insurance com- that at present, will certainly give ustralias Test skipper ment in the scenario. UK could pany as pandem- there hasn’t Australian batting unit a ATim Paine isn’t get- follow the same pattern consid- ic is not covered been any dis- formidable look when they ting any younger at 35, ering the spread of the pandem- in the clause. cussion about take on India in a four- but the captain has made ic. We are still to understand Each franchise pay cuts. PTI match series at the end of it clear that former skip- what the Indian government has salary the year, feels skipper Tim per Steve Smith isn’t the will decide with regards to clos- Paine. only guy in fray to take ing the international borders. In Under Paine, Australia over when the wicket- such a scenario, the only win- for the first time in 71 years keeper calls it a day. dow that looks safe is the country from say now, it ends 2021. So, at the moment, it is all a postponement. “There have lost a home Test series “We’ve got a number October-November one. But by the start of October. But a bit too far-fetched to be hon- been no talks of any postpone- against India 1-2 in the of guys to choose from again, that collides with the T20 again, for that, the spread of the est. But yes, the October- ment to the World T20 that is 2018-19 bilateral contest. who can put their hand World Cup. coronavirus needs to be stopped November window has been to be held in October and However, Smith and up. There’s Steve Smith, “So, if the ICC does go and things must come under spoken about for the IPL, but a November this year,” the official Warner were then in the who’s done it before, or ahead and decides to postpone human control. In short, there lot of external factors need to said. midst of their ball-tam- the people who are devel- the T20 World Cup due to the will have to be a lot of maths,” fall into place for that to become Cricket Australia chief pering suspension and the oping underneath like a current scenario, only then we the official said. a reality.” Kevin Roberts had earlier said team was in a transition Travis Head or an Alex can look at the October- “Again, it would be the last However an ICC official that he was hoping that the T20 phase. Carey — Marnus November window because step for the ICC to push the T20 made it clear that the T20 World Cup could be played as “This is a different Labuschagne and Pat even if a six-month border World Cup from 2020 to 2022 World Cup is still on as planned per schedule in normal circum- team, no doubt their team Cummins are other ones. closedown is ordered by every because there is no window in and there have been no talks of stances. will be slightly different as “We’re starting to well, but it’s two high qual- build some real depth so ity teams, a really anticipat- that when my time’s up ed series purely because of we’ve got a number of The Test the quality of cricket, not options,” Paine told World Test C’ship duration motivates Root for Ashes for what’s happened before. reporters. call on Monday. India and Australia as a Smith is free to cap- Root, while acknowledg- rivalry, it’s a series a bit like tain the national team ing the importance of the the Ashes that we all look again after his captaincy should be extended: Misbah World Test Championship, forward to,” Paine was ban came to an end on KARACHI: Pakistan head coach and “The tournament should be made clear an Ashes series in quoted as saying by Sunday. chief selector Misbah-ul-Haq has sug- extended that is my view. That is the Australia remains the acid test Cricbuzz. gested extending the time span of the only way we can find and end the for an England cricketer. Not only the seasoned three of the best batsmen in ICC World Test Championship with event in a balanced way. Matches can Under his leadership, duo but the extremely tal- the world in our top six,” the COVID-19 pandemic bringing all be rescheduled if the event is extend- England were beaten 4-0 in ented Marnus Labuschagne the captain said. cricketing activities to a halt and ed,” he said. the 2017/18 Ashes. also adds the necessary Matthew Wade playing potentially throwing the interna- After the Test against Bangladesh, But Root said the threat depth that the batting unit purely as a batsman also is tional schedule haywire. Pakistan’s next assignment of C’ship posed by the likes of fast didn’t have last time an advantage, opined “I just think that all teams must is a Test series in England in July. bowler Mark Wood, man-of- around. Paine, who will continue to get equal opportunities in the cham- Misbah said since that series was the match in the fourth Test “I think you put in keep wickets. “Matthew pionship even if matches are resched- very important, he had already asked victory against South Africa, 15,000 Test runs with two Wade back firing adds a uled,” he said during a video confer- all the players who are in isolation to added an X-factor to guys alone, Steve Smith real toughness to it, Travis ence with the media on Tuesday. keep working on their fitness and also England’s attack. and David Warner, Marnus Head improved a lot since “Whenever cricket resumes all study the strengths and weaknesses AFP n LONDON tual champions beat them in “We’ve seen in South Labuschagne’s come on in he played India last time. teams should get equal opportunity of the England team. the World Cup semi-finals. Africa that has played a part, leaps and bounds and he’s So I think it’s going to be an in the ICC World Test Championship “I have been in touch with most ngland Test captain Joe The largely well-received it has found us a way to take now a top three or four exciting series, there’s no to try to play in the final. The tour- of the players including centrally con- ERoot has said watching the documentary has also been 20 wickets in foreign condi- batsman in the world him- doubt about it. nament can be extended beyond tracted players…even trainer is in first few episodes of a docu- accused of being a public tions.” self. “The batting line-ups 2021,” he said. touch with them…we are giving mentary about the Australian relations exercise given Turning to top-order ris- “You put that amount on show are going to be as According to the original sched- them and sending them plans accord- cricket team has been a “moti- Cricket Australia had editor- ing stars Dom Sibley & Ollie of runs into a cricket side, good as you will see, it’s ule, the inaugural competition runs ing to their equipment at home to vator” ahead of the 2021/22 ial control. Pope, Root added: “If we can last time we didn’t have ... going to be exciting for fans from 2019-2021. remain in shape as a team. Ashes Down Under. But with cricket suspend- keep putting experience into We know how good India’s and it’s going to be who Misbah also said that if teams “I want the physical condition of The Test charts Australia’s ed worldwide because of the a number of the young batters bowling line-up is and last handles (the pressure), we didn’t get equal opportunity to play players to be what is required in Test progress from the low of the coronavirus pandemic, Root as well, give them game time, time we just weren’t quite know the conditions over in the championship, results would Pakistan coach Misbah-ul-Haq PCB/Twitter whenever cricket resumes,” he said. 2018 ball-tampering scandal decided to take a look. then we’re starting to build a good enough if we’re total- here are going to offer the not be fair. pionship which will be hit by the pan- Misbah said this was the best in South Africa through to the “I’ve only got to the start team that has confidence, ly honest against that quicks something and I The ICC has indicated that it demic and one option which will be time for Pakistan to do its homework high of retaining the Ashes in of the World Cup, so we’ll see experience, is ready and hard- attack, whereas this time I think it’s going to be awe- would talk to member boards to find discussed would be awarding points for the series in England and analyse a drawn series in England last how the rest of it unfolds,” he ened for the challenges think we’ll be a different some to watch, so I can’t a solution to the matches of the cham- for cancelled matches. their players. PTI year after the hosts and even- told reporters in a conference Australia will throw at us.” kettle of fish. We’ve got wait to play in it,” he said.

Proteas set deadlines for tours Hima writes to Rijiju for PTI n NEW DELHI AFP n JOHANNESBURG he Badminton World BWF freeze rankings TFederation (BWF) on he South African team will require six weeks of access to outdoor training Tuesday decided to freeze the top-16 of world rankings to Tpreparation before embarking on any tours, NEW DELHI: Confined to their hostel be sent home if no training is allowed. world rankings, saying stand- qualify for the Olympics. The Cricket South Africa’s acting director of cricket, rooms at NIS Patiala amid the coron- “The ministry will not allow them ings as on March 17 will be the cut-off for doubles is also top- Graeme Smith, said on Tuesday. avirus-forced lockdown, some ath- to go back home but this outdoor train- basis for entry and seedings 16. With South Africa in official lockdown until April letes, led by Hima Das, have request- ing idea is feasible. We will know about when it restarts the internation- The BWF had suspended 16, Smith said in a video media conference that the ed the sports ministry to allow them to it in a day or two,” he added. al calender that has been all tournaments post the All players needed to take responsibility for maintain- train outdoors within campus, which Nair said he and other coaches have thrown haywire owing to the England Championships until ing their fitness while at home but would also need is out of bounds for outsiders right now. supported the idea as there is no risk COVID-19 pandemic. April 12 due to the pandemic to work on cricket skills as a group before touring. Deputy chief national athletics of any camper contracting the dread- There was a clamour for and said due to the current sce- “We have to review the situation every week,” he coach Radhakrishnan Nair, who is sup- ed coronavirus as nobody is coming in freezing the world rankings nario the next set of tourna- said, “but we estimate we would need around six porting the move, said that the Hima- and going out of the facility. with Indian shuttlers Saina ments will also be suspended. weeks before any tour.” led campers at the National Institute of “We have 41 athletes at NIS and the Nehwal, B Sai Praneeth, Many international stars, South Africa are due to tour Sri Lanka in early Sports (NIS) are expecting a reply from track and field area is just 50m from the Parupalli Kashyap and H S including Saina and Kashyap, June for three one-day internationals and three T20Is. the ministry in a day or two. hostels. We can have small groups say Prannoy leading the way in had suggested that the qualifi- Smith’s timetable would appear to make the tour “Hima and some other athletes eight athletes each and only one group expressing their concerns. cation period for the Tokyo unlikely to happen. It would mean a lifting of trav- have written to the Sports Minister that will train at a time for one or two hours. “The Badminton World the week following the last basis for entry and seeding Olympics be extended in light el bans as well as the current lockdown ending as they be allowed to train one or two “All the athletes of a group will not Federation (BWF) can international tournament that into the next international tour- of tournaments getting can- scheduled for the tour to take place. hours a day in small groups at differ- do running or throwing together, one announce it will freeze World was played — the YONEX All naments — although it is diffi- celled. South Africa’s next engagement is a ent times so that they can also practice will run alone and finish it and then Rankings and World Junior England Open 2020,” BWF cult to say at this stage when The governing body said it Test and T20 tour of the West Indies, social distancing while training at the another will run after him. This way we Rankings until further notice. said in a release. this may be.” will start reviewing the Olympic scheduled to start on July 15, which same time,” Nair said from Patiala. can practice social distancing and be The freezing of rankings will be “The ranking lists issued on Shuttlers in the singles qualification system but a deci- would require a return to normal “They have asked Rijiju that they safe,” the top athletics coach said. PTI backdated to Week 12, which is 17 March 2020 will serve as a competition have to be inside sion will take several weeks. activity in South Africa by the end of May. Former Test captain Swedish Govt arranged flight Smith seems set to be AIFF hopeful of organising FIFA women’s U-17 WC in Nov appointed to a perma- to take Dennerby home nent role. NEW DELHI: The All India Football developments and we will see how “We are in final Federation (AIFF) remains hope- it goes,” Das said. NEW DELHI: The Indian women’s General Secretary Kushal Das negotiations and hope ful of organising the FIFA Under- He agreed that there is quite a U-17 football team’s Swedish said Tuesday. to make an announce- 17 Women’s World Cup in bit of time left for the tournament. coach Thomas Dennerby will The experienced 60-year- ment next week,” said November despite the COVID-19 “Yes, there is still a lot of time leave for home on Wednesday as old Dennerby was appointed as acting chief executive pandemic causing cancellation and left and we will wait and watch the the training has been stopped the head coach of the Indian Jacques Faul. postponement of sporting events. developments in the coming time,” due to the 21-day lockdown. women’s U-17 team in Faul said it was The optimism stems from the he said. Dennerby and compatriot November last year. He had impossible to estimate seven months’ time that the organ- The World Cup is scheduled to fitness coach Per Karlsson will guided the Swedish women’s when normal cricket ising committee has at its disposal be held from November 2 to 21 fly back home on a flight national team to a third-place activities would to prepare for the top age-group with matches to be played in Navi arranged by the Swedish govern- finish in the FIFA Women’s resume but said CSA tournament. Mumbai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, ment for their citizens in India. World Cup in Germany in 2011 had budgeted for and Everything, though, Bhubaneswar and Guwahati. “Yes, head coach Dennerby and a quarterfinal spot in the had the capacity to depends on world football gov- Das is aware that the European regarding dates for their respective India, while also exploring “alter- is leaving for his home in 2012 London Olympics. pay nationally-con- erning body, FIFA, AIFF gener- and African qualifiers for the tour- qualifying tournaments. native solutions”. Sweden tomorrow. There is no Asked when Dennerby is tracted and franchise al secretary Kushal Das said. nament are yet to take place. Last week, FIFA said it is mon- Sixteen teams will take part in training now and the players likely to return, Das said, “He players through the “FIFA will take a call on this, FIFA is also working with rep- itoring the developments arising out the World Cup, of which only three have left for their homes,” All will come back once he is able 2020/21 season. they are keeping a track of all the resentatives of all confederations of the COVID-19 pandemic in have sealed berths so far. PTI India Football Federation to train the players.” PTI