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COVID-19 CASES CROSS 10,000 MARK, PRASHANT KISHOR ASKS CENTRE IF IT RLYS SET TO CANCEL AROUND 39 L ‘THIS TOO SHALL PASS’, SAYS 353 DEATHS IN 21 DAYS OF LOCKDOWN HAS A PLAN B IF RESTRICTIONS FAIL TICKETS BOOKED FOR APR 15-MAY 3 RAJINIKANTH ON CORONAVIRUS

he union health ministry placed the total lection strategist-turned politician Prashant Kishor — one of the sharp ailways is set to cancel around 39 lakh tickets This too shall pass" was superstar Rajinikanth's take on the COVID-19 Tnumber of cases at 10,815 and the death Ecritics of the modalities of the lockdown — today questioned if the Rbooked for travel between April 15 and May 3 due "pandemic which has ravaged the world and to a much lesser extent toll at 353. The ministry said that 1190 government has a plan in case the extension of the restriction proves to extension of the nationwide lockdown and India, as he urged Tamils in every nation to follow restrictions imposed people have so far recovered from the ineffective. "Do we have an alternate plan or the will to course correct?" suspension of passenger trains till then in the wake of by governments to protect themselves. In a video message released to infection. The first 21 days of the nationwide questioned the former leader of Bihar's ruling Janata Dal United. the coronavirus pandemic, sources said. With the extend his Tamil New year greetings, he urged Tamils coronavirus lockdown has recorded a spike Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the lockdown till May 3, national transporter allowing tickets to be booked living everywhere, including foreign countries, to follow of about 10,000 COVID-19 cases and over underscoring that for the next seven days, every district in the during the 21-day lockdown for journeys after April 14, around 39 lakh the restrictions to protect themselves from the 320 deaths since March 25, and though the country will be strictly monitored. The announcement comes on bookings were made by passengers hoping that trains will be in operation contagion, saying this would be their "biggest gift" to jury may still be out on the success of the unprecedented measure billed a day the country witnessed the largest-ever jump in cases. With post-lockdown. However, with the announcement of the extension of the their family members this year. "Coronavirus has as world's biggest shutdown, many medical experts feel India would 1,211 new patients testing positive in the last 24 hours, the total lockdown period, railways on Tuesday not only cancelled all its passenger affected the whole world and India and have been far worse without it. number of coronavirus cases in the country is now 10,363. services till May 3 but also stopped all advance bookings. are no exceptions,” he said in the video. 2 deaths, 44 new Covid-19 As cases spike, lockdown to continue till May 3 cases reported in State n PNS NEW DELHI PNS n VIJAYAWADA number of persons die Prime Minister Narendra Two deaths due to Coronavirus 483 Covid-19 9 of Coronavirus Modi on Tuesday announced and 44 new positive cases of the cases in AP that the current lockdown will disease were confirmed in be extended till May 3, saying , a state gov- it is very necessary to contain ernment bulletin said on the spread of the coronavirus Jagan’s decision Tuesday. pandemic in the country. India on SEC has set With this, the overall toll has may have paid a big econom- now increased to nine and the ic price, but there can be no of a hidden caste number of infections in the alternative to saving human conflict state to 483. lives, said the PM. The oldest person to test pos- Implement In a televised address to the itive for Coronavirus in Andhra nation, Modi said implemen- Pradesh was an 80-year old INLAST24HOURS lockdown tation of the lockdown will be 3 woman from while the 9,354 strictly ensured in coming youngest were two three-year test positive for Covid-19 of the 9,827 samples norms: Jagan days to ensure that the virus old girls, one from Kurnool and in Guntur district tested return negative does not spread to new areas, hotspot, he said. He said India received huge benefits from the another from East Godavari 16 hief Minister YS The prime minister said has managed to contain the 21-day lockdown in checking district. l 4 persons make full recovery in Jaganmohan on detailed guidelines on imple- spread of infection well due to the pandemic and added that Of the total 483 Covid-19 Andhra Pradesh, discharged CTuesday told district mentation of the new lock- its holistic approach in dealing the country has dealt with the 10,815 collectors and SPs that cases registered in the state l Srikakulam, remain number of infections down will be announced on with the crisis and sacrifices situation better with limited lockdown guidelines should be from March 12 to April 14, 125 free from virus across India Wednesday. Some relaxations made by people of the country resources. were female and the rest male. strictly implemented across the may be allowed after April 20 in the fight produced positive And, 31 of those afflicted state. The Chief Minister, during in places where there is no results. Modi said India 3 were under the age of 15 years, accordingly, the state govern- the state government num- a videoconference, made it data released by the AP govern- ment finally released some bers, in all 10,505 blood sam- clear that social distancing ment here on Tuesday revealed. data on the pandemic thus far, ples were tested till date and should be implemented strictly Among the children, there official sources said. The gov- 10,022 of them turned negative. and essential good should be 28 Telugu were two each of three, five and ernment data revealed that, On Monday, the seven Viral made available every day at the Naidu hails decision seven years, three each of eight among the 483 cases, 13 foreign Research and Diagnostic specified time. students and six years, a nine- year old returnees contracted coron- Laboratories (VRDL) opened 3 and six were 10-year old. avirus and 12 of their contacts by the state, set a record by con- of PM on lockdown Of the 31 children under the got afflicted through human- ducting 2,010 blood tests in 24 reach home Enough stock age of 15, the number of girls to-human transmission. hours. The seven labs have a survey, covering 1.31 crore of PNS n VIJAYAWADA of essential were 19. The Government of Another 33 cases were due to total capacity to test 990 sam- the total 1.46 crore households from Italy India authorities insisted that "other reasons." The remaining ples per day. to identify prospective Covid- National PNS n VIJAYAWADA commodities, AP too release the Covid-19 cases were either Tablighi The government volunteers 19 patients. President and former Chief no need to worry details like other states in a Jamaat congregation attendees and health workers completed Minister N Chandrababu A bus carrying 28 Italy- transparent manner and, or their contacts. According to two rounds of house-to-house 3 Naidu on Tuesday lauded returned AP students reached Prime Minister Narendra here in the wee hours of Modi for “taking a bold and Tuesday crossing several hur- statesman-like decision to dles. 5 Protest over cremation of AP extend lockdown” and said The students, who had that the PM gave priority to been stranded in Italy, saving the lives of people reached Delhi on March 14. despite the deepening eco- The officials there sent them doctor who died of Covid-19 nomic crisis in the country. to an army camp for medical Naidu said that Modi duly right decision was made on examination. They remained PNS n CHENNAI gave him a call back this lockdown-1. That helped India in the quarantine facility for morning in reply to his stand at the forefront of the 28 days. At the end of the Residents of a locality in (Naidu's) call on Monday and battle against the virus. Many quarantine period, they were Chennai opposed the crema- discussed the way forward in other countries are facing despatched to AP in a bus, tion of a doctor from Andhra the fight against the Covid -19 problems. You are building which was not allowed to Pradesh who died of Covid- epidemic. national consensus in the right proceed further by officials in 19 here, forcing authorities to TTD extends "I told the PM that under spirit,” Naidu said. Chhattisgarh. carry it out in another place his efficient leadership, the 3 3 overnight with a top official suspension blaming 'coordination gap' for the unsavoury turn of events. As the body of the 56-year of darshan old doctor, who died on US allows H-1B visa extension Trump says Monday at a corporate hospi- till May 3 PNS n WASHINGTON depend on it to hire tens of OPEC+ planning tal, was taken to the cremation PNS n HYDERABAD thousands of employees each ground in Ambattur area, the In a major relief for thousands year from countries like India to cut production locals protested against it, say- ty in the city. A top official the reason behind it, but did In view of the government of stranded Indian profes- and China. 20 mn bpd ing it might lead to spread of from Chennai Corporation not elaborate. decision to extend the lock- sionals in America due to the The US Department Coronavirus in their locality, told PTI that the cremation "It is a very sensitive issue. down to contain the spread of coronavirus pandemic, the of Homeland Security (DHS) police said on Tuesday. was done with full protocol for Everybody in the government Coronavirus virus till May 3, US government has decided in a new notification has Following the resistance, Covid-19 victims. is aware of the guidelines that the TTD has decided to con- to allow applications by H-1B said it recognises that there the body of the man from When asked about locals needs to be followed to dispose tinue the suspension of the visa holders for an extended are immigration-related 8 Nellore was taken back to the objecting to the cremation, (a body). We have also issued Srivari darshan at Tirumala stay in the country. challenges as a direct result hospital mortuary, they said. Tamil Nadu Health Secretary guidelines to private hospitals. temple for pilgrims till The H-1B visa is a non- of the Coronavirus TODAY Top government sources Beela Rajesh said such an inci- These kind of issues have not that date. immigrant visa that allows US tions that require theoretical pandemic. said the man was cremated late dent was rare and said "coor- occurred in the past. companies to employ foreign or technical expertise. The 3 ALMANAC on Monday in another locali- dination gap" could have been 3 3 workers in specialty occupa- technology companies Month & Paksham: Chaitra & Shukla Paksha Panchangam: Cop reports Tithi: Ashtami: 04:50 pm Thousands of migrant labourers try to leave Mumbai Nakshatram: Uttara Ashadha: 09:04 pm n for duty with Time to Avoid: (Bad time to start PNS MUMBAI hardship brought by the sweep- workers, but they want to go ing curbs. back to their native states dur- any important work) Hours after Prime Minister According to a police official, ing the lockdown which has fractured leg Rahukalam: 12:16 pm – 01:49 pm Narendra Modi announced daily wage earners, numbering badly affected their source of PNS n RAJAMPET Yamagandam: 07:36 am – 09:09 am extension of the Coronavirus- around 1,000, assembled at livelihood. Varjyam: 01:24 am – 03:08 am enforced lockdown till May 3, suburban Bandra (West) bus "Now, we don’t want food, Displaying remarkable com- Gulika: 10:43 am - 12:16 pm a large number of migrant depot near the railway station we want to go back to our mitment to duty, a circle Good Time: (to start any workers who earn daily wages and squatted on road at around native place, we are not happy inspector, who suffered a leg important work) came out on road in Mumbai 3 pm. with the announcement fracture, was seen on Tuesday Amritakalam: 02:18 pm – 03:59 pm on Tuesday demanding trans- The daily wage earners, who (extending the lockdown)," he discharging duties in Abhijit Muhurtham: NIL port arrangements to go back reside on rent in slums in in the said, looking dejected. Rajampet. Subha Kumar, CI to their native places. nearby Patel Nagri locality, Asadullah Sheikh, who hails of Rajampet, was seen taking Daily wage workers have were demanding arrangement from from Malda in West the help of a crutch while ask- VIJAYAWADA rendered jobless ever since the of transport facilities so that Bengal, said, “We have already ing peope to take precautions. WEATHER lockdown was announced late they can go back to their native spent our savings during the Two weeks ago, while dis- last month to stem the spread towns and villages. first phase of the lockdown. We persing crowd, Subhakumar Forecast: Partly cloudy of Covid-19, making their life They originally hail from have nothing to eat now, we suffered a fracture on his Temp: 39/24 a constant struggle. states like West Bengal and just want to go back at our left leg. Humidity: 43% Though authorities and Uttar Pradesh. native place, the government As Rajampet S-I is on leave Sunrise: 06:00 am NGOs have made arrange- One of the labourers, who should made arrangements for due to some emergency, the Sunset: 06:32 pm ments for their food, most of did not reveal his name, said, us.” CI reported for work on Current Weather Conditions them want to go back to their NGOs and local residents are Tuesday with his leg still in Updated April 14, 2020 5:00 PM native places to escape the providing food to migrant 3 a cast. VIJAYAWADA | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15, 2020 vijayawada 02

rom the time Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao, in Fhis press meet on April 11, Quantitative Easing and Helicopter Money mentioned “Quantitative Easing” (QE) and “Helicopter way to counter the impending Expert, Kimberly Amadeo, the monetary policy tool aimed at some instances, they have Money”, the words have recession is through According to USA Economy Expert, president of World Money bringing a flagging economy added to pressures and volatil- become so popular that even Quantitative Easing (QE) and Watch, Japan was the first to back on track. American econ- ity for EMs, complicating laypersons have started talking the effective use of helicopter Kimberly Amadeo, the president of use QE from 2001 to 2006. The omist Milton Friedman coined macro-economic management, about them. money. This approach is being World Money Watch, Japan was the US Federal Reserve undertook this term. Friedman used the and the impact has depended KCR had said: "In this criti- followed by all major central the most successful QE effort in term to signify "unexpectedly significantly on the global cal time, we should think of a banks of the world. QE pro- first to use QE from 2001 to 2006. The 2008, adding almost $2 trillion dumping money onto a strug- macroeconomic situation as solution and QE is the only way posed should be at least 5% of US Federal Reserve undertook the to the money supply. That’s the gling economy with the inten- well as the situation in partic- the country will be out of this GDP of the country. The 2019- most successful QE effort in 2008 largest expansion from any tion to shock it out of a deep ular countries. crisis.” He added that since 20 GDP of India is 203.85 lakh- economic stimulus program slump." QE has its own advantages money comes as aid from the crore and the QE at 5% works in history. The European QE also involves the use of and disadvantages in the sky, it is called helicopter out to be Rs 10.15 lakh-crore”. QE can fuel economic tory. The end of QE may be Central Bank adopted QE in printed money by central banks Indian context. In an economy money and generally central QE, also known as large- growth since money funnelled deflationary. January 2015 after seven years to buy government bonds. But like the present Indian sce- reserve banks resort to this scale asset purchases, is a mon- into the economy allows peo- The goal of QE policies is to of austerity measures. not everyone views the money nario and the possible VANAM JWALA NARASIMHA RAO QE stimulates economic used in QE as helicopter impending crisis, it enables method to revive the etary policy whereby a coun- ple to comfortably make pur- boost economic activity by CPRO to Telangana Chief Minister economies of countries in large try’s central bank, like the chases. This can have a trickle- providing liquidity to the finan- growth, although it didn't money. It's not the same as adequate money into circula- economic crises. , buys down effect on both the con- cial system. But QE may cause achieve the goal of making bond-buying by central banks tion. It ensures brisk econom- KCR wrote to Prime predetermined amounts of gov- sumer and business communi- higher inflation than desired if cause inflation through QE more credit available. "in which bank-owned assets ic activity, increases purchas- Minister Narendra Modi soon ernment bonds or other finan- ties, leading to increased stock the amount of easing required without economic growth, Helicopter money is the are swapped for new central ing power, facilitates reserve of after the Cabinet meeting held cial assets in order to pump market performance and GDP is overestimated and too much causing a period of so-called term used for a large sum of bank reserves." Helicopter enough money with the gov- that day. In his letter, he said: money directly into the econ- growth. The problem is that the money is created by the pur- stagflation. QE has been nick- new money that is printed and money is also different from a ernment and enhancement of “All over the world, the central omy. It is a monetary policy money created through QE is chase of liquid assets. QE may named "printing money" by a distributed among the public, central bank directly financing borrowing capacity as well as banks have taken very bold established by central banks in used to buy government bonds fail to spur demand if banks section of the media, central to stimulate the economy dur- the debt of a government. spending power. The disad- measures to counter the glob- which newly-created money from the financial markets. remain reluctant to lend money bankers, and financial ana- ing a recession or when inter- According to Arvind vantage is, in consonance with al recession which is worse than is used to buy state debts and The newly-created money to businesses and households. lysts. With QE, the newly cre- est rates fall to zero. It is also Subramanian former Economic the money in circulation, if the the Great Depression of 1929 once the period of QE ends, therefore may go directly into If central banks increase the ated money is usually used to referred to as a helicopter drop, Advisor to Prime Minister, QE production is not increased, and global financial crisis of these capital flows reverse, the financial markets, boosting money supply, it can cause buy financial assets other than in reference to a helicopter scat- has generally had a positive not only the purchase capaci- 2008. Distressed times need leaving behind a stock of bond and stock markets near- inflation. In a worst-case sce- government bonds. tering supplies from the sky. impact on emerging markets ty falls down but also leads to desperate measures. The only unpayable debts. ly to their highest level in his- nario, the central bank may According to USA Economy This is an unconventional and the global economy. But in inflation. RISE IN CORONA CASES Second phase of ration FEAR PSYCHOSIS GRIPS distribution from April 16 n PNS VIJAYAWADA Minister for Endowments Velampalli Vegetables are being distrib- Srinivas said that with timely action of uted to one lakh families in Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy, PEOPLE IN GUNTUR DIST West constituency for the past 11 days, disclosed Minister the number of Covid–19 positive cases Governor pays PNS n GUNTUR number one in the State push- said that one person belong- for Endowments Velampalli in the State is contained. Though the ing Kurnool district to second ing to Narayanapuram in Srinivas. State is in dire straits, all schemes are tributes to Fear psychosis gripped people place. Dachepalli mandal died of Addressing the media here in Guntur district with the Three cases have Coronavirus. He used to work on Tuesday, the minister laud- being implemented without delay rise in Covid-19 positive n The district ranked been reported from as an electrician. There were ed the services of medical, Ambedkar cases. The district adminis- number one in the State Dachepalli, no known Coronavirus cases paramedical, police, ward/vil- leader N Chandrababu Naidu PNS n VIJAYAWADA tration is geared up and taking with 90 cases pushing Narasaraopet and in the locality. A door-to- lage volunteers. He said that was trying to politicise the sit- preventive measures to Kurnool district to second place Ponnuru. One of door survey is being under- YSRCP activists are also serv- uation to gain mileage, while Governor Biswa Bushan combating the virus. the deceased had taken to find if there is any ing people in the hour of cri- MLC Buddha Venkanna, MP Harichandan paid glowing It is learnt that the n In all, 53 persons contracted the worked as an person suffering from such sis. Kesineni Srinivas and MLA tributes to Baba Saheb BR medical and health offi- virus due to coming in contact assistant to a cable symptoms. The minister said that with Gadde Ramamohana Rao, too, Ambedkar on his birth cials are clueless how two per- with nine persons, who TV operator in Another person in Ponnur timely action of Chief Minister are walking in their leader’s anniversary in a programme sons from , who returned to Guntur Narasaraopet. He tested positive for the virus in YS Jaganmohan Reddy, the footsteps. He alleged that TDP at the Raj Bhavan here on died in a gap of two or three district from Delhi used to live in spite of having no Markaz number of Covid–19 positive leaders are trying to provoke Tuesday. He offered floral days, and another person in Varavakatta locality links. In all, 53 persons con- cases in the state is contained. people while the whole nation tributes to Dr BR Ambedkar Ponnuru, contracted the and visited door-to-door to tracted the virus due to com- Though the State is in dire is gripped in fear due to by garlanding his portrait. Coronavirus since none of collect cable bill. ing into contact with nine per- straits, all schemes are being Covid–19. Speaking on the occasion, he their family members did not The authorities are work- sons, who returned to the dis- implemented without delay. Earlier, the minister paid flo- said the nation is grateful to go either overseas or Delhi to ing on from whom he could trict from Delhi. From April 16, second phase ral tributes to Dr BR Ambedkar for giving the best attend religious congregation. plexing the have contracted the virus. Are Of the 17 cases reported ration will be distributed to the Ambedkar on his 129th birth Constitution in the world How many people should health department. Besides there any other who have from district on Saturday, 10 poor, he informed. anniversary at Tummalapalli Minister for Endowments and he will always remain in have been affected in Palnadu officials, people living in the been suffering from the persons belonging to a same He alleged that opposition Kalakshetram. Velampalli Srinivas the hearts of people as a and Ponnuru regions and what vicinity of where the three Covid-19 symptoms, they are family contracted the virus. The leader, who dedicated his life is the source of infection are people lived are living in a grip pondering. cases include children in the for uplift of the poor. the two factors that are per- of fear. The district ranked Gurajala DSP Sriharibabu age group of 6, 7 and 8 years. TikTok video lands Hyd Bihar migrant worker ends NSTL recalls services Legal metrology imposes man in police lockup life in Hyd PNS n HYDERABAD labourers, including women PNS n HYDERABAD of Ambedkar to nation sitting near a toddy shop. He fine on erring traders He wanted to become a distributed the liquor he was Depressed over his inability to PNS n VISAKHAPATNAM PNS n KALIDINDI official for Gudivada region T TikTok celebrity by distribut- carrying among seven per- go home, a migrant worker Consumers feel Ramanjaneyulu warned traders ing liquor during the lock- sons. from Bihar committed suicide The Naval Science and Legal Metrology department that the number of of imposing fine and registering down period and by posting Kumar told police that he in Hyderabad, police said. Technological Laboratory officials conducted raids on 60 cases against them if they found the video online but this land- wanted to help daily wage Mohammed Amir (24) ended (NSTL) celebrated the 129th shops selling essential com- cases registered violating the government order ed him behind bars. labourers experiencing with- his life by hanging in his rent- birth anniversary of the chief modities and registered cases against traders is on prices. He appealed to peo- Hyderabad excise police drawal symptoms. He said a ed room in Uppal on Monday. architect of the Constitution against 16 shops for discrepan- normal as ple to convey news of traders arrested a 29-year-old man few days ago, he saw a woman The incident came to light and freedom fighter Dr BR equality, democracy, liberty cies in prices and imposed a fine information is violating the rules to the depart- and his associate for distribut- falling unconscious after not after Amir's friend went to his Ambedkar in a simple manner and fraternity. Paying rich of Rs 35,000 on erring shop- ment and promised to keep their ing liquor among daily wage getting the toddy. The accused room after receiving a call here on Tuesday. Floral trib- tributes, Dr Nandagopan said keepers from April 1 to 12. being passed by information under wraps. labourers on Sunday at were booked under various from his family members in utes were paid to Dr that Dr Ambedkar was a role The State government has one trader in one There are no major deviations Champapet in Hyderabad. Sections of Indian Penal Code Bihar that he was not respond- Ambedkar by officers and model for all, and that one fixed prices of essential com- region to another in the sale price of Sona Masuri Kumar had uploaded the and Telangana Excise Act and ing to calls on his mobile staff of the laboratory. Officers should always strive to emu- modities, vegetables and asked rice, BPT rice, wheat flour but video on TikTok and some produced him before the mag- phone. According to police, the and staff of NSTL, members of late the multifaceted leader. traders against selling the food trader in another the variation is high in respect other social media platforms. istrate, later, he was sent to jail. youth working as a vehicle the NSTL Civil Employees He described Ambedkar as items at higher prices than the region of red gram (selling at Rs 110 as A TikTok enthusiast, he was As all liquor shops denting mechanic was upset as Union, Works Committee, SC an idol for all - a legal lumi- government fixed rates. It threat- against government price of Rs inspired by a similar remained closed in he could not go home and he and ST Employees Welfare nary, economist, scholar, ened to file cases against them, 90 a kg), groundnut (Rs 75 video posted in Telangana since the had no money to pay the Union participated in the pro- politician and social reformer, if found violating the orders. ber of cases registered against against Rs 65 a kg), sugar (sells Punjab. "He did all lockdown began, room rent. Amir was sharing gramme. a linguist, who was well versed Officials in their raids traders is normal as information between Rs 45 and 50 a kg as this to go viral on some addicts have the room with one Azeem, who Dr OR Nandagopan, in nine languages - a tall observed that traders are selling is being passed by one trader in against Rs 42 a kg), palmolein oil social media and developed withdrawal also hails from Bihar. Azeem Outstanding Scientist and leader, and a worthy son of the rice, pulses, edible oil, red gram, one region to another trader in sells at Rs 100 a litre as against become popular on symptoms. The State had gone to Bihar on March 13. Director NSTL, recalled the country. He exhorted scientists sugar, bengal gram and other another region. As a result, the fixed price of Rs 88. video sharing plat- government, however, Amir was left alone and was contributions of the visionary and staff of NSTL to re-dedi- commodities at higher rates prices cannot be held under Sunflower oil is being sold at Rs form," an official has ruled out allowing stranded with no money after leader in building an indepen- cate themselves to the cause of than the government fixed rates. check. 120 a kg as against Rs 95 and said. The two saw sale of liquor during the announcement of lock- dent India, on the principles of the nation. Consumers feel that the num- Legal metrology department 100. some daily wage the lockdown. down on March 23. Scientists confirm smell, taste loss as early signs of Covid-19 No passenger train INS n NEW YORK "Based on our study, if you concerns regarding potential more than 70 per cent had Covid-19 infection, who reported improvement of Several people lost their sense have smell and taste loss, you underwent testing at UC San smell at the time of the sur- services till May 3 of smell or taste weeks ago are more than 10 times more Diego Health from March 3 vey and of those who hadn't PNS n VIJAYAWADA all passenger train services, globally and are still waiting for likely to have Covid-19 through March 29, 2020. reported improvement, including premium trains, it to come back and now, Within that total, 102 many had only been diag- The South Central Railways, mail/express trains, passenger researchers have identified an infection than other causes of patients tested positive for nosed recently," she added. Vijayawada Division, has trains, suburban trains, Kolkata association between sensory infection. The most common the virus and 1,378 tested Sensory return typically informed that all ticket counters Metro Rail and Konkan loss and novel Coronavirus first sign of a Covid-19 negative. The study includ- matched the timing of dis- for booking, including UTS & Railway shall continue to infection, indicating that loss of ed responses from 59 Covid- ease recovery. PRS, will remain suspended till remain cancelled till May 3,” smell and taste may be consid- infection remains fever, but 19-positive patients and 203 In an effort to decrease the further orders. In a release on says the release. ered as early symptoms of the fatigue and loss of smell and Covid-19-negative patients. risk of virus transmission, Tuesday, they informed that To ensure the essential sup- deadly disease. taste follow as other very Encouragingly, the rate of UC San Diego Health now there is no advance reservation plies in various parts of the Interestingly, the study also recovery of smell and taste includes loss of smell and for train tickets, including e- country, movement of goods found that persons, who common initial symptoms," was high and occurred usu- taste as a screening require- tickets, till further orders, how- and parcel trains will continue. reported experiencing a sore explained study researcher ally within two to four weeks ment for visitors and staff, as ever, the facility of online can- All counters for ticket booking throat more often tested neg- Carol Yan from UC San Diego of infection. "Our study not well as a marker for testing cellation will remain function- for UTS and PRS will remain ative for Covid-19. The team only showed that the high patients who may be positive al. closed till further orders. from University of California- incidence of smell and taste for the virus. “Full refund for reservation With regard to the refund for San Diego found high preva- "Based on our study, if you have smell and taste follow as other be aware of smell and taste loss is specific to Covid-19 infec- "It is our hope that with made for the trains cancelled. the trains cancelled up to May lence and unique presentation smell and taste loss, you are very common initial symp- as early signs of Covid-19," Yan tion but we fortunately also these findings other institu- A full refund will also be there 3, in case of e-Tickets, refunds of certain sensory impairments more than 10 times more like- toms," explained study added. For the findings, pub- found that for the majority tions will follow suit and not for those cancelling the advance would be automatically remit- in patients positive with Covid- ly to have Covid-19 infection researcher Carol Yan from UC lished in the journal of people sensory recovery only list smell and taste loss bookings of tickets for trains ted by the railways through 19. than other causes of infection. San Diego. International Forum of Allergy was generally rapid," said as a symptom of Covid-19, not yet cancelled. In continua- online for those who booked Of those who reported a loss The most common first sign of "We know Covid-19 is an and Rhinology, the research Yan. but use it as a screening mea- tion of the measures taken in across the counters, a refund of smell and taste, the loss was a Covid-19 infection remains extremely contagious virus. team surveyed 1,480 patients "Among the Covid-19 sure for the virus across the the wake of Covid-19 lock- can be taken up to 3 months typically profound, not mild. fever, but fatigue and loss of This study supports the need to with flu-like symptoms and patients with smell loss, world," Yan said. down, it has been decided that from the date of journey.

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Printed and published by B Prasad for and on behalf of CMYK Printech Ltd., Printed at Sree Seshasai Enterprises, D.No. New 3-88, Old 3-22, Chandra Theatre, Gosala, Penamaluru Mandal, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh - 521 151, Resident Editor: B Krishna Prasad, AIR SURCHARGE of Rs 2.00. VIJAYAWADA | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15, 2020 vijayawada 03

y all accounts, AP Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan BReddy believes that Jagan’s decision on SEC has set off a hidden caste conflict everyone in the state, includ- ing Constitutional agencies, Covid-19 is spread- exemption to travel, what opposed by the opposition, Ordinance has also drawn should carry out his wish- ing its tentacles In 1983, the prevailing political about the quarantine? irrespective of their strength in severe criticism. Many people es, even if means that across the state. vacuum due to the absence of a strong Justice Kanakaraj travelled the legislature. opine that it was not the right orders to this extent are Ramesh Kumar’s from Tamil Nadu, a state that M. , in the time to approve the Ordinance. scrutinised by Courts. removal has naturally opposition party came in handy for has reported the second high- early 1980s, questioned the Interestingly the Ordinance The Ordinance cur- irked the powerful NTR to end the almost uninterrupted est number of Covid-19 cases, propriety of the then govern- now being challenged in the tailing the tenure of the PIN Kamma commu- and his age makes him the ment headed by NTR in issu- court of law by Kamineni State Election POINT nity which had ruled the rule of the Reddy community most vulnerable to the infec- ing ordinances. It may appear Srinivas, a BJP leader. Srinivas Commissioner, has sent state for more than two tion. Were all precautions to be trivial for the younger claims that he has the permis- shockwaves among the peo- decades. The Kammas have taken before allowing him into generation now, but Venkaiah’s sion of his party high com- ple, coming as it did at a time been a dominant force ever of the Reddy community. the face of Kamma communi- AP? stand received prominent cov- mand to challenge the ordi- the world is grappling with the since the redoubtable NT From the time the viable ty. This arrangement has con- It may be mentioned here erage in the print media. nance. It’s quite amusing to see Coronavirus pandemic. Rama Rao established the political alternative came into tinued over the last few M D RATNA KUMAR that some YSRCP leaders have Jagan had earlier made a BJP leader moving court It’s not just this ordinance Telugu Desam Party. being in AP, the two powerful decades. Senior Journalist been insisting that moves to abolish the Legislative against an Ordinance that was that has stoked a row, Jagan’s Till then, the Reddy com- castes of and Reddy have held Coming back to the SEC's Chandrababu Naidu, stranded Council for not toeing his line. approved by a Governor who earlier move to appoint gov- munity had been well- fort in the state. This essential- removal, Jagan's decision of the post during lockdown in Hyderabad due to the lock- Interestingly, his father, late YS has been appointed at the erning bodies for various uni- entrenched in politics. The ly meant that either of these appears to be hasty, while cal- has raised many questions. down, would have to be quar- Rajasekhara Reddy had made behest of the BJP-led govern- versities also raised many eye- Kamma community had to two castes dominated the polit- culated at the same time. The How did a septuagenarian antined for 14 days if he did strenuous efforts for revival of ment at the Centre. brows. wait for nearly three decades ical scenario in the state. By timing of the ordinance raised travel from Chennai to enter AP at this juncture. the Council in 2007, three While everybody may agree Jagan got Nimmagadda for the right time to make its virtue of an unspoken under- many an eyebrow, and ques- Vijayawada when total lock- The Ordinance itself is being years after he assumed office in that the role of a Governor Ramesh Kumar removed from presence felt, and the process standing, the ruling caste used tions, due to the Coronavirus down was in place? What was considered to be an undemo- undivided AP. should be apolitical, it’s wide- the post of SEC by amending started by its dominance over to select a few key faces to play crisis. his mode of travel? What hap- cratic act. Public interest However, his son opted to ly accepted that these days, the the Panchayati Raj Act, thus the Telugu film industry in the a prominent role in the govern- In such a serious situation, pened to the rule of sending should be the ultimate goal in follow the footsteps of NTR post is considered to be a sys- paving the way for Governor 1950s. ment. In the Chandrababu the appointment of retired any person crossing one state promulgating any ordinance (with his decision to abolish tem of safeguarding the inter- Biswabhushan Harichandan In 1983, the prevailing polit- Naidu regime, a few prominent Justice Kanakaraj as the new to another to quarantine? and it should be acceptable to the Council) with whom YSR ests of the party ruling at the to appoint a new man in the ical vacuum due to the absence Reddy faces catered to the SEC has stunned political cir- Aren’t rules applicable to all as all, including the opposition. had crossed swords throughout Centre. This was one of the seat. The move has unleashed of a strong opposition party needs of their community; in cles as well as general public. per law? Or are some persons While for the ruling party, his political career. reasons NTR had strongly a caste conflict just beneath the came in handy for NTR to end Jagan’s government, Kodali Sri Getting the 74-year-old like judges and retired judges promulgating an Ordinance Also, the way Governor advocated for abolition of the surface of AP politics, at a time the almost uninterrupted rule Venkateswar Rao alias is retired judge to assume charge exempt? Even if there is an is a sign of power, it is always Harichandan approved the Governor system.

GOVT HIDING CORONA STATUS REPORT: TDP Three injured as migrant Jagan’s bid to paint Vizag as green zone unwarranted: Uma labourers pelt stones at police PNS n VIJAYAWADA n Vijayawada and Guntur districts are included n PNS ANANTAPUR TDP senior leader and for- under green zone, mer minister Devineni Uma Devineni Uma said Gooty Circle Inspector and AP pilgrims’ SOS to CM Maheswara Rao on Tuesday two constables sustained charged the YSRCP govern- charging Chief Minister minor injuries on Tuesday as PNS n CHITTOOR government for support to ment with hiding Corona sta- YS Jaganmohan Reddy migrant labourers from enable them to reach their tus report of Visakhapatnam with hatching a plan to Madhya Pradesh and Uttar A group of 80 pilgrims from native places. district so as to paint it as a relocate the capital to Pradesh lodged in SKD Chittoor, who went to Ajmer They all belong to Chittoor, green zone as part of a plan to Visakhapatnam by April Engineering College at Gooty in Rajasthan, appealed to Tirupati, Pakala, relocate the capital to 28 paying heed to the pelted stones and chappals at Chief Minister YS Damalachervuu and Kalluru Visakhapatnam by April 28. advice of a seer the police demanding that Jaganmohan Reddy help in Chittoor district. The Speaking to the media here the authorities to release comeback to their respective Muslim pilgrims, who have on Tuesday, he alleged that the laboratories and conducting n The facts about spread them from quarantine centre. places. been taking shelter in a choul- Coronavirus testing is not number of tests in the State. of Coronavirus in the Stating that they have com- The pilgrims were strand- try, said that money with proper in Visakhapatnam to He said that results of about State are brushed under pleted 14 day quarantine ed in Rajasthan and taking them completely exhausted. project it as the green zone. 300 reports were kept under a carpet, Uma said and period at the facility, the shelter in a choultry. The The pilgrim narrated their Vijayawada and Guntur dis- wraps for the past several days. questioned the rationale migrant workers demanded group includes women, elder- tale of woes to the district tricts are included under green Furthermore, he alleged that behind the government that the police make arrange- ly and children. They set out police, but there was no zone, he said charging Chief the State government had not increasing the testing ments to send them back to for Ajmer dargah pilgrimage response, they said. Therefore, Minister YS Jaganmohan planned to conduct local body their native places. When the police tried to attacked the police with on March 13. they appealed to the Reddy hatching a plan to relo- elections in five days if the laboratories Tension prevailed at the pacify them saying that they chappals and stones. On account of declaring Jaganmohan Reddy for inter- cate the state capital to Centre were to lift the lock- quarantine centre as the have no powers to release As the migrant workers lockdown suddenly, pilgrims vention so that they can safe- Visakhapatnam by April 28 down on Tuesday. problems of people to the migrant labourers refused to them till the District did not relent, police had to said they were pushed into ly go back to their respective paying heed to the advice of a He demanded that the gov- notice of the government. touch food till they are sent Collector ordered their disperse them by resorting to troubles. They appealed to the places. swamiji. ernment produce facts about He accused the government back to their respective places. release, the migrant workers lathi-charge. Hence, the facts about money spent to create isolation of threatening to resort to spread of Coronavirus in the wards in the State. physical attacks on him by State are brushed under a car- He accused the CM of mak- withdrawing gunmen. pet, he said. He questioned the ing his Cabinet colleagues It was high-time the govern- Govt prohibits blood Indian Navy ensures 24x7 rationale behind the govern- blame the Opposition as the ment focussed on reining in ment not increasing the testing TDP is trying to take the Coronavirus, he said. donation during lockdown operations from Vizag Airfield PNS n VIJAYAWADA tion programmes, the government has PNS n VISAKHAPATNAM ty services and airfield facilities contin- Donations pour said it prohibited the donation of blood ued to be available. This ensured that all Naidu urges Palaniswami The government on Tuesday banned in the State. With the nationwide lockdown to pre- special flights, as well as, the cargo flight in to CMRF blood donation programmes in the However, it gave some relaxation vent spread of virus during the ongoing of SpiceJet continued its operations PNS n VIJAYAWADA State in view of the spread of keeping in mind the blood needs Covidd-19 pandemic, INS Dega of unhindered. So far, 15 sorties of the cargo to provide relief to AP Coronavirus. of patients suffering from Eastern Naval Command (ENC) flight have operated since the lockdown Donations are pouring in to The medical, health and fam- talassemia, sickle cell anemia, ensured that the joint-user airfield at has been enforced. Furthermore, the the Chief Minister Relief ily welfare department on Tuesday haemophilia and so on. Visakhapatnam remains open round- Indian Navy continued to maintain its stranded workers in TN Fund (CMRF) to support issued a statement in this regard. However, it asked officials to take the-clock. operational vigil carrying out regular the fight against Covid-19. Fearing that the virus will spread as necessary action upon scrutiny of iden- The manning of the airfield has been Maritime Surveillance missions by day PNS n VIJAYAWADA The Sea Food Exports many would take part in the blood dona- tity cards given to patients by hospitals. modified to ensure that all requisite safe- and night. Association of India (AP Opposition leader N region) has donated Rs 8.60 Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday crore to the CMRF. appealed to the Tamil Nadu gov- Association president A Indra ernment and the Centre to Kumar, Minister Mopidevi Modi extends lockdown... 28 Telugu extend relief measures to the Venkataramana and others Naidu hails decision... 1,500 construction and industri- were present on the occasion. Continued from Page 1 omy and livelihoods of lakhs of students reach Continued from Page 1 India as the first 1,000 cases were al workers hailing from Andhra The migrant workers triggered home from Italy reported in 59 days, the second Pradesh, who were stranded in Limited (RIL) and Reliance The lockdown that came into severe concerns following which Addressing a press conference in seven days and the third in Chennai city and surrounding Foundation have contributed effect on March 25 was to expire a number of chief ministers in Continued from Page 1 online, Naidu said that the two days with total reaching areas. a sum of Rs 5 crore to the on midnight of April 14. The their video conference with whole world is shaken in this 10,450 now. Naidu expressed Naidu wrote separate letters to on stranded in Chief Ministers' Relief Fund drastic measure shone the spot- Modi on Saturday sought some Learning about the travails battle against the invisible enemy concern over the economic Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K Tamil Nadu. In addition to the (CMRF) to support the gov- light on the miseries of lakhs of kind of relaxation for a number of the students. Union Minister even as 20 lakh people contract- blow which has led to a spectre Palaniswami and Union Home earlier list of Telugu people, ernment in its fight against migrant workers whose jour- of sectors. Late last month, the of State for Home G Kishan ed virus globally till date, while of socioeconomic and psycho- Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla, some more AP workers were Covid-19. neys on foot from several urban government announced a Rs 1.7 Reddy and officials brought 1.15 lakh patients had lost their logical problems that require thanking them for taking stranded in Tamil Nadu. At pre- The RIL has created coun- centres to their villages hundreds lakh crore package aimed at pro- their problems to the notice of lives. Had Modi not announced people a lot of courage and dis- prompt and swift action in pro- sent, around 1,500 construction try’s first Covid-19 facility of kilometres away grabbed viding relief to those hit hard by the Central and state govern- lockdown-1, India's positive cipline to successfully stand viding relief to stranded Telugu and industrial workers from and addressing the challenge headlines for many days last the lockdown as well as an insur- ments. The officials took mea- cases would have gone up, he against the 'unknown killer'. people following his earlier let- Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, of increasing the national month. ance cover for healthcare profes- sures for the safe travel of the said. Even a superpower like the US ter dated April 7. Now, the Visakhapatnam and Prakasam capacity for testing, masks, The catastrophic effect of the sionals handling virus infected bus carrying students to The TDP chief said infection is fully shaken and not able to extended lockdown till May 3 districts were stranded in and PPE and other critical equip- lockdown on the overall econ- people. Vijayawada. transmission is very rapid in handle Coronavirus, he said. has further increased the burden around Chennai. ment. Thousands of Relief for Indians as US Protest over Classes for SSC migrant... cremation... 2 deaths, 44 new Continued from Page 1 students on Saptagiri allows H-1B extension Continued from Page 1 Another labourer, Abdul Continued from Page 1 communities, and is consider- PNS n VIJAYAWADA Covid-19 cases... Kayyum, said, “I am in ing a number of policies and A small coordination gap Continued from Page 1 Mumbai for last many years but The announcement comes procedures to improve the has occurred", she said. As the lockdown was extended Implement have never seen such a situa- at a time when countries employment opportunities of The government has till May 3, Class X exams in the In the third round of survey, tion. The government should around the world have closed US workers during this pan- already informed the dis- State cannot be conducted now, 1.45 crore houses were covered lockdown start trains to shift us from here their borders and all interna- demic," it said. trict collectors about the disclosed Minister for Education and 22,272 symptomatic cases norms: Jagan to our native place." Heavy tional passenger flights have Generally, non-immigrants procedures to be followed, Adimulapu Suresh here on were identified. police deployment was made at been suspended globally. The must depart the Rajesh said, adding, "we Tuesday. The minister said that Of these, 6,509 persons were Continued from Page 1 the protest site to tackle any travel restrictions have left a before their authorised period will reinforce them again". as per the instruction of Chief kept in home quarantine and untoward incident. number of H-1B visa holders of admission expires, it said. The doctor who contract- Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy, another eight in institutional He instructed the officials to stranded in the US with Non-immigrants could ed coronavirus from a lessons are being taught through quarantine, the government minimise the public gatherings their visa permits soon to apply for an extension of stay Tablighi Jamaat attendee the Saptagiri Channel to the stu- data said. and ensure essential goods are Suspension of expire. However, the DHS will (EOS) or change of status was first admitted to a gov- dents of Class X. are viewing the programme, Another 243 samples were delivered in hotspots and red shortly start accepting applica- (COS) permit. Without a visa ernment hospital in Nellore, Lessons will be telecasted the same session is made avail- sent for further testing. zones. Jagan instructed the darshan at Tirumala... tions for the extension of extension, thousands of stu- about 175 km from here, both in the morning and able on YouTube for students, While the government officials to ensure that aqua Continued from Page 1 expiring visas. "We recognise dents and professionals in the and later shifted to the cor- evening session on Saptagiri who miss the session, and 1.5 opened 338 quarantine centres products are purchased at the that non-immigrants may US would have suffered. porate hospital on April 6. Channel from 10 am to 11 am lakh students had viewed the across the state, 5,864 persons price fixed by the Marine It may be recalled that over unexpectedly remain in the If applicants put in their He was a diabetic and and 4 pm to 5 pm. Through session on YouTube, he said. were accommodated in them. Products Export Development the instructions of Govern- United States beyond their forms within the specified time also suffered from hyper- Vidyamrutam programme, stu- He appealed to parents to The government also opened Authority (MPEDA) and ment, TTD had imposed a total authorised period of stay due frame, their presence will not be tension. dents will be taught how to pre- motivate their children to view one state-level Covid-19 hospi- processing units and exports are suspension of Srivari darshan to Covid-19,” the DHS said. taken as "unlawful" and where Tamil Nadu has so far pare for examinations and the sessions telecasted on the tal each in Chittoor, Krishna, functional. Ordinance on seed for pilgrims in Tirumala tem- "We continue to carefully applicable, employment autho- reported 11 fatalities due to lessons will be explained. Saptagiri Channel. Sessions are Nellore and Visakhapatnam but and feed would be brought in so ple till April 14. This has been analyse these issues and to risation with the same employ- the virus while the cumula- Teachers from Social Welfare, planned in a systematic way they have not yet been readied that the sector is stabilised, he extended till May 3. As a result, leverage our resources to effec- er, subject to the same terms and tive total of those infected Tribal Welfare, Backward Class through a Steering Committee to their full capacity. added. All the required facilities all kainkaryams will continue tively address these challenges conditions of the prior approval, as on Monday stood at Welfare and Minorities Welfare of higher officials. While the government pro- should be provided in to be performed in temples as within our existing authorities. is automatically extended for up 1,173. departments were selected for The minister appealed to visioned for 444 ventilators in quarantine centres and quality per the agamas in Ekantam, The DHS also continues to to 240 days when an extension Of these, 31 of were chil- the programme and a trial run teachers, who wish to teach these four hospitals, only 335 are food supplied for quarantined according to a press release take action to protect the of stay request is filed on time," dren below the age of 10, was also held, said the minister. classes can send a two-minute available now, with 332 (out of people, said the Chief Minister. issued here on Tuesday. American people and our the notification said. the government said. As many as five lakh students video clipping. 444) ICU beds. VIJAYAWADA | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15, 2020 nation 04 Need to endure hardships today SHORT READS No demurrage, ground usage for better tomorrow: Naidu charges till May 3: Rlys PNS n NEW DELHI Hours after Prime Minister PNS n NEW DELHI Narendra Modi announced Demurrage charges extension of coronavirus lock- Indian Railways on Tuesday are levied for the down till May 3, Vice President Extended lockdown will said that it will not charge any detention of any M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday further increase demurrage, wharfage, stacking, said the country needs to rolling stock after the sufferings of poor: CPI-M stabling, detention and ground expiry of free time, if endure some hardship today usage charges till May 3 for for a better tomorrow. any, allowed for such NEW DELHI: The CPI(M) on those using its freight services "It's upon us to decide the Tuesday said the extended in view of the extension of the detention. Wharfage duration of this fight. We need lockdown till May 3 would lockdown period. is the charge levied to endure some hardship today further increase the sufferings These charges were previ- on goods for not for a better tomorrow. It is now of the poor and marginalised ously waived off till April 14. removing them from in the hands of the people and benefit of these sections includ- and accused the government Prime Minister Narendra all concerned to ensure desired ing farmers and farm workers," People should of not laying down any Modi on Tuesday announced the railway after the results from 'lockdown 2.0'," he the vice president said. realise that final concrete plans for this that the lockdown across the expiry of the free said in a series of tweets. People should realise that exit from lockdown duration. "The experience of country will be extended till May time for such removal He appealed to the people to final exit from lockdown the three-week lockdown has 3 to fight the coronavirus pan- rise to the occasion with depends on how well we depends on how shown the large-scale spread demic, saying the measure has It further said that the com- charge in case of container traf- enhanced commitment to beat behave during these testing well we behave of hunger and inadequate produced a significant outcome petent authority has decided fic shall arise for this period." been running its freight services the challenge of the virus. times to contain the behaviour during these shelter for a significant in containing the infection. that this period shall be treated Demurrage charges are non-stop carrying essential com- "PM's announcement is the and spread of the virus. section of our people. It is These charges were already under "force majeure and none levied for the detention of any modities across the country. best possible course in the He said it highlights the wide- testing times to imperative that the waived off by the ministry of the charges for demurrage, rolling stock after the expiry of From April 1 to April 12, to given circumstances. PM has ly-held view that there is no contain the government must immediately during the period when the 21 wharfage, stacking, stabling, free time, if any, allowed for ensure kitchens in homes keep duly articulated concerns about room for complacency even as behaviour and implement a Rs. 7500 ex- day lockdown was in force. demurrage in case of such detention. Wharfage is running and farmers keep get- livelihoods of vulnerable sec- our country did well so far and gratia cash transfer to all non- Treating the period till May privately/jointly owned stock, the charge levied on goods for ting support, railways had trans- tions assuring that they will be the gains of 'lockdown 1.0' need spread of the virus Income Tax paying families 3 as force majeure — unforsee- demurrage on parcel traffic, not removing them from the ported 36724 wagons-foodgrain, taken care of in the best possi- to be sustained. "The prime min- and resort to universal able circumstances – the rail- wharfage on parcel traffic, railway after the expiry of the 861 wagons-sugar, 1753 wagons- ble way. I fondly hope the gov- ister's announcement today other stakeholders at this stage distribution of free foodgrains ways had waived off the detention charge in case of con- free time for such removal. salt 606 tanks-edible oil & 14317 ernments will formulate and extending the lockdown reflects of our collective fight against to all needy people. The charges. tainer traffic and ground usage The national transporter has wagons-fertilizer. execute necessary measures for the concerns of the people and coronavirus," Naidu said. central government must ensure that no starvation deaths occur," the party said in a statement. It further said that Prime Minister Narendra Majority of COVID-19 fatalities Testing should be intensified in Bengal, not Modi did not lay down any plan of action that would be implemented during the in Delhi reported at RML lockdown. "The prime getting enough samples: NICED director minister listed seven tasks PNS n NEW DELHI that the people should PNS n KOLKATA "We must also start con- implement during the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, ducting door-to-door tests in extended lockdown. However, one of the nodal facilities to Screening and testing should be Bengal, which has a dense pop- he did not spell out concretely combat the coronavirus, has intensified to ascertain if there ulation. This will help us get a what the government will do," reported the most number of has been any case of communi- clearer picture on the degree of it said. India has reported COVID-19 fatalities in Delhi, ty transmission of COVID-19 the contamination," she said. over 10,000 COVID-19 cases official data showed Tuesday. in West Bengal, Shanta Dutta, "If we were to compare, the and 339 deaths so far. Till Sunday, 12 of the 24 director of the National Institute number of tests conducted in deaths had taken place at RML of Cholera and Enteric Diseases other states is far higher than Hospital, the data showed. (NICED), said on Tuesday. what it is here... it's a state sub- 7 new COVID-19 cases Three deaths took place at Expressing her dissatisfaction ject and the government has to LNJP Hospital, five at private over testing being conducted take a call on this," she said, detected in Nagpur hospitals, and one each at only on those who have acute adding that her institute is NAGPUR: Seven new patients Safdarjung Hospital, Rajiv symptoms or the ones who have ready to help the ruling dispen- have tested positive for COVID- Gandhi Super Speciality pitals at an advanced stage and have“significant comorbidities come in contact with COVID- sation in this regard, if 19 in Nagpur in Maharashtra, Hospital and AIIMS-Jhajjhar. had significant comorbidities," are faring very well”, it added. 19 patients, the director of ducting tests on people residing ty transmission of COVID-19. approached. an official release said on One COVID-19-affected RML Hospital in a statement, On Monday, the number of NICED — the state's primary at microspots -- identified by And conducting swab tests is Dutta insisted that the insti- Tuesday. With detection of the person died at home. referring to existing medical coronavirus cases in the COVID-19 testing facility — the health department. Tests not a big deal," Dutta told PTI. tute was getting lesser number new cases since Monday, the "Most of the COVID deaths conditions in the patients. The national capital spiralled to stressed that people should be must be conducted even when Describing the current situ- of samples for testing from the tally of the people infected by that have occurred in our hos- patients admitted to the hos- 1,510, with356 fresh cases and examined, irrespective of their people don't show symptoms. ation as "quite alarming", she government compared to what coronavirus has gone up to 54, pital are of the patients who pital early in their course of four deaths reported in a day, travel history. This will help us find out if there went on to emphasise the need it used to receive in the initial it stated. All the seven patients were referred from other hos- their diseases or do not pushing the death toll to 28. "It's high time we start con- has been any case of communi- to carry out door-to-door tests. days of the outbreak. were admitted in a government hospital in Nagpur.

Ahmedabad readies country's Akhilesh questions PM's Himachal's Una admin to send largest Covid-19 care facility claim on screening of detained people home DHARAMSHALA: Those PNS n AHMEDABAD detained in Himachal's Una in travellers at airports a bid to check the coronavirus With Ahmedabad alone spread will be allowed to go accounting for 346 of the total PNS n LUCKNOW home, said an official on 617 coronavirus positive cases Tuesday. The district in Gujarat, the city civic body SP chief Akhilesh Yadav on administration had detained has readied the country's Tuesday questioned Prime several Himachal residents largest COVID-19 Care Centre Minister Narendra Modi's while on their way home in with a capacity to accommo- assertion that the country had other districts of the state Be more determined date 2000 patients who are not begun screening people com- during the lockdown imposed suffering from any underlying ing from abroad long before to contain the spread of the health issues. even a single corona-positive disease. Una Deputy The facility, created in a hos- case was found in the country. Commissioner Sandeep to fight COVID-19 tel complex near the Gujarat In a tweet in Hindi on Kumar said those detained will University Complex, will ease Tuesday, Akhilesh Yadav said, have to undergo the PNS n GUWAHATI er be more determined to the load of COVID-19 patients examine the patients twice in "It was claimed that the screen- mandatory 14-day isolation fight #COVID2019. on government hospitals, offi- a day and the personnel will "We can accommo- ing started at different airports when they reach home. “The Assam Chief Minister "Follow #Lockdown rules cials said on Tuesday. remain stationed in the build- date 2,000 patients when there was not even a sin- district administration is going Sarbananda Sonowal on till May 3 without any com- The care centre is also ing with an objective to prevent in this facility, which gle corona case in the country." to start the process of sending Tuesday urged people to be promise," Sonowal tweeted equipped with a library, and a the spread of the viral infec- "But the question then is taking preventive and pre- the people home. Initially, "more determined" to fight after Prime Minister Narendra Yoga and indoor game facili- tion, he said. is the first and the how much serious and mean- cautionary measure against those who had personal COVID-19 and strictly follow Modi's addressed the nation ty for patients. "Medical teams will also be largest COVID Care ingful it proved. If it is true, the virus much before the vehicles will be allowed to rules imposed during the on extension of the lockdown. "We can accommodate tested every 14 days for the Centre in the coun- then it should be told how the detection of even a single leave,” he said. The others coronavirus-induced nation- Assam Health and Family 2,000 patients in this facility, infection," Nehra said. country got its first corona case. will be sent home through wide lockdown which has Welfare minister Himanta which is the first and the Out of the total 617 coron- try," said Ahmedabad case," said the Samajwadi party "Long before we had even a buses, he said, adding that a been extended till May 3. Biswa Sarma also requested largest COVID Care Centre in avirus positive cases being Municipal Commi- president. single case of Corona, India plan is being prepared after discussions with deputy The Assam government had the people to abide by the the country," said Ahmedabad reported from across Gujarat ssioner Vijay Nehra "The country would be truly had started screening travellers earlier decided to support any restrictions announced by the Municipal Commissioner so far, 346 patients are from benefitted, if and only if the coming in from corona-affect- commissioners of other decision by the Centre on prime minister. Vijay Nehra. Ahmedabad alone, Nehra told meaningful work is done," ed countries at airports," the districts. extension of the ongoing 21- "Hon PM Sri @naren- He said each patient to be reporters after visiting the Nitin Sangwan. "Patients will added Yadav. prime minister had said. day lockdown, which was to dramodi has drawn the admitted at the care centre will facility. be served food cooked outside While announcing the "Much before the number of end on April 14, instead of #LakshmanRekha for India be provided with a bed and a The care centre is also the care centre. They will be extension of the current lock- corona patients reached 100, doing it on its own like some till May 3, and we should reli- separate kit containing essen- equipped with a library, a Yoga checked twice in a day. For any down by another 19 days, the India had made 14-day isola- other states. giously abide by it. tial items like a soap, a tooth- and indoor game facility for emergency, one ambulance prime minister, in his address tion mandatory for all those "On PM Shri @naren- #WeShallBeatCorona," Sarma brush and a bucket. patients, said Deputy has been stationed at the care to the nation on Tuesday, had coming in from abroad," he dramodi ji's call, let us togeth- tweeted. Besides, medical teams will Municipal Commissioner centre," said Sangwan. said the country had begun had added.

11 new COVID-19 cases reported in Low-key celebrations mark Tamil New Year in TN 13 patients discharged Palghar PNS n CHENNAI government guidelines regard- Many households ing COVID-19 scrupulously after recovery in Kashmir PNS n PALGHAR The Tamil New year 'Sarvaari' prepared special and to stay at home and be PNS n SRINAGAR was celebrated in Tamil Nadu safe," he said. At least 11 more people tested on Tuesday, although low-key delicacies to Palaniswami said the Tamil Doctors on Tuesday dis- positive for coronavirus in celebrations marked the day in enjoy the Tamil people, known for their plural- charged 13 COVID-19 Maharashtra's Palghar district view of the lockdown imposed new year, the ism and culture, had been cel- patients from a hospital here on Tuesday, taking the tally to to curb the spread of coron- first major ebrating the new year in following their successful 53 in the region. A health bul- avirus. 'Chithirai' for long. recovery, officials said here. letin issued by the district Governor Banwailal Purohit festival to be His government was striving "More Positive administration stated that 11 and Chief Minister K celebrated during to realise the late chief minis- Developments: 13 more new cases of coronavirus were Palaniswami greeted people the ongoing ter J Jayalalithaa's aim of mak- COVID +Ve patients dis- reported in Palghar and the toll on the occasion. ing the state numero uno in charged from CD (Chest stood at five. According to the The lockdown prompted lockdown many areas, including econo- Diseases) Hospital Srinagar report, of the 11 new cases, 10 muted celebrations, as people my and social justice. after treatment/recovery. were reported from the VVMC confined themselves to homes "Let prosperity flourish in Good Job everyone," relieved 13 covid patients for limits, while one person tested to offer prayers indoors. the ongoing lockdown. greetings, Purohit said the new with hope and happiness for a the homes on the occasion of Government spokesman Rohit home quarantine... not to positive in Dahanu taluka. The People greeted each other over Incidentally, Prime Minister year is celebrated on the first glorious future during this the new year and let there be Kansal said in a tweet. lower our guard....stay home .. VVMC now has 47 positive phones and through social Narendra Modi on Tuesday day of Tamil month 'Chithirai' year," he said in his message. light of joy in all our lives," he Leading pulmonologist of stay safe.. maintain social dis- cases, Palghar taluka has two media platforms, even as tem- announced extension of the every year to "mark the onset Purohit urged people to said in his greetings. Kashmir Dr Naveed Shah, tance..obey advisories. and Vasai rural has three ples, generally buzzing during national lockdown till May 3 as of peace, prosperity and joy in resolve to work together in the TNCC president K S Alagiri, who is heading the COVID "Together v can overcome patients, it said. As many as four the new year, remained closed part of the country's fight our families" and stressed on spirit of harmony and friend- AMMK leader and indepen- team at Chest Disease all challenges," he tweeted. persons have succumbed to the due to the lockdown. against COVID19. social distancing. ship to usher in progress and dent legislator TTV Hospital, said while it was a Two minor sisters, who had infection in the Vasai-Virar Many households prepared On Monday, Palaniswami "It (the new year) marks the development so as to create a Dhinakaran and Makkal satisfying moment, there contracted the infection from Municipal Corporation limits special delicacies to enjoy the had announced that the state greatness of our tradition, her- brighter and better tomorrow. Needhi Maiam founder Kamal should be no lowering of the their grandfather, were so far and one person had died Tamil new year, the first major was extending the lockdown itage and culture. May the "I also request all the people Haasan also extended their guard. released for home quarantine in Palghar taluka. festival to be celebrated during till April 30. Extending his state and its people be filled of Tamil Nadu tofollow the new year greetings. "A satisfactory moment... in Monday. VIJAYAWADA | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15, 2020 nation 05 SHORT READS Enough stock of essential Migrant workers come out on road; say want to travel back home commodities, no need to worry PNS n MUMBAI Over 1,000 migrant workers PNS n NEW DELHI As the Home who earn daily wages gathered here on Tuesday demanding Union Home Minister Amit Minister of the coun- transport arrangements to go MP govt will follow Shah on Tuesday assured every- try, I assure the back to their native places, one that there is enough stock of public again that hours after Prime Minister Centre's guidelines on food, medicines and other essen- Narendra Modi announced lockdown: CM tial commodities and no one there is enough sto- extension of the coronavirus- BHOPAL: With Prime Minister should worry for the extended ck of food, medicines enforced lockdown till May 3. Narendra Modi on Tuesday period of lockdown. and other commo- A police official said the extending the national lockdown In a series of tweets in Hindi, dities in the country. migrants were dispersed two to fight coronavirus till May 3, the home minister also appealed hours later and have been the Madhya Pradesh to the affluent people to help the No one should worry assured accommodation and sweeping curbs. Aaditya Thackeray blamed the government has said that it will needy living nearby. about that food till the lockdown lasts. Maharashtra Home Centre for the protest by the draft a plan on the "As the home minister of the In viral videos, police were Minister Anil Deshmukh said migrant workers and sought a implementation after the Centre country, I assure the public again seen using mild cane- charge the migrant workers who gath- road map to facilitate their jour- issues guidelines on that there is enough stock of for the things they need," Shah Minister Narendra Modi down in the country till May 3 to disperse the migrants, who ered outside Bandra railway ney back to their native places. Wednesday. Announcing that food, medicines and other com- said. announced the extension of the to prevent and eliminate had gathered near the Bandra station might have expected In a series of tweets, the lockdown in the state will modities in the country. No one The home minister said the ongoing lockdown till May 3. COVID-19 from spreading and railway station in suburban that Prime Minister Narendra Thackeray said, "The current remain in force till May 3, Chief should worry about that. contribution of the doctors, Shah said, today, when the to protect India and Indians. Mumbai. Modi would order reopening situation in Bandra, now dis- Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan "I also request the affluent peo- healthcare workers, sanitation whole world is facing a global "I express my heartfelt grati- Daily wage workers have of state borders. persed or even the rioting in said, "Prime Minister has guided ple to come forward and help the workers, police and all the secu- pandemic, under the leadership tude to the prime minister for been rendered jobless ever since They were told by the police Surat is a result of the union the entire country. The country poor living nearby," he said. rity personnel who are playing an of the prime minister, the peo- this," he said. the lockdown was announced that borders are not going to be government not being able to and Madhya Pradesh will follow Praising the role of state gov- important role in this fight is very ple of India have given an exam- Shah, a former president of late last month to stem the opened and the situation was take a call on arranging a way the path shown by the Prime ernments, Shah said the way all touching. ple on how to fight it. the BJP, also praised the BJP spread of COVID-19, making now under control, he said, back home migrant labour." Minister to defeat the the state governments are work- "Your courage and under- "All the decisions taken by the workers for their contribution in their life a constant struggle. adding the migrants were "They don't want food or coronavirus pandemic". He said ing with the central govern- standing in this odd situation government on time and the par- helping the poor during the Though authorities and assured that the state govern- shelter, they want to go back the state government will ment is truly praiseworthy. "Now, inspires every Indian. Everyone ticipation of the people in it are lockdown. "The way the BJP NGOs have made arrange- ment will make arrangement home," Thackeray said. He prepare its strategy after the we have to intensify this coordi- should follow the guidelines and reflective of it," he said. workers are helping the poor and ments for their food, most of of food and accommodation said feedback from all migrant Centre issues the guidelines and nation so that all citizens follow cooperate with them," he said. The home minister said the needy under the leadership of them want to go back to their for them, following which the labour camps is similar - that added that the lockdown will the lockdown properly and no The home minister's state- prime minister has taken the Shri @narendramodi ji and Shri native places to escape the crowds dispersed, he said. these workers want to go back remain in force in Madhya citizen should have the problem ment came hours after Prime decision to extend the lock- @JPnadda ji is truly admirable. hardship brought by the State Tourism Minister to their native places. Pradesh till May 3. Madhya Pradesh has so far reported 730 COVID-19 cases with 50 deaths. WHO lauds India's ‘tough and Railways extends suspension of passenger Pvt employers directed Maha Home Minister visits COVID-19 timely’ anti-corona actions not to lay off workers hotspot in Mumbai services till May 3, offers full refund of fare PNS n NEW DELHI PNS n NEW DELHI PNS n BENGALURU MUMBAI: Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh on The World Health The Indian Railways on The labour depart- Tuesday visited Worli Koliwada, Organization on Tuesday Tuesday extended the suspen- ment has directed private sec- one of the coronavirus lauded "India's tough and sion of all its passenger services tor employers in the state not hotspots in Mumbai, and urged timely actions" against the till May 3, following Prime to lay off workers and pay locals to stay at home to coronavirus spread as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's them wages on the due date contain spread of the disease Minister Narendra Modi decision to extend the nation- without any deduction during and cooperate with police. announced the extension of wide lockdown amid COVID- the lock down. Deshmukh made the current lockdown till May 3. 19 threat. "The labour department has announcement through a "It may be early to talk It also said that full refund issued a circular directing the loudspeaker attached to a about results in numbers, but of fare would automatically be private sector employers to wages should not be cut, the drone that is being used to a six-week nationwide lock- action lies as much with the provided to its online cus- abstain from layoffs or unpaid order said. maintain vigil in densely- populated areas like the down to facilitate effective communities as with the tomers for trains cancelled up leaves during this countrywide If any employee has taken Koliwada, a fisherfolk village, physical distancing, coupled authorities and the health to May 3, while those who have sures taken in the wake of The railways further said that lockdown. leave during this period, they and issue government instruc- with the expansion of core workforce," she added. booked at the counters can COVID-19 lockdown, it has all counters for booking of rail Employees would be paid should be considered to be on tions to residents. Drones will public health measures such as "It is indeed time for each claim the refund till July 31. been decided that all passen- journey tickets for reserved/unre- wages on the due date without duty without any effective cut be used in densely-populated detection, isolation and trac- and every one to contribute Customers will also get full ger train services on Indian served travel at railway stations any deduction during this in their salaries. areas like this to give instruc- ing contact of coronavirus their best and together to beat refunds of their tickets if they Railways, including premium and outside railway station period," Labour Minister "On not being able to func- tions to people that they should positive people, would go a the virus," Dr Singh said. are cancelling their advance trains, mail/express trains, pas- premises shall remain closed till Shivaram Hebbar tweeted last tion at work place due to not step out of their homes long way in arresting the virus Modi on Tuesday said the bookings for trains not yet can- senger trains, suburban trains, May 3 midnight. night. COVID-19, such working unit unnecessarily, and cooperate spread," said WHO's South- implementation of the lock- celled, it said. Kolkata Metro Rail, Konkan The railway board has issued The Minister also posted employees should be consid- with police. They should step East Asia Regional Director, down will be strictly ensured Modi on Tuesday Railway shall continue to instructions to the zones that the order copy, signed by the ered as on duty," it said. out only to buy vegetables and Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh. in coming days to ensure that announced that the lockdown remain cancelled till 2400 full refunds for fares of cancelled Secretary, Labour Depart- The order said any violation food grains. People should re- "Despite huge and multiple the virus does not spread to across the country will be hours of May 3," a statement trains should be initiated by ment, P Manivannan. would be punishable under the main safe by staying at home, challenges, India has been new areas extended till May 3 to fight the from the railways said. them. It said no advance reser- During COVID-19 emer- Disaster Management Act, the minister told reporters. demonstrating unwavering The prime minister said a coronavirus pandemic, saying It also said that to ensure vation of trains tickets, includ- gency situation , employers of 2005. A helpline will be set up commitment in its fight detailed guideline on the the measure has produced a essential supplies in various ing e-tickets, will be allowed till all public/private organisa- within 48 hours in this regard, against the pandemic," she implementation of the new significant outcome in contain- parts of the country, move- further orders. However, facil- tions should not layoff their it said. The lockdown that came COVID-19: Thane gets said. lockdown will be announced ing the infection. ment of goods and parcel ity of online cancellation will employees, especially casual or into effect on March 25 was to two drive-through "In these testing times, the on Wednesday. "In continuation of the mea- trains will remain operational. remain functional. contract workers and their expire on midnight of April 14. testing centres THANE: The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has set up Use COVID-19 crisis to reform CERT-In asks to guard VPNs against cyber attacks drive-through COVID-19 testing PNS n NEW DELHI facilities for suspected patients "The coronavirus pandemic has led at two traffic junctions in aviation sector: SpiceJet CMD Federal cyber agency CERT-In Maharashtra's Thane city, a many organisations civic official said on Tuesday. on Tuesday warned of PNS n NEW DELHI worldwide to restrict Deputy municipal increased cyber attacks, includ- commissioner Sandeep Malavi ing 'social engineering hits', on their employees from said the civic body along with Amid the nationwide lock- Virtual Private Network (VPN) coming to work in Guardian Minister Eknath down till May 3 to combat the being used by organisations office and have Shinde and a private lab coronavirus outbreak, SpiceJet these days to facilitate work CMD Ajay Singh on Tuesday from home for its employees in advised them to launched drive-through testing maintain social facilities at Cadbury and Kalwa said that it is the right time to view of the nationwide lock- traffic junctions. People who bring about structural reforms down to combat the COVID- distancing and to wish to get tested first need to in the country's aviation sector. 19 outbreak. continue working get a prescription from doctors "Bringing aviation turbine In a fresh advisory, from the safe environ- fuel (ATF) is a long pending Computer Emergency and register themselves on ment of their homes http://infexn.in/COVID-19.html, request... Second thing we Response Team of India he said. They can then drive to need to look at this whole (CERT-In) advised against the centres at a specified time, structure of airports and the social engineering attacks has led many organisations conferencing and other chat "Therefore, organisations he said, adding that test results way the airport concessions are where cheats pose as genuine worldwide to restrict their tools. A VPN enables commu- should set up a system in will be made available online given," the Chairman and back-end support and obtain employees from coming to nication through secure online coordination with their infor- within 24 hours. Doctors, lab Managing Director of the bud- he mentioned. "We have crazy what they can do, he men- sensitive data from gullible work in office and have advised servers using encryption of mation technology staff to technicians and trained get airline said at a webinar anomalies like that. This is the tioned. employees. them to maintain social dis- data," the CERT-In said. secure the VPN service to employees were deployed at organised by the Bird group. time when we should look in "People say that India only These trends have emerged tancing and to continue work- With a large number of maintain business confiden- these facilities, which will If an airline puts fuel in an these areas," he added. reforms in a crisis and if that due to increase of online activ- ing from the safe environment organisations using VPN for tiality, integrity and availabil- remain open from 10 am to 6 airport's tank - which costs The Indian aviation sector is true, we should certainly use ity during the ongoing lock- of their homes. business continuity, it said, ity," the CERT-In, a federal pm, he said. around Rs 25 crore in Delhi to needs short term help from the this crisis to bring about the down to contain the spread of "Organisations are using attackers are finding vulnera- agency to combat cyber build - the airport operator government and the govern- reforms that we have sought COVID-19. enterprise VPNs for commu- bilities to target organisations attacks to guard the Indian recovers Rs 450 crore per year, ment is actively looking at for so long," he noted. "The coronavirus pandemic nicating through emails, video for various cyber attacks. cyber space, said. COVID-19 tests, hotspots: All you need to know Police efforts to enforce PNS n NEW DELHI "On the other hand, the rapid that private labs, which were allowed to charge Rs 4,500 for lockdown in Kerala's As the world is reeling under antibodies test are less expensive and it, would not charge for the the COVID-19 pandemic, the results can come in 20-30 minutes. tests observing that they need medical terminologies like It essentially tests if the antibodies in to be philanthropic in the hour Kasaragod bears fruit rapid antibodies test, RT-PCR of national crisis. test, hotspots and containment response the coronavirus infection has A spokesperson of the PNS n KOCHI trict. "It was possible only beca- zones have come into focus. been generated or not," he said. Thyrocare labs, one of the lab- use of our containment strategy. Doctors explain for the com- oratories authorised by the Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Basically our strategy was mon man what these testing government to do testing, said, Vijayan deputed top cop Vijay based on three locks-- Lock 1, and containment terminologies In Delhi, till Monday night but the issue of feasibility of its testing has to be done judi- Sakhare to the northern district Lock 2, and Lock 3 to ensure that mean. Two kinds of diagnostic the number of hotspots stood use. ciously as there are less num- of Kasaragod as a special officer the people do not mix up and tests are being currently used at 47, which have been made In government labs, the tests ber of kits in India. on March 23, when it was infection does not spread, in India — RT-PCR test and containment zones and sealed. are free but at private labora- "A doctor's recommenda- emerging as India's biggest "Sakhare, who is the commis- rapid antibodies test, as per the "In rapid antibodies test, the tories, which use RT-PCR test tion is required before we can COVID-19 hotspot. sioner of Kochi city police said. global health norms. result will be positive only if the the cost is Rs 4,500. do testing. Well-known video Three weeks down the line, Taking the charge as special A reverse transcription poly- antibodies have been generat- The Supreme Court on blogger Mumbiker Nikhil had the district is slowly turning into officer, the Inspector General merase chain reaction (RT- or a sample from expensive and the results can ed. So, even if a person is Monday modified its April 8 recently returned from the a safe haven for people, paving rank officer enforced three locks PCR) test is a laboratory tech- thenaseopharyngal region and come in 20-30 minutes. It infected but the antibodies are order that asked private labs to UK and he got his testing the way for a discussion on in the district in line with the nique combining reverse tran- then rested. The results take essentially tests if the antibod- not generated, the result will conduct free COVID-19 tests done and even made a video "Kasaragod Initiative of the lockdown measures taken by the scription of RNA into DNA about 12-24 hours," said noted ies in response the coronavirus come negative," Kumar said. and said the benefit will be on it to raise awareness as peo- Kerala Police"-- a model that central and state governments to that detects the virus while the Delhi-based lung surgeon infection has been generated or In many cases, it has hap- available only to "economical- ple coming from abroad could be emulated in other arrest the spread of the deadly antibody tests, which use Arvind Kumar. not," he said. pened in the past that a person ly weaker sections" who are should consult doctors, espe- heavily-hit areas in the country. virus there. The locks were put blood, detect the body's Kumar, who works at Sir These tests are generally tested negative earlier but after covered under a government cially if they are showing On March 31, the number of as part of a three-pronged strat- response to the virus, experts Ganga Ram Hospital here, used in hotspots where the a few days when he or she scheme such as Ayushman symptoms," he said. COVID-19 cases in Kasargod egy to completely isolate the per- said. said, RT-PCR tests take time infection is found concentrat- reached another country, the Bharat. The death toll due to coro- had touched 106. They became sons who were primary and sec- "In RT-PCR, it is tested if the and are a costly affair because ed in a given area. A hotspot is test came out positive there. The apex court said it never navirus in the country rose to 164 on April 6 and now in the ondary contacts of the COVID- virus is present or not. A sam- of its elaborate kit. a zone from where a large This same person would intended to make testing free 339 while the number of cases last six days only 14 cases have 19 positive persons came from ple is taken from the respirato- "On the other hand, the number of COVID-19 cases have come out positive had the for those who can afford to pay. soared to 10,363 on Tuesday, been reported, a significant drop abroad, particularly Gulf coun- ry tract of a person, throat swab rapid antibodies test are less are reported. RT-PCR test been conducted, It had on April 8 directed said the Union Health Ministry. in the number of cases in the dis- tries, Sakhare said. VIJAYAWADA | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15, 2020 op nion 06 www.dailypioneer.com facebook.com/dailypioneer | @TheDailyPioneer | instagram.com/dailypioneer/ PAPER WITH PASSION Dear PM, we need more Lockdown extension was inevitable but without specifics of a bailout, Modi’s speech remained anodyne A post-Corona world here is a visual that is far more telling than that of our pater familias Prime Minister TNarendra Modi speaking to his family of India’s role in restructuring the ideology of progress, development and growth to create a soldier citizens whose sacrifice, pain and toil he acknowledged. What was unacknowledged new world of peace is immense. It must remember what its ancestors had said was the destitution of a man and street dogs must not repeat history but make licking the milk off the tarmac that had spilt a new one.” We must add to the from a tanker on a road in Agra. Nobody is inheritance left by our ancestors. disputing the fact that given India’s particu- We must ask: If we may make new discoveries and inventions larities — clustered populations, frail health- in the phenomenal world, must care systems and a resource-starved man- we declare our bankruptcy in the agement — a lockdown was necessary, even spiritual domain? Is it impossi- ble to multiply exceptions so as its extension. But this in the end is just a holding out operation. As the spiral of to make them the rule? Must cases continues with increased testing, though it is not at the aggressive pace JS RAJPUT man always be brute first and as is required, there is a spread that even lockdowns may not be able to pre- man after, if at all? he third decade of the 21st centu- The UN was created after vent all too much. Yes, we have been slow in acting against the Coronavirus ry has begun with a challenge of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, a clas- pandemic, we should have suspended international flights at least two weeks immeasurable magnitude. sic example of “brute force.” The ago, the screening of passengers was limited to just thermal scans (the quar- Practically, the entire productive sincerity of purpose and com- antine condition came much much later), the lockdown was imposed abruptly human activity has come to a mitment to the cause was not Tscreeching halt as nations have been under there at any stage. It needed a without preparation and because of still low testing, our disease burden is diffi- lockdown, forced as they are to confront an spiritual bent of mind, a genuine cult to fathom. Although Modi countered such claims, all of which are by the invisible enemy that makes no distinction desire to stick to the word and way based on official data, saying India had acted much earlier than any other between the rich and the poor, colour or creed, spirit of the global resolve. We national boundaries, religious distinction or must learn from history of the country, this is not the time for comparatives. There will be more deaths due to any other aspect of diversity/similarity. For the recent past. job losses, food riots and prolonged suspension of economic activity. This is Coronavirus, every human being is just a tar- One may like to recall why anyway India’s lost year and lost opportunity. It is appreciable that Modi knows get, nothing more, nothing less. such expectations emerge from For the first time, nations across the different groups within India a nation ardently waits to listen to his words of wisdom in times such as these world are on the same side in the war against and also from those abroad who and he plays to the gallery. But he ought to have acted more like a father figure Coronavirus. Never before in contemporary “know our country.” The ancient and given us an economic package that everybody was looking forward to, talked times of great scientific and technological Indian civilisation earned glob- advancements had human beings found al appreciation for some of its of a plan B of living with the virus till a vaccine is found, mentioned fund dis- themselves so inadequately prepared to tack- philosophical foundations of bursement from all the PM’s relief funds that have been set up overnight to close le an unprecedented situation. Never before, eternal nature. These include gaps in the COVID-19 war room and given a directive on supply-chain manage- the daily routine of the people changed so Yavadjeevait Adhiyate Viprah; much as the compulsory social distancing, Lokah Samastah Sukhino ment that would ensure the food reaches the beneficiaries it is intended for rather which has been necessitated to curb the Bhavantu; Sarva Bhuta Hite than being wasted on a hot summer day. In short, he had to be more specific spread of Corona, has done. Children find Ratah and several others. Once than asking us to look after the old and the poor. The civil society knows what it so restrictive, people are worried, concerns one internalises the basic import and apprehensions are being shared. of ancient Indian civilisation, it has to do, the PM does not have to remind us of that but he needs to give us Helplessness is even being experienced the aspects of essential unity of a direction that we do not know about. among mature and seasoned people. While all human beings, in spite of vis- The point is there was no mention of an increased GDP allocation to aid liq- nations have come together to confront the ible diversities and variations of disease, we have not been able to arrive at numerous kinds, emerge very uidity and working capital for industries that have already gone under. Other coun- a universally applicable counter strategy. charging his/her responsibility to tributions, the structures so cre- cal perception when he wrote clearly in practical terms. tries have done it and some experts have even suggested borrowings. Although History may not record the Corona war maintain this sensitive life-giving ated could not construct “the that nature has sufficient This universal vision paved the Opposition Congress doesn’t have much political or emotional heft now, it as World War-III but its debilitating effort may bond with care and caution. defences of peace in the minds of resources to meet the needs of the way for acceptance — not be far higher than the combined losses and Instead, it indulged in wan- man.” In essence, the crux of the everyone but not the greed of mere tolerance — of all religions did raise the right questions about “targetted monetary injections; Keynesian spend- sufferings inflicted by WW-I and WW-II. ton destruction of natural challenge before the nations, anyone. The hope for a future and faiths, respect for the faith of ing, loosening the FMRB and so on.” Also, by saying that districts that do well Though everyone is busy struggling for sur- resources. Clear warning signs which are under the clutches and beyond Corona emerges from others. It was also realised very in containing the spread might see lockdown relaxation from April 20, Modi spelt vival and minimising the losses and impact, appeared in terms of climate claws of the enemy, is: How another visionary statement, “I early in the Indian civilisation that out no plan for those that are worst-hit. Are people living here to be condemned realisation is already dawning upon the change, rising pollution levels and should we restructure the ideol- feel that India’s mission is dif- human beings must establish a concerned and knowledgeable that it’s time temperature, environmental ogy of progress, development and ferent from that of others.” lasting kinship based upon the for their geographical choice or are they to be tested aggressively, treated and to have a fresh look on the epistemological degradation, depletion of the growth to create a world of He elaborated further, “India basics of respect for otherness the infection-free made to sign up for zonal work permits with given protocols? strategies being implemented in the human ozone layer, among others. These peace? This, to ensure equality of is fitted for the religious suprema- and resolve to move ahead But there was no such assurance or even interest for those locked out indefi- pursuit of “progress, growth and develop- issues were never seriously access and success to one and all cy of the world. There is no par- together, to live and let everyone ment” in the post-colonial era. It ushered the responded to. And now, there is and bestow human dignity on allel for the process of purifica- else also live a better, decent, dig- nitely. They almost seemed like being a test subject under surveillance in China. era of globalisation, concentration of wealth no way out but to devise long and each human being without any tion across the globe that this nified and satisfying life. While rural harvesting and agricultural work have been resumed in places, indus- among the top few, enhanced measures of vio- short term strategies to restore the distinction or diversity. country has voluntarily under- To comprehend universal trial units and infrastructure projects need to be started in uninfected areas imme- lence and wars among nations and gave rise vital link. It should be a survival But what would be the role gone. India is less in need of steel human obligations, three debts to an unprecedented armed race. The out- strategy to ensure the very sur- of India, its people, traditions and weapons; it has fought with that every human being were diately. Zoning and phasing production with certified staff need to start as well. break of Caronavirus has made sensible peo- vival of human race on earth and its ancient civilisation in accept- divine weapons… History sup- destined to repay were articu- You may hold fleeing migrant labourers and daily wage earners in camps but ple realise that no nuclear arsenals, no also of the planet itself. ing this global challenge? plies numerous instances to lated in clear terms: Debt to the things are not so welfarist there either. There are complaints of inadequate rations, weapons of deterrence, military agreements After WW-II, it was realised Expectations would be very high prove that brute force is nothing parents and ancestors; to the or defence treaties are of any use in every war. that brutality is no answer to from our country as we are the before soul force.” Is this not the learned and knowledge cre- cramped conditions and common toilets which they want to escape in the absence The Corona interlude has created an envi- human advancement. only civilisation which conceptu- time for a global resolve that ators; and to the forces of of gainful employment. They would rather be healthy in the subsistence econ- ronment of tension, turmoil and turbulence Consequently, global organisa- alised/comprehended the critical- weapon of steel and brute force nature. omy of their village homes than risk it in alien cities and towns that were the first across the globe. The only ray of hope is that tions like the United Nations ity in sustaining the man-nature may just be of no consequence in Human beings have persis- finally, human ingenuity would triumph over (UN), United Nations Security relationship and the role in some of the toughest situations? tently faltered on all the three. to turn them out. Job losses are not only about the unorganised sector, they are the venomous virus intrusion but the world Council (UNSC), UNESCO, reshaping human life. Mahatma Something more may be neces- Hence, they are forced to face happening in the organised sector, too. Be it hospitality, tourism, retail majors after this victory shall no more be the same, International Labour Gandhi was convinced that India sary. Can India take a lead? the fury of the nature. This is or media, the vapourisation of visible products has meant that companies are nor should it remain the same. Learning from Organisation (ILO), the World is essentially a land of duty and First, it must accept this as its the right time that India, the these times, nations and people must think Health Organisation(WHO) not mere that of enjoyment. moral and ethical responsibility, originator of these eternal val- slashing salaries, furloughing employees or retiring those on the cusp of their of alternative strategies. Interestingly, spend- besides others were created. All This articulation is very relevant as the inheritor of a culture and ues, relearns its lessons, accepts sunset years. Small businesses have all but wrapped up. And this is just three ing rare undisturbed kinship with close ones of these institutions were sup- in a globalised world that has the most illustrious civilisation in global responsibility to make weeks. If indeed the spiral merits an extended lockdown, then an economic pack- in the confines of their homes, people are posed to derive their ethos and played havoc with nature and the world. To ascertain its emerg- others comprehend it and cre- already pondering seriously over the shape of ethics from the Preamble of the continues to do so with ing global role in evolving new ate a new world in which spir- age must be in place. It cannot come in a piecemeal manner or a measured a post-Corona world. One could be sure that UNESCO, which said, “Since unscrupulous plundering of nat- global strategy it must revert to itualistic pursuits would deter- way to gain political mileage later. Modi, the PM, has to appear as everybody’s after the return of normalcy, new ideas and wars begin in the minds of men, ural resources only to satiate its Gandhi, who gave a “call for mine the extent of materiality benefactor, not of his constituents. A pan-India TV speech is the best platform thoughts would emerge at the national and it is in the minds of men that the greed of accumulation. adventure” in the Young India of acquisition that human beings to do it, rather than telling employers not to sack people. international level. The world must realise that defences of peace must be con- Here again, it was MK May 6, 1926, which very clearly need, not greed. the relationship between man and nature structed.” It is very well known Gandhi who summarised the articulates how to proceed ahead: (The writer works in educa- stands shattered; that man has failed in dis- that in spite of appreciable con- essence of Indian philosophi- “If we are to make progress, we tion and social cohesion) Media in distress S O U N D BITE The media is a tertiary industry and as a result will face His (Modi’s) speech normally is I know for a fact that the Facilitating India’s imports of The poor have been left to more trouble before things improve. Which may take years more of a rhetoric than substance. audience wants to listen to Covid-19-related critical med- fend for themselves. There is ews about salary delays, cuts and out- There was nothing original music. And if they ical equipment and keeping money, there is food but the substantial (in the address). have to hear an old song, they the drug production supply Government will not release right layoffs are rampant on groups of The only takeaway was that the can listen to that song any chain open by China is the either money or food. Cry, Njournalists. The seemingly heavy-hand- lockdown was extended. which way in its own avatar. best signal for bilateral ties. my beloved country. ed cutbacks, which are being blamed on the Shiv Sena leader Singer Indian Ambassador Congress leader Coronavirus, have affected both veteran jour- —Manisha Kayande —Shaan —Vikram Misri —P Chidambaram nalists and rookie reporters. Lest it be upon us to judge the decisions made by other media groups, every single media entity is in a spot L E T T E R S T O TH E EDITOR of financial trouble, including this newspaper, as revenue sources — be it from the Fight it out etables at a reasonable rate and The economic debacle distribute them to the people who Government or the private sector — have com- are in dire need of it. pletely dried up during the lockdown. At the Sir — This refers to the article, ccording to the census of 2011, 45 million Indians The Government must also same time, costs for printing and distribution as well as salaries have remained “Coronavirus has turned PM moved outside their birthplaces for economic sensitise the people that destruc- into a team player” (April 14) by Aopportunities, be it for employment or business. tion of crops for whatever reasons the same. Then virulent misinformation about the spread of COVID-19 through Kalyani Shankar. The writer’s However, more than a half a million have left their cities is not permissible. It must not cre- newspapers has prevented distributors from giving them out in all areas. observation about Prime Minister after the unscheduled lockdown. Many more are just wait- ate a situation where the farmers Newspapers are still better off than their brethren in the magazine sector, where Narendra Modi’s image makeover ing to return home but it is difficult to imagine such a are obliged to destroy the eatables holds good given that his earlier possibility. Here, the emergence of two divergent but inex- for want of fair return on their in many cases, printing presses are shut as news stands, which are the prima- public persona of a belligerent tricably intertwined situations is not unlikely. Economic investments in agriculture. ry source of distribution for many magazines, are empty. In a way, the Indian orator has undergone a sea- activities will remain in deep hibernation for some more KV Seetharamaiah media is responsible for some of the crisis, thanks to the “price wars” of the change for the better. He has time now. The creation of enough jobs for the natives, Hasaan 1990s that have driven down the subscriber costs of newspapers, making them become more polite and humble. who have returned, is beyond capability. Acute poverty Be it his public apology for the of unimaginable proportion in rural homes once the Corona Commendable act more dependent on private sector advertising. harsh Coronavirus lockdown or threat vanishes is set to be the next serious concern. receipts were dwindling, corporates got a generous tax Yet, it is not just the print media that is suffering. Layoffs and salary cuts are his show of confidence with sev- Unconcerned, the ruling dispensation liquidated the cut. This cost the exchequer a princely `1.45 lakh crore. taking place in television as well. Flawed distribution strategies by channels and eral bigwigs and political adver- country’s accumulated wealth to keep the fiscal deficit There is, therefore, not much left behind to fall back on. Sir — It is distressing to note that saries, all of his actions prove that within limits. It spirited out `1.76 lakh crore from the When COVID-19 struck, the Indian economy was a group of Nihangs chopped off policies by the regulator have meant many news channels are free-to-air and, he is a changed man. contingency reserves of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), already in meltdown, with the ruling dispensation an officer’s hand in Punjab’s thus, survive on advertisements. With India’s industry shut, that source of rev- To be honest, had the Prime assiduously conserved over time, with the tacit help of indulging in ritualistic denials. The economy now looks Patiala. The cop was only per- enue has dried up. While people may believe that the web is a land of milk and Minister not taken timely prag- a willing custodian. Profitable PSUs paid high dividends for an extraordinary level of stimulus to avoid the onset forming his duty. In this hour of matic and precautionary mea- repeatedly from the reserves. They were nudged to buy- of recession. “Beg, buy or steal,” massive funds need national crisis, we must be grate- honey, much advertising revenues are swallowed up by the likes of Facebook sures to fight the global pandem- back Government stake in them and/or forced to buy to be raised for that. It is imperative that shrewd minds ful to the frontline warriors, the and Google and eyeballs are not equal to revenue. Indeed, the high establish- ic, the number of Coronavirus stakes in other PSUs. Life Insurance Corporation, the all- put heads together to formulate novel ways to mobilise policemen, the medical fraterni- ment cost of several start-up media sites will ensure that many might not make infection cases as well as the resul- season milch cow, doubled its investment in risky PSUs adequate capital. Lest the killer pathogen, Corona, puts ty and those supplying essentials tant fatality rate would have been from `11.94 lakh crore to `22.64 lakh crore, depleting the economy, too, on a ventilator. to the people. The Nihangs the cut once COVID-19 is dealt with, leaving a scarred and empty media land- much higher than the US, Italy its cash reserves by a whopping `10.7 lakh crore between Haridasan Rajan should be severely punished for scape. Can the Government do much? For one, supporting the media through and China, who have been facing 2014 and 2019. To cap it all, at a time when revenue Kozhikode this brutality. Otherwise people advertising as well as relaxing the wage board for print will be a start. Despite the brunt of the epidemic. Now will have no fear in committing that the lockdown has been Save the producers such crimes. that, cutbacks will be brutal, many journalists and managers in the media will extended till May 3, efforts must transport and market them in the try waging a relentless fight NR Ramachandran be out of a job and almost no journalism graduates will be hired for the next be made to check its exponential wake of lockdown. Vegetables against COVID-19, the destruc- Chennai year. Our role in the media will be job preservation and creation and for that, the spread. Sir — It is appalling that the ryots being perishable commodities, tion of vegetables will compound Azhar A Khan are destroying their vegetable they start rotting in the heat and existing difficulties. The Send your feedback to: Government has to think out of the box and cut the industry some slack. Rampur produce due to their inability to without storage. With the coun- Government must buy the veg- [email protected] VIJAYAWADA | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15, 2020

www.dailypioneer.com analysis 07 FIRSTCOLUMN The edutech POINTCOUNTERPOINT AFTER TAKING INTO ACCOUNT ALL SUGGESTIONS, WHAT HAPPENS IF WE DON'T GET THE DESIRED advantage WE HAVE DECIDED TO EXTEND THE COUNTRYWIDE RESULT EVEN BY STAYING THE COURSE ON OUR LOCKDOWN TILL MAY 3. CHOSEN PATH TILL MAY 3? DO WE HAVE A PLAN B? Technology is playing a critical role in the —PRIME MINISTER —FORMER JD(U) LEADER dissemination of content and is turning the tide in the COVID-19 affected educational landscape NARENDRA MODI PRASHANT KISHOR Globalise the policy narrative AJIT CHAUHAN hese are trying times for not just the education sector but also the The pandemic has reinforced the need for inclusive policy-making where entire human race. The unprecedented pandemic that hit the world countries think internationally and act locally during a crisis Ttowards the fag end of 2019 has altered all our lives and forced us to take drastic measures. The rapid spread of the Coronavirus within weeks across Europe, South Asia, Australia, West Asia, the US and India forced governments to take swift and decisive action to mitigate the impact of a full-blown pandemic and avoid its community transmission. Thus shut- downs became a startling reality and changed the course of action in the public sphere. In order to keep students safe and stem the spread of the Coronavirus among the young, schools and higher education institutions were shut down as a precautionary measure. This challenged the educa- tion sector and broadened the horizon of learning and teaching. It became a catalyst for educational institutions worldwide to search for innovative solutions in a relatively short period of time. According to a recent report AMAN GUPTA by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the education of over 290 million students across 13 coun- n February 23, Italy recorded around 150 pos- tries is expected to get interrupted because of the Coronavirus outbreak. itive cases of COVID-19. Within a week, that Thankfully, technology is playing a critical role in the creation and dis- Onumber touched 3,000 and four days later it semination of educational content and is turning the tide in the COVID-19 had surpassed 7,000. What happened in Italy after that was surreal as the numbers and deaths mount- affected global educational landscape. Amid the unprecedented ongoing ed exponentially. It was the same with the US which lockdowns, schools, colleges and universities across the world have start- has turned into a hotspot after President Donald ed a bouquet of online offerings to continue coursework. Due to these online Trump ignored repeated warnings by scientists, doc- learning organisations, big or small, the impact on the education of stu- tors and experts to act in time and impose a lock- dents can be minimised globally and ensure that learning never stops. In down. The businessman in Trump prevented the fact, technology has the potential to completely alter the education sector President from paying heed and he chose the econ- even after COVID-19 is long gone. omy over lives and at one point even considered let- In fact, in recent years, universities like Stanford, Yale and Oxford have ting the Coronavirus “wash over” the US in keep- been providing online courses accessible all over the world through plat- ing with the “herd immunity” theory that many forms such as EdX, Coursera and Udemy. However, online education and experts were propounding. Worldwide, too, the numbers are going up each educational technology (edutech) in India are still not a part of the main- day with the cases touching 19,31,261 and 1,20,134 stream education system. Hence, it is vital to introduce investments in this casualties. What is even more worrying is that China sector to integrate edutech with mainstream education, because a report and South Korea have seen cases resurfacing, giv- by KPMG says that the Indian online education industry will grow from ing this nightmare another dimension altogether. The 1.6 million users in 2016 to a whopping 9.6 million users by 2021. World Health Organisation (WHO), which had In a move in the right direction, the Central Government’s Department declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11, and of Higher Education has undertaken the ‘National Mission on Education has come under fire for allegedly covering it up ini- In India, the COVID-19 pandemic has people about the arrangements to fight the which emphasises upon the need for a pol- through Information and Communication Technology’ (ICT) to leverage the tially on China’s behest has now announced that the gradually been exposing the neglected state Coronavirus pandemic in India. “It is said icy revamp even more. potential of ICT in providing information to learners free of cost. Coronavirus is 10 times more dangerous than the of healthcare. WHO executive director J that around 1,500 beds are required for If COVID-19 has taught us anything, Similarly the Amity Future Academy (AFA) has come up with solu- Swine flu . But, despite the world health watchdog’s Ryan recently referred to India as a coun- 10,000 COVID-19 patients. In India, we it is that we need to initiate an active unit- warning in early March, it had taken over two weeks try with immense capacity when it comes already have made arrangement for one ed response where world bodies come tions for both corporates as well as colleges and the edutech player is now IF COVID-19 HAS for world leaders to take comprehensive action to TAUGHT US to eradicating epidemics. His reference was lakh beds. More than 600 dedicated together to develop long-lasting policies running a “Free Learning Month” where one can get free access to all the curb the spread of the Coronavirus. By that time it in line with India’s contribution in eradi- COVID hospitals too are there. These facil- which can be played out during public programs designed by industry specialists in partnership with Ivy League ANYTHING, IT IS was too late and too little. Now, as the number of cases THAT WE NEED TO cating polio and smallpox. In addition to ities are being expanded speedily,” he said. health emergencies. It has become imper- universities like Harvard Business School Online for Product Management is spiralling, countries across the world have reced- that, Dr Roderico Ofrin, WHO’s Regional For a population of 1.3 billion, that num- ative to incorporate globalisation in poli- Program, Wharton Online for Digital Marketing Program and so on. Many ed into a lockdown. India, which began its shutdown INITIATE AN ACTIVE Emergencies Director, commended India ber still falls way off the mark. We are at cy narratives and work actively towards edutech players are providing Industry 4.0 online courses in areas like Data from March 25 for 21-days, has now extended its UNITED RESPONSE on its comprehensive and robust action- a point where the nation is entirely depen- providing comprehensive solutions to Science, Blockchain Technology, Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial lockdown till May 3. WHERE WORLD plan to tackle COVID-19. However, dent on internal policies to drive the health world problems. Intelligence (AI), Cyber Security, HR Analytics, Product Management and It is now more than ever that the world is look- BODIES COME healthcare in India has for most part market. On the other hand, a coordinat- A simple case study of the turn of Fintech to help students improve their skill-sets and become prepared in ing up to its policy makers for tackling the spread TOGETHER TO remained an ignored industry. Less than ed global lockdown could have avoided events in Italy would clarify the importance disciplines that will shape the economy of tomorrow. Such offerings aim of COVID-19. However, as more countries across the DEVELOP three per cent of the Gross Domestic panic and given countries time to strength- of preparing a comprehensive strategy of world impose heavy restrictions on their citizens and Product (GDP) is allocated to healthcare en healthcare systems. testing, tracking and self-isolation to fight to plug the gap of learning experienced by institutions or working profes- LONG-LASTING stress upon the urgent need for social distancing POLICIES WHICH and the country is perpetually dealing with Another point of worry that has COVID-19. While Italy wasn’t prepared, sionals amid the shutdowns caused by COVID-19. With a slew of insti- amidst this growing pandemic, there are still many a shortage in medical resources and infra- emerged amid this crisis is the supply- it gave other countries the time to do so. tutions being present online and powered with courses in collaboration with CAN BE PLAYED countries that haven’t completely acknowledged the OUT DURING structure. chain disruption especially in the health Unfortunately, the lack of coordination in foreign universities of repute, these educational solutions will bridge the impact of this virus. Such inward and self-centered According to the Government, India sector. Countries which have been severe- dealing with this crisis on a global level has gap in the education and corporate landscape being created by the glob- policies of nations have severely limited the global PUBLIC HEALTH has about one doctor per 1,500 citizens ly affected by the pandemic have resort- slowed down the fight against COVID-19 al pandemic. consistency of action in such a trying time as this. EMERGENCIES. IT while the WHO recommends one doctor ed to sealing borders and enforcing com- today. Even though ultimately countries India Skills Report 2018 reflected that about 47 per cent of future A global health crisis like COVID-19 goes HAS BECOME per 1,000 residents. In rural areas, where plete lockdowns, which is an entirely have resorted to a lockdown to curb the jobs in India will be in the areas of Analytics, AI and Robotics. Educational beyond borders and the need of the hour is unanim- IMPERATIVE TO two-thirds of Indians live and rely almost unprecedented situation. Most nations spread of the Coronavirus, the action institutions in India have embraced Education 4.0 and designed courses ity across the world. In a short span of time, the virus INCORPORATE solely on Government hospitals, the ratio don’t have a support system or infrastruc- response in the interim has been lack- to rationalise the concept of knowledge for tomorrow. Such programmes has spread rapidly through the world and with each GLOBALISATION is one doctor to more than 10,000 people. ture to manage such large-scale disruptions adaisical. passing day, the pandemic lays bare the inadequa- These statistics are haunting when in the supply-chain of essential goods, Significantly, Modi roped in SAARC aim to get the future leaders ready, making them contribute to the vision IN POLICY cies of healthcare systems and crisis unpreparedness NARRATIVES AND evaluating the action response required to especially pharmaceutical and medical leaders to develop a strategy to deal with of seeing India as the knowledge superpower. From digital classrooms to across the globe. tackle a pandemic such as COVID-19 device companies. International collabo- the growing COVID-19 pandemic. The collaborative learning, these programmes are offering a platform and expo- WORK ACTIVELY From infrastructure and medical technology to TOWARDS which is growing by the minute. Moreover, ration on delivery of essential services like discussion revolved around creating a glob- sure to students and industry professionals to skill-based learning. The resources and administration, there are glaring insuf- India faces a problem of plenty within an medical equipment and pharmaceuticals al fund to tackle COVID-19 in the region need of the hour and of the future is to create programmes in collabora- ficiencies in the healthcare industry. European PROVIDING informal sector of residence and profes- could go a long way in ensuring availabil- and also to be better prepared for the tion with premier global institutions and industry experts and follow the countries with developed healthcare systems have COMPREHENSIVE sion where crowd control is difficult. ity of these services during a crisis. future. Taking a cue from that, steps need concept of “to, by and for the industry” to create a workforce of tomor- failed to battle the enormity of this pandemic. The SOLUTIONS TO For instance, 49 people from the India is popularly known as the phar- to be taken at the stakeholder level to devel- row. Subject domains including Data Science, Business Analytics and UK took a different approach towards dealing with WORLD PROBLEMS famous Dharavi slum in Mumbai were macy of the world. In this regard, India op more inclusive strategies for when dis- Intelligence, Digital Marketing Strategies, ML and AI, Blockchain Technology the problem by experimenting with the “herd tested positive for COVID-19 and there could particularly look at expanding its asters hit. East-West collaboration lies at and Management, Big Data Architecture, HR Management and Analytics, immunity.” However, this approach backfired on the have been five deaths till now. This slum pharmaceutical industry into a more the core of this strategy. One way to move UK as the number of cases in the country soared could turn out to be India’s biggest robust operation that caters not only to forward in this regard is for policymakers Cyber Security, Fundamentals of Python, Search Engine Optimisation, Deep while their National Health Service struggled to keep hotspot. The nationwide lockdown that domestic but also international needs in to think globally and act locally. There is Learning, Content Marketing, Ethereum, Basics of Java, Mobile App up. Even though now the UK has imposed a full- India is currently experiencing is one step the time of crisis. The recent decision to a need to break out of existing tradition- Marketing, Social media Marketing are needed to grow with the changing fledged lockdown, a crucial period when the spread in ensuring social distancing and break- allow export of anti-malarial drugs chloro- al practices and align with the global view- realm of education. of the virus escalated was spent without active admin- ing the chain of transmission of the quine to other nations in need is a step point while thinking of implementation on With education on the go becoming a new reality, subject domains istrative action. This existing introversion of ideolo- Coronavirus. However, in a slum like in the right direction. The Government the grassroot level. We live in a world with like AI can make learning adaptive and personalised while Augmented Reality gies to tackle global health emergencies has led to Dharavi, social distancing cannot be prac- needs to rope in experts in the industry extensive cross-country interaction and (AR) can help in contextual learning along with AI-aided chatbots that enhance an unsynchronised response of countries in tackling tised and contact-tracing is very difficult. from the world-over to develop policies movement. It is essential now to be aware the student’s learning experience. Messaging services like WhatsApp and the crisis. There has not only been a delay in action The challenge is manifold without ade- that expand the market significantly and of possible health threats that might popular social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are also being response but also a failure in delivery of productive quate resources to know the extent of also make it self-sufficient during a time require a coordinated policy narrative to used for interactive and informal learning by education institutions. Online action making it extremely difficult for countries to spread of the virus. of crisis. This could create a mutually ben- deal with. Countries should focus on pol- learning will certainly help the education sector tide over the current cri- — at this stage — flatten the curve. In an era of such Until a couple of weeks ago, India had eficial global platform wherein all agencies icymaking at a local level while integrat- populist inward-looking ideologies, there is a need only 52 official testing centres for COVID- can be timely brought in to effectively tack- ing and defining these policies at a glob- sis and also prepare the next generation to become tech-enabled global to revamp our crisis management strategies and look 19 but now that number has gone up le a public health emergency. For long, alised macro level. citizens. outward to avoid a situation where the internal slightly. In Tuesday’s address to the nation, India’s protectionist economic tendencies (The writer is Co-founder and (The writer is Chairman, Amity Future Academy) machinery reaches the edge of a collapse. Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured have prevented this from happening Managing Partner, SPAG) Humanity must adopt conscious consumerism As of now, mankind’s exploitative forays into nature’s domains have resulted in the release of harmful pathogens FOREIGN EYE that were hitherto unknown to mankind task to accomplish. Given the consid- oceans and mountains. revealed that 83 per cent of the respon- to mankind. The hunt for exotic ani- ty or any natural resources. For erable health risk involved in stepping Even as one nation after another dents evinced interest in making mals that can be sold for a premium instance, there is need to ask all the five- out of the house due to possible expo- fell prey to COVID-19, other lifestyle changes towards a more sus- in wet markets has put man in the star hotels across the world to not throw sure to COVID-19, and, of course, the Coronavirus-free countries did not tainable living, while 70 per cent dis- crosshairs of virulent viruses searching unused food at the end of a business additional risk of inviting the ire of the comprehend the danger ahead and played sufficient awareness of water for a host. The Coronavirus pandem- day and instead give it to the poor. This policemen tasked with the job of people went about their routines conservation. However, despite the ic is a result of this form of mindless act alone will feed millions of hungry A CHANGE FOR keeping citizens indoors during the unperturbed, powered by greed and awareness, the respondents could not consumerism. people and will also lead to saving of THE BETTER? nationwide lockdown, it is well nigh consumerism. Now, the Coronavirus elucidate how they were going to take This cavalier attitude towards trillions of litres of water that is used impossible to enjoy this simple pleasure has brought almost the entire world to steps to reduce/prevent the negative nature and abject consumerism have in growing more food. Huge political shifts are of life. However, as we ponder over a standstill and our crimes against impact of their lifestyles on the envi- made the world shoot itself in the leg According to EcoBusiness, cur- under way, with fiscally mankind’s behaviour in hindsight nature are staring us in the face. In ronment. So, all the awareness regard- and this has to stop now. rently 25 per cent of the food that pass- KOTA SRIRAJ conservative governments (during this enforced break from more ways than one, this crisis had ing climate change and the state of the Consumerism that spells doom for es through global five-star kitchens is such as Boris Johnson’s activities), taking nature and the envi- been in the making for quite some time. environment is unable to alter human humanity has to be urgently replaced eventually thrown out, this is the hall- he ongoing COVID-19 pan- ronment for granted seems nothing Rising levels of consumerism paved the behaviour and ensure that people try by alternativism, where sustainable mark of irresponsible consumerism intervening in economies to demic has instilled a new-found short of a sin now. way for the environment to be exploit- to lead a low carbon foot-print lifestyle. lifestyles become the norm rather and it needs to be replaced with a con- an unprecedented extent. Trespect for the environment This respect and value being ed and compromised on a systematic For this to happen there needs to be a than the exception. Governments scious one. Lastly the mindless What was once impossible among the people of India and the accorded to nature is new-found, scale for long. major change in attitudes, wherein con- across the world must provide sustain- exploitation of natural resources has to now turns out not to be, at world at large. because as recently as the first week of Interestingly, according to a pan- scious, environment-friendly con- able alternatives for humans to adopt stop. Else, we should prepare for a grim As people stay barricaded inside February, all the nations of the world India study commissioned by the sumerism replaces the current pattern so that the livelihoods and lifestyles that future where overexploitation of food all. Could the renewed shock their homes, the value of taking a sim- continued to turn a blind eye to envi- Mahindra Group in 2019, Indians are of consumerism which is self-serving result in compromising the environ- resources leads to depletion, forcing of human vulnerability in the ple walk in the park, soaking in the sun ronmental well-being. They went on very well aware of the human impact and oblivious to environmental conse- ment are phased out. humans to look for other, more uncon- face of COVID-19 make way and the greenery, admiring the flow- mindlessly exploiting natural resources, on the environment. The study saw quences. This not only means changing ventional sources of food. Then pan- for an increased willingness ers and listening to the chirping of the guzzling fossil fuel, carelessly dispos- four out of five Indians confirming that As of now, mankind’s exploitative one’s buying behaviour by shifting to demics like the Coronavirus will to face other perils, climate birds, is driven home like never before. ing plastics and other non-biodegrad- they were aware of the consequences forays into nature’s domains have green products but also means that suf- become a routine affair. What was taken for granted earli- able waste in landfills, rivers and pol- of their actions on the environment and resulted in the release of harmful ficient efforts must be made to prevent (The writer is an environmental chaos among them? er has become a shockingly difficult luting ground water and even the climate change. The study further pathogens that were hitherto unknown wastage, be it of food, water, electrici- journalist) (The Guardian editorial) VIJAYAWADA | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15, 2020 money 08

CAPSULE ‘Extension right India Inc stands by extension move, impact call; seeks stimulus package on EV sector in PNS n NEW DELHI 1 to 2 months’ The extension gives adequate India Inc on Tuesday time to organise an orderly and PNS n NEW DELHI said the nationwide Biocon, Mylan lockdown extension was safe restart of the economy Society of Manufacturers launch Fulphila, necessary to avert a of Electric Vehicles (SMEV) biosimilar humanitarian crisis, but on Tuesday said extension insisted on the need for Sept 2020. Hence, an which helps industry of the lockdown is the right Pegfilgrastim a stimulus package to urgent relief package is plan better. move although there will be Bengaluru: Biocon Ltd. and rebuild the economy hit also critical, she said. "The extension gives certainly an adverse impact Hope govt will announce Mylan N V on Tuesday hard by the Covid-19 She observed that the the government ade- on the operations of its announced the launch of pandemic. Prime Minister's direc- quate preparation time members for the next 1-2 Fulphila, a biosimilar to Earlier in the day, tions on graded opening to organise an orderly months. economic stimulus Neulasta (pegfilgrastim), in Prime Minister will help start some pro- and safe restart of the Describing the situation Australia. Fulphila is approved Narendra Modi duction activity to economy as and when as a testing time for the EV by the Therapeutic Goods announced that the cur- effect of the lockdown as an insurance cover ensure that as soon as health conditions per- industry, SMEV Director packages soon: Nasscom Administration for the rent lockdown will be on the overall economy for healthcare profes- lockdown opens, there mit. Industry too can General Sohinder Gill said treatment of cancer patients extended till May 3, say- and livelihoods of lakhs sionals handling virus are no shortages faced. devise its strategies for it is also time for its mem- PNS n NEW DELHI The three-week following chemotherapy, to ing it is necessary to of migrant workers trig- infected people. CII Director General commencing operations bers to conserve cash, take decrease the duration of contain the spread of the gered severe concerns “Estimates show that Chandrajit Banerjee accordingly duringthis care of workmen and utilise IT industry body Nasscom on lockdown has severe neutropenia and reduce novel coronavirus in the following which a num- India may be losing said the Covid-19 curve extension period," this time to plan ahead. Tuesday said it is hopeful that played a key role the incidence of infections, as country. ber of state chief minis- close to Rs 40,000 crore trajectory as of now Banerjee said. "Looking at the current the government will announce in helping India manifested by febrile He said detailed ters in their video con- daily due to the nation- required a fitting con- IT industry body situation in the country, economic stimulus packages neutropenia, city- guidelines on imple- ference with Modi on al lockdown with an tainment response and Nasscom said the exten- the extension of the lock- soon to help rebuild the econ- contain the spread headquartered Biocon said in mentation of the new Saturday sought some estimated loss amount- Prime Minister's deci- sion announcement by down is the right move. omy even as the nationwide of Covid-19 a statement. The approval of lockdown will be sort of relaxation for a ing to Rs 7-8 lakh crore sion for continuation of the government will Though there will be cer- lockdown was extended till Fulphila was based on a announced on number of sectors. during the past 21 days," the lockdown is neces- help India to build on tainly an adverse impact on May 3 to contain the spread of comprehensive package of Wednesday, and some Late last month, the said Ficci President sary to avert a larger the containment strate- the operations for the next coronavirus infection. "We are also happy to note analytical, nonclinical and relaxations may be government announced Sangita Reddy. humanitarian crisis. gy of the last three 1-2 months, I believe that Welcoming the move to the relaxation of restrictions in clinical data, which confirmed allowed after April 20 in a Rs 1.7 lakh crore pack- Further, it is also "Prime Minister has weeks and strengthen we will be able to save lives extend the lockdown, green zones and hope the that the product is highly places where there are age aimed at providing expected that close to 40 also provided a guid- our readiness to support of thousands and emerge as Nasscom said it is imperative government will also similar to Neulasta and no no hotspots. relief to those hit hard million jobs are at risk ance on exit from the the post lockdown a healthier nation," Gill said that people to adapt to this announce the economic stim- clinically meaningful The catastrophic by the lockdown as well during the period April- lockdown after 20 April phase. in a statement. "new normal" and build in ulus packages soon so that we differences in terms of safety practices like social distancing can start focusing on rebuild- and efficacy exist, it said. in everyday lives over the next ing the economy," Nasscom many months. said. Hero MotoCorp "The nationwide three-week Information technology and ‘MSME exporters have no liquidity to pay wages’ lockdown (that was to end on business process management to provide 60 April 14) has played a key role (IT-BPM) companies have PNS n NEW DELHI address to the nation this in helping India contain the asked most employees to work ambulances for morning. Non-adherence to spread of Covid-19. from home with very few staff Apex exporters body FIEO on the delivery schedule for "While, there are some dis- being present at locations to Pvt lenders may lose Covid patients Tuesday said the micro, small exports will result in cancella- tricts that are still heavily handle critical workloads. and medium enterprises tion, penalties and market loss, impacted, it is heartening to The industry body said IT- deposits to PSBs due PNS n NEW DELHI (MSME) do not have ade- besides the business loss to hear about patients recovering BPM industry is committed to to Yes Bank bailout: quate liquidity to pay wages to enterprises, he added. and some districts reporting take all precautions on Report Leading two-wheeler maker their employess for the month Prime Minister Narendra no new cases over the last 2- hygiene, sanitisation and Hero MotoCorp on Tuesday of April as they are unable to Modi on Tuesday announced 3 days," Nasscom said in a ensuring all necessary guide- Mumbai: The Yes Bank rescue said it is donating 60 first- conduct any business activity that the current lockdown will statement. lines are followed by the indus- has undermined confidence of responder mobile ambulances during the lockdown. be extended till May 3, saying There is still a long battle try and employees, as it con- depositors in private sector to authorities across the coun- The Federation of Indian "The exporters, particularly He also expressed disap- it is very necessary to contain ahead and the extension tinues to support critical ser- lenders and will lead to smaller try as part of its Covid-19 Export Organisations (FIEO) MSME exporters, have no liq- pointment on deferment of the the spread of the COVID-19 announcement by the govern- vices. entities losing deposits to state- relief efforts. reiterated that the government uidity to pay wages for the decision to allow selective pandemic in the country. ment till May 3 will help India "Nasscom is also working run banks, a report said on The mobile ambulances should immediately announce month of April as they are opening of the manufacturing Saraf also said that the shift- to build on the containment closely with the government to Tuesday. The research report will be useful for reaching out an incentive package and give unable to conduct any business sector, particularly export ing of the goalpost will not help strategy of the last three weeks enable technology solutions from global ratings agency to patients in rural and permisssion for partial activity during the lockdown," units. "We were expecting in avoiding the stark realities and also strengthen readiness for Covid-19 that will enable Moody's Investors Service remote areas and comfortably resumption of operations in FIEO President Sharad Kumar some announcement in this which exporters have to face to support the post-lockdown the post lockdown phase," it comes at a time when many moving them to the nearest manufacturing units. Saraf said in a statement. regard in the Prime Minister's whenever "we open". phase, it added. added. private sector lenders have hospitals, the company said in reported a contraction of a statement. deposits in the March quarter The ambulances have been when the Yes Bank crisis custom-built as an accessory ‘Concern among happened. The RBI - which had to be fitted on Hero MSSL gives nod to raise Rs 1k-cr to to steer the over Rs 10,000 MotoCorp motorcycles, with transporters crore Yes Bank bailout - has an engine capacity of 150cc repeatedly assuaged such and above, it added. regarding enhance liquidity during pandemic concerns, saying money in all The ambulance accessories the banks is safe. "The Yes include sleeping arrangement sustenance’ PNS n NEW DELHI Bank event undermines with essential medical equip- depositor confidence in private ment such as a first-aid kit, PNS n NEW DELHI The board of auto components sector banks, whereas public oxygen cylinder, fire extin- major Motherson Sumi trust in PSBs (public sector guisher and siren, Hero Truckers' body All India Motor Systems Ltd (MSSL) has given banks) will remain strong, MotoCorp said. Transport Congress (AIMTC) in-principle approval to raise underpinned by a perception of These mobile ambulances on Tuesday said there is Rs 1,000 crore to enhance liq- strong government protection will be handed over to author- renewed concern among trans- uidity during the uncertain for them," the rating agency ities in multiple regions across port sector regarding its suste- times of coronavirus pandem- said. the country, it added. nance due to the extension of ic, according to a company the lockdown while seeking Rs Oil prices rise as statement. 200 crore from the govern- The firm, which has plants ment's coronavirus combat in India, Europe and Americas corpus to ensure food and Trump flags deeper that are currently temporarily India has opportunity to water for drivers and helpers closed, said it has received pos- uation on a daily basis across proposals," the statement said. on the move. itive reopening dates for vast all its plants. It further said, "We are also The truckers body also output cuts majority of the plants by end Reassuring its investors, proactively working to leverage build more resilient and claimed that while the home of April/early May. MSSL said it had instituted on various government sup- ministry has issued directives PNS n SINGAPORE ulations under lockdown. However, the situation being many projects across the globe port schemes to enhance liq- that trucks carrying goods, A Saudi-Russian price war dynamic there could be further aimed at cost rationalisation, uidity." diverse economy: USIBC essential or non-essential or Oil prices rose Tuesday after compounded the crisis, with delays in reopening plants in controlling non-critical busi- Stating that its liquidity is empty vehicle should not be US President Donald Trump both countries ramping up case the local governments ness investments and generate strong, the company said as of PNS n WASHINGTON “Now after the pandemic, I stopped but on the ground said producers are considering production as they bid to hold extend lockdowns, of which cash flows. March 31, 2020, it had a con- think it just further under- local authorities are not hon- cutting 20 million barrels per on to market share and under- there are no current clear indi- "To further enhance liquid- solidated cash Rs 4,690 crore. After the COVID-19 pan- scores that there's an opportu- ouring it in many places and day -- more than double the cut US shale producers. cations, the company said in a ity in these uncertain times, the MSSL Chairman Vivek demic, India will have the nity here for India. stated if such a scenario persists figure publicly announced -- Prices fluctuated after the statement. board of directors has accord- Chaand said: "Our team has opportunity to build an econ- In the midst of all of the dis- then the scarcity of essential to help the virus-hit sector. output cut was announced, Stating that the company is ed in-principle approval to done a phenomenal job in omy that is more resilient, ruption and economic fallout, supplies is inevitable. US benchmark West Texas however, with traders still ner- fully prepared to tackle the raise up to Rs 10 billion and almost doubling MSSL's diversified and attractive to the there's an opportunity to build While the prime minister Intermediate rose nearly 2 vous about a supply glut amid Covid-19 situation, MSSL said delegated its committee of turnover over the last five global manufacturers and ser- an economy that is more has asked corporate and pub- percent to trade at $22.85, estimates that demand has it has created multiple internal directors to evaluate and years to USD 9.6 billion on an vices as the majority of the resilient, that is more diversi- lic sector enterprises to coop- while international bench- plunged 25 million barrels task forces to monitor the sit- decide on various borrowing unaudited basis.” businesses world wide have fied and that is more attractive erate in this hour of crisis by mark Brent crude climbed 1.5 per day. Trump said Monday faced disruptions and eco- to more global manufacturing taking care of the workforce percent to trade at $32.26. that the cuts may be deeper nomic fallout, according to the and global Services,” Biswal, and their dependent, Singh OPEC producers dominat- than the headline figure -- head of a India-centric who served as the Assistant claimed, "it has come to light ed by Saudi Arabia and allies with top producers consider- RIL to hit American business represen- Secretary of State for South that even public sector enter- led by Russia thrashed out a ing slashing output by 20 mil- Trump says OPEC+ tative group here. and Central Asia during the prise like Maharashtra Natural compromise deal on Sunday to lion barrels a day under the Nisha Desai Biswal, the previous Barack Obama Gas Limited, a joint venture of cut production by nearly 10 deal. "People are saying 10 mil- market with president of US India Business Administration, told PTI in an Maharashtra Government and million barrels per day from lion but we think the number planning to cut Council (USIBC) said India is interview on Monday. GAIL, are rescinding their May. they will actually hit is going Rs 10k-crore expected to benefit as it is Globally, the coronavirus work and rendering hundreds The agreement was aimed to be closer to 20 million bar- expected that businesses will pandemic has killed 119,666 of poor truckers without work." at boosting prices after months rels a day," Trump said at a production 20 mn bpd want to de-risk in having too people and infected almost "The corporates should hon- of heavy falls, with the press briefing about the coro- on April 16 PNS n WASHINGTON much of a supply chain con- two million people, according our their existing work con- COVID-19 outbreak sapping navirus, referring to how PNS n MUMBAI centrated in one area and try to tracts as on it depends liveli- demand as countries around much oil production would be Top global oil producers are to diversify and disperse. data. hood of many others," he said. the world have put their pop- cut. To cash in on cheap funds considering cutting produc- flooding the debt market tion by 20 million barrels per through the targeted long- day under the terms of a deal term repo operations route, to boost prices, US President Reliance Industries (RIL) will Donald Trump said on Lockdown-hit paper demand unlikely to recover in Q1 raise Rs 9,000 crore through Monday. an NCD sale to refinance the Trump, who took credit for PNS n MUMBAI Stating that there is no recovery existing high-cost rupee debt. brokering the deal, said the The most cash-rich compa- agreement was bigger than The ongoing Covid-19 driven possible in the first half, a report says ny is also one of the most expected and will help the lockdown will see paper sales the impact will have be harder as the indebted corporates sitting energy industry recover from plunging as demand from lockdown has been extended on debt pile of over Rs 1.54 the impact of the coron- economic activity caused by packaging, education, corpo- lakh crore as of March 2020. avirus pandemic. the pandemic, as well as a rates and the print media has According to an exchange "Having been involved in price war between Saudi come to a naught with over 80 and corporate sectors, driving the FY20, significantly faster filing, RIL is launching a Rs the negotiations, to put it Arabia and Russia. per cent of the economy is on demand for writing and print- than domestic demand 9,000-crore non-convertible mildly, the number that Top producers have been a standstill. ing paper and a gradual nor- growth. debenture (NCD) issue on OPEC+ is looking to cut is 20 inching towards a deal for Stating that there is no recov- malisation of manufacturing “While logistical disruption April 16 and the proceeds Million Barrels a day, not the days, with an agreement ery possible in the first half, a and logistics, pushing packag- can provide a breather, import from the debt sale will be used 10 Million that is generally announced on Friday and report says the impact will ing demand. threat continues with subdued to repay existing rupee debt. being reported," Trump Trump saying he would help have be harder as the lockdown (4 per cent of global demand domestic industry harder again. “However, there is downside pulp prices and the possibili- The issue has two compo- tweeted. Mexico, which had resisted has been extended by more share), India is the fifth largest Significantly, the report nei- risks as the lockdown is ty of overseas manufactures nents: a Rs 4,500-crore fixed "Thank you to all of those cutting production, meet its than two weeks till May 3. This paper consumer, after China ther quantifies the demand extended to May 3 now. pushing their inventory amid rate tranche and an equal who worked with me on get- end of the deal. is on top of the three-week with 109 mt (21 per cent of plunge nor how much will be Besides, domestic paper pro- a weak global demand once tranche with floating rate and ting this very big business OPEC producers dominat- shutdown that ends on Tuesday. global share) and the US with imports. ducers have already been fac- normalcy returns,” says the both the issues are offering a back on track, in particular ed by Saudi Arabia and allies According to an India 70 mt or 17 per cent of global The report expects a demand ing volume pressure from ris- report without quantifying the coupon of 7.20 per cent-4.40 Russia and Saudi Arabia." led by Russia again met by Ratings report, with an annu- demand, and also warns of recovery in the second quarter ing imports, which grew 18 per demand loss or spike in per cent of repo with a spread Oil prices have been ham- videoconference on Sunday al demand for 19 million tonne import threat hitting the with resumption of education cent in the first 10 months of imports. of 2.80 per cent. mered by a slump in global to cement the agreement. 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Wednesday April 15, 2020

As the nation urther extension THE PRICES of the nationwide continues to RANGE lockdown has F upset many. remain in Delivering to BETWEEN People were eager- SMILES RS 1,200 ly looking forward lockdown, to the lockdown to end, but AND RS when it did not happen, baker Agrima social media has been flood- 1,400, ed with people frowning at BASED ON the decision. A large section Asthani, of them put up messages say- VARIOUS ing their birthday plans have founder of DESIGNS been quashed. But worry not, the internet Cake’olock, AND has come to your rescue. FLAVOURS Birthday or not, one just allows The needs an excuse to have one. YOUR HOMES Celebrities too have been Pioneer's beginning to try out and spending their time baking appreciate the art of baking. yummy and mouth-watering Shikha “I now see people looking for cakes at home. From DIY cooking videos and Sayessha, Kangana Ranaut, Duggal, a doing things themselves, giv- Malaika Arora Khan, ing tough competition to Deepika Padukone to sneak peek owners of huge businesses,” Tamannah Bhatia and Vicky she explains. In times of Kaushal, everyone is seen into her social isolation, the baker beating the blues during hopes that her comforting quarantine by indulging their desserts serve as an act of sweet teeth. baking life love that brings smiles upon Agrima Asthani, founder people’s faces. of Cake’olock is a self-taught during this All of 21, this passionate baker who notifies us that baker hopes to expand her her business has leaped amid time of business to e-commerce the coronavirus outbreak. soon. “I take orders on “The number of orders have isolation Instagram and deliver them come up as bakeries too, have via Whizzy, Rapido, Uber shut down. Clients are more and even self-pickup. The than happy to invest in fresh, and anniversaries. She prices range between Rs home-baked items,” she says. sources her ingredients from 1,200 and Rs 1,400, based on Asthani, however, grapples a local store that delivers various designs and flavours,” with the concern of limited them home. she informs. ingredients. This cheesecake Asthani has one reason to Brownies, themed candies, lover caters to around 2-3 be thankful to the lockdown cupcakes, pastries, you name customers a day, especially — the mass communication it, you will have it delivered on the occasion of birthdays drop has resulted in people at your doorstep!

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN YEAST DURING QUARANTINE! What will you need? temperature. Flour Step 3: Twice a day, add one Water to two tablespoons each of flour and water. In Step1: Mix flour and water in about three to five days, a small bowl. your starter will begin to Step2: Cover the bowl bubble. After day five, loosely with a lid and your starter should have leave the mixture on at least doubled in volume your counter at room and will be ready to use.

Speaking to V SATEESH REDDY, television actress Ashika ‘I'm almost a Gopal talks about her entry into acting, love for different roles, Telugu girl now' language difficulties, hat would you do episodes of the serial She adds, “After acting in shares, “I have no dream if you can see the since the two look simi- a few serials in Kannada, role per se, but working with future? As exciting lar. “I was pursuing my I got a call from would take up a W as it sounds, engineering when I got Annapurna Studios for character if it is Telugu and actress Ashika the opportunity to act in Kathalo Rajakumari. interesting. I don’t Gopal plays a sim- Niharika. My uncle Initially, I was hesitant wish to stick to a ilar role in Zee Telugu’s advised me to audition because the place and out of the similar kind of Kannada industries, Trinayani. The Kannada for the role since the language were new. But role. When I actress made her Telugu lead actress and I look after a friend convinced entered the TV Hyderabad- debut with Kathalo similar. After this serial, me, I decided to audi- BOX industry, I didn’t Rajakumari and has I was offered a role for tion for the role and was know how to act. connect and managed to make a the Triveni Sangama,” selected. After Kathalo And here I am comfortable spot for she shares. Following Rajakumari, I found no today. I’m a fast more herself in the Telugu TV that, Ashika played reason to look back at love to learn new things learner and am willing industry. smaller roles in other my placement in the and was able to learn the to take up challenges — serials. MNC. Although I never language within six be it TV or films.” The beginning planned to be an actor, I months. I would talk to Ashika made her Telugu entry now feel serials are all I my co-stars in Telugu Set of the audience debut with a Kannada Ashika got placed in live for.” and whenever I could is different serial Niharika when she an MNC after her gradu- visit my hometown in On OTT platforms was in the final year of ation but she put her Interesting roles Karnataka, I would con- taking over TV, she says, her engineering course. joining date on hold to Ashika enjoys playing verse with my family in “Serials are different She bagged the role of try her luck with different roles and loves Telugu. They now say from other content on playing the lead serials. how interesting her role I've become a complete OTT platforms. People actress in in her current serial Telugu girl,” she says. who love serials will stay flashback Trinayani is. “I’m playing with us for years. One the lead and can see Working style is can’t say the same about what happens in the different web series or content in future. It is a unique Asked if there are any a shorter format. Some I HAVE NO DREAM concept and has differences between the mediums target a partic- ROLE PER SE, BUT WOULD received tremen- Kannada and Telugu TV ular audience, but I’d like dous response for industries, Ashika replies, to believe that people TAKE UP A CHARACTER IF IT IS the same. The “The working style is dif- relate more to serials for INTERESTING. I DON’T WISH TO role has various ferent in both the indus- everything is more real STICK TO A SIMILAR KIND OF ROLE. challenges and tries. Kannada people and stays for years,” she I’m enjoying love to act in a very calm explains. WHEN I ENTERED THE TV INDUSTRY, I it,” she tells us. manner and Telugu DIDN’T KNOW HOW TO ACT. AND HERE I actors are more active. Hyderabad connect Language Both the industries are About the city, Ashika AM TODAY. I’M A FAST LEARNER AND difficulties great at production and shares, “My Telugu is AM WILLING TO TAKE UP Ashika says other departments.” getting better and better she never had to with each day. I love the CHALLENGES — BE IT TV OR face any major Film Industry? city and its cuisine. I FILMS difficulty when she Depends on roles love that Hyderabadis was new to the Ashika doesn’t wish to eat spicy food. When I industry. “I didn’t stop with TV. She says visit my home in know anything about that she might take up Karnataka, I sometimes the Telugu industry, acting for films if she is miss Hyderabadi food,” even the language. But I offered a good role. She she smiles. 10 health Vijayawada Wednesday April 15 2020 COVID-19 spells disaster Onion oil: for film biz, OTT to surge For all your hair he COVID-19 pan- are announced,” it predicted. offering extended free periods support essential. cial services, real estate etc., all demic will have Talking about films, the to drive subscription pick up Talking about radio, the of which currently face their after-effects on the report mentioned that “foot- through habit formation,” it demand for timely, localised own challenges and could care needs media and enter- falls and therefore revenues pointed out. It means that habit content should remain strong therefore take time to recover,” T tainment industry, have dried up with cinema hall formation could result in a new even after recovery. But ad- it stated. turning out to be closures”. normal and accelerated growth spends could take time to As per the report, at-home hile home- which helps in rally potent antioxi- disastrous for films, entertain- “Rental cost savings antici- in consumption and monetisa- recover. Print can get a new entertainment options (digital, made oils are enabling hair growth dants, which is why it ment events and theme parks. pated due to invoking of force tion. There’s another sector lease of life. TV, gaming) will see an handy, they helps reverse the It will, however, boost digital majeure clause. Recovery which is set to bloom — that’s “Higher credibility in the upswing as “lockdown behav- W doesn’t neces- o It helps to add effects of premature media consumption in India. process may be different across animation. face of proliferation of fake iour” results in habit forma- sarily sort hair strength to weak hair greying. KPMG has released a report demographics based on specif- “Animation and VFX work news on social media,” it said, tion. problems such strands especially titled COVID-19: The Many ic COVID-19 experiences and more long-term so demand suggesting that the circulation “Outdoor entertainment as hair fall, thinning and caused due to pollu- o This magical veg- Shades Of A Crisis- A Media perceived risk from social gath- could hold up despite the crisis. might pick up once restrictions (films, events, theme parks) dandruff. tion etable lends a healthy And Entertainment Sector ering,” it added. TV and digital projects could are lifted also resulting in particularly in COVID-19 An oil that does shine to the hair, Perspective, which highlights The “medium term release” increase while film projects improved ad monetisation. hotspots to see lingering risk address all these issues in o Due to its organic which can become the impact of COVID-19 in might be impacted due to have taken a bigger hit,” the It pointed out that monetisa- aversion even in the medium one potion is ‘onion hair nature, onion hair oil permanent when used the media and entertainment “crowding of projects and report explained tion in the sector is predomi- term. ePent-up' demand oil’. Our hectic lifestyles nourishes the hair fol- regular industry. The report states that restart of on-hold projects”. As a result, VFX and post- nantly “reliant on advertising, behaviour among some sec- and consequently licles to increase hair the current environment could Overall, footfalls could take production on films are likely which has seen a major con- tions of population may pro- unhealthy eating habits volume and improve o The rich in sulphur result in a dip in media con- a while to return to normalcy to be hit. Animation for TV traction”. vide some respite," it added. along with pollution and strength vegetable has so many sumption in the near term. with risk of narrowing of the- and digital could recover faster. “Overall ad-spend is deter- stress become the main advantages that it During the lockdown peri- atrical windows and expansion When it comes to live mined by the performance of contributors to hair prob- o Onion oil when mas- makes for the best od, TV, gaming, digital and delays likely. events, it would be a delayed sectors such as FMCG, e-com- lems. Making quick saged into the scalp daily use. Thanks to OTT platforms are seeing con- There’s a silver lining of recovery for them as social dis- merce, automotive, lifestyle changes can be by applying simple its infection-fighting sumption growth. On the other OTTs. Even though content tancing behaviour will take a finan- challenging but using a massage techniques capabilities it can also hand, outdoor consumption pipeline has dried up, the plat- while to dissipate. hair oil that helps nourish enables good blood prevent lice infesta- models such as films, events, forms have a larger, vibrant Government your hair is easy. circulation that helps tion. theme parks, are witnessing a library — which is acting in its Onion hair oil helps moisturise the scalp, dramatic fall with social dis- favour. “OTT play- nourish your hair strands reduces thinning and tancing norms in place. ers to make them look breakage The report states that “digital healthy and lustrous. It consumption will see rapid helps enable growth, o Juice of onion also incremental growth with therefore improving thin- helps control dan- India’s edigital billion trajectory ning and adding volume druff and reveals likely to accelerate materially.” to their hair. Massaging sparkling stronger “Digital media consumption, onion oil with consistent hair particularly OTT, has seen a small circular motions surge during the lockdown into the scalp can boost o The potent antibacte- period in terms of both time blood circulation which rial properties in spent and newer audiences. in turn helps in strength- onion hair oil help The resultant habit formation ening the roots. fight infections of the is likely to result in a new high- scalp. This reduces er normal once the situation Shrey Jain and Dr Vivek hair fall as scalp around COVID-19 comes Mehta, co-founders of infections can cause under control,” it read. Corporation, underline massive loss of hair It also stressed that the OTT the benefits of onion oil: consumption in India could o Onion is rich in start seeing a shift from the o Onion is highly nutri- natu- mobile screen to the large TV tious, screen “owing to the lockdown effect with broadband internet”. Gaming is another sector which can benefit in the overall digital ecosystem, saying that “media companies, including OTT platforms, could seriously look at gaming as an extension to their ecosystem offerings”. The study stressed that while the TV viewing has increased, it lacks fresh content. As of now, news channels are popu- lar as viewers follow COVID- 19 updates in real time.. “Sports could emerge as the big draw when recovery begins, especially if IPL dates 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 | WEDNESDAY | APRIL 15, 2020 sport 11 Dhoni still has cricket left in him: Raina IANS n NEW DELHI Someone has to give us detail where to bat, what to do?” said Raina who has played 18 eteran India batsman Suresh Raina on Tests, 226 ODIs and 78 T20s for India. ‘MS is greatest Tuesday said MS Dhoni was trying to Putting his weight behind young Vinnovate a lot while batting during the wicketkeeper batsman Rishabh Pant, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) camp which got Raina said he is lacking in confidence at cancelled midway due to the COVID-19 the moment and seniors need to guide finisher of all time’ pandemic. There has been a lot of debate him. PTI n NEW DELHI about Dhoni’s future if the Indian Premier “Rishabh Pant is very talented. League (IPL) does not eventually see the light Someone has to step up and guide him. finisher of repute himself, former Australia batman of the day due to the lockdown getting When I used to play, Yuvi (Yuvraj Singh) AMichael Hussey believes India’s World Cup-winning for- extended till May 3. paa used to tell me, ‘you make mistakes mer captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s “unbelievable power” “He was batting really well. Cricket is still and we will guide you’. So Rishabh and “self-belief” make him the greatest of all time in that role. left in him. He has looked innovative. We should be backed. He has hundreds “Dhoni is the greatest finisher of all time that the crick- played practice games and those sixes are as abroad and he is not a fluke player. eting world has ever produced,” Hussey told Sanjay Manjarekar big as they were. Three hours of batting in Somewhere I think he is not getting on ESPNcricinfo. the evening, that too, in Chennai heat is not confidence..he is missing something,” “Dhoni can keep his cool and make the opposition cap- easy and we did that (during the camp). If he said. tain blink first. Dhoni also has unbelievable power. He knows you ask me, Mahi bhai is batting brilliant- that when he needs to clear the ropes he can do it. He has ly,” Raina said in an Instagram Live session. IPL 2020 POSTPONED that kind of self-belief. Honestly, I didn’t have that kind of belief Nathan Lyon celebrates after he dismissed Virat Kohli cricket.com.au “His body is not showing signs of age- INDEFINITELY in myself.” ing. He was looking different and was try- The BCCI on The 44-year-old Hussey said he also picked up a trick or ing to do something else, something differ- Tuesday told IPL fran- two about chasing from Dhoni while playing for Chennai Will be interesting to see Kohli ent, new. So people will get to know when chises that the event Super Kings. they see him,” said Raina who won the 2011 stands “postponed indef- “I tried not to let it reach 12 or 13 runs an over. And I adapt to empty stadiums: Lyon World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy initely” after the lock- learnt this from MS Dhoni. He is incredible. He believes that under Dhoni’s leadership. down to combat the he who panics last wins the game. So Dhoni would keep his PTI n SYDNEY around the world. Raina further said he is still hopeful of COVID-19 pan- cool, and keep it longer because the pressure is on the bowler “I haven’t thought about a comeback in the T20 team ahead of the demic was extended as well.” ricket in front of empty no crowds or massive World Cup, slated to be held in October. till May 3, leaving Talking about the traits of great players, Hussey said: “They Cstands came up for dis- crowds, it’s just about the The 33-year old also slammed the selec- no scope for the don’t hang on to a defeat for too long. If they lose, they move cussion between Australian opportunity of playing tors for not providing enough reason league to take place on quickly. They don’t let a loss or a win hamper their think- off-spinner Nathan Lyon against India again,” he said. as to why he was dropped after the during its designated ing. They are always consistent, and level headed whether it’s and pacer Mitchell Starc Australia tasted their England tour in 2018. window. MS Dhoni or Ricky Ponting”. with both wondering how first Test series loss to India “I have played for 14-15 years. While the development hasn’t been Dhoni led the CSK to three IPL titles besides winning the Indian captain Virat Kohli on home turf in 2018-19 Under Mahi bhai then Dada officially announced as yet but it is learnt that now-defunct Champions League T20 twice. would adapt to such an when Kohli’s men handed (Sourav Ganguly)..they always the BCCI has reached out to all the stake- Asked what is the reason behind three-time champions atmosphere if their Test them a 2-1 defeat. used to tell me what was wrong. holders, including the eight franchises and CSK’s consistent run in the IPL, Hussey said: “Supportive own- series this year is held with- However, with the likes Virat (Kohli) also does that but the broadcasters, to convey that the event ers who let the coach (Stephen) Fleming and captain Dhoni out fans. of Steve Smith and David the selectors don’t all the stands “postponed and not cancelled”. decide how to run the team, excellent chemistry between the India are set to play a Warner, who were under time. “Yes, the BCCI has intimated us that IPL coach and the captain, Dhoni’s leadership. four-match Test series in suspension last time, and “They should has been postponed for the time being but “This has built an excellent continuity in the team. And Australia later this year. Marnus Labuschagne, the have taken more they are hopeful of finding a window later once you have continuity, you build relationships and trust But with the COVID-19 Australian batting unit responsibility this year as and when things normalise,” that otherwise takes time to grow.” pandemic wreaking havoc, seems pretty solid now. (when dealing a veteran franchise official said. However, Hussey believes it will be more challenging for speculation is rife that the “They had the wood with) senior It is understood that BCCI president CSK to build a new team once Dhoni hangs his boots. games could be held behind over us last time they came players. You Sourav Ganguly and secretary Jay Shah “I believe the owners would like to keep Dhoni involved closed doors. over here but we’re a much need to know were waiting for the government direc- in some way or the other. However, whenever the change of This led Lyon and stronger Australian cricket the reason why tive and once the lockdown was extend- guard happens, CSK might want to start all over again, build teammate Mitchell Starc to side at the moment, and I’m you are not bat- ed till May 3 on Tuesday, they saw no a brand new team, and use their existing philosophy as they discuss how Kohli’s on-field just unbelievably excited ting in nets one possibility of holding the IPL during its enter the next decade of IPL. It is definitely going to be more demeanour would change about playing them here at fine morning. traditional April-May window. challenging in current times,” he said. without the backing and home.” noise of the crowd, some- thing the Indian captain ‘PUJARA NEW WALL’ thrives on. Apart Kohli, Lyon also Four-day Tests will not achieve desired results: VVS “He’s probably good heaped praise on enough to adapt to any sce- Cheteshwar Pujara and has IANS n NEW DELHI want to see teams travelling and captain Nasser Hussain believes nario. But I was talking to termed him as ‘new wall’ of winning matches on away turf that quality of pitches and spec- Mitch Starc the other day Team India. ormer Indian batsman VVS which makes it more interesting tator experience is key to preserv- and we actually said that if Pujara was one of the FLaxman has rejected the idea for spectators,” he added. ing Test cricket. we are playing with no main architects of India’s of having four-day Test matches, The ICC cricket committee “The keys areas I can pin- crowd, it’ll be quite amazing famous win in 2018-19. He saying reducing the length of the is considering having four-day point to one’s pitches is that if to see Virat trying to rev up scored three centuries and game by a day will reduce the Tests a part of the World Test they are flat, like one in the (empty) seats,” Lyon was the leading run-getter chances of it yielding the desired C’ship from 2023. The ICC’s Cambridge which years ago was quoted as saying by in the four-match rubber. results. increasing demand for event when Jimmy Anderson got 90 Can’t imagine hosting World cricket.Com.Au. According to Lyon, “I am not really a fan of this windows, the proliferation odd runs from 600 balls. “It’s going to be a little Australia need to reassess four-day Test cricket, five days fits of domestic T20 leagues, The games on these pitch- T20 in empty stadiums: Border bit different, but Virat is a their approach to Pujara perfect because it gets more BCCI’s demands for its es are boring and old superstar. He’ll be able to next time around. results and reducing it the four own sizeable share of school. Those days have got Melbourne : Former Australia captain Allan adapt to any climate that “I think Pujara flies days will not achieve the desired bilateral calendar space, to go in Test match cricket, Border has given a thumbs down to the concept we’re able to play in,” Lyon under the radar a little bit results according to me,” Laxman and the costs of staging 300+ score in first innings of Australia hosting the ICC WorldT20 in empty added. when you look at the said while speaking on Star Test series are all said where the ball slightly domi- stadiums in the wake of the COVID-19 pandem- Sports calendars have Indian side,” Lyon said. Sports Cricket Connected show. to be the factors con- nates back making it great for ic. Currently, the Australian government has been shredded worldwide, “Obviously you look at “Another point aspect is the tributing to the viewing and crowd experi- sealed its border for six months till September 30 including international and Rahane and Virat and these toss, especially during the over- move. ence. The match gives a value to deal with the global health crisis. domestic cricket all over. guys. But Pujara is a wall. Usain Bolt showed he's still a few steps ahead when he seas tour the captain from the vis- Meanwhile on add to the tickets bought With the flagship event starting October 18, The 32-year-old Lyon is He’s the new wall I should posted a picture of him outstripping his rivals at the 2008 iting side gets to decide what he the same show, and England Test match there are speculations that Cricket Australia might still excited by the prospect say. It helps that he played Beijing Olympics with cheeky caption: “Social Distancing” wants to choose because we former England ticket are not cheap.” be forced to conduct matches in empty stadiums, of the series against India. exceptionally well last time something that is not acceptable to the World Cup “I’m excited about the out here. He adapted his winning former skipper. prospect of India coming game. He had a bit of luck “I just can’t imagine playing at empty stadi- out to Australia, it’s up which is what you need Neuer extension ums ... It defies belief,” he told Fox Sports News. there with the biggest series when you’re playing at the In fact, Border said that he doesn’t see the alongside the Ashes. top level. World T20 happening if spectators are not allowed They’re an absolute power- “He obviously played talks stall at Bayern inside the stadiums as the purpose of the sport house of the cricket world, his absolute backside off, is lost. “Having teams, support staff and every- and to have those guys out which for India was good to AFP n MUNICH ly wants a contract one else associated with the game wandering here is going to be fantastic,” see but we’re going to have extension until 2025, around the country, playing games of cricket, but he said. to make sure that come this helsea and but Bayern are only you can’t let people into the grounds. I just can’t Lyon remains hopeful summer we have to come CManchester City prepared to offer a deal see it happening,” Border said. that the home series will go with some new plans to are reportedly interest- until 2023 — when he For him, it’s an either-or situation for Cricket ahead, with or without fans. combat Pujara. As I said, he ed in signing Germany will be 37 years old — Australia. “It’s either you play it and everyone just “Playing in front of flies under the radar a lit- captain Manuel Neuer, with the option of an gets on with the job and we’re past this pandem- crowds or no crowds is out tle bit — he definitely won’t whose contract exten- extra year. Remaining I-League ic or it just has to be cancelled and you try to fit of our control, we’ve got to he flying under the radar sion talks have stalled at The leaking of the matches set to be cancelled it in somewhere else,” said the 64-year-old follow the advice of all the come this summer,” he Bayern Munich, details of Neuer’s Marouane Fellaini poses for photo with medical staff Border. PTI amazing medical people added. according to Kicker demands has ‘seriously KOLKATA: The remaining 28 The other issues to be magazine. shaken’ the trust matches of the suspended I- sorted out are determining The goalkeeper’s between the player and League is set to be cancelled the second and third place current deal expires in his club, according to in the wake of the extension clubs as well as the team to be Top Italian doctor against June 2021 and Neuer, Kicker. of nationwide lockdown. relegated to second division. Fellaini out of hospital after virus scare 34, is said to be angry Neuer, who helped Mohun Bagan will be There is a three-way race AFP n SHANGHAI Super League, will now time has come for me to that details of the rene- Germany win the 2014 officially crowned the I- among East Bengal, Minerva spend 14 days in quarantine thank from the bottom of May restart for Serie A gotiations have been World Cup title, has League champions as they Punjab (both with 23 points ormer Manchester for further observation, his my heart the medical staff the end of next month, with leaked to the German been named world have already clinched the from 16 matches) and Real FUnited star Marouane club Shandong Luneng said. of the hospital, their nurs- players returning to training on press, according to goalkeeper of the year title with four rounds left in Kashmir (22 points from 15 Fellaini was discharged on The Belgium interna- ing staff as well as my club May 4. Kicker. four times. the competition. matches) for the runners-up Tuesday after spending tional said on March 22 that and its medical staff for tak- “If I had to give a techni- Germany’s top-sell- He has kept 191 A top official of the All slot. With cancellation of more than three weeks in a he had tested positive for ing such good care of me cal view, sincerely it would not ing daily Bild claims clean sheets in 373 India Football Federation remaining matches on cards, Chinese hospital being the virus, having just with so much kindness and be a favourable one. That being that Neuer’s agent appearances for Bayern said that a formal decision to the AIFF meeting will have to treated for coronavirus. returned to China, but for ensuring my comfort said, it will be of course for the Thomas Kroth has since joining from call off the remaining match- take a call on a likely split of The 32-year-old mid- assured fans that he was whilst there. politicians to decide,” said asked Bayern for a Schalke in 2011 and es of the I-League is expect- the prize money among the fielder, the only player feeling fine. “The hardest part is Giovanni Rezza, the head of salary for his client of made 92 appearances ed to be taken in a video call second and third placed known to have contracted In an Instagram update behind me! Let’s keep fight- infectious diseases at Italy’s 20 million euros ($22 for Germany. meeting on Thursday. teams. PTI the disease in the Chinese on Tuesday, he wrote: “The ing, it’s important.” National Institute of Health. million) per season. “I’ve heard certain people If the talks fail, club propose more strict observa- captain Neuer could be French GP decision tions with players tested every free to leave Bayern in ‘No B Plan’ for another Oly postponement few days. But sincerely it seems June and attract the to me a slightly far-fetched the- interest of the Premier AP n TOKYO ists raised the question on the call. expected in days ory. And we’re almost in May League clubs. “All I can tell you today is that PARIS: A decision on whether to go already. Kicker’s chief okyo organizers on Tuesday the new games’ dates for both the ahead with June’s French Formula Cristiano Ronaldo represents Juventus “It’s obvious that politics reporter Karlheinz Tsaid that they have no ‘B Plan’ Olympic and Paralympic Games One Grand Prix behind closed doors in Serie A UEFA/Twitter will decide. But it’s a sport that Wild says the in the event the Olympics need have been just set up,” Takaya or to postpone or scrap the event will involves contact and that con- “willingness to to be postponed again because said. be made in the coming days, organ- AFP n ROME tact could imply a certain risk resume negotia- of the coronavirus pandemic. “In that respect, Tokyo 2020 isers said. of transmission.” tions” is weak Masa Takaya, the and all concerned parties now are The grand prix scheduled for leading Italian doctor spe- The Italian Football on both sides spokesman for the Tokyo doing their very best effort to June 28 is the first race on the Acialising in infectious Federation (FIGC) is set between Olympics, said organizers deliver the games next year.” revised Formula One world champi- diseases said on Monday to meet on Wednesday Bayern and are proceeding under the IOC President Thomas Bach onship calendar with nine races he would be against Serie to discuss the medical Neuer. assumption the Olympics was asked about the possibility of already scrapped or suspended. A restarting its season protocols surrounding “It could will open on July 23, 2021. be held as scheduled this summer. a postponement in an interview Following French President next month. players training again, still take The Paralympics follow “We are working toward the published in the German newspa- Emmanuel Macron’s announcement Football across the with lockdown measures weeks, even on August 24. new goal,” Takaya said on a telecon- per Die Welt on Sunday. that the lockdown in will be country, which has in the country extended months, before a final Those dates were set ference call with journalists. He did not answer the question extended until May 11 and public recorded more than 20,000 to May 3. decision is taken. last month by the “We don’t have a B Plan.” directly, but said later that Japanese gatherings banned until mid-July, a deaths from the coronavirus “We’ll start, I hope, at the Positions have so International Olympic The severity of the pandemic organizers and Prime Minister spokesman for the race organisers pandemic, has been postponed start of May with tests to make far become too Committee and Japanese and the death toll has raised ques- Shinzo Abe indicated they “could said that they “have been studying all since March 9 due to the out- sure the players are negative hardened.” officials after the coron- tions if it will even be feasible to not manage a postponement scenarios” including postponement break. and that training can start,” the According to avirus pandemic made it hold the Olympics in just over 15 beyond next summer at the lastest.” or staging the event behind closed According to local reports FIGC’s president Gabriele Bild, Neuer reported- clear the Olympics could not months. Several Japanese journal- doors. AFP the league could begin again at Gravina told Sky Sport. 12 tollywood Vijayawada Wednesday April 15 2020 We are willing to wait Uppi not doing to shoot in the US: Mahesh’s film or the past one Director Parasuram has week, rumours some names on his mind have swirled but he is yet to sit down F about Kannada with Mahesh and Mythri star Upendra’s Movie Makers and narrow participation in them down. The casting superstar ’s process will begin shortly,” PAVAN SADINENI next with Parasuram. added the source. According to the grapevine, The untitled film, a joint The producers the actor, who is making his production venture between Tollywood comeback with Mythri Movie Makers, 14 of the film, Varun Tej’s boxing drama, Reels Plus, and GMB was attached to play the Entertainment, is a love starring film’s principal, an antago- story laced with family nist. Sonu Sood’s name too emotions, plenty of humour Bellamkonda was tossed around but a and action. Gopi Sunder Ganesh is extremely well-placed source has been roped in to Ganesh, want to dedicated towards his close to the pro- compose tunes. An craft and is a director’s duction house official announ- meet the story scoffed at the cement about actor. He understands rumours, saying the project is requirements his plusses and that Upendra’s around the cor- minuses very well. casting doesn’t ner. arise because — NG even if there is Despite being the son they haven’t dis- of noted producer, he is cussed his name in a delay, finds behaving like a new kid the first place. “As a matter of fact, NAGARAJ who has landed a big the casting project and is ready to hasn’t GOUD give multiple takes as begun yet. he US leg filming long as I’m happy. of Pavan PAVAN Sadineni’s next DIRECTOR T with Bellamkonda Ganesh was foiled because of the Covid-19 outbreak. The unit, after completing all formalities, planned to leave to US on March 25 for a resume shootings, Pavan and Pavan has used the time to schedule of 20 days but with his team is eager to work at a wrap up a new script. “It’s a the lockdown here and the jet speed to wrap up remain- drama which unfolds in a US government imposing a ing portions. “We want to small village in Telangana. Balayya's next travel ban; Pavan had to complete the remaining 40 It has an Indie flavour to it,” abort his plans. With corona per cent Indian leg of shoot- he shares, further revealing positive cases in the US ing first, leaving us to shoot that he is not much into spiking day by day, suspense only the US portions. If the shows as he doesn’t like sto- for October around the untitled film’s US US portions stare a delay, we ries to be dragged into mul- hile there is well for Boyapati’s plans. schedule looms large but want to use the time to work tiple seasons. “I’m mostly no clarity on Also, as opposed to Pavan is willing to hang on the post-production of into watching films. I’m also when shoot- some reports which around. “We can wait for the 80 per cent portions shot playing tambola to W ings will claimed that Shriya another six months for the thus far. That’s the plan as of pass the restart after Saran is cast opposite US schedule. We can’t now. Let’s see how the situa- time the lockdown Balayya in the film, the change the setting, as US, as tion unfolds as days right is lifted, Boyapati director will be intro- a place, is another character progress,” he points out. now.” Sreenu has made ducing a new actress. in the film. We planned to The director is pleased up his mind to He will reveal her name shoot in and around with the way Ganesh, who is release his next at an appropriate time. California for around 20-22 making his debut as a lead- with Nandamuri In the action-enter- days when Coronavirus ing actor, is going about his Balakrishna in tainer with an underly- slowly began to spread over job. The movie chronicles October. Having ing social message, there,” Pavan tells us exclu- the actor’s heartbreaks and forged a success- Balayya will be seen in sively. relationships in a poetic way. ful working bond dual roles-- of which He goes on, “My produc- “He is extremely dedicated with the actor, the one role is that of an ers are not in a rush as they towards his craft and is a director is sure aghora. Expectations believe they have a winner of director’s actor. He under- that Balayya will are high on this untitled a product in hand. They stands his plusses and co-operate to film as it marks the want to meet the story minuses very well. Despite complete the film reteaming up of Balayya requirements even if there is being the son of noted pro- by September and and Boyapati after suc- a delay. We are fighting for ducer, he is behaving like a release it in cessful ventures like our lives, can’t we fight for a new kid who has landed a October. The fact Simha and Legend in film, which is dear to us?” big project and is ready to that there is no the past. Produced by M So far, Pavan has wrapped give multiple takes as long as news about the Ravinder Reddy, the up 40 per cent of the film- I’m happy. He absorbs my actor’s new signings film has music by ing, including three songs. inputs well. As an actor, he should also augur Thaman. Once the lockdown is lifted wants to be liked by every- and once the industry one,” Pavan adds. decides the right time to With restrictions in place, RASHMI’S personal life will ‘remain personal’

ith lockdown Insisting that she isn’t lockdown was in place, missing shoots much, the announced, wrote, “I like many actress, a pet lover, THE ACTRESS hills and water both So W Tollywood replied to a fan when SAYS SHE IS no place specifically celebs are asked what is she doing Every destination has it's interacting in the prevailing times: SPENDING 6 HRS own beauty But yes with their fans on “I’m absolutely not bored EVERYDAY IN SEATTLE holds a spl Twitter. After Niddhi 6 hrs every day goes into place (sic).” Agerwal and Sai Tej, feeding and preparing FEEDING AND When a fan specifical- actor and TV anchor food for strays. And then PREPARING FOOD ly asked when she is Rashmi Gautam has there is upkeep of the going to tie the knot, she done a chat session house and helping mom FOR THE STRAYS affirmed, “There is a rea- with her fans on with daily chores. So son y personal life is Deverakonda lifts Tuesday, taking there is no scope of get- called personal From my questions related to ting bored In fact I hit Outlander and Siren dur- end all u will ever know her marriage, lock- the bed by 10.30 unlike ing the lockdown. is about my professional down diaries 11.30 before. And my Speaking about her and community service and much day starts by 7. (sic).” favourite holiday desti- The rest will always the morale of cops more. Like most other celebs, nation, the actress, who remain personal (sic).” she has also binge has put on two kilos after escribing them for us by increasing your bled’ (smiles). In these watched on shows. She the as ‘frontline work hours. My utmost times, I also pay my informed completing fighters’ in the thanks to you all,” he respects to women force Grey’s Anatomy, battle against noted. Later, he fielded who are performing their D coronavirus, some questions from the duties on ground and are actor Vijay force. managing home.” Deverakonda lauded the Answering a question When a cop expressed efforts of Hyderabad city on whether he is helping his wish to see police as they ensure that his mother with house- Deverakonda as a cop, the lockdown is observed hold chores at home, he the actor replied, “I in all parts of the city. said, “When I’m shoot- would do a cop role in The actor was invited by ing, I don’t generally don’t the next two-three years city Police Commissioner pay attention to what for sure.” Anjani Kumar to his goes at home. But now He also noted that if he office on Monday to that I’m at home mostly, I was a cop now, he would boost the spirits of the can notice her hard work discharge his duties with police force on ground. first-hand. When I great responsibility. “I He personally extended extended help to her, she would follow the orders his appreciation to the politely declined, saying of the Commissioner force. “You are working her ‘work would get dou- dutifully.”