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POOJA NOT DOING SURIYA'S NEXT { Page 12 } www.dailypioneer.com CORONA EXPLOSION IN AP UN warns of humanity’s n Covid-19 cases spike sharply to 111 n In one day 67 test positive worst crisis since WW-II n n PNS VIJAYAWADA PM Modi to hold AFP PARIS The "disease... As many as 67 new cases of The coronavirus pandemic represents a coronavirus have been report- video conf with has claimed more than 30,000 threat to everybody in ed in Andhra Pradesh since lives in Europe alone, a glob- the world and... an Tuesday night, taking the state CMs today al tally showed Wednesday, in economic impact that overall count to 111 in the what the head of the United state, the government said. PNS n NEW DELHI Nations has described as will bring a recession Most of these cases relate to humanity's worst crisis since that probably has no the Tablighi Jamaat congrega- Prime Minister Narendra World War II. parallel in the recent tion. West Godavari district, will hold a video conference Italy and Spain bore the past which did not have a single with all chief ministers on brunt of the crisis, accounting Sonia asks PM to — ANTONIO GUTERRES Covid-19 case till Tuesday, Thursday during which for three in every four deaths UN Secretary-General give 21 days' recorded 15 positive cases issues such as ways to con- on the continent, as the grim while Kadapa district too tain the spread of COVID- tally hit another milestone wages in advance reported 15. Six new cases 19, movement of migrants even though half of the plan- to MGNREGA were added in Chittoor district, and contact tracing of et's population is already under Antonio Guterres, the extraor- As companies shut down for four in Prakasam, two each in Tablighi Jamat participants some form of lockdown in a dinary economic and political undetermined periods and workers East Godavari, SPS Nellore and are likely to come up for dis- battle to halt contagion. upheaval spurred by the virus entire workforces are forced to one each in Krishna and cussion, sources said on Across the Atlantic, presents a real danger to the stay home to halt the spread of Visakhapatnam districts, accord- Wednesday. President Donald Trump relative peace the world has COVID-19, scenes of eco- ing to the latest bulletin of the The availability of essential warned of a "very, very painful seen over the last few decades. nomic desperation and unrest 4 Medical and Health Department. items will also be discussed two weeks" as the United States The "disease... represents a were emerging across the In all 373 samples were during the conference, they registered its deadliest 24 threat to everybody in the globe. In Italy, queues were tested since 9 pm on Tuesday added. hours of what he called a world and... an economic lengthening at soup kitchens and 330 of them turned neg- This will be the second "plague". impact that will bring a reces- while some supermarkets were ative till 9 am on Wednesday, such interaction in less than America's outbreak has sion that probably has no par- reportedly pillaged. the bulletin added. two weeks on the critical mushroomed rapidly. There allel in the recent past. Half a million more people issue of the COVID-19 out- are now around 190,000 "The combination of the now need help to afford meals, n Six new cases were added in break and related matters, known cases -- a figure that two facts and the risk that it Italy's biggest union for the Chittoor district, four in Prakasam, and the first after the Central has doubled in just five days. contributes to enhanced insta- agriculture sector Coldiretti two each in EG Dist, SPS Nellore government imposed a 21- Some 41,000 deaths have bility, enhanced unrest, and said, adding to the 2.7 million and one each in Krishna and day nationwide lockdown been recorded worldwide from enhanced conflict are things already in need last year. from March 25. The last more than 830,000 infections that make us believe that this The economic pain of lock- Visakhapatnam districts, according interaction took place on since the pandemic emerged in is the most challenging crisis downs is especially acute in the to the latest bulletin of the Medical March 20. China in December. we have faced since the Second developing world. and Health Department. 3 For UN Secretary-General World War," he said. 3 Case against TJ chief who GOVT’S ‘DISTANCE’

Rs 1 cr for kin of healthcare ‘trashed Covid-19 warnings’ n |personnel if they PNS NEW DELHI Sources say Maulana die while treating After a religious gathering in Saad is missing; he Delhi at the headquarters of was last seen on coronavirus cases the Tablighi Jamaat emerged as one of the country's top coro- Saturday, when navirus hotspots, its chief cler- Coronavirus cases ic Maulana Saad and six oth- started surfacing. 5 ers have been charged by the police. Apart from Maulana Thousands of Tablighi Saad, Delhi Police Jamaat members, including those from other countries, named six others in attended the gathering in the First Information March, disregarding all coro- Report. navirus warnings and precau- tions. Many then travelled to different states, widening the Sources say Maulana Saad is Saifi, Younus, Mohammad spread of the highly contagious missing; he was last seen on Salman and Mohammed virus. Saturday, when Coronavirus Ashraf. Over 2,000 members have cases started surfacing. They have been charged been removed from the Apart from Maulana Saad, under the Epidemic Disease Markaz Nizamuddin, the Delhi Police's First Act, said Delhi Police Tablighi headquarters, in the Information Report names Commissioner SN Shrivastava. past three days. Zeeshan, Mufti Shehzad, M 3 Daily wage workers and homeless people watch television inside a government-run night shelter during a 21-day nationwide lockdown to limit the spreading of Rs 3.20 L-cr investor All Class 1-8 coronavirus disease (COVID-19), in the old quarters of Delhi, India. CBSE students One tests positive India switches to wealth wiped off promoted No stigma attached to for Coronavirus in world's cleanest PNS n MUMBAI PNS n HYDERABAD Mumbai's Dharavi petrol, diesel COVID-19, reminds Jagan n Investor wealth dropped Rs The HRD ministry on PNS MUMBAI 3,20,633.05 crore on the first Wednesday directed the day of the new financial year Central Board of Secondary n CM urges untraced TJ returnees to come forward for tests One person tested positive for as selling resumed in the equi- Education (CBSE) to promote the highly contagious coron- ty market amid rising cases of all students of classes 1 to 8 to PNS n VIJAYAWADA Speaking to the media here, avirus in Mumbai's Dharavi, 8 COVID-19. the nextclass in view of the sit- Jagan said that of the 87 cases the largest slum cluster in The Sensex tanked 1,203.18 uation due to the coronavirus Stating that there is no stigma that tested positive in the state, Asia. Sources said the patient points or 4.08 per cent to close outbreak in thecountry."In view attached to people affected by 70 have a Delhi-connect. -- a 56-year-old man - has at 28,265.31 on Wednesday. of the current situation due to COVID-19 as it is similar to Disclosing that 1,085 people been shifted to the Sion hos- TODAY Tracking weakness in equi- financial year 2019-20 on Tuesday. #COVID19, I have advised@ any other infection that can be had attended the Delhi event, pital. The other seven resi- ties, the market capitalisation "Markets witnessed a sharp cbseindia29 to promote ALL easily cured if timely treatment between March 15-17, he said dents of the house have been ALMANAC of the BSE-listed companies decline on Wednesday as par- students studying in classes I- is obtained, AP Chief Minister 585 people have been tested so home quarantined. They will Month & Paksham: eroded by Rs 3,20,633.05 crore ticipants took note of a sudden VIII to thenext class or grade," YS Jaganmohan Reddy on far. While 70 positive cases have be tested tomorrow. Chaitra & Shukla Paksha to reach Rs 1,10,28,123.54 surge in coronavirus numbers Union HRD Minister Ramesh Wednesday urged all those been identified from the tests, Sources said the authorities crore. in India and weak auto sales Pokhriyal 'Nishank'said in a who travelled to the Tablighi results of 500 cases are have sealed the building, Panchangam: Equity indices had rallied numbers. series of tweets. Jamaat event in Delhi, their tacts to come forward for med- awaited. which is located in a redevel- Tithi: Navami: 02:42 am (Next Day) smartly on the last day of the 3 3 family members and their con- ical tests. 3 oped part of Dharavi. Nakshatram: Punarvasu: 07:28 pm Time to Avoid: (Bad time to start any important work) Rahukalam: 01:51 pm – 03:22 pm CCMB grows coronavirus to study genome structure CORONAVIRUS Yamagandam: 06:13 am – 07:44 am Varjyam: 07:29 am - 09:05 am PNS n HYDERABAD Anticipating a rise in the number of cases, Mishra OUTBREAK 07:00 pm - 04:45 am also said it would be at least one year before any Gulika: 09:16 am - 10:48 am Centre of Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), as Good Time: (to start any important nation comes out with vaccine or drug for the killer part of its research on Covid- WORLD INDIA work) 19, has started growing large virus. So as of now maintaining social distance and Amritakalam: 05:04 pm - 06:40 pm quantities of the killer virus to hygiene is the only way to keep it away. Confirmed Abhijit Muhurtham: 11:55 am - 12:44 pm understand its genome struc- Cases ture useful for developing vac- 9,11,578 2012 VIJAYAWADA cines and drugs, its Director link of the virus is and what Asserting that in the Rakesh K Mishra has said. route it is taking," Mishra told absence of clear-cut study on WEATHER Anticipating a rise in the 'PTI'. the impact of rising tempera- Forecast: Clear number of cases, Mishra also CCMB, the countrys pre- tures on the virus, he said Deaths Temp: 40/26 said it would be at least one mier research organisation in maintaining social distance 45,538 55 Humidity: 61% year before any nation comes "We have started research and for new interventions. frontier areas of modern biol- and sanitisation is the only Sunrise: 06.09 out with vaccine or drug for the activity on Covid-19. We start- "To make potential drugs, we ogy, began testing coronavirus way to escape from the clutch- Sunset: 06.29 killer virus. So as of now main- ed growing this virus in our labs are also carrying out the whole samples from Tuesday. It has es of Covid-19. Recovered Current Weather Conditions taining social distance and in larger quantities so that we genome sequencing of the virus the capacity testing several "There is no question of 1,90,921 169 Updated April 01, 2020 5:00 PM hygiene is the only way to keep can use it for serological testing, so that we will understand hundred in day, the official decrease in number of cases. it away. to study its growth in the cells how virus is changing, what the said. 3 VIJAYAWADA | THURSDAY | APRIL 2, 2020 vijayawada 02

close look at the essence to Mithila. Dasharatha then of Sri Sita Rama proceeded towards Ayodhya Kalyanam reveals that with his sons, daughters-in-law, Aevery detail of it was divinely Enduring appeal of the celestial wedding sages, with forces on either side ordained. Whatever be the and reached the place in due variations of the immortal tale, In due course, he determined ued. Janaka said that he is the bandand so will be with you then circumambulated the course. its matchless beauty lies in the to give her hand in marriage "Oh! Son of Kausalya! This is Sita, my eldest of the two sons of always as your own shadow". Altar of Fire, Janaka, sages Sri Rama, who filled the enduring appeal of the spotless only to a bridegroom whose daughter. She shares your duties for life. She Hraswaroma and his younger Janaka then poured holy water etc. Thus, the celestial wedding heart of Sita and remained hid- characters. wealth is valour. brother is Kushadhvaja. Janaka into the palms of Rama to the was performed in line with the den in her heart alone, togeth- Sage Vishvamitra, who had Thereafter, Janaka ordered acquits herself in whatever duty you said as one from such lineage accompaniment of the chant- prevailing customs and tradi- er with her enjoyed many sea- brought Sri Rama and his ministers to bring the rich- undertake. Take her in marriage and take her he is bestowing his daughter ing of hymns. Amidst copious tions as directed by sage sons. Rama's love for Sita mul- Lakshmana to Mithila after ly decorated Bow. It took five Sita to Rama. Later, the pro- floral showers from the sky, the Vasishta. Amidst celebrations, tiplied by virtue of Sita's distin- successfully performing his thousand strong men to from her father. Everything good and bliss will ceedings and rituals began for sages exclaimed 'Nice and there were glorious floral guishing qualities. Sita was Yagam with the help of both tow;and that too, with great happen to you. Hold her palm with your palm the marriage. great'. There were drumbeats of showers from the sky to the like Goddess Lakshmi incar- the brothers, introduced them difficulty, the iron box contain- On the day of marriage, heavenly drums. accompaniment of drumbeat nate. She was the embodi- to King Janaka as sons of ing the Bow in their presence. King of Mithila Janaka led On handing over his daugh- with divine sounds. Apsaras ment of Divine Wealth. Rama Dasharatha. Then he asked Then,at the behest of and offered the hand of his Rama, Lakshmana, Bharata forth Sita, who was fully dec- ter Sita amidst pouring of holy danced and Gandharvas sang. excelled like the God of Gods Janaka to show them Vishvamitra, Rama went near daughter Sita to Rama. Later, and Shatrughna. Vasishta nar- orated with a variety of bridal waters into the palms of Rama, Amidst all this, the four broth- Lord Vishnu when he was in Shiva'sBow. Narrating its back- the box and opened its cover. on knowing about this, rated the Surya Kings'lineage. jewellery, and positioning her gladdened Janaka turned ers -- Rama, Lakshmana, the company of Sita, who was ground, Janaka explained that He then told the sage that he Dasharatha reached Mithila. Then he told Janaka that, given face-to-face with Rama in the towards Lakshmana and said: Bharata and Shatrughna, along none other than Goddess the Bow was handed over to was desirous of getting a feel of Upon the arrival of such a great family back- presence of Altar of Fire, "Oh! Lakshmana! Accept with their wives, once again Lakshmi. Devaraata, the sixth descen- the supreme Bow and would Dasharatha, Janaka heartily ground, it would be apt if he addressed Rama like this: Urmila as I decided to give her circumambulated the ritual dent of Emperor Nimi -- the like to handle it and take aim welcomed him. The next gives his daughter in marriage "Oh! Son of Kausalya! This to you in marriage. Take her fire thrice,marking the culmi- originator of their lineage --by with it. Vishvamitra permitted day,King Dasharatha, present- to Rama. is Sita, my daughter. She shares palm into yours." Then Janaka nation of the celestial wedding Devatas for care. Since then the him to do so. ing his royal priest Vasishta to After sage Vasishta narrated your duties for life. She acquits addressed Bharata and process. Bow has been worshipped by Rama then stringed the Bow Janaka, said that he would the Ikshvaku lineage, King herself in whatever duty you Shatrughna and requested The next day Dasharatha, generations in their family, effortlessly in the presence of narrate his lineage to him. Janaka started narrating his lin- undertake. Take her in mar- them to take the palms of along with his team as well as said Janaka. assembled kings. Having Sage Vasishta started narrating eage to Vasishta. He said that riage and take her from her Mandavi and Shrutakirti, sons and daughters-in-law, left Janaka recounted that, once strung the Bow, when Rama Ikshvaku lineage, beginning the originator of his dynasty father. Everything good and daughters of his brother. Thus, for the city of Ayodhya. Janaka when he was getting his field stretched it to the maximum with Marichi, who was born to was Emperor Nimi, who was bliss will happen to you. Hold all the four daughters of Janaka gave patrimonial and bridal ploughed to perform a ritual, extent possible, it brokeinto Lord Brahma and to whom renowned for his accomplish- her palm with your palm. and his brother were given in gifts to his daughters, besides he found a beautiful baby girl two halves instantaneously Kashyap was born. To him, ments and righteousness. His Rama! Sita is extraordinary and marriage to four sons of other things like cows, chari- in a groove there. Since the girl with a big explosive sound. Manu; and to Manu, Ikshvaku son was Mithi, who later built reserved for you. Sita is the Dasharatha. ots, pearls, ornaments etc. He was gained while sanctifying Then King Janaka told were born. The Kingdom of the great city Mithila. Janaka symbol of moral truth and Dasharatha's sons Rama, then accompanied the ritual field, she was named Vishvamitra that the Ikshvaku was Ayodhya. Like was Mithi's son-- the first one morality and a tolerant wom- Lakshmana, Bharata and Dasharatha's entourage till the VANAM JWALA NARASIMHA RAO as Sita. He then nurtured her indomitable valour of Rama this, he continued till the time to be designated as Janaka -- anhood. She is prosperous and Shatrughna,along with their outskirts of Mithila and took CPRO to TS Chief Minister as his own biological daughter. has been adequately displayed of Dasharatha and his sons and since then the title contin- would be devoted to her hus- wives, at the behest of Janaka, leave from them and returned CAPSULE Govt to buy Navy’s MOM Fishing harbour closed Ramoji Rao donates Rs 10 cr each to AP, TS CMs’ Relief Fund due to contagion threat AMARAVATI: Media baron Ch for Coronavirus patients PNS n VISAKHAPATNAM Ramoji Rao on Tuesday donated a sum of Rs 10 crore each to the PNS n AMARAVATI n Using this unique patients in the state was fast Fishing in the harbour by Andhra Pradesh and Telangana device, one cylinder growing. mechanised boats, motor boats Chief Minister's Relief Fund to The government has come could be used to The Visakhapatnam district and country made boats and combating the coronavirus forward to purchase the supply oxygen to six administration has approached also sales of marine products pandemic. In a statement, portable Multi-feed Oxygen patients simultaneously, the NDV to purchase the in the fishing harbour was Ramoji Rao, chairman of the Manifold (MOM), a novel con- enabling critical care MOM devices and is current- banned by the Fisheries Ramoji Group, said the amount traption developed by naval management to a ly getting them tested by a team department on the orders of was credited online into the personnel in Visakhapatnam larger number of of pulmonologists. "About five District Collector. The ban respective accounts since he that would help meet any to eight per cent of Covid-19 would continue till the further could not meet the Chief Covid-19 patients with emergency requirement of oxy- the existing limited patients require ventilator sup- orders. Ministers in person because of gen supply to coronavirus port, while about 20 per cent It may be noted that the fish- the ongoing lockdown. He patients. resources, according to will be needing oxygen supply. ing ban on the east coast of the wished the two Chief Ministers Initially, the Navy was offer- official sources in the Being a portable device, the country would commence would succeed in their fight ing a few MOMs to Andhra Eastern Naval MOM could be put to use even from April 15 midnight for 60 against coronavirus and people Pradesh free- of-cost. Command in makeshift hospitals and iso- days. Fifteen days before that of the two Telugu states would Personnel of the Naval n The Central lation wards, like the ones in conservation period, the dis- gle day, the district administra- be in the pink of their health. Fisheries depart- Dockyard Visakhapatnam government is said to railway coaches. Importantly, trict administration had tion took the decision to ban (NDV) designed the innovative have evinced interest in MOM is highly cost-effective banned all fishing activities in the fishing in the vicinity of the ment joint director IPS officers donate Portable Multi-feed Oxygen the innovative critical and will be handy for use on harbour to combating the harbour and also sales. The K Phani Prakash Manifold (MOM) using a six- care device and officials multiple patients at a time," the coronavirus. fisheries department joint said that they had ENC sources said. 3-day salary to CMRF way radial header fitted to a from the Centre Even after the district director K Phani Prakash said taken many single cylinder. conducted enquiries The preliminary trials of authorities, including fisheries, that they had taken many AMARAVATI: Taking a cue from Using this unique device, the entire MOM assembling revenue, police, port manage- measures to control crowd at measures to control with the NDV officials IAS officers, the IPS Officers one cylinder could be used to were conducted at MI Room at ment, along with boat owners unloading, auction and retail on its manufacturing the crowd at Association of Andhra Pradesh supply oxygen to six patients the Naval Dockyard- had taken many measures and marketing of marine prod- unloading, auction on Wednesday announced simultaneously, enabling crit- and utility Visakhapatnam, followed by kept a physical distancing ucts. donation of three days' salary of ical care management to a rapid trials at the Naval between the fishermen selling But controlling the crowd and retail market- its members to the Chief larger number of Covid-19 from the Centre conducted the ongoing crisis. The AP Hospital INHS Kalyani where the marine products and also at the harbour had become a ing of marine Minister's Relief Fund to fight patients with the existing lim- enquiries with the NDV offi- Industries Department Special it was successfully set up with- customers. But people are not herculean task for the products. But COVID-19. Director General of ited resources, according to cials on its manufacturing and Chief Secretary, Rajat in 30 minutes. maintaining the social dis- authorities. Hence, they controlling the Police D Gautham Sawang and official sources in the Eastern utility, they said. Bhargava, is facilitating the After successful trials, NDV tancing in the harbour. informed the Collector that association secretary Ch Naval Command. Sources said the NDV was sharing of know-how and also commenced manufacture of 10 Hundreds of public gatherings controlling the crowd at fish- crowd at the har- Dwaraka Tirumala Rao met Even the Central govern- ready to open source MOM so helping the Department of portable MOM with two six- at the market and jostling also ing harbour would not be bour had become a Chief Minister Y S Jaganmohan ment is said to have evinced that industries could manufac- Medical and Health to procure way radial headers that could reportedly taking place. possible. Basing on the herculean task for Reddy and handed over a letter interest in the innovative crit- ture it locally to meet the the required number of MOMs cater to 120 patients at Following the four positive report of the authorities, the authorities to this effect. ical care device and officials urgent requirements during as the number of coronavirus makeshift locations. cases coming to light in a sin- Collector took the decision. Legal Metrology surprises traders in city Vijaya Sai criticises Naidu over farmer welfare PNS n VIJAYAWADA Kanta Rao said that the Officers inspected the date of weighing machines used in the manufacturing and date of PNS n AMARAVATI a message posted on twitter He sought to know the num- never to return. Surprise checks were conduct- Rythu Bazaar by the vendors are expiry on the packets. on Wednesday, he said that ber of cold storage facilities Pooh-poohing Naidu’s ed by officials of the Legal accurate. He advised the cus- Officials inspected Vijaya When the whole world was in price stablisation fund was built during his 14-year regime claims of relief and rescue Metrology department at vari- tomers to ensure zero before the Dairy and verified the decla- the grip of coronavirus, YSRCP new to your regime. He won- as the Chief Minister. He measures initiated during the ous places in the city. The team vegetables are being weighed. ration printed on the milk MP Vijayasai Reddy and TDP dered about Naidu speaking accused Naidu of shedding Titli and Hudhud cyclones, he led by the State Legal Metrology Later, he visited Big Bazaar packets and milk products. N Chandrababu Naidu were about farmers’ suicides since crocodile tears on the woes of said that the Naidu’s regime Department controller M Kanta and Metro Super Bazaar and From there, they visited fair levelling allegations and he was responsible for the farmers. Situation of no farmer could not even restore drink- Rao conducted checks at Rythu inspected the weighing price shops and inspected the counter allegations on farmers’ trend among farmers. Chief or agriculture worker or ing water supply even three Bazaar in the Indira Gandhi machines and the accuracy of accuracy of the commodities welfare. Minister YS Jaganmohan labourers suffering from star- days after cyclones. Claiming to Municipal Corporation Stadium the machines. They also veri- weighed and distributed to the The YSRCP MP took on Reddy assured farmers to lift vation does not arise in the have supplied drinking water, and tested the accuracy of the fied the declaration details beneficiaries. He warned of Naidu for speaking about every grain of paddy and State, he clarified. Drought left the government pocketed weighing machine used by veg- printed on the packed com- severe action if there is a dif- farmers’ problems though he ordered that harvesting of the soil of the State with your funds on the pretext of supply- etable vendors and the official modities as per Packaged ference in weighing the com- had neglected their welfare crops should take place as ernment ensuring farmers not party’s electoral defeat, he said ing water through hundreds of seal of the department. Commodities Rules- 2011. modities. when he was at the helm. In usual. Onus lies on the gov- incur losses, he said. adding that people want it tankers. Community food service India looks at China, SK for tech to contain Covid-19 PNS n NEW DELHI claimed around 42,000 lives. at Vizag Railway Station The need for looking at best practices, Officials said India is also exam- India is looking at South Korea, innovations, scientific breakthroughs and ining Germany's efforts to check PNS n VIJAYAWADA Germany and China for procure- medical equipment to fight the pandemic the pandemic. The leading ment of cutting-edge technolo- European nation has asked sev- In the wake of corona infec- gy and adopting best practices was highlighted extensively by Prime eral of its car manufacturers to tion pandemic and country being followed by them in suc- Minister Narendra Modi during a video produce ventilators and other wide lockdown, Indian cessfully containing the spread of conference he held with heads of 130 medical equipment to deal with Railways cancelled all the coronavirus amid looming risk of rising cases of the infection. trains, including passengers, the country entering the commu- Indian missions on Monday The Indian envoy in expresses and premium trains nity infection stage of the pan- Washington is coordinating with from March 22 and extended demic. and economic activities to go on Beijing has been tasked to coor- the Trump administration for till April 14. Indian missions in these three as usual. As China managed to dinate with relevant authorities cooperation in laboratory tests Due to the lockdown some countries have been asked to flatten the curve of new infections in China for procurement of for the virus infection, sources poor workers were stranded immediately identifying possible after reporting over 80,000 cases medical equipment. said. External Affairs Minister S near Visakhapatnam Railway IRCTC Rail Dhaba- areas of cooperation and engage and 3,300 deaths, India is also On multiple occasions, China Jaishankar and Secretary of State Station area. With the initia- Visakhapatnam prepared food with relevant authorities for pro- looking at China, along with a said that it was ready to extend Mike Pompeo spoke over phone tive of DRM Waltair Division for 500 members and out of curement of medical equipment very few other countries to pro- possible assistance to India in to discuss a coordinated effort by Chetan Kumar Shrivastava , as which 250 packets were hand- and technology. The move comes cure medical equipment and dealing with the pandemic. India and the US to respond to a good will gesture, the Waltair ed over to NGO- Rythu Mitra as India saw rapid increase in technology to cater to expanding Officials said India is in touch the pandemic. Division in association with and remaining 250 distributed number of positive coronavirus during a video conference he cases to contain the pandemic. demand of medical infrastruc- with a number of suppliers in Earlier on March 14, the two IRCTC arranging community to stranded public. cases in the last few days. held with heads of 130 Indian The South Korean model of ture across the country. China for immediate procure- top diplomats discussed ways in meals to the stranded and the Furthermore, RPF Waltair is The need for looking at best missions on Monday. 'trace, test and treat strategy' has "We have to prepare for the ment of 10,000 ventilators. which India and the US could poor. distributing meals to about 55 practices, innovations, scientific Government officials said received global recognition. future requirement. That is why, India has recorded over 1,600 cooperate to address this global Indian railways are always poor from March 23 at breakthroughs and medical India is specifically looking at Unlike majority of the countries we are scouting global markets positive cases of coronavirus challenge. The number of those in fore front in the need of the Visakhapatnam Railway equipment to fight the pandem- South Korea's approach of wide- dealing with the pandemic, South for best available technology and and at least 38 deaths so far. infected by the deadly disease hour to shoulder social Station on humanitarian ic was highlighted extensively by spread testing and significant use Korea has not resorted to any medical equipment," said an Globally, the virus has infected surged to 164,000 and fatalities responsibility during crisis. grounds. Prime Minister Narendra Modi of digital tracking of suspected lockdown and allowed business official. The Indian embassy in more than 850,000 people and crossed 3,100 in the US.

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Transport wing extends deadline ‘Govt accords priority to Volunteer system helps for fitness certificates, licences public safety over publicity’ disburse pension at doorstep PNS n VIJAYAWADA PNS n VIJAYAWADA The AP Transport People should strictly follow PNS n AMARAVATI Department on Wednesday the lockdown guidelines said that the deadline to imposed by the government to Thanks to a network of village obtain fitness certificates and contain the pandemic and ward volunteers it had put permits for vehicles, and the COVID-19 across the State, in place on Independence Day validity of driving licences said Minister for Municipal this year, the State government had been extended till the Administration Botsa has been able to smoothly exe- end of June, in view of the Satyanarayana. Addressing the cute its coronavirus contain- lockdown. media here on Wednesday, ment measures and deliver In a release, Deputy the minister said that the gov- social welfare schemes. Transport Commissioner S ernment is carrying out pre- On Wednesday, around Venkateswara Rao said that cautionary measures to prevent three lakh ward and village vol- in the wake of COVID-19 the virus from spreading fur- unteers descended into action spread and lockdown being ther. and went door-to-door across announced by both the He said that public safety is the State to deliver the month- State and Central more important than publici- ly pensions to 59 lakh retired Governments, deadlines for ty and the government is tak- orders, officials are taking employees. fitness of vehicles and all ing necessary steps to tackle measures to provide the While officials from So effective was the delivery kind of permits and regis- the situation. Two days ago, 24 Minimum Support Price the village to the system that by 8.30 am, volun- tration of vehicles and dri- COVID-19 positive cases were (MSP) to farmers and a plan in State-level were teers had covered 53 per cent ving licences has been reported in the State but situ- accordance with the market striving to contain the of pensioners, translating to 31 extended till June 30. ation has worsened in the past intervention scheme will be lakh disbursement out of 59 As per the Motor Vehicles two days, he pointed out. implemented, he said and pandemic COVID-19, lakh pensioners. By noon, the Act, 1988 and Central Motor However, the government is added that tomato, mango and opposition leader N volunteers had distributed Vehicles Rules, 1989, docu- keen on ensuring that no one orange growers need not worry Chandrababu Naidu is 84.19 per cent of pensions. ments pertaining to the vehi- in the State suffers from as the government will take The volunteers are taking cle should be valid. In view of hunger, or any other issues, he care of them. using the situation for adequate precautions to guard COVID-19 the Union said and added that Chief He said that the Chief political mileage, he against COVID-19 transmis- Ministry for Transport has Minister YS Jaganmohan Minister is keen on providing alleged and added sion. This time, pensions are the ward and village volunteer taken some decisions in Reddy was monitoring the sit- ration to every beneficiary in that Naidu was being disbursed on the basis of On Wednesday, around three lakh ward plan, some of the opposition regard. uation. the State. To avoid public gath- photo identification cards and village volunteers descended into parties in the state had criti- The DTC said that While officials from the vil- erings, three distributions cen- staying in Hyderabad instead of fingerprint. action and went door-to-door across the cised it on the ground that the although the deadline for lage to the State-level were tres will be set up under each and directing his The ward and village volun- State to deliver the monthly pensions to ruling party members would vehicle-related documents striving to contain the pan- dealer and the ration will be aides to defame the teer system that was launched benefit from it. has expired, orders have been demic COVID-19, opposition distributed for 15 days. government on August 15 by Chief Minister 59 lakh retired employees Ever since the COVID-19 issued till 30 June. leader N Chandrababu Naidu Moreover, Rythu Bazaars and YS Jaganmohan Reddy is envis- crisis broke out, the AP govern- Documents pertaining to is using the situation for polit- mobile Rythu Bazaars will be aged to help monitor and ment has been utilising the vol- vehicles up to the date of ical mileage, he alleged and increased. symptoms should be immedi- ensure delivery of government Jagan had earlier credited the 18 to 35 years old, and resi- unteers to monitor the foreign February 1, 2020 as specified added that Naidu was staying The Chief Minister is ensur- ately shifted to quarantine and welfare schemes to beneficia- volunteers with successful dents of the locality. Each vol- returnees in the state, deliver in the ordinance, shall be in Hyderabad and directing his ing that there is no paucity of isolation centres and asked ries in the State. Each volunteer monitoring of the quarantined unteer receives a monthly hon- essentials to people at deemed to be valid till June aides to defame the govern- funds in the health depart- the opposition party not to is supposed to access 50 house- people in the State. Volunteers orarium of Rs 5,000. doorsteps, and deliver welfare 30, the DTC Venkateswara ment. ment. He issued orders to offi- indulge in mud-slinging dur- holds in the vicinity. are mostly in the age group of At the time of the launch of doles. Rao said. As per the Chief Minister’s cials that whoever shows the ing this hour of crisis. Governor extends Kesineni objects to civic body Sri Rama Navami greetings contestants distributing pension PNS n VIJAYAWADA that Maryada Purushottam Lord Sri Rama maybe our guide to lead PNS n NEW DELHI local body elections. leaders, Kesineni Nani ques- it, they should have shown their On the occasion of 'Sri Rama a life of dharma, love, truth and Candidates of other parties tioned the government officials enthusiasm in reigning in the Navami' on Thusday, Governor happiness. In these difficult times, TDP MP Kesineni Nani in a are distributing essential com- how can the 13th division cor- coronavirus,” the TP MP felt. ‘Avail corona Biswa Bushan Harichandan con- I once again appeal to people to tweet alleged that the YSRCP modities and vegetables where- porator candidate of the YSRCP He told the State Election veyed his wishes to people. The stay indoors, maintain social dis- candidates, who are contesting as the candidates of the ruling Ukoti Ramesh is seen, along Commissioner that such acts toll-free Governor says, "On this happy tancing and cooperate with the Corporation polls, are distrib- YSRCP are distributing bene- with volunteers, while distribut- are not justified and wished and auspicious occasion of Sri administration by adhering to the uting pensions undertaking fits under various government ing pension. “How contestants that the SEC will take suitable number facility’ Rama Navami, I extend my guidelines issued to prevent the door-to- door visits to lure schemes, he contended. can discharge duties of officials. action to prevent recurrence of warm greetings to people. I pray spread of COVID-19.” people for the forthcoming Retweeting a tweet of TDP If they are so enthusiastic about such incidents. PNS n VIJAYAWADA

District Collector Md Imitiaz on Wednesday appealed to people to avail the corona PM Modi to hold video conf Essential commodities distributed Rs 3.20 L-cr investor toll-free number 1077 facili- ty, if they found symptoms like cough, throat infection, with state CMs today to migrant workers in city wealth wiped off fever and body pains. Informing about this facility, Continued from Page 1 who attended a gathering of PNS n VIJAYAWADA Continued from Page 1 Tech Mahindra was the the Collector on Wednesday almost 4,000 people in Delhi's biggest drag in the Sensex said that people can avail Sources said issues includ- Markaz Nizamuddin in mid- Brahmin Corporation Besides, feeble global cues pack, dropping more than 9 facility round-the-clock. ing the ways to contain the March. Chairman and YSRCP MLA combined with continuous per cent, followed by Kotak A general physician, pul- spread of virus, large-scale India has registered 386 Malladi Vishnu distributed outflow of the foreign fund Bank, Tata Consultancy monologist and psychiatrist movement of migrant work- new cases of COVID-19 in essentials to 500 migrant work- was also weighing on the sen- Services, Infosys and Axis will be available to answer to ers, availability of essential last 24 hours, taking the tally ers in the Division 23 organ- timents," Ajit Mishra, vice- Bank. Hero MotoCorp, Bajaj the queries of people and give commodities and extensive to 1,637 in the country, the ised under the supervision of president (research), Religare Auto, Bajaj Finance and Titan them advice. All the calls contact tracing of participants government said on YSRCP leader A Subba Rao. Broking Ltd, said. were the only four gainers from people will be received of Tablighi Jamat meet at Wednesday, and linked the Vishnu distributed five kg rice Investors' confidence is con- from the 30-share pack. by the operator and based on Nizamuddin here are some of sharp increase in number of and one kg red gram to 500 tinuously being impacted due In the broader market, the the health issues of the caller, the issues which are expected cases to the Tablighi meet at migrant workers from West tials to workers. Due to Jaganmohan Reddy had been to mounting fear of global BSE Midcap and Smallcap the call will be forwarded to to be discussed. Nizamuddin which has Bengal, who were working as COVID-19 pandemic and lock- taking extensive measures to recession, rising cases of indices fell by 2.18 per cent and the doctor concerned. The According to officials, con- become the new epicentre of construction workers. down, many migrant workers support the workers. He said COVID-19 and weak macros 1.06 per cent, respectively. doctor after speaking to the tact tracing in several states the COVID-19 pandemic in On the occasion, the MLA had no work to do and are fac- that everyone should come for- leading to selling in the glob- All the indices closed the patient, he will suggest treat- is underway to identify, quar- the country --from Kashmir appreciated Subba Rao for his ing severe problems, he said. He ward voluntarily to help the al markets including India, he day lower, led by IT, Telecom, ment. antine and test all the people to Tamil Nadu. generosity to distribute essen- said that Chief Minister YS needy in this tough time. added. Teck and Bank. UN warns of humanity’s All Class 1-8 Case against TJ who allegedly thrashed... CBSE students... Continued from Page 1 virus. But 70,000 angels are Continued from Page 1 with me and if they can't save The FIR says these seven me, who will? This is the time worst crisis since WW-II Students of class 9 and 11 were responsible for the gath- for more such gatherings, not will be promoted on school- ering and they allowed visitors the time to avoid each other... Continued from Page 1 ment in a major German unknown how responsible basedassessments conducted to continue living in the build- Who says if we meet then dis- newspaper to remind Europe's they are for spreading the so far, he said, adding those not ing despite notice issued to ease will spread? The disease In Tunisia several hundred biggest economy of WWII deadly virus. promoted thistime can appear them on March 24, the day the will pass, but eating from the protested a week-old lock- debts in a bid to jolt it into Chinese respiratory expert in school based tests online or country went into a total lock- same plate, it will benefit us... down that has disproportion- action. Zhong Nanshan said in a state offline."Students studying in down to fight the spread of This is a plan to end amity ately hit the poor. The economic cost of the cri- media interview last week that classes IX & XI will be promot- Coronavirus. between Muslims, to alienate Africa's biggest city Lagos sis could still worsen as lock- asymptomatic carriers could ed to nextclass /grade based on The Delhi Police Crime them from each other," says the was set for its second full day downs remain at the forefront potentially infect "3 to 3.5 the school-based assessments Branch is examining an audio speaker, which, some reports of lockdown on Wednesday - of official disease-stopping people each". including projects,periodic recording of a sermon posted terms the Coronavirus warn- you... This is an occasion to say, is Maulana Saad. - but with some of the world's arsenals -- a strategy increas- Germany and France were tests, term exams, etc. conduct- on a "Delhi Markaz" YouTube ings as a "conspiracy to keep seek penance from God. Not Across the country, 128 peo- biggest slums, home to mil- ingly borne out by science. also ramping up testing of the ed so far. Students notpro- channel, in which the speaker Muslims away from fellow an occasion where one comes ple with Coronavirus have lions who live hand-to-mouth, Researchers said China's population to establish how moted this time can appear in says there is no need to follow Muslims". under the influence of doctors been traced to the gathering containment will be difficult. decision to shutter Wuhan, many already have immunity. school-based tests, online orof- social distancing advised by the "Where will you run from and stops Namaaz, meeting and many more cases are Wary of a collapse of the ground zero for the global The inundation of patients fline," Nishank tweeted. government. The speaker death? Death is in front of each other... Yes, there is a feared. world's economy with shops COVID-19 pandemic, may has sent health facilities world- shuttered and millions forced have prevented hundreds of wide into overdrive. into shorter working hours or thousands of new cases. Emergency hospitals are losing their jobs completely, "Our analysis suggests that popping up in event spaces the globe's leading central without the Wuhan travel ban while distressed medical staff No stigma attached to CCMB grows bankers have pumped billions and the national emergency make grim decisions about of liquidity into the system. response there would have how to distribute limited pro- Last week, G20 leaders said been more than 700,000 con- tective gear, beds and life-sav- they were injecting USD 5 tril- firmed COVID-19 cases out- ing respirators. COVID-19, reminds Jagan coronavirus to study... lion into the global economy to side of Wuhan" by mid In scenes previously head off a feared deep reces- February, said Oxford unimaginable in peacetime, Continued from Page 1 ees for offering to defer their cent. The salary deferment is Continued from Page 1 of the countries that are com- sion. University's Christopher Dye. around a dozen white tents salaries. 50 per cent in respect of all ing out of the upheaval are due In the European Union, At the same time, focus is were erected to serve as a Stating that 21 persons who On Tuesday, the govern- other government employees. All indicators are that cases to their management skills, not however, battle lines have been now turning to how asympto- field hospital in New York's had visited the Tablighi Jamaat ment had issued orders defer- However, the state govern- are going to rise...There is through medicines or vac- drawn over the terms of a res- matic cases may be fuelling the Central Park. congregation at Nizamuddin in ring the disbursal of salaries ment has softened the blow certainly going to be a rise in cines. cue plan. spread. But even with the extended Delhi, are yet to be traced, and pensions for people's rep- somewhat for Class-4 employ- the number of cases. How far "China has come out Worst-hit Italy and Spain are China on Wednesday said it capacity, doctors say they are Jagan requested these people or resentatives, government offi- ees who will receive 90 per cent it would go depends on how because of controlling of leading a push for a shared has more than 1,300 asympto- still having to make painful their family members or peo- cers, employees, and other of their salaries on time. effective is our lockdown. This movement of people. No debt instrument -- dubbed matic coronavirus cases, the choices. ple who came in contact with categories. As per the order, The order copy states that (rise in temperature may country will have vaccine at "coronabonds". first time it has released such "If you get a surge of patients them, to voluntarily come for- there will be 100 per cent the 'orders shall come into decrease number of cases) is least before one year," he But talk of shared debt is a data following public concern coming in, and you only have ward for medical tests. deferment for the chief minis- force in respect of the more of a speculation. There added. red line for Germany and over people who have tested a limited number of ventila- Bringing attention to the ter, cabinet members, MLAs, salary/wages/ is no big evidence for that," The official opined that other northern countries, positive but are not showing tors, you can't necessarily ven- impact of the coronavirus on MLCs, and elected representa- remuneration/pensions for the Mishra said. India needs to increase its test- threatening to divide the bloc. symptoms. tilate patients," Shamit Patel of the state's finances, the Chief tives of all local bodies . month of March 2020, payable He said the present coron- ing capacities so the more The tone sharpened this Experts agree that asympto- the Beth Israel hospital said. Minister thanked all the peo- In the case of All India in the month of April 2020 and avisrus spread needs to be number of samples can be week, with Italian politicians matic patients are likely to be "And then you have to start ple's representatives and gov- Services Officers, the defer- will continue to be in force till treated largely with "crisis analysed to get a clear picture even taking out an advertise- infectious, but it remains picking and choosing." (AFP) ernment officials, and employ- ment is to the tune of 60 per further orders. management" skills and some of the endemic. VIJAYAWADA | THURSDAY | APRIL 2, 2020 nation 04 J-K political parties slam SHORT READS Centre's new domicile rules PNS n SRINAGAR Altaf Bukhari. Nurses of civic-run “You can imagine how The government on Political parties in the valley on hollow the domicile law is Wednesday issued a gazette hospital demand Wednesday criticised the from the fact that even notification announcing a slew protective gear Centre's new domicile rules for of amendments to 138 Acts of the new party created MUMBAI: As many as 18 Jammu and Kashmir, saying it Jammu and Kashmir that nurses and medical staff from was adding insult to injury of the with Delhi's blessings, included protecting jobs up to civic-run Balasaheb Thackeray people as there were none of the Group-4 for only those who whose leaders were Request for rescue Hospital in Jogeshwari on promised protections. are domicile of the union ter- Wednesday staged a protest While the National lobbying in Delhi for this ritory. Peoples Democratic demanding protective gear to Conference termed the new Party (PDP) said the rules will attend to COVID-19 patients rules as hollow, the Peoples law, have been forced to give rise to massive problems for from foreign countries admitted at the facility. The Democratic Party (PDP) said criticise the #JKdomicile- residents of J-K. protesting medical staff from the rules will give rise to law," he added “The domicile law as it Balasaheb Thackeray Hospital massive problems for resi- appears is not only trying to sees a spike signed a letter addressed to the dents of J-K. shake the boundaries of an Brihanmumbai Municipal n "Talk about suspect timing. At leaders were lobbying in Delhi already existing state, but it is PNS NEW DELHI evicted from colleges" were Corporation's medical officer. a time when all our efforts & that had been promised," that even politicians with for this law, have been forced to also trying to give rise to mas- under the harassment category. The hospital was converted into attention should be focused on National Conference vice-pres- "Delhi's blessings" were forced to criticise the #JKdomicilelaw," sive problems for residents of Over 300 public grievances, Suggestions like "claiming a COVID-19 facility, for treating the #COVID outbreak the gov- ident Omar Abdullah said in a criticise it. he added. J&K,” the PDP said on its offi- including those related to non- to have found cure" and positive patients and suspected ernment slips in a new domicile series of tweets. “You can imagine how hollow Omar was apparently refer- cial Twitter handle. The party adherence of the ongoing lock- "request for financial aid" were cases, the letter stated. law for J&K. Insult is heaped on The former chief minister of the domicile law is from the fact ring to the criticism of the said the Centre's “manipulation down and request for rescue received as public grievances, "Despite the guidelines, we injury when we see the law erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir that even the new party created domicile law by Jammu and of the law” would only further from foreign countries, have the official said. have not been provided the offers none of the protections said the new law was so hollow with Delhi's blessings, whose Kashmir Apni Party founder alienate the people. been received by the central Grievances like "garbage not required kits for our own safety government under a recently- being collected" and "supply of while serving patients. If any launched mechanism, officials basic necessities affected" were one of us suffers from the said on Wednesday. also received by the central gov- infection, the BMC would be Decision to slash interest 89 who attended Nizamuddin event Out of the total 336 public ernment, he said. solely responsible for it," the grievances, 28 were on "lock- Giving details of the public nurses have stated in the letter. down not adhered to", 25 were grievances related to inade- As many as 167 people have "requests for rescue from for- quate facilities in hospitals, the tested positive for COVID-19 in on small savings based traced to Nagpur, Ahmednagar eign countries" and 14 were officials said people claimed Mumbai, of which 14 have related to "quarantine", they that "isolation wards were over- recovered from the infection. PNS n MUMBAI The Tabligh-e-Jamaat's navirus infection. The Tabligh- said, citing an official data. crowded", "masks and sanitis- on ‘stupid advice' e-Jamaat's Markaz in A total of nine were related to er not available" and hospitals At least 89 people who were part Markaz in Nizamuddin Nizamuddin West has "inadequate facilities in hospi- were "not equipped to test Nizamuddian event PNS n NEW DELHI of a gathering at a religious con- West has emerged as emerged as one of the COVID- tals", seven were "examination- patients". attendees asked to gregation held in Delhi's one of the COVID-19 19 hotspots, prompting many related", six were "stuck at some Minister of State for contact health forward Senior Congress leader P Nizamuddin West area last hotspots, prompting states to launch a massive place due to lockdown", five Personnel Jitendra Singh on Chidambaram on Wednesday month have been traced to search for those who attended "essential supplies not being Wednesday also launched the PANAJI: The Goa government described as a wrong step Nagpur and Ahmednagar in many states to launch a the religious congregation. provided", four were related to Department of Administrative on Wednesday asked people based on "stupid advice" the Maharashtra, officials said on massive search for The Ahmednagar Police "harassment" and one was on Reforms and Public Grievances' who participated in the government's decision to Wednesday. those who attended the received information on "problem in donating to the PM- (DARPG) national monitoring religious congregation reduce interest rates on small Fifty four of these people religious congregation Monday that some members of CARES Fund", the officials said. dashboard on COVID-19 organised by the Tablighi saving schemes and demand- were found in Nagpur and they the Tabligh-e-Jamaat had There were 101 suggestions grievances. Jamaat at Nizamuddin in Delhi ed its rollback. have been quarantined, Nagpur returned to the district after received by the government and The national monitoring to contact the state health He also said though India's Municipal Commissioner any (coronavirus) symptoms," attending the congregation 136 public grievances fell under dashboard was developed and department immediately. The GDP for the last quarter could Tukaram Mundhe said, adding Mundhe said. and have been staying in "others" categories, they said. implemented at gathering held last month at not be have been more than 4 their medical examination is Besides, 35 such people have Nevasa, Jamkhed and Giving further details of https://darpg.gov.in where Markaz Nizamuddin, the Delhi per cent, it was time to focus being done. been identified in Ahmednagar. Mukundnagar areas of grievances related to non-com- COVID-19 related grievances headquarters of the Tabligh-e- on saving people's lives and technically correct, it is "Apart from these 54 people, As many as 29 of them are from Ahmednagar, the official said. pliance of lockdown, an official received in the Central Public Jamaat, has become an not the GDP. absolutely the wrong time to I appeal to the other citizens who Indonesia, Tanzania, South "Accordingly, the police traced said, people claimed that "pri- Grievances Redress and epicentre for the spread of the "I know that sometimes do so," he said on Twitter. attended the Tabligh-e-Jamaat Africa, Ghana and other coun- the attendees and found that at vate sector employees (were) Monitoring System disease. Goa Health Services government acts on stupid The former finance minister congregation in Nizamuddin tries, while the rest are locals, least 35 of them had participat- still being called at work" and (CPGRAMS) with all min- Director Jose D'Sa has released advice, but I am amazed how said in times of acute distress West in the national capital to another official said. ed in the meet," he said, adding also "postal department (was) istries/ departments and helpline numbers (0832- stupid this advice was. While and uncertainty about income, come forward and contact us, so A foreigner and a local who that the group was taken to the calling employees to work". states/union territories are 2225538/2421810) for people reducing the interest rate on people depend on the interest that appropriate treatment could were part of the group have district civil hospital and later He said grievances on "police monitored on a priority basis by from the coastal state who PPF and small savings may be income on their savings. be provided to them if they have been found positive for coro- kept under quarantine. harassment" and "people getting a technical team of DARPG. attended the event in the national capital, and asked them to get in touch with the health department immediately. "If anyone has attended the TN CM eats food at ‘Amma' Canteen, says Sonia asks PM to give 21 days' wages religious event, they should inform the health authorities," D'Sa said in a release. Six in advance to MGNREGA workers people from Telangana and one ready to serve meal to multitudes more from Jammu and Kashmir, who tered and active MGNREGA attended the event, have died of PNS n CHENNAI Palaniswami said all steps have New Delhi, Apr 1 (PTI) workers," she said. coronavirus. been taken to ensure full avail- Congress president Sonia The Congress Parliamentary Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K ability at eateries across the State Gandhi on Wednesday wrote Party chairperson said the Patient forcibly Palaniswami on Wednesday had and serve to the public. to Prime Minister Narendra advance wages may be adjust- food at a state-run Amma Asked about a plea for free Modi seeking advance pay- ed against the work to be discharged, faints Canteen here and asserted that food at the State run canteens, he ment of 21 days' wages to done by the workers, once after walking 50 km directions have been issued to said the delicacies were already MGNREGA workers across MGNREGA sites are opened authorities to cook meals for any being provided at a very low cost. the country to help them tide up. KASARAGOD: A Keralite number of people. "Idli is given for just Rs one over the present crisis due to "I request you to take imme- patient, who was reportedly Palaniswami inspected Amma and across India, it is in Tamil coronavirus lockdown. diate action and extend sup- forcibly discharged from a Canteens at Foreshore Estate Nadu that we (the government) In her letter to the prime port to nearly eight crore rural Mangaluru government and Kamaraj Salai in the down- are providing idli for a rupee. minister, Gandhi said a large workers in the country," she hospital, walked nearly 50 km town area as part of his checks, Tamil Nadu (AmmaCanteen) is number of rural poor are with- said. and fainted as he neared the had hot 'idlis' and interacted with a model for other states," he said. out work and around 8 crore Gandhi said since its incep- border here on Wednesday, people who came there to have Launched by late Chief MGNREGA workers are tion, the Mahatma Gandhi police said. The patient, Balan, food. only at government run Amma ple...the government has given Minister J Jayalalithaa years ago devoid of an alternative source "Given the urgency of pro- National Rural Employment was admitted to the hospital in As part of the lockdown mea- Canteens. orders to cook food for any num- to cater to the working classes of income due to the country- viding income support to the Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) that town on March 21 after he fell from a coconut tree. He told sures to tackle coronavirus, The Chief Minister, later ber of people." and needy people, Amma wide lockdown, thus, they rural poor, due to lost wages, has been a critical lifeline for police that he was forcibly restaurants in the state are per- speaking to reporters said "we While as many as 4.5 lakh Canteen or 'Amma Unavagam' should be paid money in the government may consider the rural poor, particularly discharged by hospital mitted to offer only takeaways have told authorities to give as people had food every day at in Tamil is run by local bodies advance to tide over the cur- immediate advance payment during periods of chronic eco- authorities On getting informa- and dine-in amenities are open much food as needed to the peo- Amma Canteens here, across Tamil Nadu. rent crisis. of wages for 21 days to regis- nomic distress. tion, Kerala police arranged a vehicle for the patient and his relative and dropped them home at Kanhangad, Kasaragod 94 inmates released from Meghalaya jail PM CARES fund is Modi's self promotion: Chavan Superintendent of Police P S n n Sabu said. Since neighbouring PNS SHILLONG headed by Meghalaya High interim bail and parole, the PNS MUMBAI be called as the PM garib kalyan 1948 to help refugees from Karnataka has blocked border Court judge and Meghalaya officials said. yojana. Narendra Modi will not Pakistan. "No other PM felt it roads with Kerala following the A total of 94 prisoners were State Legal Services Authority The committee deliberated Senior Congress leader Prithviraj leave any opportunity for self pro- necessary to start another nation- COVID-19 outbreak and released from the Shillong (MSLSA) executive chairman, on the preparedness of the Chavan on Wednesday said that motion (sic)". Chavan further al relief fund, except Narendra lockdown, patients depending District Jail in Meghalaya as Justice HS Thangkhiew at a Prison Department to deal labelling the coronavirus fund as said, "No other global leader Modi now. PM CARES fund is a on Mangaluru for their per the Supreme Court order meeting held here on Tuesday, with congestion in the district "PM CARES fund" was the "bla- while announcing a stimulus blatant attempt at self promotion," treatment are finding it to decongest prisons to check they said. jails, a statement issued by tant self-promotion attempt" by package had labelled it as Chavan tweeted. extremely difficult to go there. the spread of novel coron- The panel was constituted MSLSA said. It said 174 prison- Prime Minister Narendra Modi President's package or a PM's Many business groups and Seven seriously ill patients avirus, officials said on by the state government in ers were identified in Shillong which had no parallel in the package or a Trumpackage". celebrities have announced con- from Kasaragod have lost their Wednesday. compliance with the apex District Jail, which constitutes world. In a tweet, the state He said the Prime Minister's tributions to the PM CARES lives since March 27 after the The decision was taken by a court's directive to discuss the 37.9 per cent of the total prison Cabinet mnister said, "Only in Relief Fund was started by fund, which is mainly aimed at border roads were shut by high-powered committee release of prisoners on bail, population in the state. India our stimulus package has to Jawaharlal Nehru in January combating the coronavirus threat. Karnataka. CBSE to offer ‘Applied Maths' as elective for 11, 12 students 13 more test positive n PNS NEW DELHI "Keeping this in mind, one more elective matical thinking," a senior board official said. for coronavirus in Jaipur After introducing two levels of course in mathematics syllabus will be However, students who want mathematics papers for class 10 offered for senior secondary classes with an to opt for mathematics in high- PNS n JAIPUR A spurt in the number of students, CBSE will now offer er studies as an elective or want cases in the Ramganj area 'Applied Mathematics' as an aim to provide students relevant experience to take admission in mathe- Thirteen more people tested was witnessed after a 45-year- academic elective at the senior in mathematics which can be used in the matics (honours) course or for coronavirus in the old man with a travel history secondary level for those who fields other than physical sciences," the engineering course will be Ramganj area of Jaipur's to the Middle East region was do not want to take it up for required to take the existing walled city on Wednesday, tested positive on March 26. higher studies or won't opt for CBSE said in an official notification subject 'Mathematics'. taking the total number of He had landed at the Delhi engineering which require a "Applied Mathematics course cases in Rajasthan to 106, an airport on March 12 and took broader understanding of the Secondary Education (CBSE) ness, economics and social sci- is designed to enhance the official said. a bus the same day to return subject. said in an official notification. ences. It aims to promote knowledge and skills of mathe- Jaipur has now become a home. The elective subject aimed at According to CBSE officials, appreciation of mathematical matics that are required to be suc- major hotspot in the country He met several people till developing an understanding a course by this name was ear- power and simplicity for its cessful in different fields of their with 34 cases, 26 of which have March 26 when he was tested of basic mathematical and sta- 'Applied Mathematics' at senior based subjects in university lier designed as a skill subject. countless applications in career. Therefore this course been reported from the positive, officials said. tistical tools and their applica- secondary level. education. "The academic course that diverse field. may be selected by students Ramganj area, a densely pop- Ten members of his family tions in the field of commerce "Mathematics is widely used "Keeping this in mind, one has been designed now by the "It is expected that the new keeping this aspect in mind. ulated locality. and a friend were also tested and social science, will be in higher studies — in the field more elective course in math- same name has several value subject — applied mathemat- "Students, parents and "Thirteen more positive positive for coronavirus. offered as elective for class 11 of Economics, Commerce, ematics syllabus will be offered additions to develop substan- ics — is taught by connecting schools may take a conscious cases of COVID-19 have come The entire state is under students from 2020 academic Social Sciences and many oth- for senior secondary classes tial mathematical skills and concepts to the application in choice in selection of this sub- up in the Ramganj area. All are lockdown since March 22. session and ultimately for class ers. It has been observed that with an aim to provide students methods needed in other sub- various fields, thereby enabling ject by taking into considera- contacts of the first person Prohibitory orders have been 12 students from the year after. the existing syllabus of math- relevant experience in mathe- ject areas. Topics covered in students to develop 21st centu- tion the scope of this subject in who had tested positive in the imposed in Jaipur district and Students who had taken up ematics aligns well with science matics which can be used in the two years shall aim to enable ry competencies such as criti- getting admission to different area. All have been kept in iso- the curfew in the walled city 'Basic Mathematics' in class 10 subjects, but not so much with fields other than physical sci- students use mathematical cal thinking, problem solving, courses at university level," the lation," said Additional Chief of Jaipur has been extended will be allowed to opt for commerce or social science- ences," the Central Board of knowledge in the field of busi- logical reasoning and mathe- official said. Secretary Rohit Kumar Singh. indefinitely. VIJAYAWADA | THURSDAY | APRIL 2, 2020 nation 05 SHORT READS 81 Tablighi Jamaat returnees suspected in Bihar, 30 identified PNS n PATNA Altogether 81 people are said 35 people who attended Rs 1 cr for kin of to have travelled to different parts of Bihar after attending a healthcare personnel if congregation of Tablighi Nizamuddin event they die while treating Jamaat in New Delhi's Nizamuddin, which has Four new covid-19 coronavirus cases emerged as a COVID-19 traced to Ahmednagar NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief hotspot, a top Health depart- Minister Arvind Kejriwal on ment official said here on MUMBAI: At least 35 people who The official said Ahmednagar cases in K’taka Wednesday announced Rs one Wednesday. were part of a gathering at a Police received information on crore for the families of Thirty of the 81 people have religious congregation held in Monday that some members of PNS n BENGALURUV month despite no travel or healthcare personnel if they lose been identified and subjected Delhi's Nizamuddin area last the Tablighi Jamaat had returned contact history was working. their lives while dealing with to medical examination, month have been traced to to the district after attending the Four new positive cases of Also, a 24-year old man, coronavirus cases in the including 17 Kyrgyztan nation- Maharashtra's Ahmednagar congregation and have been coronavirus have been con- who is a resident of Bengaluru national capital. Interacting with als, he said. district, an official said on staying at Nevasa, Jamkhed and firmed in Karnataka, taking the has tested positive, and the doctors, the CM said that at Principal Secretary, Health, Wednesday. Mukundnagar in Ahmednagar total number of the affected in detailed investigation is under present, the Delhi government Sanjay Kumar said 17 people As many as 29 of them are district, he said. the state to 105, the Health process on how he got infect- gives Rs one crore to the have been identified in Patna different dates earlier this istration said the death was nationals from Indonesia, "Accordingly, police traced the department said on Wednesday. ed. families of soldiers belonging to and 13 others in Buxar, and month. caused by a cardiac arrest and Tanzania, South Africa, Ghana attendees and found that at least "Till date 105 COVID-19 A 33-year old man, who is the national capital if they die in efforts were on to track down They were later let off since the deceased showed no symp- and other countries, while the 35 of them had participated in positive cases have been con- also resident of Bengaluru, and the line of duty. "Your contribu- the others. they had been preaching in toms of coronavirus. rest are locals, he said. the meet," he said, adding that firmed this includes 3 deaths contact of a patient already test- tion is no less than a soldier's... Out of the 17 in Patna, 10 mosques in the city for some Meanwhile, the principal The official added that a foreigner the group was taken to the and 9 discharges," the depart- ed positive has been confirmed if any healthcare personnal, were in Kurji and seven in time and had valid documents, secretary added, the rise in the and a local who were part of the district civil hospital and later ment in a mid-day situation for infection. He is isolated at a including government or private Phulwarisharif. They had been but kept under close observa- number of cases in Bihar to 23 group have found positive to sent for quarantine. update said. designated hospital in Mysuru. doctor, nurse and sanitation screened some time ago but tion. is a matter of grave concern. coronavirus infection. The official added that the search Four new cases detected Meanwhile, in the light of workers, die while serving had no symptoms. However, However, now they are being Most people testing positive Nizamuddin area has emerged as is on to trace people who came since last evening to this morn- current pandemic of COVID- coronavirus patients, the on Tuesday, their samples were kept in quarantine while their have a travel history. It has one of the hotspots for into contact with the Tablighi ing include 37 and 27 year old 19, the Government of government will give Rs one collected and sent for testing reports are awaited. therefore been decided to trace coronavirus outbreak since the group. men, who are residents of Karnataka has directed all the crore for their families," he said. and results are expected by the Earlier last week, a 65-year- out all those who have returned 'markaz' or gathering of Tabligh- All necessary precautionary Nanjangud, in Mysuru and Medical Colleges in Karnataka Kejriwal's interaction with evening, he added. old preacher from Malaysia, to Bihar from outside by March e-Jamaat was held there, measures are being taken by the according to preliminary inves- (Government, Private & doctors came after three Notably, all the 17 happen to who attended the congregation 18 and collect their samples for prompting many states to launch police and administration to tigation were said to be work- Deemed / Private University doctors tested positive for be Kyrgyzstan nationals whose in the national capital, had testing. Earlier, we had been a massive search for the contain the spread of novel ing in the same pharmaceutical Medical College) to work in COVID-19. So far, 120 cases of presence was reported to travelled to Araria where he testing only those who showed attendees. coronavirus, he said. company, where the patient coordination with respective coronavirus have been reported respective police stations on died though the district admin- symptoms. But now we have who was tested positive last district authorities. in the national capital.

FIRs against 10 people for defying Deploy fire brigade to disinfect Odisha govt urges people with travel prohibitory orders LEH/JAMMU: Police have hotspots, quarantine centres: Delhi LG history to follow home quarantine norms registered 10 FIRs against people for defying prohibitory PNS n NEW DELHI PNS n BHUBANESWAR undergoing treatment in the orders in Leh district of government-run Capital Ladakh, official said. The Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal A day after the detection of the Hospital and one in the AIIMS, prohibitory orders have been on Wednesday asked authori- fourth COVID-19 patient in Bhubaneswar. issued as part of the nationwide ties to deploy fire services the state, who returned from Odisha's health and family lockdown to contain the spread personnel for disinfecting Dubai and did not show symp- welfare secretary N B Dhal has of coronavirus. Officials said COVID-19 hotspots, quaran- toms of the disease, the Odisha asked the Bhadrak district col- the vehicles involved in the tine centres and public places government on Wednesday lector to take the fourth patient violations have also been to check the spread of the urged people "with travel his- to SCB Medical College seized. It is once again virus, which has infected at tory but no symptoms" to Hospital in Cuttack. appealed to the public to obey least 120 people and killed two strictly observe the 14-day The immediate steps have the prohibitory orders under in the national capital. home quarantine norms. already been taken by putting section 144 IPC failing which Baijal held a high-level meet- "Also advised to use fire sures to enforce lockdown. As a precautionary mea- the family members of the police will take stringent action ing with Chief Minister Arvind brigade for disinfecting vulner- Meanwhile, Delhi State sure, people, who had retuned man in isolation centre and warranted under law, they Kejriwal, Chief Secretary Vijay able neighbourhoods, espe- Cancer Institute, run by the from abroad or other states in conducting the required tests, added. Kumar Dev, Police cially the hotspot areas, quar- Delhi government, has been the country, were advised to two weeks and then self mon- the man had no symptom of the official said. Commissioner S N Srivastava antine centres, public places, shut for a day on Wednesday monitor their health conditions itor their health condition for coronavirus infection," the offi- The efforts are also on to and other senior officers to etc. Directed district disaster after a doctor tested positive for another two weeks after fol- another two weeks," state cial said, adding that people trace all those who had come 26 booked for fleeing review containment measures management authorities to for COVID-19. lowing the 14-day home quar- health and family welfare coming from outside the state in contact with the fourth from quarantine being taken in the wake of the take concerted preventive The total number of coron- antine procedure, a senior department said in its Twitter "should not adopt any casual patient, he said, adding that the coronavirus outbreak. actions," Baijal tweeted. avirus cases in Delhi climbed to health department official said. handle. approach". mission director of the facility In a series of tweets, the lieu- In another tweet, he said 120 on Tuesday after 23 new "The fourth COVID patient A 29-year-old man from The three earlier cases were National Health Mission is SULTANPUR (UP): Police have tenant governor said district that in the meeting he cases of the disease were report- did not have any symptom. Bhadrak district, with a travel reported from Bhubaneswar. monitoring the follow-up booked 26 people for authorities will continue effec- reviewed medical prepared- ed. These 120 cases include 24 Hence people with travel his- history to Dubai, tested posi- Of them, two had returned action. The government has negligence after they fled from tive measures for enforcing the ness, procurement of medical people who took part in a reli- tory but no symptoms should tive for coronavirus on from abroad while the third been focusing on detecting a quarantine facility in Uttar ongoing lockdown, social dis- essentials, discharge guide- gious gathering in Nizamuddin not be complacent. They must Tuesday. had recently visited Delhi and cases to contain the spread of Pradesh's Gosaiganj area, an tancing and home quarantine. lines, quarantines and mea- West earlier this month. follow home quarantine for "What is significant is that Haryana. Of the three, two are the coronavirus, he said. official said on Wednesday. SP Shivhari Meena said in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak, 115 people who had No need for extra returned from other states Activist petitions Shah to issue permit to caregivers of PwD were kept at Gosaiganj's Kamla Nehru Institute , of spectrum to maintain PNS n NEW DELHI "But social distancing makes which 26 fled on Tuesday As we all follow it difficult, especially those of night. He said they were Wheelchair-bound Virali social distancing, our us living alone. Some of us are caught by police and FIRs network quality: COAI Modi, a disability rights public facilities are struggling to access our basic were lodged against them activist, has started a petition not disabled-friendly medical supplies like catheters, under Sections 269 (negligent PNS n NEW DELHI lockdown. requesting Union Home urine bags etc. act likely to spread infection of As streaming services and Minister Amit Shah to issue and barrier-free. I am "During the three-week disease dangerous to life) and The Cellular Operators over-the-top (OTT) platforms permits to caregivers and struggling with the lockdown, persons with dis- 270 (malignant act likely to Association of India (COAI) had reduced content from helpers of persons with disabil- basics of having my abilities require guidance to spread infection of disease said, here on Wednesday, no high definition (HD) to stan- ities so that they do not suffer navigate to the hospital, med- dangerous to life) of the Indian additional spectrum was dard definition (SD) and tele- during the lockdown imposed caregivers reach my ical stores or places to fetch Penal Code. Legal action will required for maintaining the com operators had also taken to control the spread of coro- house without being essential commodities. The be taken against them after network stability and quality. other measures, pressure on navirus. stopped by the police government needs to be mind- they complete their quarantine COAI Director General the network had eased, he said. To ensure welfare of People ful of our restrictions," she said. duration, the SP added. Rajan Mathews said over the "Some of these actions relate with Disabilities (PwD), the Modi is not alone in past few days, the industry has to streaming services reducing Union Social Justice ministry ground seem to be far from "The government needs to she started on Change.org on demanding help from the gov- seen flattening of traffic demand their content from HD to SD, on March 26 had issued what the central instructions provide minimum support ser- Tuesday. ernment. Social media is on members' networks. local municipalities working instructions to all states and laid down. vices for people with disabili- In less than 24 hours, the replete with SOS messages The clarification comes days with operators to bring sealed union territories to ensure that "As we all follow social dis- ties during the ongoing lock- petition has already garnered from people with disabilities after the telecom operators towers back on line, and some caregivers, maids, essential ser- tancing, our public facilities are down. There is a need for per- more than 500 signatures. and even from their loved requested the Department of redistribution of traffic. As a vices and NGOs working with not disabled-friendly and bar- mits to be issued for the care- In the petition, she said in ones requesting the govern- Telecommunications (DoT) result, operators believe there PwD were able to reach them rier-free. I am struggling with givers and helpers of persons the absence of accessible pub- ment's intervention. for additional spectrum to is no immediate need for during the three-week lock- the basics of having my care- with disabilities on a priority lic facilities and assistive tech- Varun Khullar, a Delhi meet the rising load on net- additional spectrum," down. givers reach my house without basis. Sign my petition," Modi nologies, the disabled need based DJ sent out a tweet works due to the nationwide Mathews said. However, things on the being stopped by the police. has said in her petition which human assistance. describing his condition. Oxfam stresses on free testing and civil society role 2 resident doctors of PNS n NEW DELHI their infection and monitor "Urgent steps are needed to orient and prevent any discrimination Safdarjung Hospital test Rights group Oxfam has writ- those tasked with its enforcement to or attacks on health workers," ten to Prime Minister allow movement of essential workers it said. Narendra Modi calling for an "Aggressive steps are need- positive for COVID-19 eight-point plan to include and respect dignity of those suspected ed to address shortage of ven- PNS n NEW DELHI focus on increasing free testing, or infected or needing to travel for tilators, oxygen and personal ensuring gender and socially unavoidable reasons," the letter said protective equipment through Two resident doctors of the inclusive response, and any means including ordering Centre-run Safdarjung enabling the civil society net- industry to switch to produc- Hospital in Delhi have tested work to join the fight against community, persons with dis- cho-social support for women tion of essential equipment," positive for coronavirus infec- coronavirus. ability and marginalized com- facing domestic violence, the the letter said. tion, official sources said on "India should aggressively munities. With good WASH letter said, adding that special The group also called for Wednesday. One of them, who ramp up testing to include all facilities critical for a victory police units be charged with protecting informal workers, is part of the team treating those with symptoms or even over COVID-19, it is critical rescuing women who com- the poor and the vulnerable. COVID-19 patients at the loosely matching the criteria to that water by tankers is reached plain of domestic violence and "We regret that despite the hospital, is believed to have isolation ward of the curtail community spread and to slums and rural areas with take them to their natal fami- package, some of India's most contracted the disease during Safdarjung hospital. release district-level informa- orient those tasked with its group recommended addition- poor access to water to mini- lies, relatives of their choice or marginalized, like unregistered the course of duty, they said. "All the doctors and staff tion on COVID-19 cases. enforcement to allow move- al steps like hazard/incentive pay, mize burden on women," it said. functioning shelter homes. construction workers and those According to sources, the who had come in contact with Testing should be made free in ment of essential workers and reimbursement of all expenses, The term 'WASH' in health The letter also asked for without Jan Dhan accounts, female resident doctor, a third- them have been tested. So far, both public and private sector respect dignity of those sus- ensure testing and provision of care refers to the provision of addressing the needs of India's will remain outside social pro- year post-graduate student of none of the contacts has test- in line with the recommenda- pected or infected or needing protective gear and enhanced ex- water, sanitation, health care children. It also called for tection during the pandemic," the biochemistry department, ed positive for coronavirus tions made by the ICMR," to travel for unavoidable rea- gratia compensation. waste management, hygiene enhancing public health provi- the letter said. who has tested positive for the infection," they said, adding all Oxfam India CEO Amitabh sons," the letter said. It also suggested ensuring and environmental cleaning sions. It also recommended putting novel coronavirus had recent- of them have been asked to Behar said in an open letter to A decentralised quarantine that the response towards infrastructure, and services "India needs to do more to in place a package to revive the ly travelled abroad. monitor their health. Modi. network also needs to be set up COVID-19 is inclusive of gen- across all parts of a health care ensure safety of health workers economy, but for the people Both of them showed symp- According to the Union health He also said a "humane" across the country, it suggested. der and social groups. facility. and those on the frontlines of and not corporations. toms of COVID-19 and their ministry, 1,637 COVID-19 enforcement of the lockdown Welcoming Tuesday's "The COVID-19 response It is critical that helplines are the response by making avail- The letter also called for test results came out positive cases have been reported in must be made. announcement of health insur- needs to address the specific available, working and publi- able personal protective equip- enabling civil society to join the two days ago. They are now the country so far, out of "Urgent steps are needed to ance for frontline responders, the needs of women, the LGBTQ cised for information and psy- ment to minimize the risk of fight against COVID-19. undergoing treatment at the which 38 people have died. VIJAYAWADA | THURSDAY | APRIL 2, 2020 op nion 06 www.dailypioneer.com facebook.com/dailypioneer | @TheDailyPioneer | instagram.com/dailypioneer/ PAPER WITH PASSION Savings cut A new dependence The fact is that we cannot have cheap loans and high savings rates at the same time. The RBI is being practical ith the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Despite all controversies, China continues to be the biggest supplier of medical slashing lending rates for popular equipment to the US. By exporting humanitarian relief, it is setting a new world order Wschemes at the recently-concluded Monetary Policy Committee meeting, it was only a matter of time before savings rates on a host of saving instruments — from the pub- lic provident fund (PPF), postal savings and even fixed deposits — in the banks were slashed. The present rate cut intervention was all but expected. Governments all across the world have announced similar measures to stave off Coronavirus-related recession. But KK PAUL none had expected that cuts in the rates of ith the Chinese making a small savings schemes, which offer assured returns and capital safety, would conciliatory statement, the be so steep. The Indian Government has decided to cut small savings inter- war of words — of accusa- est rates sharply by 70-140 basis points for the April-June quarter. The inter- tions and counter accusa- tions — between the US est rate on PPF has been reduced from 7.9 per cent to 7.1 per cent per annum, Wand China appears to be thawing. As the a reduction of 80 basis points. For the Senior Citizen Savings Scheme, the epicentre of the pandemic has shifted from interest rate has been cut from 8.6 per cent per annum to 7.4 per cent per China to Europe and the US, there may be a window of opportunity. With the success- annum. Schemes with larger social intent, like for the girl child or the senior ful handling of the Coronavirus crisis, even citizens, too, have not been spared. The present move comes close on the as the rest of the world is grappling with heels of the Central bank’s decision last week to slash the repo rate by 75 the menace, China maybe eyeing to squeeze diplomatic capital out of such a humani- basis points, along with announcing a slew of liquidity-enhancing measures tarian overture. It’s truly a case of schaden- to counter the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yes, the Government has freude. Foreign leaders, from the Serbian pursued a difficult path ahead as this decision is bound to face opposition but President Aleksandar Vucic to the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban for greater public good, it has to take the bitter pill. This announcement may and Italy’s Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio, have surely raised the hackles of some senior citizens and other small savers have all thanked China loudly for the med- dependent on the interest income for everyday survival but the fact is that right ical supplies and teams of doctors received now, the Government needs to encourage people to spend money so as to by them while at the same time chiding their neighbours for abandoning them. deal with the flood of economic issues from a realistic perspective. It needs Spain has already decided to buy medical to bridge the gap between deposit rates and earnings from small savings equipment and supplies from China worth schemes. In view of this, the monetary policy cannot be determined by the a few hundred million US dollars. Pakistan is reported to have opened its wishes of a vocal minority. The Government should not be dependent on con- land border with China on the Karakoram sumers, attracted by the promise of cheap loans, to spend. With India’s bank- highway in order to receive a generous con- ing sector still trying to recover from the profligacy of a decade ago, will banks signment of medical supplies. In fact, an informal offer of building makeshift hos- be willing to forward money in the form of more consumer loans? For, bankers pitals in India to treat COVID-19 patients are in no doubt whatsoever that several businesses, which were viable and on the pattern of the set-up in Wuhan also province of Guangdong. Yet, information for the world at ments in the US. In fact, they profitable before China’s gift to the rest of the world, will be hard hit and India exists. And despite all the controversies, both these, even at their peaks, large. have been targetting technolo- China continues to be the biggest suppli- had managed to avoid the By leveraging their finan- gies that can, in the long run, will be on the verge of bankruptcy once everything gets going again. Banks er of medical equipment to the US. Chinese tag. cial clout over certain interna- provide a key to their own crit- must not be reluctant to pass on the benefits to the borrowers. Some indus- Talking of controversies, there are Sometimes, the name tags tional institutions, the Chinese ical infrastructure. During this tries will be worse affected than others, travel and tourism and all its allied some, which refuse to die, even with the can also be greatly misleading have disturbed the existing period, China has taken over passage of time. Considering the wide- with disastrous results. It is now BY LEVERAGING order. This has not gone well 360 European companies, rang- sectors have already incurred losses in crores. Possibility of a global reces- spread human interest involved, some of known that the 2009 pandem- THEIR FINANCIAL with Western powers, who in ing from Pirelli & cSpA of Italy sion, too, cannot be ruled out. But the Government will have to spend its way these continue to be kept alive by conspir- ic, which was popularly known CLOUT OVER any case had been increasing- to Kuka AG robotics of out of this crisis. Commentators have suggested that the Seventh Pay acy theories. In the context of Coronavirus, as the Swine flu, was actually ly looking inwards. Besides, Germany. ChemChina, a a lot has already appeared in the media but spread by humans and not CERTAIN there has been the question of chemical firm in China, has Commission’s recommendations be put on hold for now as tax revenues, both in a latest salvo, US President Donald pigs. But in its attempt to pre- financial support to such insti- acquired the Swiss giant direct and indirect, are going to plummet this fiscal year and the forthcoming Trump has targetted the World Health vent contagion, a country in the INTERNATIONAL tutions, too. This is bound to Syngenta for $46 billion. The one as well. Indeed, to spur spending, the Government should even look at Organisation (WHO) while China has spo- Middle East mistakenly slaugh- INSTITUTIONS, make an impact on the post- penetration of the communica- ken strongly in support of the global tered a few lakh pigs. Corona economic revival. In tion giant Huawei with its 5G reducing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate for several sectors. To cite health body. However, there is a back- Undeniably, there appears THE CHINESE the given situation, the Chinese networks has already raised an example, high excise duties on the automobile industry can be lowered. ground to the accusations made by America to be a certain degree of poli- HAVE DISTURBED stand to gain substantially at the enough of hackles among the Buyers will look to buy vehicles if they see a good deal. vis-a-vis the WHO. tics attached with the nomen- THE EXISTING cost of others and emerge as a NATO countries. To spur spending, cutting bank rates will clearly not be enough. Innovative Its contention is that despite the disease clature of labelling such fatal domineering influence cannot It is in the backdrop of in its initial stages remaining confined to diseases. In this regard, the ORDER. THIS HAS be ruled out. these developments that the thinking is needed. This will hurt some people, savers in particular, but get- Wuhan, where the virus first caused an out- decisions are taken at the level Such a situation was in the post-Corona scenario must be ting a stalled economic machine restarted will take a bit of sacrifice from every- break, it was neither tagged with China nor of the WHO, which hosts the NOT GONE WELL making for a long time. In fact, viewed. The Chinese are mak- one. It will not be easy, particularly in times of crisis when the natural human the province. Even when all the details were International Classification of WITH WESTERN ever since the economic down- ing a quick economic revival not available, it could have been tagged geo- Diseases (ICD). The current turn of 2008-09 and with the with heavy investments while tendency is to keep cash assets and savings locked up. Cutting savings rates graphically or simply named as the Chinese guidelines for nomenclature POWERS, WHO IN drying up of resources, there other nations are still reeling is a way to encourage spending. While many people are unsure of their eco- virus. It was much later that the WHO have been criticised by a num- ANY CASE appeared to be some kind of a under the virus onslaught. This nomic future right now, spending will be essential for everyone to get eco- named it as COVID-19, avoiding any ber of scientific organisations. vacuum as far as investments in coupled with China’s outreach mention of China. On the other hand, we It is the general opinion HAD BEEN Europe were concerned. This programme for medical and nomic activity going again. And if that means making a bit less money from have seen in the past, Spanish flu, Japanese that by simply giving numbers space was readily occupied by humanitarian aid are bound to our savings, so be it. encephalitis, German measles and some to alphabetic codes, people at INCREASINGLY China. pay it handsome dividends. other country or place specific diseases, large are unable to appreciate LOOKING According to data com- For the decades to follow, the breaking the geographical barriers to the gravity of the disease. For piled by the Institute for Studies next few months are going to be become international pandemics. China has instance, the letters HN denote INWARDS in Industrial Development crucial for politics, economy, somehow managed to escape this the genetic size and sequence of (ISID), New Delhi, the Chinese diplomacy and the world order. Bollywood blues tagging. the virus Hemagglutinin investments in Europe between (The writer is a former ` We are aware that both H5N1 bird flu Neuraminidase. On the other 2010-17 have been of the order Governor and a Senior Advisor The film industry is staring at a 1,300 crore loss and a and Severely Acute Respiratory Syndrome hand, geographical labels tend of $318 billion, which is 45 per at the Pranab Mukherjee revision of star values. Will this demolish star domination? (SARS) had originated from the Chinese to convey some very useful cent more than their invest- Foundation) he Coronavirus is a great leveller. The once soaring jet-setters around the globe are now S O U N D BITE just like the rest of us, confined to the walls T The Tablighi Jamaat’s Nothing cheers me up these A stronger and more effective Our (India-US) close coopera- of their own homes. Who would imagine international congregation in days. I push myself to be response... is only possible in tion is imperative to combat Hollywood star Tom Hanks getting it of all peo- Nizamuddin is nothing short happy by doing things like solidarity if everybody comes the #Coronavirus, including of a Talibani crime. Not just reading a lot or watching some together and if we forget political strengthening global pharma- ple while scouting for locale of his new film? Back the law, but even the Almighty series. I keep myself busy so games and understand that it ceutical and healthcare manu- home in Bollywood, reality has hit hard too as stars will not forgive such a thing. that I don’t have time to think. is humankind that is at stake. facturing and supply chains. take to micro-blogging sites, using their home Union Minister Actor UN Secretary-General US Secretary of State diaries and even plebeian activities to stay rele- —Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi —Neena Gupta —Antonio Guterres —Mike Pompeo vant. With all big ticket releases stalled and shoot- ing schedules cancelled because of the nation- wide lockdown, our film industry is looking at a projected loss of `1,300 crore. L E T T E R S T O TH E EDITOR What’s more, the sudden career break is not doing anything good to stars whose market value is decided by hits and misses. Elaborate film sets now lie empty Testing is believing Its efforts to help migrant work- and Mumbai’s mega tourist attraction, Film City, has cancelled all tours indef- No Coronavirus in newspapers ers stuck at the borders, too, have been commendable. The State has initely. Big-budget ventures like Akshay Kumar’s Suryavanshi, Kabir Khan’s Sir — There may be theories that or some, mornings without a newspaper are like food taken steps to ensure the welfare 83, starring Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone, and Salman Khan’s Radhe other nations may have a milder without salt. But ever since India has been hit by the of the labourers and treated them have been postponed. And with festival celebrations forever changing in a post- version of the Coronavirus but its Fpandemic caused by the spread of Coronavirus, deliv- as its guests. Most of them have duration and transmission out- ery of newspapers has suffered in several metropolitan preferred staying back. COVID-19 India, there is not much cheer around a big Eid or Diwali release. side the human body is still the cities. According to Government notification, the print Ganapathi Bhat But Bollywood is not all about stars. There are character artistes, technicians, same. Distancing is only a stop- media, along with other essential services, is exempt- Akola spot boys and logistics staff, who are all hired on a temporary basis, have no gap, not the silver bullet. We must ed from the lockdown announced by the Centre. Even not be complacent because India doctors affiliated to the Indian Council of Medical Tough times ahead long-term security cover and are suddenly jobless. The distributors and cin- has registered far lesser cases than Research (ICMR) have declared that there is no evidence ema hall owners have all flatlined in their ventures. By rolling out 1,500 films China, Italy or the US. For, we that COVID-19 is transmitted through newspapers. People a year, the Indian film industry is one of the country’s biggest generators of may just be in the primary incu- should, of course, take care while reading the newspa- Sir — The quote, “Uneasy lies the bation phase whereas other pers and wash hands right after, just as one has to do head that wears a crown” is very employment. As for debutantes, who have invested their all in a film career, nations are in advanced stages. after having touched any other item coming from out- Organisation (WHO), have corroborated this. The global apt in the case of Kerala Chief this lull will affect their ability to get work as producers will prioritise pending Unless we start a massive test side the house these days. Accessing newspapers can- healthcare body has also said that the likelihood of “catch- Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who is projects first. programme based on excellent not be more dangerous than touching currency notes. ing the virus” from a delivery package is low as is the very much upset over the suici- algorithms on data, we are sure to In fact, these notes are handled by many other people chance of an “infected person contaminating commer- dal deaths in his State for want of This time of crisis has also brought out the philanthropic side of numer- find too late that social distanc- before they reach us. cial goods.” Without the newspaper reaching their alcohol as beverages outlets were ous celebrities. Of course, the big fish in the industry are trying to do their bit ing has its limitations. China, the Scientists have also found that the sterility of ink and doorsteps, hundreds of readers, especially the elderly, in closed due to the lockdown. for COVID-19 management. Akshay Kumar has donated a whopping `25 crore epicentre of the virus, undertook the process of printing make newspapers especially safe. self-quarantine will be cut off from the most trusted source Taking a lenient stand towards to the PM Relief Fund. Kartik Aaryan has donated `1 crore to the PM Cares draconian isolation measures but Moreover, nowadays, newspapers are printed automati- of news during this crisis. The Government must look into boozers, Vijayan kicked off a it was mass testing that helped it cally, without human contact. The risk of the papers get- the matter and ensure that this does not happen. controversy by directing the State Fund. Superstar Rajnikanth has donated `50 lakh to the Film Employees keep casualties in check. ting contaminated is, therefore, further diminished. Bidyut Kumar Chatterjee Excise Department to provide Federation of South India to help workers who are losing their jobs due to the The US failed in isolating its International agencies, including the World Health Faridabad liquor to those carrying medical shutdown. Varun Dhawan has pledged `30 lakh contribution to the PM Cares citizens but is now trying to prescriptions. The truth of the ` redeem the position undertaking matter is that it’s difficult for fund and 25 lakh to the Maharashtra’s CM Fund. One would have expected million tests per week. South Extend a helping hand seeds of charity. The “reverse gift” have come but more is needed. addicts to give up on drinking. Bollywood’s royal clans to do some more but at the moment they haven’t. Korea was the smartest. It simul- of life is giving back to society. In In particular, efforts of the The Chief Minister has a peculiar Perhaps, this may serve as a reality check to their s/hero worshipping fans. taneously went for testing and iso- doing so, no one will become Kerala Government need to be situation to deal with. lation. Let us not be lulled by data Sir — In times of crisis, benevo- poor. In view of the spread of the applauded. The Pinarayi Vijayan TK Nandanan Going forward, maybe brands need to think their hefty endorsement fee for when tests are yet to be greatly lent hands should come forward Coronavirus pandemic, contribu- Government rolled out a `20,000 Chennai some so-called stars. Only those who helped and contributed in their own way scaled up. to reach out to the poor and the tions made by the people can crore financial package to miti- will come out with a stronger, more loyal fan following than those who did R Narayanan unprivileged. Genuine feelings strengthen India’s battle against gate the impact of the deadly virus Send your feedback to: Navi Mumbai towards the affected sow the the infection. Generous donations and counter its economic fallout. [email protected] VIJAYAWADA | THURSDAY | APRIL 2, 2020

www.dailypioneer.com analysis 07 FIRSTCOLUMN POINTCOUNTERPOINT Putting lives THE GATHERING AT THE CENTRE WAS AN NOW THE #TABLIGHIJAMAT WILL BECOME A IRRESPONSIBLE ACT. I REQUEST RELIGIOUS LEADERS CONVENIENT EXCUSE FOR SOME TO VILIFY above money TO ENSURE NO LARGE GATHERINGS IN THE CITY. MUSLIMS EVERYWHERE. Governments are putting the lives of the old —DELHI CHIEF MINISTER —NATIONAL CONFERENCE VICE PRESIDENT ahead of the alleged needs of the economy. ARVIND KEJRIWAL OMAR ABDULLAH Because that’s what their people really want Stress test for globalisation GWYNNE DYER he basic choice all along with Covid-19 has been: Do we let the Apart from raising doubts about the benefits of a global village, another major impact of the old die, or do we take a big hit economically? So far, the deci- Coronavirus is the fact that it is challenging and redefining the world order as we know it Tsion almost everywhere has been to take the hit and save the old (or most of them), but in some places it has been a very near-run thing. The number of confirmed cases globally is now 8,60,696 and number of casualties has touched 42,352. Already, at 4,055, the num- ber of deaths from Coronavirus in the United States (US) surpasses the total number of people who have died in China (3,312) from what US President Donald Trump generally calls the “Chinese virus.” China has four times the population of the US but in the end around 50 times as many Americans will die from the Coronavirus. That is according to Trump’s own prediction on March 29 in the speech where he final- ly did a U-turn, that “only” 1,00,000-2,00,000 Americans will die because of his wise decision to extend the national lockdown to April 30. ANNPURNA NAUTIYAL It was a decision he took long after the last minute, if “last minute” is defined as the last moment when the right decision would have held he spread of the deadly Coronavirus American deaths down to the Chinese level. But Trump was not alone through human-to-human transmission in this dereliction of duty: His “Mini-me” equivalent across the Atlantic, Tand the growing number of fatalities are giv- ing birth to all kinds of conspiracy theories, blame Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson, also waited much too long, games and racism. However, the growing prefer- and the United Kingdom (UK) will be lucky to escape with 20,000 deaths. ence for isolation, erection of walls, closing of Incidentally, Johnson’s Chief Political Adviser, Dominic Cummings, boundaries, restrictions on travel and tourism are is also believed to have experienced mild Coronavirus symptoms, includ- also exhibiting that the world is no longer a glob- ing a cough, and is self-isolating. The Prime Minister and the Health al village and we are now divided into numerous Secretary, Matt Hancock, are already self-isolating after developing symp- Google villages. toms towards the end of last week. The ills of globalisation and relative interde- So, why did they wait so long before imposing the restrictions pendence are visible in the acute dearth of pro- on movement that will break the chain of transmission of COVID-19? tective gear for fighting the contagion, even in the Because locking down the people also means locking down the econ- mightiest of all countries, the US. Since China is the largest producer of protective gear like masks, omy: A huge number of people will lose their jobs, at least temporar- ventilators, respirators, protective suits and test- ily and the stock market will crash. ing kits, America’s helplessness and dependence Whereas if you don’t impose the restrictions, perhaps on the plau- on China, which controls 95 per cent of the US sible pretext that you are pursuing an alternative solution called “herd market for the supply of these kits, are easily under- immunity”, then the economy will keep ticking over nicely. However, standable. This is a warning sign for not just the achieving herd immunity requires 60 per cent-70 per cent of the pop- global super power but also for other nations that ulation to have had the disease — and with this particular they need to reduce such dependence and start Coronavirus, about one or two per cent of those people will die. production of everything, which used to be out- But who cares? Almost all the victims will be over 70, two-thirds sourced for manufacturing to China or other of them will be male and at least half of them will also have “under- countries. The Coronavirus is shaping up to be an enormous stress test for globalisation. As crit- lying conditions” or “comorbidities” that are already forcing the health ical supply chains break down, nations hoard med- AS THE US services to spend a lot just keeping them alive. They are entirely dis- ical supplies and limit travel, the crisis is forcing pensable to the economy. We would be even richer if they did die. FUMBLES a major re-evaluation of the interconnected AROUND, Did Johnson understand that this was the real strategy? Possibly global economy. Not only has globalisation 42,352 people across the globe who have this pandemic will surely change the ly by India, the death toll and the num- not: He’s never been a “detail” man. But his Svengali, Cummings, cer- allowed for the rapid spread of contagious disease CHINA IS died because of the Coronavirus, the global scenario but the power game will ber of sick people would be unimagin- tainly did understand it and seems to have been perfectly fine with it. but it has fostered deep interdependence between MOVING other big casualty of the pandemic is the remain unhampered because China, able and would take the country back by What forced Johnson into a thinly-disguised about-face two weeks firms and nations that makes them more vulner- QUICKLY, global village-based world order, as even in the wake of the crisis, is not leav- decades, something which would not be ago was one or both of the following facts. One: Almost everybody able to unexpected shocks. Now, firms and DECISIVELY now every country has sealed its borders ing any stone unturned to make its pres- in favour of New Delhi and its allies as his policy was condemning to death was somebody’s beloved father nations alike are discovering just how vulnerable AND ADEPTLY and even flights have been grounded for ence felt in the Indo-Pacific. they look to stop China’s march. or mother, uncle or aunt. And two: It amounted to carrying out a cull they are. TO TAKE now. Currently, the only thing that is Although it was felt that the In this context, it would be appro- Another major impact of the Coronavirus is keeping the world united and linked is COVID-19 outbreak would halt China’s priate to highlight that while in the of Conservative voters, since two-thirds of British people in the over- ADVANTAGE OF the fact that it is challenging and redefining the THE OPENING the internet as the Google village is avail- overseas investments, interestingly the domestic sector, India is taking all nec- 70s group vote for the Tories. world order as we know it. The inability of the US able for accessing and exchanging infor- signals coming from China right now essary steps to contain the outbreak, it He was late but not too late. Even the strictest measures now will CREATED BY to quickly control the spread of this virus and save TRUMP’S mation and ideas. indicate that it is not likely to stop invest- is also at the forefront of the fight against not keep the British death toll under 20,000, according to the Imperial the lives of its citizens has exposed the weakness After being castigated and ostracised ment in its ambitious Belt and Road Coronavirus internationally. College London group that did the key calculations two weeks ago and lack of vision of the US leadership in taking MISTAKES, by the world community for hiding and Initiative (BRI) project and will also keep Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call — but half a million would have died without them. And exactly the stock of the situation and providing the much- FILLING THE spreading the virus globally, the Chinese on exploring the possibility of grabbing for cooperation to fight the pandemic in same equation applies to Donald Trump. needed guidance to the administration. As a result, VACUUM President sought India’s support to con- new markets for its goods, commodities the SAARC countries places the nation It’s always tough to know what Trump really believes, because the number of casualties today in the country has TO POSITION front its isolation and face the world and investments. Because, through this at the front and centre of the fight against he will say whatever he thinks works best politically at this precise crossed the number of deaths in China, where the ITSELF bravely. Even in the time of a crisis, it can fill the power gap and make its the pandemic in the region and gives it moment. If it flatly contradicts what he said yesterday, he doesn’t care. whole nightmare began. AS THE China has not forgotten its world-dom- presence and power felt in the Indo- a place at the global power high table. The status of the US as a global leader has been ination ambitions and in order to show Pacific region, particularly in the BRI With the creation of the $10 million And if some journalist calls him on the contradiction, he just denies GLOBAL built not just on wealth and power but also on the LEADER IN its greatness and maintain its status as countries. SAARC Emergency Fund to fight what he said yesterday. It doesn’t matter if the statement is on the record; legitimacy that flows from its domestic gover- a major power on the world stage, as a According to reports, recently COVID-19, India has also supplied it’s “fake news.” We cannot know if Trump ever really understood the RESPONSE nance, provision of global public goods and the TO A MAJOR goodwill gesture, it is willing to share its Chinese military aircraft carried out anti- testing equipment and sanitisers to the choice he was making when he condemned lockdowns and repeat- ability and willingness to muster and coordinate experiences and strategy with India. submarine drills in the contested South Maldives, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Nepal edly promised the imminent “reopening” of the economy. And then, a global response to crises. The Coronavirus pan- CRISIS As the US fumbles around, China is China Sea (SCS), to respond to patrols and Bangladesh. In a recent meeting, the two weeks after the Imperial College group published its prediction demic is testing all three elements of US leader- moving quickly and adeptly to take by US warships, which suggest that G-20 group also pledged to introduce $5 that without lockdowns 2.2 million Americans would die, he finally read ship and so far Washington is failing the test. advantage of the opening created by Coronavirus or no Coronavirus, China trillion into the global economy to it and reversed course. Or so we are supposed to believe. On the other hand, as this deadly virus trav- Trump’s mistakes, filling the vacuum to is not going to mend its ways, tone down blunt the effect of the virus. Prime He even claimed credit for saving two million American lives by elled from China’s Wuhan province to virtually position itself as the global leader in the its assertiveness and leave any opportu- Minister Modi has also advocated the abandoning his old strategy (if that’s the right word for it). His real cal- every part of the globe, therefore, primarily China response to a major crisis. It is working nity to exhibit its power politics. The need for developing a new crisis man- is being considered the villain by the world. This to tout its own system, provide materi- claims of controlling the COVID-19 in agement protocol to deal with global culation, at some level of his conscious or unconscious mind, was is also in major part due to the fact that it con- al assistance to other countries and even Wuhan have made it more aggressive health issues, which indicates patient and that his re-election in November would be even more damaged by two cealed the information about the contagion for a organise other Governments. But the than ever. Even though the People’s good leadership and signals India’s million needless American deaths on his watch than by a deep reces- long time. Had it informed the global village in world community, including the US, is Liberation Army’s (PLA’s) activities on effective presence in the global power sion and huge unemployment. time, the precautions, which are being taken now, not going to forget what China has done the Tibetan plateau have reduced due to scenario. The seriousness and gravity But at least half of the Americans who will still die would have could have been taken earlier and the large-scale and how Beijing is using this opportu- the outbreak, PLA intrusions were shown by the Indian leadership and survived had he moved two weeks sooner, when he already had ample spread of the virus could have been averted. nity to increase its military and econom- recently reported from Naku-la, south appeals to people for restraint and evidence that it was the only sane course. Exactly the same criticism At present, the concerns about the dominance ic might by offering to supply the med- of the watershed in northern Sikkim, a determination are a great example of eth- applies to Johnson. But here’s a consoling thought. Everywhere from of the world order through economics, expansion ical necessities to Europe and the US. border said to be “settled” by China. ical leadership in the time of a crisis. The China and India to Spain and Russia and even in the UK and the US of trade, commerce and route connectivity have Beijing’s move to block the recent- In view of China’s obvious moves well-timed lockdown and appeals by the (after stalling as long as possible), Governments are putting the lives taken a back seat and the control of the pandem- ly-called United Nations Security for domination, most of the countries, leadership for social isolation are allow- of the “useless” old ahead of the alleged needs of the economy. Because ic has taken a front seat. Though by locking down Council meet on the Coronavirus pan- including the World Health ing all of us to forget the concept of glob- Wuhan province through draconian measures, demic also indicates that China is aspir- Organisation, are looking at the other al village and just turn into a Google vil- that’s what their people really want. China succeeded in containing the spread of the ing hard to maintain its image of a gen- major power in the region India’s lage with limited exposure to people but (Gwynne Dyer’s new book is ‘Growing Pains: The Future of outbreak to other parts of the country, hiding the erous leader of the world, ready to help response and efforts to confront this unlimited contacts for our well-being. Democracy and Work.’) news of the contagion, it was unable to prevent with loans and equipment. challenge, with interest and anxiety. (The writer is Vice-Chancellor HNB its spread to the rest of the world. Apart from the Chinese attempts clearly hint that If this crisis is not handled careful- Garhwal University, Srinagar, Garhwal) The virus is saving lives as the Earth is healing FOREIGN EYE Stanford University has conducted a research on the long-term gains of this current rejuvenation of the planet due to the lockdowns and found that humanity will benefit tremendously in future because the environment has got a respite lockdowns have brought with them (NO2) levels due to the restrictions kind, which claim lives of children and hearted manner. Compliance with how nations and governments mea- fresh air, clearer skies and the revival imposed in the wake of the virus con- the elderly. regulations then is not anywhere sure the real-time improvement or of urban wildlife. tainment efforts. The European Space The study’s findings were even- near the current level of obedience deterioration of the environment. Social media is abuzz with citizens Agency (ESA) also reported similar tually published in the interdiscipli- that we are witnessing regarding the The authoritative and authentic satel- posting pictures of the night sky glit- findings of a drop in NO2 levels across nary group, Global Food, Environment lockdowns. This is unfortunate as it lite visuals of the ESA and NASA were tering with stars that were not visible Europe, especially Italy. The canals of and Economic Dynamics (GFEED). shows that we humans respond with relied upon to draw conclusions on THE BREXIT IS till now in most cities due to the pol- Venice, now devoid of the boat traf- Other research data from across the sincerity only when our lives are the state of the environment of China lution. They are also posting videos fic, sport clearer waters with a fresh world also supports these findings and threatened. and Europe. India, too, must stop pol- STILL ON of wildlife like deer, Blue Bulls, the rare spurt in aquatic life. additionally suggests that China is The current phase can be a major itics over environmental assessment This might not feel like the Indian Civet and so on, straying into Furthermore, the suspension of currently experiencing a 25 per cent learning curve for the Indian and data collection and instead rely KOTA SRIRAJ towns. There are more birds singing all air traffic in most parts of the drop in carbon dioxide emissions Government and environmental on impartial international data. This moment to go on about these days and the flora is actually world, including India, and the lack which is equivalent to 200 tonnes. authorities. The pattern of public will provide the real picture and dis- Brexit, but Brexit goes on s the old proverb goes, “Every looking green instead of the usual of vehicular traffic on roads due to the Research aside, the fact that it behaviour and response to a matter able any attempts at manipulation of whether we are dark cloud has a silver lining.” dusty brown. The light showers in the lockdowns have considerably reduced required a pandemic for the environ- of community emergency is evident State agency data by vested interests. feeling it or not. AThe ongoing COVID-19 crisis, last few weeks have only helped to fur- pollution levels and especially eased ment to experience this much- here and the Government must take The rejuvenation of the Earth When people are worried too, has a silver lining as it has given ther bring down pollution and fresh- particulate matter (PM) 2.5 woes. required relief and recovery is note of the same. So that in future, comes as a succor at the time of the environment the much-needed en up nature. Stanford University has conduct- appalling. Our daily routines do not when environmental conditions wors- anguish and pain to mankind. Every about surviving April, break from the relentless degrada- The city of Wuhan, the epicentre ed a research on the long-term ben- offer any concessions or respite for the en and require a community-based human being pauses, even if it is for December’s deadline for EU tion and exploitation by mankind. of the COVID-19 pandemic, has efits of this current rejuvenation of the environment. Neither do the period- action, the Government can follow a a second, to marvel at the beauty of trade talks seems a long The Earth is healing itself even as been witnessing clear blue skies and planet and the study showed that ic climate conferences, which become similar methodology. This is essential nature and forgets the hardships way off. COVID-19 may its biggest “parasite” humanity, fresh air instead of the usual low- humanity will stand to benefit a battleground of opposing views but because the current lockdown rules being faced in this difficult time. If have eclipsed older grapples with the virus by practising hanging smog. In fact, satellite images tremendously in future due to the witness very little meaningful action — though not 100 per cent success- humanity needs a break from this social distancing amid strict lock- of China collated by the National respite received by the environment. in the best interests of the planet. In ful — have been followed sincerely by pandemic, the environment needs a problems but they will not downs. Suddenly, the urban as well as Aeronautics and Space These benefits would translate into India, too, the peak polluting months many of the citizens. break from us. solve themselves in its peri-urban areas have started experi- Administration (NASA), showed lives being saved on account of compel us to adopt environmental- The current situation also high- (The writer is an environmental shadow. encing a resurgence of nature as the major reduction in Nitrogen Dioxide reduced pollution levels of the PM 2.5 conservation measures in a half- lights another important aspect of journalist) (The Guardian editorial) VIJAYAWADA | THURSDAY | APRIL 2, 2020 money 08

CAPSULE Moratorium plan: Borrowers Sensex plunges 1,203 pts; unlikely to get significant gains

PNS n NEW DELHI

Nifty tanks below 8,300 The three-month suspension of EMI payments may not PNS n MUMBAI finish at 28,265.31. contain the spread of the On the global front, bours- result in a significant gains for Similarly, the NSE Nifty virus have severely hit busi- es in Hong Kong, Tokyo, borrowers as they will charge Equity benchmark Sensex tanked 343.95 points, or 4 per ness outlook, they said. Seoul and Shanghai plunged interest for the moratorium plummeted over 1,203 points cent, to close at 8,253.80. Around the world, total up to 4 per cent. period, according to the mora- Sebi slaps on Wednesday, in line with a Tech Mahindra was the number of infected cases Benchmarks in Europe torium scheme announced by Rs 55 lakh fine on global selloff as investors fret- top loser in the Sensex pack, surged past 8.6 lakh, while were also trading with signif- state-owned banks. 11 entities for ted over the impact of pro- crashing over 9 per cent, fol- deaths have crossed 42,000. icant losses.Brent crude Last Friday, the RBI had longed worldwide lockdowns lowed by Kotak Bank, Axis The number of Covid-19 futures, the global oil bench- announced that all term loans, fraudulent trade due to the Covid-19 pandem- Bank, TCS, Infosys and HUL. cases climbed to 1,637 in mark, plunged 5.20 per cent including retail and crop loans NEW DELHI: Market regulator ic. On the other hand, Hero India, while the death toll to USD 24.98 per barrel. and working capital payments, Sebi has imposed a penalty Starting the new financial MotoCorp, Bajaj Auto, Bajaj rose to 38, according to the Mid- and small-cap shares will be covered by the three- totalling Rs 55 lakh on 11 year on a poor Finance and Titan were the Health Ministry. also faced selling pressure as month moratorium. Banks entities for indulging in note, the 30-share gainers.According to traders, "For the month of April, the Nifty Midcap 100 index will now have discretion in RBI had announced that all term loans, fraudulent trading in the scrip BSE barometer domestic equities plunged in macro risk appetite driven by fell 2 per cent and Nifty deciding the limits on working of Unisys Software and slumped tandem with global stocks as news flow around potential Smallcap 100 index declined capital, with RBI saying that no including retail and crop loans and Holding Industries Ltd. The 1,203.18 no respite from the coron- peaking of fresh Covid-19 1.6 per cent. payment miss should be con- working capital payments, will be regulator levied a fine of Rs 5 points or avirus pandemic seemed in cases would be the key dri- 46 out 0f 50 shares in Nifty sidered a default and reported covered by the 3-month moratorium lakh each on 11 entities — 4.08 per sight.Extensive lockdowns ving force for foreign flows," ended lower. Tech Mahindra to credit information compa- Deepa Saurabh Shah ,Sunil cent to tosaid S Hariharan, Head - was top Nifty loser, the stock nies. Jain, Rahul Gupta, Decent Sales Trading, Emkay Global cracked 9.4 per cent to Rs It seems like a double Vincom,Anthony Gayen, Dilip Financial Services. 512. whammy for the borrowers as term Loan during the morato- years, the net additional inter- Kumar Mandal, Badri Prasad on one side income has been rium period". est would be approx 2.34 lakh & Sons, Premsagar Vinimay, Starting the new financial hit due to COVID-19 pandem- The accrued interest will be equal to 8 EMIs for those bor- Nityadhara Plaza, Conquer ic and on the other hand there collected by the lender in the rowers who opt for the mora- Barter and Navdurga year on a poor note, the 30- is a threat of increased tenure form of additional EMIs from torium. Investment Consultants. The if they opt for RBI relief mea- those borrowers who opt for Similarly, it said, "for an auto regulator had conducted an share BSE barometer sure. three months moratorium. loan of Rs 6 lakh with a investigation between January slumped 1,203.18 points or In a note to customers, the Explaining the financial remaining maturity of 54 2010 and November 2014 country's largest lender State burden with the help of an months the additional interest regarding the scrip of Unisys 4.08 per cent to finish at Bank of India said "interest example, SBI said for a home payable would be Rs 19,000 Software. During the 28,265.31 shall continue to accrue on the loan of Rs 30 lakh with a approx equal to additional 1.5 investigation, Sebi found that outstanding portion of the remaining maturity of 15 EMIs". these entities are connected to each other and had indulged in fraudulent trade practices that created a misleading Non-subsidised appearance of trading and Only 5% of trucks operating; driver, Fiscal deficit may shoot contributed to manipulation in the scrip price of Unisys, cooking gas price cut which misguided the investors labour shortage hampering logistics to 6.2% of GDP in FY 21 in the securities market. PNS n NEW DELHI Revenue will by Rs 61.5 per cylinder PNS n NEW DELHI ‘Credit quality of India's fiscal deficit in 2020- come under PNS n NEW DELHI 14.2-kg cylinder. This was pre- Only 5 per cent of around 90 21 may shoot up to 6.2 per ‘heavy pressure’ Indian companies ceded by a massive Rs 144.5 lakh trucks across India are ply- cent of the GDP from 3.5 per worsened in FY20’ The price of non-subsidised per cylinder hike in February. ing on the roads at the moment cent government estimate as and may force the Mumbai: Domestic credit LPG, or market-priced cook- The two reductions have not due to shortage of drivers and a fallout of the Covid-19 eco- govt to look rating agency Icra said credit ing gas, on Wednesday was cut yet brought LPG rates to pre- labourers at loading and nomic stimulus package, Fitch towards additional quality of Indian companies by Rs 61.5 per cylinder in line February hike levels. unloading points following the Solutions said on Wednesday. worsened in fiscal year 2019- with a fall in benchmark inter- Cooking gas is available nationwide lockdown, thereby With businesses disrupted borrowing 20 as it downgraded Rs 7 lakh national rates. only at market prices across the severely hampering transporta- due to the lockdown and its crore of debt and warned of The price of non-subsidised country. Eligible users, howev- tion of goods, according to ripple effects, revenue will "unprecedented strain" on LPG, which a domestic house- er, get subsidy in their bank truckers body AIMTC. come under "heavy pressure" viously (estimated by Fitch credit profiles of corporates hold consumer buys after account for buying LPG cylin- The All India Motor and may force the govern- Solutions), which reflects our due to the coronavirus exhausting his quota of 12 ders at subsidised rates. Transport Congress (AIMTC) ment to look towards addi- view that the government pandemic. The agency said 14.2-kg cylinders at below- Domestic LPG users are said even after the notification tional borrowing and/or a will miss its initial target of 3.5 policymakers will have to market price rates, was cut to entitled to buy 12 bottles of by Union Home Ministry on higher central bank dividend per cent by a wider margin," unleash more measures to Rs 744 in Delhi. This is the sec- 14.2 kg each at subsidised Sunday allowing movement of Many drivers abandoned vehicles and to fund its expenditure, it the agency said. avoid “severe economic ond reduction in rates since rates in a year. non-essential goods during the said. Underpinning the revised imbalances” if the COVID-19 March, according to a price Price of 19-kg LPG cylin- lockdown, things have not went to their native places. Some "At Fitch Solutions, we are forecast are weaker revenue crisis prolongs. In its annual notification issued by state- ders, used by commercial changed at the ground level as headed to safer places where basic revising our forecast for collection as a result of a credit quality review after the owned oil firms. establishment, came down to many drivers have either aban- amenities are available India's FY2020/21 sharp virus-driven downturn end of the fiscal year, Icra said On March 1, non-subsidised Rs 1,285 from Rs 1,381.50, the doned trucks and went to native (April–March) central gov- in economic activity and it downgraded Rs 7 lakh crore LPG price was cut by Rs 53 per notification said. places, or have moved to stay ernment fiscal deficit to higher expenditures aimed of debt in FY20, as against Rs put at places where basic widen to 6.2 per cent of GDP, at softening Covid-19's eco- 3 lakh crore in the year-ago amenities like food and shelter and former president Bal Malkit "When lockdown was from 3.8 per cent of GDP pre- nomic shock. period, driven largely by are available. Singh told PTI. announced, there was a panic actions against financial sector "There are around 90 lakh He further said vegetable situation among drivers frater- companies. However, this commercial vehicles that we and fruits that are available in nity across the country. wasn't accompanied by an represent all across the country the market now transported by As a result many drivers increase in the overall default with 3,500 state, district and farmers through their own abandoned vehicles and went to rates which softened to 2.3 per taluka level bodies affiliated means. their native places. Some head- cent in FY20 in comparison with us... What we feel is that Singh said before the nation- ed to safer places where basic with the past five-year average only around 5 per cent of them wide lockdown was announced amenities like food and shelter of 3 per cent, it noted. are operating now. These are on March 24, there was already are available and they don't want mainly LPG and other petrole- partial lockdown as some states to come on the highways at the um products carriers and short have already sealed borders moment as there are no 'dhabas' distance milk tankers," AIMTC and lakhs of trucks were strand- or eateries available now," he Chairman Core Committee ed. said.

Hyundai sales fall Moratorium: 47 pc in March Pandemic affecting business Maruti Suzuki reports dip in sales New Delhi: Hyundai Motor Most private India Ltd (HMIL) on banks go for PNS n NEW DELHI Domestic sales last month Wednesday reported a 47.21 in India, Europe: Tata Steel declined 46.4 per cent at 79,080 per cent decline in total sales PNS n NEW DELHI announced to combat the ‘opt-in’ option The country's largest carmak- units as against 1,47,613 units at 32 279 units in March. The spread of the virus, the com- er Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) in March 2019, it added. company had sold 61,150 Steel major Tata Steel on pany said its mining operations PNS n MUMBAI on Wednesday reported 16.1 Sales of mini cars compris- units in the same month last Wednesday said the outbreak are running normally "but the per cent dip in total sales in ing Alto and WagonR in year, HMIL said in a of COVID-19 pandemic has integrated steel facilities in Most of the private sector 2019-20 at 15,63,297 units as March 2020 stood at 15,988 statement. Domestic sales impacted its business and Jamshedpur, Kalinganagar lenders have decided to go for slowdown and coronavirus units as compared to 16,826 were down 40.69 per cent to operations in India and Angul (Tata Steel BSL) and the "opt-in" option on loan pandemic took its toll on the with 17,53,700 units in 2018- units in the same month last 26,300 units as against Europe. Gamahria (Tata Steel Long repayment moratorium, auto sector. 19, MSI said in a statement. year, down 5 per cent. 44,350 units in March 2019, As the novel coronavirus Products) have started reduc- putting the onus on the cus- The auto major had sold The company reported 47 Sales of compact segment, the company added. Similarly, continues to spread rapidly ing production levels and oper- tomer to take the initiative of 18,62,449 units in 2018-19 per cent decline in total sales including models such as Swift, exports last month were down across the world, Tata Steel will ations in the downstream facil- informing the bank of their financial year. at 83,792 units in March, it Celerio, Ignis, Baleno and 64.41 per cent to 5,979 units be reducing operations at some ities have been suspended and choice to go for the three- Domestic sales during 2019- added. It had sold 1,58,076 Dzire, fell 50.9 per cent at as compared with 16,800 of its sites, the company said in In India, where a 21-day put on care and maintenance month breather offered by 20 declined 16.7 per cent to units in March 2019, MSI said 40,519 units as against 82,532 units in March 2019. a statement. nationwide lockdown has been mode." the Reserve Bank of India. 14,61,126 units as compared in a statement. cars in March 2019. Siemens BEL achieves Mercedes joins hands in fight against Covid-19 Gamesa bags PNS n MUMBAI Mercedes-Benz contract for record turnover Mercedes-Benz India India said it will PNS n BENGALURU announced on Wednesday it set up in project in Brazil will set up in association with PNS n MUMBAI Navratna Defence PSU Bharat local authorities a temporary association with Electronics Limited (BEL) hospital with 1,500-bed isola- local authorities a Wind turbine manufacturer posted a turnover in excess of tion wards for coronavirua temporary hospital Siemens Gamesa on Rs 12,500 crore (Provisional & patients in Chakan in Pune. with 1,500-bed Wednesday said it has Unaudited) during 2019-20, a Besides, its employees will bagged a contract to supply six per cent growth over the voluntarily contribute one day's isolation wards for its next generation turbines previous year's figure of Rs salary, the amount of which will coronavirua for 312 MW project to AES 11,789 crore. BEL's order book be matched by the company patients in Pune in Brazil. as on Wednesday is Rs 51,800 towards contribution to the As per the contract, crore, the Bengaluru-head- tanks, upgrade of communica- Maharashtra Chief Minister's Siemens Gamesa will supply quartered company said in a tion system, land based EW Relief Fund for COVID-19 52 units of its next generation statement. systems, weapon repair facil- pandemic, the company said in facility in Mhalunge-Ingale vil- medical equipment required getting back to normalcy,” said adding, "Mercedes-Benz India SG 5.8-170 turbines to AES The year saw BEL securing ity, various Radars, smart city a release. lage, Chakan Khed, will have to create a temporary OPD, Martin Schwenk, Managing will also support 1,600 families for its 312 MW Tucano wind orders worth Rs 13,000 crore, projects, Delhi CCTV project, Mercedes-Benz India has isolation wards with a capaci- infrastructure for stay, stretch- Director and Chief Executive from Khed and Viman Nagar farm in Brazil, the company including Akash missiles avionics package for LCA, both its manufacturing facility ty to take care of 1,500 patients," ers, wheel chairs, PPE kits, Officer, Mercedes-Ben India. area (a locality in Pune near the said in a statement. (seven squadron), coastal sur- classroom jammers, real time and corporate office situated in the company said. sanitisers, among others. According to the company, airport). The company will "The turbines will operate veillance systems (CSS), information system for Chakan industrial belt in Pune. The facility is in Maharashtra "In these challenging times, after easing of the COVID-19 provide them dry ration and at up to 6.2 MW capacity. For upgrade for EW system, Railways and LRSAM, BEL "In the wake of the ongoing Housing and Area we are trying to support the condition, the medical equip- cleaning kits." this order, the company will radars, AMCs for radars & said. BEL achieved export global health crisis caused by Development Authority's local community and the local ment will be donated to the This initiative will be execut- leverage its strong supply weapon systems, software sales of USD 48.59 million the outbreak of COVID-19 (MHADA) housing area, which authorities. The new medical Civil Hospital of Khed, and the ed through Mercedes-Benz chain and upgrade its nacelle defined radio (SDR), sonars during 2019-20. Major prod- pandemic, Mercedes-Benz is newly built with 374 rooms, facility will help support the assets from isolation wards will India's existing partner NGOs, assembly plant in Camaçari and advanced communica- ucts exported include cable India has decided to set up a it said. local authorities and the people be donated to the tribal youth Shashwat Trust and Ashraya to produce Siemens Gamesa tion systems, it said. looms, coastal surveillance temporary hospital with med- The German auto-maker of the region with healthcare in hostels. Initiatives for children and will 5.X platform locally," it said. Some of the flagship pro- system spares, radar, compact ical facilities and isolation said it will assist the Zila the coming times, if the situa- The company has also direct- secure the food and hygiene The wind farm, located in jects executed during 2019-20 multi-purpose advanced stabi- wards for COVID-19 patients. Parishad with all the necessary tion worsens. We hope for a ly supported by donating ven- requirement for these families Bahia, is scheduled for com- are: Command & control sys- lization system (CoMPASS), The newly developed medical infrastructure including the steady recovery of the crisis and tilators to a hospital, it said, till the May. missioning in 2021. tems, thermal Imagers for and electro mechanical parts. Follow us on @TheDailyPioneer facebook.com/ dailypioneer

Thursday April 2, 2020

Education is undergoing a sea change due to ‘There’s need to technological ADAPTATIO advancement and embrace technology’ Internet penetration, ll of us know the importance of education and its role in trans- paving way for blended forming our lives. The education learning, says AMOL A sector has undergone a major catharsis in the last decade, thanks to technology that made its way ARORA into the sector and deeply impacted it. N IS KEY Undoubtedly, the Government and institu- tions have been making untiring efforts to reform the existing education model; howev- er, there are still several issues, the nation is grappling with, which is hindering the sec- tor from realisng its huge potential. These are the issues that need immediate addressal. Key areas of improvement: ROTE LEARNING We have come a long way with time, how- ever, we still have not been able to detach our- selves from rote learning and focus on con- ceptual learning. Many schools are leading and changing the system at their level but only a small population has access to it and not everybody can afford the education they are offering. Therefore, it becomes important for the government to take the onus of responsibil- them underperform. ity to introduce and implement effective Instead of evaluating a student’s knowledge strategies and eradicate rote learning from the by a three-hour exam, more impetus should he use of the Internet and Here, students rotate through fixed wikis are creating new blending poten- schools at all levels. be given to communication skills, leadership other technologies in schedules, with at least one of the sta- BLENDED TEACHING tials. Out of these many possible learn- The Government should come forward and skills, classroom participation, projects and imparting education has tions being an online learning station. METHODOLOGIES OFFER ing technologies available, teachers encourage schools to introduce conceptual extra-curricular activities. t exploded in the recent years. „ Lab rotation model: Here, school STUDENTS A WIDER need to choose wisely to come up with learning which avoids rote learning. This will With digitisation making its computer labs are utilised in a new their personalised blended course. not only help students to understand the con- way into the education sec- way by the teachers, where students PERSPECTIVE AND AN Give students time to grasp the cepts in a better way but will also help them tor, blended learning has found its space are allowed to rotate from station to hybrid concept: It is important for to apply them effectively. A HEALTHY MIX OF SUBJECTS in the classrooms, and is on its way to station on a fixed schedule. ENHANCED LEARNING teachers to communicate their inten- We all grew up hearing that the sharpest become the new norm. Blended learn- „ Flipped classroom model: In this EXPERIENCE THAT GOES tions behind the approach at the onset minds opt for Science and Humanities was ing, also known as hybrid learning, is model, traditional roles are switched of the academic term. Students need to INTRODUCTION OF considered second best. Students should be nothing but a union of online and face- as students are introduced to online BEYOND WHAT FACE-TO- be made aware of the technologies in TECHNOLOGY given the option of choosing subjects that to-face instructions for better learning content at home, while they revise use, their responsibility for personal interest them. A more liberal mix of subjects outcomes. and practice it in school in the pres- FACE OR ONLINE MODES learning as well as time management In today’s time, refraining from technolo- should be encouraged so as to enable students It is a combination of classroom- ence of their teacher and peers. CAN DO requirements. gy means going against the wind! In this to have an exposure to a variety of curricu- based learning and web-based content. „ Individual rotation model: Here the Some of the key challenges of teach- renaissance of technology, the education lum. Online resources, together with in-per- instructor or a software algorithm set ishing online coursework. They don’t ing in a blended format from the fac- system cannot afford to function in silos. Our son instructions create a more person- individual schedules for every student interact with teacher face-to-face on a ulty perspective are the time commit- education system must whole-heartedly alised learning environment for stu- and they rotate to planned activities daily basis, but only at the beginning or ment, lack of support for course embrace technology and pass it on to students BETTER TRAINING OF dents. The prevalence of digital and on different stations based on their the conclusion of an online course. redesign, difficulty in acquiring new as their future relies on it. Students must be social media in our lives has made playlist. Things to be kept in mind while teaching and technology skills, and the taught about technology right from the early EDUCATORS blended learning more of a necessity implementing blended learning risk factors associated with this type of years of their education so that they do not With new technology seeping into the edu- than an upcoming trend. It is a flexible There is no standard approach to it: course. Blended learning will not ful- face any problems in the future. Moreover, cation system and with different kinds of stu- concept that empowers both students FLEX-MODEL We need to decide on how our blend fill its promise of improved learning they should be taught to use it wisely and cau- dents with different interests and talents, there and facilitators, and should be adapted Here, online learning is the driving looks like. What all face-to-face com- unless teachers are encouraged to re- tiously. is an impelling need for all the teachers to in every school. factor behind student learning, even if ponents are substituted with online think and redesign courses that offer receive the best of educational and technol- Blended teaching methodologies students are occasionally directed instructions widely varies depending students varied and better learning ogy training. This is a core area that needs offer students a wider perspective and towards offline activities. Resources are upon course instructional goals, teacher experiences than those offered by either EVALUATION SYSTEM attention. Training that is continuous and an enhanced learning experience that made available for students to move on experience, teaching style, learner char- online or classroom teaching alone. In the present education comprehensive must be provided to teachers. goes beyond what face-to-face or online a fluid schedule across learning modal- acteristics, developmental level, and Despite all the above challenges, system, marks still play modes can do alone. There are differ- ities. Majority of the learning takes place resources available online. blended learning has increased rapid- a crucial role in ent ways in which online and face-to- in the school campus where teachers You need a good chunk of time to ly, driven by evidence of its advantages assessing a stu- PERSONALISE EDUCATION face instructions are combined: can be contacted for help and provide switch to hybrid: Redesigning a tradi- over either online or classroom teach- dent’s ability individual tutoring and face-to-face sup- tional course into a hybrid one takes ing. There is enough evidence to sug- and deciding All students are unique in port. time - sometimes up to 6 months. It gest the enormous potential blended their future. their own ways and inherit dif- ROTATION MODEL takes time and commitment to merge learning has - all that is required is the The pres- ferent talents. They might Here the instructor plans as to how the blended learning processes in the adequate professional development of sure of have different levels of and when students rotate between dif- A LA CARTE MODEL existing courses effectively and to the teachers. Opportunities need to be obtaining comprehension which ferent learning modalities (at least one Students decide for themselves, if they achieve the goals of the course with provided to the teachers to incorporate good need to be addressed differ- being online) within a course or sub- want to supplement their regular cours- appropriate teaching methods. online learning components into their marks ently. To equip teachers to ject. There are four Rotation sub-mod- es with online offerings at other insti- Just start small and keep it simple: classrooms. Institutions and teachers often pay attention to every stu- els: tutions. New learning technologies, for exam- together can make the most of the leaves the dent and understand „ Station rotation model: This model ple podcasting, internet-based audio opportunities presented by blended students their abilities, schools is common for elementary classes and video communication, e-portfolios, learning. burdened must utilise technology where teachers are familiar with REMOTE MODEL web-annotation and social networking The writer is Vice-chairman & MD, and like AI and chatbots rotating between learning stations. Here, students’ main focus is on fin- tools including blogs, websites and Shemford Group of Futuristic School makes that can assist.

Actress Nitya Naresh who was recently seen in the ‘My USP movie Operation Gold Fish talks about all her firsts — her first job, first fan encounter, the first time she is my fell in love and more in an exclusive conversation curly hair' with SHIKHA DUGGAL

First job: ‘Juggled time, in my 8th grade. The moment hormonal First rejection: ‘Not between two jobs' changes tend to happen, it goes from girls v/s boys a great feeling' to girls and boys. I was conscious about who “I juggled between two jobs — one of a con- looked at me, how I looked. I wasn’t a popular girl “My first rejection came after I did Kerintha and tent writer and another as an emcee for an event at school, but it was a cute experience.” before Nandini Nursing Home came out. As I was management company, simultaneously. We would new to the industry with no backing, I was bound get four days a week to pursue our dreams of part- to face rejections before I landed the best projects. time jobs. I’d drive for over 3 hours across the city First autograph: ‘Kids Although my USP is my curly hair, it was also the after I was done with my classes.” asked for an autograph' same reason I was rejected for, sometimes. ‘You are too dusky for this role’ or ‘your body type isn’t “Just after I finished working for Nandini the one we are looking for’ were some of the First paycheck: ‘Any Nursing Home, I was invited and called a ‘Youth comments I was faced and it wasn’t a great feel- money is good money' icon’ by Don Bosco school for an alumni meet of ing.” theirs. While I was leaving, a bunch of adorable “Rs 3,500 doesn’t seem like good money. But kids came running to me with papers and pens for a teenager, that is real good money. I also they were the first ones who took my first auto- First fan encounter: received around Rs 5,000-6,000 for Emceeing. I’d graph.” ‘Sending lots of love to my buy little gifts for my family with that. It was an overwhelming feeling.” fans, they made me' First travel experience “Oh yes, these are the most inter- abroad: ‘Travelling fuels me' esting things. My first ever fan encounter First professional photoshoot: was when I was at GVK with one of my friends ‘Click, click, click!' “My first trip abroad was to Abu Dhabi and and there was this teenager who was constant- Dubai when I was 16. It’s always amusing to visit ly staring at me. After a point, I felt uncomfort- “My first ever photoshoot was before the release such places. My visit to the Dubai mall was full able. When we were exiting the elevator he of my first film Kerintha. 'I was shot by Arvind of astonishment since I never saw that big a mall approaches and says ‘Excuse me, ma’am, are you Chenji. Before this photoshoot, I never thought I’d ever. The young kid in me couldn’t have enough the same actress from Kerintha?’ And that was the get into show business.” of the Amusement parks and ice-cream corners.” first time a fan recognised me in public. Lots of love for them!” First designer bag: First time I felt like a star: ‘Left me with awe' ‘My OMG moment' First celebrity moment “My first ever celebrity moment was in After some thinking, she replies, “My first “Kerintha’s success bash made me feel like a Goa while we were staying at a hotel. designer bag was ‘Fossil’ that my aunt got me from superstar. It was a 15-minute role in the movie, I was in the pool with my family the USA. Back then, there were no online stores for yet everybody recognised me for the impact the when I see this man walking by me to check them out, so I was in awe.” role had left on the audience. At the success party, the pool in orange tracks. I I was called onto the stage by my director. The turn to my dad asking ‘Isn’t loud cheers that followed as I walked flanked by this Ajay Devgn,’ dad First love: ‘A heavenly feeling' bouncers made me feel like a superstar!” said he wasn’t, but it “As cheesy as it sounds, I fell in love for the first turns out, he was!” 10

Vijayawada Thursday April 2, 2020 what’s brewing Actor Prithviraj, film crew Dwayne Johnson confirms stuck in Jordan desert Hobbs & Shaw sequel ollywood star Dwayne Johnson & Shaw, also starring Helen Mirren, Eiza has revealed that a Hobbs & Gonzalez, Vanessa Kirby and Idris Elba, Shaw sequel is in develop- was well received by the audience and crit- camp, seek evacuation H ment, and he is excited about ics upon its release last August. it. It is unclear when the movie will hit cin- During a recent Instagram emas, especially as the latest film in the Live Q&A, Johnson confirmed the news Fast And Furious franchise, F9, has been about the follow up to Fast & Furious pushed back to 2021 due to the global op Kerala actor Prithviraj and award winning direc- Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, which minted coronavirus pandemic. tor Blessy and 56 others are stuck in Jordan after shoot- $759 million worldwide, reports daily- Johnson plays the role of DSS agent ing of a movie was stopped there following restrictions mail.co.uk. Luke Hobbs in the film series. He had pre- T in the wake of coronavirus crisis and have sought help “We are developing now the next film, viously recalled how his mother, Ata to return home. the next (Hobbs & Shaw) movie, and I’m Johnson, wept on the set of the first Hobbs Blessy emailed the Kerala Film Chamber, seeking pretty excited about it,” said the 47-year- & Shaw movie as she heard her son speak help to take up the case with chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan. The old star, who appeared in the successful in Samoan, the language of their family. media came to know about the email on Wednesday. A chamber Fast & Furious spin-off alongside Jason “She is incredibly proud of the movie. official Anil Thomas said the email has been forwarded to vari- Statham last year. It’s the very first time in the history of ous lawmakers, including Malayalam superstar turned Rajya Sabha “Just gotta figure out the creative right Hollywood that the Samoan culture has member Suresh Gopi. now, and the direction we’re ever been showcased on this scale, so it’s Prithviraj too took to social media to post a long note of how going to go,” added Johnson a big deal. Within the scene, she never the situation unfolded. He wrote, “Hi all. Hope everyone is hold- when asked where he heard me speak in Samoan to this ing up and doing their best to stay safe during these tough times and producers are at in degree. She hears me speaking in On 24/03/2020, the shooting of Aadujeevitham in Jordan was tem- the pre-production Samoan, calling on our ancestors to Star Wars porarily stopped due to the prevailing circumstances. But after an process on the give us strength... I look over and actor appraisal of our situation, the authorities were convinced that our sequel. she is crying so hard,” said the for- unit was isolated and operating safely within the confines of the Fast & Furious mer WWE star, who spent part of Andrew Jack dies Wadi Rum desert and we were given a go ahead for the shoot. Presents: Hobbs his childhood in Hawaii. Unfortunately, soon after, the prevailing restrictions in Jordan of Coronavirus had to be further strengthened as a precautionary measure and as a result, our shoot permission was revoked on ctor Andrew Jack, best 27/03/2020 (he corrected it in his post caption). Following known as the man who that, our team has been staying at he desert camp in Wadi played Caluan Ematt in the Ram. We have now been told that an immediate permis- Star Wars series of films, has sion for shoot to resume is unlikely due to the situation A passed away two days after and hence, our next best option would be to return to contracting the novel coro- India at the first available opportunity.” navirus. He was 76. He also mentioned that since they were to stay there Jack’s agent Jill McCullough con- till the second week of April, there have provisions for firmed his death, reports bbc.com. that. However, what would happen after that is a mat- He died in a Surrey hospital on ter of concern, he added. He also said that while there Tuesday. McCullough said she has been were far more pressing concerns for the authorities to flooded with tributes to one of the act- look into, it was their duty to keep them informed There ing world’s “brightest and clearest voic- were thousands of Indians waiting to return home, he es”. added. She said Jack couldn’t see his wife in Prithviraj’s mother Malika Sukumaran, a yester- his final days because she was quaran- year’s actress, said that she spoke to her son on tined in Australia. Monday. The British actor, who was seen in “He said the shooting has been stopped follow- Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) ing strict restrictions imposed on account of and Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017), had Covid-19 in Jordan. The shooting was on in a appeared in over 80 films and was also desert. Things are fine with them, except that a successful dialect coach. the shooting is not happening. They were Jack’s fellow Star Wars actor Greg supposed to wind up the Jordan part of the Grunberg said he was “devastated” to shoot next week and were scheduled to learn of his death, describing him as fly out to Algeria as per their original a “wonderful, talented, beloved gen- schedule,” said the actor’s mother. tleman”. Billed as one of the costliest “He is one of the kindest people Malayalam film Aadujeevitham is I've ever worked with,” Grunberg based on the award winning epony- added. mous Malayalam novel by Jack, who lived on a houseboat Benyamin. It tells the tale of the on the River Thames, had been life of a man ending up in “full of life”, “funny, charming and shambles after reaching the a joy to be around. He was still Middle East and finds himself working full-pelt, currently coach- tending goats in extreme desert ing on the new Batman,” his agent temperatures. said. Blessy’s past films including his The actor had been unable to see debut film in 2004 Kaazcha, his wife and fellow dialect coach Thanmathra (2005) Pranayam (2011) Gabrielle Rogers, who he was to name a few, all of which occupy “madly in love with”, because she was a place of pride in the Malayalam “stuck in quarantine in Australia, hav- film industry. ing just flown in from New Zealand last week,” McCullough said. FUN

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. VIJAYAWADA | THURSDAY | APRIL 2, 2020 sport 11

AFP n LONDON

imbledon organisers on Wednesday scrapped the old- West Grand Slam tennis tourna- No Wimbledon in 2020 ment for the first time since World War II as the coronavirus wreaks further “The USTA is carefully monitoring havoc on the global sporting calendar. the rapidly-changing environment sur- The cancellation of the only grass- rounding the COVID-19 pandemic, court major at the All England Club and is preparing for all contingencies.” leaves the season in disarray, with no ten- Organisers had earlier ruled out nis due to be played until mid-July. playing Wimbledon behind closed doors “Devastated,” tweeted eight-time and postponing the event would also champion Roger Federer, while Serena have created its own problems, with Williams, who has won the tournament shorter days later in the seven times, said she was shocked by the English summer. momentous decision. The cancellation of Wimbledon was due to run for two Wimbledon could mean weeks from June 29, with Novak multiple champions Djokovic and Simona Halep set to Federer, Serena defend their singles titles. Williams and Venus But tournament chiefs bowed to the Williams have played at the inevitable on Wednesday, saying in a All England Club for the final statement that they had made the deci- time. sion with “great regret”. Federer and Serena will be nearly All England Club chairman Ian 40 by the time of the 2021 champi- Hewitt said the decision had not been onships and Venus will be 41. Harmanpreet Kaur returns to pavilion after getting dismissed ICC taken lightly. Serena, beaten in last year’s final by “It has weighed heavily on our Halep, is stuck on 23 Grand Slam sin- minds that the staging of The A security guard inside the main gates to Wimbledon as it was announced that the Championships for 2020 has been cancelled due to coronavirus in London AP gles titles — agonisingly one away from We are behind Aus & Eng in Championships has only been interrupt- equalling Margaret Court’s record. ed previously by world wars,” he said. take place this year,” she said. “Last year’s ment was widely expected, with the The US Tennis Association respond- The French Tennis Federation “But, following thorough and exten- final will forever be one of the happiest world struggling to contain the spread ed by saying the US Open was still due provoked widespread anger with its fitness, but not skill: Harman sive consideration of all scenarios, we days of my life! But we are going of COVID-19. to take place as planned, from August 31 unilateral decision to move the French IANS n NEW DELHI believe that it is a measure of this glob- through something bigger than tennis It also prompted the ATP and WTA to September 13. Open from its original May 24 start al crisis that it is ultimately the right deci- and Wimbledon will be back! And it to cancel the grasscourt swing in the “At this time the USTA still plans to date to begin on September 20. ndia’s T20I captain Harmanpreet Kaur has said India’s sion to cancel this year’s Championships.” means I have even longer to look forward build-up to Wimbledon, meaning the host the US Open as scheduled, and we That puts the start only one week Idomestic scructure is “five-six years behind” Australia Halep tweeted her disappointment. to defending my title.” tennis season will not now recom- continue to hone plans to stage the tour- after the planned date of the US Open and England, adding that skill wise they are at par with “So sad to hear @Wimbledon won’t The decision to cancel the tourna- mence until July 13 at the earliest. nament,” it said in a statement. men’s final. them. India lost to Australia in the T20 World Cup final by 85 runs last month. “Definitely we are five-six years behind them in these aspects,” Kaur told Mumbai Mirror. Bajrang No 2 in latest Warne names Ganguly as captain of his India XI “But now girls have understood their responsibil- ity towards being fit. Earlier there used to be a huge dif- PTI n NEW DELHI Srinath among others. ference between a domestic player and what is expect- world rankings The 50-year-old spin wizard ed at the international level. But now some 30 girls are ustralian spin legend Shane named Virender Sehwag and Sidhu given individual programme by the BCCI. PTI n NEW DELHI Although he stumbled in AWarne has named former skip- as openers in the strong batting “So when one of them is picked for India, she is not the Asian finals against 2018 per and current BCCI President line-up which also includes the clueless about what is expected of her. As we keep tar Indian wrestler Bajrang world champion Takuto Sourav Ganguly as the captain of likes of Rahul Dravid, Tendulkar improving our domestic level, the performances at the Punia is assured of a top- Otoguro(JPN), Punia collected his all time India XI, which includes and Mohammad Azharuddin. international level will improve. That is why I said we Sfour seeding in the 65kg 18 points and pushed himself to master blaster Sachin Tendulkar On picking Sidhu ahead of are five-six years behind these teams because our domes- category at next year’s Tokyo within one point of the Russian and Navjot Singh Sidhu. other openers, Warne said the tic set-up is not as good as it should be.” Olympics even if he skips the last defending world champion. Warne said he ignored former right-hander from Punjab was the “Now the players are getting more aware about being ranking series tournament, The 57kg is led by reigning skipper MS Dhoni and current cap- best player of spin during his play- fit and following the right daily routines,” Kaur said. going by the latest world stand- world champion and number tain Virat Kohli because he picked ing days. “The things we have grasped in the last two-three ings. one from Russia Zaur Uguev (60 only those Indian players against “I had to pick Navjot Singh years, England and Australia have been doing from long The fast-rising Ravi Dahiya points). whom he had played. Sidhu because he was the best play- before.” also seems set for a top-four World runner-up Suleyman “I am only picking players that er against spin I have ever played Kaur said it is more about fitness and not skills that billing at the mega-event, which Atli is firmly in the number two I played against and that’s why M against. All the other spinners I separate them from Australia or England. will be held from July 23 to position after runner-up finish- S Dhoni and Virat Kohli are not have played with, they have also “Just the fitness. In these two countries fitness is part August 8 next year. es at the World and European going to be a part of the side. While told me that Sidhu was brilliant of their culture. Unfortunately, in India we start these Wrestling’s world governing Championships. He has 58 Dhoni is probably the greatest against them,” Warne said. things late,” Kaur told The Week. body UWW announced the points and is followed by Stevan wicketkeeper-batsman to have Shane Warne’s all-time India “For the last three years the girls have been work- fresh rankings which placed Micic (48) and Dahiya (45). played the game, Kohli is one of the XI: Sourav Ganguly (c), Virender ing hard on fitness. It does not improve overnight, we Bajrang at number two in the Dahiya needs a 12-point fin- greatest batsmen across formats,” Hyderabadi batsman faced the axe Nayan Mongia was his pick as Sehwag, Navjot Singh Siddu, need to work on it for longer durations. Earlier, we would 65kg category. Dahiya is fourth ish at the final Ranking Series Warne said in Instagram Live post. to accommodate Ganguly. the wicket-keeper of the team, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, come close to these teams and lose, but now we are win- in the very competitive 57kg cat- event to secure one of the top- Warne also ignored VVS “I went for Ganguly because I which also includes the likes of Mohd Azharuddin, Kapil Dev, ning matches against them. Skill-wise we are better bat- egory. four seeds. There is slim chance Laxman, who was once considered wanted him to be the captain of my 1983 World Cup-winning captain Nayan Mongia (wk), Harbhajan ters and bowlers than these two countries.” Russian Olympic champion that the Indian wrestler can grab his nemesis. He justified his deci- side, that is why Laxman missed Kapil Dev, spin duo of Harbhajan Singh, Javagal Srinath, Anil Kaur’s form was poor throughout the World Cup Gadhzimurad Rashidov leads the number one seeding. sion, stating that the stylish out,” he said. Singh and Anil Kumble and Javagal Kumble. PTI campaign in Australia. But the 31-year old dashing bat- the 65kg rankings. Four Points For that to happen, Dahiya ter said she is not thinking too much about pressure and separate Rashidov (60), Punia would need Uguev, Atli and also captaincy. (59) and Kazakshtan’s Daulet Micic to sit out of the final “From the outside it may look like that, but person- Niyazbekov (56) for the top Ranking Series event and win ally I have never felt so,” she said when questioned on seeding. Gold in a bracket with more RR open to shortened IPL among Indian players only the captaincy. But the Russian and Indian than 11 wrestlers to earn the 16 “I really enjoy this part. I feel more involved. The wrestlers have such command- points he needs to clear his top- unless the BCCI figures an April,” Barthakur added. captaincy keeps me alert all the time. Earlier, I used to ing leads over the field that three rivals. alternate window later in the Acting on the directives from the cen- think about my performance alone. Captaincy has made they can sit out of the Nurislam Sanayev is ranked year. tral government in March, the BCCI post- me a better person. [ Now,] I cannot think only about final ranking series fifth in this weight and trails The RR executive though poned the IPL until April 15. PTI myself, but [have to think] of other things, too.” event and still earn a Dahiya by six points. said they are confident that the top-four seeding at the World Championship Board will take a decision keep- Olympic Games. Silver-medallist Deepak Punia ing in mind the best interests of Rashidov is ranked second in 65kg the franchises. owns the top behind Iranian great “These are extraordinary England could field two spot in 65kg Hassan Yazdani, who times and the BCCI will do the after finally underwent knee best it can when things improve,” claiming his surgery earlier this he said. teams at same time: Morgan long-awaited year and had no “Earlier we could not think world Gold in choice but to skip of an Indians-only IPL but now LONDON: World Cup-winning England has been postponed Nur-Sultan last the Matteo Pellicone there is enough quality to choose captain Eoin Morgan says he is until May 28 at the earliest, with season. and Asian Championships. from. It is better to have an open to England fielding two the West Indies series still sched- Punia began the He commanded a 20- NEW DELHI: Even a shortened IPL With a nationwide lock- Indians-only IPL than not at all. teams on the same day at sepa- uled to start on June 4. year ranked num- point lead over Deepak but with just Indian players would down in place to combat the “When can we have it? That rate venues if the coronavirus England and Wales Cricket ber three with 25 the Indian wrestler closed be good enough in these “extra- spread of the disease, the event BCCI decides. And I think that outbreak leads to a compressed Board chief executive Tom points after his that gap on Yazdani with a ordinary times”, Rajasthan seems unlikely to go ahead call be taken only post 15th home international season. Harrison, announcing a £61 world Bronze 14-point Asian champi- Royals Executive Chairman The England Test team, million aid package on Monday, medal. He has onship Bronze-medal fin- Ranjit Barthakur said on No talks around Kohli & boys taking pay cut skippered by Joe Root, could said touring international sides overthrown world ish. Deepak leads Russian Wednesday, revealing that a face either West Indies or were being “very flexible, inno- finalist Niyazbekov Artur Naifonov by seven final call on the glitzy event’s fate NEW DELHI: Sportspersons being about this (pay cut). Whatever Pakistan, who are both due to vative and massively under- for the number two points after the conclusion is unlikely before April 15. asked to take pay cuts have been the steps after this setback, it will arrive for three-match series, standing”, with Morgan indicat- ranking. of the continental champi- The top executive spelt out making news ever since the out- be taken judiciously and keep- while Morgan’s white-ball side ing his teammates would adopt Punia added onship season. his franchise’s wish even as the break of the coronavirus ing the interest of all people in take on Australia in 50-over and a similar approach. 16 points to his No Indian figures in number of positive cases and brought the world to a standstill. mind. Any step taken needs to T20 matches scheduled in July. “Certainly from a players’ world champi- top-10 of the 74kg, 97kg death toll due to the pandemic But BCCI Treasurer Arun be thought out and right now “I see every option being point of view, we want to do as onship total after he and 125kg categories, the continued to rise across the Dhumal has made it clear that we haven’t even thought about viable during this extraordi- much as we can to try and keep erased a three-point three other olympic world. there is no such thought process it. Obviously this is a big set- nary time,” said England limit- think the serious nature of the things going,” Morgan said. deficit against Jordan weight categories. “We are open to a shortened at present when it comes to the back, but we will go about this ed-overs captain Morgan during situation economically and “If there’s an opportunity to Oliver (USA) to win The top four in each tournament with only Indian salary of the Indian cricketers. in a way that nobody gets a conference call on Wednesday. financially for the game is some- play as much cricket as we can, the 16-point Matteo category will be seeded at players, at the end of the day it He made it clear that there affected. These things can be “Certainly I’ve never expe- thing that we have never come I’d like to think every player Pellicone Ranking the Tokyo Games. is the Indian Premier League,” have been no such discussions. discussed once things settle rienced anything like it and I across.” would be behind it. I certainly Series Gold medal. Barthakur said. “No, we have not spoken down,” he said. IANS don’t think anyone else has. I All domestic cricket in am. AFP China to host Asian Youth Games in 2021 There's no mantra for success, UEFA postpone all int’l PTI n NEW DELHI 28th November 2021,” OCA Director General Husain Al Musallam said in the matches scheduled for June picentre of the COVID-19 pandem- letter. just hard work: Mary Kom Eic before it gripped Europe and the The 3rd Asian Youth Games will AFP n NYON ongoing coronavirus crisis. USA, China will host the third edition have 18 sports in its roster — Athletics, PTI n NEW DELHI blazing boxer. The play-off semi-finals and finals of the Asian Youth Games in Shantou in Aquatics, Badminton, Basketball (3x3), “My boxing journey was EFA have made a move towards that are supposed to decide the last November next year, the Olympic Beach Volleyball, Dragon Boat Racing, six-time world champion not easy. To reach national, Uclearing the decks for the return four qualifying berths for the next Council of Asia said on Wednesday. Football, Gymnastics, Golf, Handball, Aand an Olympic Bronze- international and Olympic of club football by announcing on European Championship were initial- The OCA has decided to hold the Hip Hop Dance, Rock Climbing, Rugby, winner, surely M C Mary Kom level is not easy. But if you Wednesday that all international ly postponed at the end of March and Asian Youth Games from November 20 Surfing, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Wind can be expected to have a have the will, and want to matches that had been pushed back to pencilled in provisionally for June. to 28. The host city was decided by the Surfing and Wushu. “secret mantra for success”. But achieve in life, you can,” she June have now been postponed until That was “subject to a review of OCA in 2019 but the dates of the The Asian Youth Games were first as it turns out, she has none. added. further notice. the situation” amid uncertainty over multi-sporting event was announced on held in Singapore in 2011 and then again On Wednesday, she was The fierce competitor in “This includes the play-off match- how the pandemic will develop and Wednesday. in Nanjing in China in 2013. speaking on the subject her can’t wait for the crisis to es for UEFA EURO 2020 and quali- whether many European countries “The OCA while maintaining a The 2017 event was awarded to “Making of a Champion” for be over so that she can resume fying matches for UEFA Women’s currently in lockdown will be able to very strict isolation policy is still con- Hambantota in Sri Lanka but the island Sports Authority of India’s normal training. EURO 2021,” said European football’s return to some kind of normality. tinuing its activity and liaising with the nation dropped out following a series of Facebook Live session for ath- “When all this is brought governing body in a statement. However, UEFA has also various Asian Games Organising problems. letes, who are mostly confined under control, we will get “All other UEFA competition stated a determination to finish Committee to ensure that the prepara- Jakarta was then lined up as a to their homes or hostel rooms back to training in big way,” matches, including the cen- all domestic and club compe- tions for the Games are not hindered,” replacement but it also withdrew. right now amid a national she said. tralised international friendly titions by June 30. the OCA said in a letter sent to all its In 2019, Shantou was awarded the lockdown to contain the pan- “I am trying my level best matches, remain postponed While that currently looks member nations in Asia. Games in 2021, marking the event’s demic. for an Olympic Gold but I am until further notice.” ambitious at the very least, “In this respect I have the pleasure return after eight years, that too in the Mary Kom said she does- incomplete without your The decision followed a clearing the international fix- to inform you that the OCA in coordi- same country for the second time. n’t have any secret recipe to blessings. Pray for me,” she video conference with Europe’s tures from the same month does nation with the Shantou 3rd Asian The Asian Youth Games are consid- share for the stupendous suc- MC Mary Kom PTI/File Picture added. 55 member federations as buy some more time as they aim Youth Games Organising Committee ered the second biggest multi-sporting cess she has achieved. doing, that’s all. Ups and SAI has lined up more part of discussions on to complete the Champions League (SAYGOC) has decided the dates and event in the continent and nearly 2500 “I don’t have any mantras downs are always there but than 20 such sessions for ath- how to adapt the and Europa League competi- sports programme of the 3rd Asian athletes took part in the 2013 edition in for success. Just work hard and you should not lose focus on letes to help them cope with fixture calendar in tions as well as domestic Youth Games, which are from 20th to Nanjing in China. be honest to what you are your dreams,” said the trail- the lockdown. the face of the leagues. 12

Vijayawada Thursday April 2, 2020 tollywood Adith Arun green-lits a Telugu-Tamil bilingual The working title of the Telugu version is Cut Chesthe. It's a comedy entertainer and the makers are calling it a light-hearted version of Jigarthanda, finds NAGARAJ GOUD

ith films like Yevariki Vare Yamuna Theere, Vidhi Vilasam, Katha Kanchiki Manam Intiki and Vesavi 1999, Adith Arun has an impressive roster of films for W the remainder of the year. We’ve now learnt that the year has just got bigger for him with another film, which will be a Telugu-Tamil bilingual. It will mark the directorial debut of Noor, while a new producer Madan will pool in resources. A source close to the development tells us, “Adith has been discussing this project for over six months. The working title of the Telugu version is Cut Chesthe. As the name suggests it’s set in the backdrop of film industry. It’s a comedy entertainer and the makers are calling it a light-hearted version of Jigarthanda. It’s about an assistant director (to be played by Adith) who has no idea about filmmaking but gets a pro- ducer to make a film. There’s a love track that dri- ves his filmmaking ambition. Major portions of the film will be shot in Hyderabad while some portions require the unit to visit Chennai.” Shraddha Das The source further adds that the makers have already initiated talks with Tamil actress Priya Bhavani Shankar to be the film’s leading lady. “She agreed to do the film but in the meanwhile, she and bagged Manchu Manoj’s Aham Brahmasmi. She told Punarnavi Cut Chesthe makers that she would first shoot for por- tions of Manoj’s film before joining their film. It land roles in a film on RGV remains to be seen how this situation pans out once the lockdown is lifted,” the source mentions.

hile his plans to take his second director- MAJOR PORTIONS OF THE FILM ial, RGV, to floors last month failed WILL BE SHOT IN HYDERABAD W due to Covid-19 WHILE SOME PORTIONS REQUIRE outbreak, promi- nent lyricist-director THE UNIT TO VISIT CHENNAI Jonnavithula Ramalin- geswara Rao has utilised the time to rope in some notable names like Suresh, Raasi, Shraddha Das and Punarnavi Bhupalam to spearhead the Raveena was in two project. The veteran Suresh, it is believed, will be playing the titular role. minds pulling off On the account of Sri Ramanavami, the lyricist also revealed the film’s title logo and announced that Ramika Sen RGV abbreviates to aveena Tandon who will be seen as Ramika Sen in Roju Gille Vadu. “The KGF: Chapter 2, points out that her role is filled film is an attempt to with a lot of mystery surrounding it. “Shooting shed light on how one for KGF Chapter 2 was a pleasure. The role is dif- individual is misdirecting R ferent and it has shades of grey. There is a lot of youth in a wrong path suspense. I wasn’t sure if I would have been able with his views,” he said. to do it, but it was an amazing and fun role to do,” the actress Film’s presenter said in an Instagram live session with an online media por- Venkata Srinivas said tal. the film will roll once Showering high praise on the film’s lead Yash, she noted, Coronavirus outbreak “He is a fantastic person and a gem to everyone on set. is contained. It was a great experience to shoot with him. The whole RGV, it is said, will be unit was warm. Luckily my schedule got over in covering Ram Gopal February before coronavirus and the lockdown..we Varma’s rise, fall, con- wrapped up the film (sic).” tentious statements, While the first part, which released in December of and porn viewing 2018, concentrated on the rags to riches journey of Rocky habits among other (Yash) and his quest for power in the underbelly of the Kolar controversies that Gold Fields, the second install- dotted the filmmak- ment, it is said, will fol- er’s career. low the struggle between Rocky and Adheera (played by Sanjay Dutt). With the first part doing well, the expectations on the second part are expectedly sky- high. The film, dire- cted by Prashanth Neil, is scheduled to release on October 23 later this year. Dil Raju’s name is attached to distribute the film in Telugu. The first part was dis- tributed by Sai Korrapati.

Nidhhi turns ince the beginning of this week, speculations have been rife about Pooja Hedge giving her in-prin- ciple consent to director Hari for his next with S Suriya, thus staging a comeback of sorts in Tamil to baking Pooja film industry. However, the actress took to Twitter to clear the suspense surrounding her ith the entire industry shut due to the outbreak participation in the film, a family entertainer. “Hello hello. of coronavirus, iSmart Shankar girl Nidhhi Let’s not jump to conclusions of Agerwal decided to hone her baking skills. The me doing Tamil films right now. W Bengaluru beauty took to her social media pages, As of now I haven’t signed any- POOJA TOOK TO where she shared photographs of herself baking not doing thing and I have a couple of nar- a cake. rations lined up, but I am definite- TWITTER TO “Baked a cake for the first time of course with the expert ly looking forward to doing a guidance of @tanveagerwal.... 1. Check whether the batter Tamil film this year...if all goes ANNOUNCE SHE tastes good because we used maple syrup instead of sugar. well...fingers crossed,” the actress HASN’T SIGNED 2. Wait for light bulbs to cook the cake. 3. Some coco pow- posted. ANY TAMIL der seasoning. 4. Satisfaction. Oh, and we baked the second Suriya's Pooja made her film debut one too.. with fresh orange.. let's see how that tastes #stay- with the Tamil action-entertain- FILM YET home #stayhome #quarantine#cake #healthyfood,” she cap- er Mugamoodi in 2012 but she tioned the image. found major success in Telugu cinema where she has super Nidhi’s photograph has got over 365K likes on Instagram hits like Aravinda Sametha Veeraraghava, Gaddalakonda till Wednesday evening. Ganesh and Ala Vaikunthapuramlo. She is also a busy artiste On the work front, she will be next seen in director Srirram next in Hindi. There has been a clamour from Tamil fans, ask- Aditya’s next with Ashok Galla. ing her to do a Tamil film.