Covid-19 Bulletin: Top 12 Corona news of the day and rumours that floated on social media

New Delhi: Despite the nation-wide lockdown, the Coronavirus spread remains unabated and number of new/fresh infections are registering a rise of about 1,000 per day.

Here, we bring you snippets of information/official announcements by the government in the last 24 hours.

Also, a false rumour started floating on social media today that salary of Central government staff will be slashed by 20%, in line with lawmakers and Parliamentarians. We bring you a fact-check and the outright denial by none other than the Finance Ministry itself.

Overall, “Stay Home, Stay Safe” – is the mantra we all must practice. Together, we can fight and defeat Covid-19.

1) Restrictions to Ease from tomorrow, but not in hotspots

A total of 15,712 confirmed cases are reported for COVID-19 in the country. As many as 2231 persons i.e. 14.19% of total cases have been cured/discharged after recovery.2144 dedicated COVID-19 hospitals have been identified at both Centre and State levels. From tomorrow, restrictions will be eased in non-containment areas, but containment areas in HOTSPOT districts will not be given any relaxation. States / UTs may impose further additional measures according to local requirements.A high-level Task Force has been formed to work on the frontiers of science related to drug testing and vaccines.

2) Supply of only essential goods by e-commerce firms

It has been clarified by Ministry of Home Affairs that supply of non-essential goods by e-commerce companies will remain prohibited during lockdown.

3) Stranded migrant workers could be engaged in farming, MNREGA

Due to the spread of COVID-19 virus, workers employed in industry, agriculture, construction and other sectors have moved from their respective places of work, and are housed in relief/ shelter camps being run by State/ UT Governments. Since additional new activities, outside the containment zones, have been permitted in the consolidated revised guidelines with effect from 20th April 2020, these workers could be engaged in industrial, manufacturing, construction, farming and MNREGA works. In order to facilitate their movement within the State/UT, MHA has issued guidelines

4) NO proposal for reduction of pension, says Govt

It has come to the notice of the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pension that in the wake of the current pandemic, Covid-19 and the ensuing economic scenario, many rumours are afloat that the Government is contemplating a reduction/stoppage of Pension which has become a source of worry for the Pensioners. It is reiterated that there is no such proposal for reduction of pension and no action is contemplated by the Government in this respect. Instead, the Government is committed for the welfare and well-being of the pensioners.

5) Post Covid-19 detection, Navy remains on mission mode

The twenty six sailors who were placed in isolation after testing positive for Covid-19 at Mumbai, belong to INS Angre, a shore establishment. There has so far not been a single case of Covid-19 onboard any ship, submarine or air station of the Indian Navy. Our naval assets continue to be mission-deployed in three dimensions, with all the networks and space assets functioning optimally. The Navy remains combat-ready, mission-capable and is in full readiness to partake in the national mission to fight the pandemic as well as to provide support to our friendly neighbours in the IOR.

6) Rs 36,659 crore transferred to 16.01 crore via DBT

Cash Benefits announced under Prime Minister Garib Kalyan Package also being transferred by using DBT Digital Payment Infrastructure. PFMS usage for DBT Payments increased over last 3 FYs. Total DBT amount disbursed increased from 22% in FY 2018-19 to 45%in FY 2019-20. DBT ensures Cash benefit directly credited into the account of the beneficiary, eliminates leakage and improves efficiency.

7) ITR forms for 2020-21 being revised

In order to enable income taxpayers to avail full benefits of various timeline extensions granted by the Government of India due to Covid-19 pandemic situations, the CBDT is revising the return forms for FY 2019-20 (Assessment Year 2020-21) which shall be notified by the end of this month.

8) No disruption in harvesting of Rabi crop, sowing of summer crops

Amidst the uncertainty prevailing today, the one activity giving hope is agricultural activity, which is also providing the reassurance of food security. All throughout India numerous farmers and agriculture labour are sweating and toiling against all adversities. Their silent efforts, coupled with timely intervention by the Central and State Governments, have ensured that there is minimal or no disruption to harvesting activities and the continued sowing of summer crops.

9) 288 flights under ‘Lifeline Udan’ to fight Covid-19

288 flights have been operated under Lifeline Udan by Air India, Alliance Air, IAF and private carriers. Cargo transported till date is around 479.55 tons. Aerial distance covered by Lifeline Udan flights till date is over 2,87,061km. ‘Lifeline Udan’ flights are being operated by MoCA to transport essential medical cargo to remote parts of the country to support India’s war against COVID-19.

10) Railways transport 1150 tonnes of medical items in Lockdown

Indian Railways is ensuring seamless transportation of medical items on priority during the nationwide lockdown due to COVID-19. Indian Railways continues to deliver medicines, masks, hospital items and other medical commodities through its timetabled parcel services to strengthen Government’s efforts in managing the challenges and adverse impact of corona virus in the country.As on 18.04.2020, Indian Railways has transported 1150 Tonnes medical items in various parts of the country.

11) Gadkari’s assuarance to Footwear Industry

Union Minister for MSME and RT&H, ShriNitinGadkari has assured the Footwear Industry all possible support from the government to tide over the challenges created by the lockdown imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19.

12) Red Fort, QutubMinar illuminated for Corona Warriors

Archaeological Survey of India‘s Delhi circle expressed gratitude for Corona Warriors by illuminating historical sites like Red Fort, QutbMinar&Humayun’s Tomb in a special way on the occasion of World Heritage Day in New Delhi. Along with this ASI Delhi circle also administered oath to school students through video conferencing to safeguard and respect the monuments and their heritage.