Coronavirus cases in India crossed 13,800 mark and 452 deaths were reported across the nation. UK, US and Spain continued to report high number of deaths over a period of 24-hours. Germany offered a ray of hope as their health minister said that the pandemic might have come under control in the nation. US President Trump looks forward to reopen the economy but tech giants and governors remain wary of what could happen if lockdown was suddenly lifted in the nation which has most deaths and cases globally.
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Here are the major highlights of the day:
France says no evidence that virus originated in lab
A statement from French President Macron's office clarified that there is 'no factual evidence' interlinking the outbreak to Wuhan Institute of Virology in China.
NHAI's toll resumption to begin from April 20
NHAI announced that toll tax will be levied April 20 onwards.
'Passing the buck, without passing the bucks': Cuomo
After US president Donald Trump said that widespread testing is the prerogative of states, New York governor Andrew Cuomo lashed out at the Us president for not taking enough responsibility while trying to fast-track the reopening of the country.
General Motors delivers first batch of respirators
The automaker delivered its first bath of 54 ventilators to hospitals in US treating the critical Covid-19 patients. US govt had earlier awarded a contract following which GM will deliver 30,000 ventilators by the end of August.
Maharashtra reports 201 deaths, 118 new cases
Total number of cases in Maharashtra has now touched 3,320. 7 new deaths were reported today.
New rules for non-hotspot regions of Maharashtra
Agricultural activities, operation of dairy and animal husbandry farms, banking and few other activities to begin post April 20 in non-hotspot areas of Maharashtra, says state government.
Bhilwara reports zero fresh cases
Bhilwara DM R Bhatt told ANI that of 28 total cases, barring 2 deaths every other patient has been cured.
Delhi's Covid-19 tally touches 1,707
Over 40 people in the capital city have died due to Covid-19. 1,707 people have been infected so far due to coronavirus.
Rajasthan records 1,229 cases of coronavirus
Almost a hundred people tested positive for Covid-19 in Rajasthan on Friday taking the state's tally to 1,229 cases.
PM Modi speaks to Egyptian counterpart
PM Modi assured full support to Egypt in fight against Covid-19 when he spoke to President El-Sisi. He said India will extend full support to Egypt's efforts.
All incoming visas granted to foreigners remain suspended till May 3
Barring visas issued diplomatic, UN/international organisations and few other categories, all visas granted to foreign nationals remain suspended till May 3.
Visas of foreign nationals extended in India till May 3
Visas, e-Visas and stays of foreign nationals have been extended until 3rd May. The foreigners who are stranded in India due to travel restrcitions due to lockdown can now stay in India till given date.
PM Modi speaks to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa
PM Modi assured South Africa of essential medical supplies and hoped that African union will be able to mitigate the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
First published: Apr 17, 2020 06:06 IST