April 2020 National Affairs

• The 15th Finance Commission held meeting with its Advisory Council
  The Fifteenth Finance Commission (XVFC) had online meetings with its Advisory Council on 23-24 April 2020. The meeting was chaired by N. K. Singh, Chairman XVFC, and was attended by all members and senior officials of the Commission.
  
  Highlights:
  The Members of the Advisory Council discussed the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the national lockdown on the Indian economy.
  
  The officials discussed the impact of the pandemic on financial institutions and business enterprises and the loss of global demand for Indian products because of a steep global recession.
  
  Discussions on measures to restore the supplies of intermediates and cash flows and the demand for output.
  
  Small scale enterprises were cash-starved even prior to the onset of COVID-19.
  
  The Council devised a support mechanism to help the activity levels and cash flows to overcome the economic issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Currently, the activity levels and cash flows are affected, it is important that a support mechanism is devised to help them overcome this problem.
  
  To help Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) which are also affected by the slowdown, the commission planned to deepen the NPAs in the financial sector and introduce measures to guarantee help.
  
  The council planned to seek Reserve Bank of India's (RBI) help to ensure that financial institutions are well-capitalized.
  
  The finances of the Central and State Governments will be given adequate provision to largely help governments to manage cash-flow mismatches. It aims to ensure that the State governments get access to adequate funds to undertake their fight against the pandemic.
  
  The Council decided to support the revival of activity in different States which will be at a varied pace.
  
  
• Over 1.5 lakh farmers, traders register in Kisan Rath mobile app
  Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare reported that over 1.5 lakh farmers and traders registered on ‘Kisan Rath’ mobile app, just within one week of its launch.
  
  Kisan Rath:
  Kisan Rath was launched by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare on 17 April 2020.
  
  The app facilitates Farmers and Traders in identifying the right mode of transportation for the movement of farm produce ranging from food grain including cereal, coarse cereal, pulses, etc, Fruits & Vegetables, oilseeds, spices, fiber crops, flowers, bamboo, log and minor forest produce, coconuts, etc.
  
  The procurement of Pulses and Oilseeds on MSP is currently in progress in 20 States.
  A quantity of 1,79,852.21 MT of Pulses and 1,64,195.14 MT of Oilseeds has been procured by the National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd.(NAFED) and Food Corporation of India (FCI) valued at Rs.1605.43 crore through which 2,05,869 farmers have been benefited.
  
  The Department of Agriculture, Cooperation, and Farmers’ Welfare have reported that a total of 80,474 farmers and 70,581 traders are registered on this App, so far.
  
  
• CCMB, IGIB develops digital surveillance to monitor and control COVID-19 spread
  The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) and the Institute of Genetics and Integrated Biology (IGIB), along with a few other institutions is currently developing digital and molecular surveillance of the spread of novel coronavirus to understand the biology, epidemiology and disease impact.
  
  Highlights:
  The surveillance centre would be established at IGIB where all the labs, research centres, and hospitals will share their data through cloud sharing.
  
  The surveillance will be done at three levels namely the virus, the patient, and the clinical course of the patient.
  
  Surveillance at the virus level refers to the genome of the virus. For this, CCMB plays a major role, as it would provide the genome sequences.
  
  The second part deals with the patient data, which is details of the patients looking at the clinical samples.
  
  Thirdly, the clinical course details would be clinical care data or hospital data that leads to outcomes. Some patients require ventilators, while others are able to recover on their own.
  
  The data will be used by the GoI to be linked to the Aarogya Setu app. The idea is to provide benefits to the maximum number of people.
  
  
• PM launched E-Gram Swaraj portal
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the E-Gram Swaraj portal and app on 24 April 2020 at the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day on the official web portal egramswaraj.gov.in through a video conference with Panchayat Sarpanch.
  
  The Portal is a simplified work-based accounting application form Panchayati Raj. It functions under the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR).
  
  E-Gram Swaraj:
  E-Gram Swaraj will monitor the events organized for the rural areas.
  
  Candidates check the EGramSwaraj Portal link www.egramswaraj.gov.in
  
  The portal aims to strengthen e-governance in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) across the country.
  
  E-Gram Swaraj aims to bring better transparency in decentralized planning, progress reporting, and task-based accounting.
  
  This initiative is a part of the Digital India program in the country and seeks to promote e-governance of panchayats in villages.
  
  The villages will be able to work and government and digitally, thus, bring digital literacy to the villages.
  
  The e-Gram Swaraj website lists down the latest updates such as the 65967 number of profiles created, 244447 approved Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs), 87434 physical progress completed, 265311 financial progress onboarding, and 102968 geo-tagging initiated.
  
  
• King George Medical University became first hospital to successfully launch Plasma Therapy to treat COVID-19 patient
  The King George Medical University in Uttar Pradesh became the first government hospital in the country to successfully launch the plasma therapy treatment for COVID-19 patients.
  
  Convalescent plasma Therapy:
  The method was used in the past to treat diseases such as polio, measles, mumps, 1918 flu epidemic, and in previous outbreaks of respiratory infections namely H1N1 influenza, SARS, and MERS.
  
  Under the method, Plasma from people who have recovered from COVID-19 will be collected. It is believed that it might contain antibodies to the virus that causes the disease and might be effective against the infection.
  
  Plasma Therapy:
  The first dose of the plasma therapy was given yesterday to a 58-year old patient. The 58-year old COVID-19 patient who was on a ventilator showed signs of recovery and the second dose of the plasma transfusion therapy is to be given on 27 April.
  
  If the patient recovers successfully then it will be a great step in treating serious patients with the help of plasma transfusion therapy.
  
  The doctors are preparing Plasma Therapy for the approval from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The plasma was already secured from the three recovered COVID-19 patients who were treated at KGMU itself.
  
  
• Basava Jayanthi was celebrated on 26 April
  Basava Jayanthi was celebrated on 26 April. It is an annual event that is celebrated in the honour of the birth of Vishwaguru Basaveshwara, the 12th-century philosopher and social reformer.
  
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to Lord Basaveshwara and greeted the people on the occasion of Basava Jayanthi.
  
  The day aims to spread Lord Basavanna's works and his ideas around the world to make the world a better place.
  
  Basavanna:
  Basavanna was a 12th-century philosopher, Kannada poet, statesman, and a social reformer. He lived during the reign of the Kalachuri-dynasty king Bijjala I in Karnataka, India.
  
  He introduced Anubhava Mantapa, a new public institution that welcomed men and women to discuss spiritual and mundane questions of life, in open. Basavanna introduced the Sharana movement.
  
  It attracted people from all castes that produced a corpus of literature, the vachanas. It unveiled the spiritual universe of the Veerashaiva saints. He also set up the Anubhava Mandapa, where the Sharanas, drawn from different castes and communities, gathered and engaged in learning and discussions
  
  In November 2015, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the statue of Basaveshwara along the bank of the River Thames at Lambeth in London. Also in 2017, the PM suggested the digitization of holy Vachanas of Basavanna, which was done later.
  
  
• India became third largest military spender in the world
  Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report titled "Trends in World Military Expenditure, 2019" stated that India has become the third-largest military spender in the world, after the US and China.
  
  Highlights:
  For the first time that India and China are among the top three military spenders.
  
  It highlighted that India's tensions and rivalry with Pakistan and China are among the main reasons for its increased military expenditure.
  
  The military spending of India grew by 6.8% to $71.1 billion in 2019. This was the highest military spending in South Asia.
  
  The report stated that the total global military expenditure rose to $1,917 billion in 2019, which is an increase of 3.6% from 2018 and the largest annual growth in spending since 2010.
  
  
• India provided Bangladesh one lakh anti-malarial HCQ tablets and 50,000 surgical gloves
  India sent 50,000 surgical gloves and one lakh tablets of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) to Bangladesh to help its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The information was passed by India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh Riva Ganguly Das.
  
  Highlights:
  Earlier, India took the initiative and organised a conference of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) leaders on the COVID-19 pandemic during which a SAARC emergency fund was launched.
  
  Under this initiative, India Provided one lakh HCQ medicines and 50,000 surgical gloves which can be used by the healthcare professional.
  
  India has also launched an initiative to conduct online courses that could help the medical professionals in the country.
  
  All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur conducted a course that was attended by many people from Bangladesh.
  
  Previously, India gifted head covers and masks for medical professionals of Bangladesh.
  
  Bangladesh has reported 5,416 cases of coronavirus. Also, the Bangladesh government has announced a $11.6 billion stimulus package to support its economy. The primary focus of the move is to support the manufacturing and service sectors, agriculture and social safety nets.
  
  
• Herbal products produced by CIMAP may boost immunity to avoid infection
  The Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow, researchers have developed scientifically proven two herbal products namely 'CIM-Paushak' and 'Herbal Cough Syrup' that can boost the immunity of the persons.
  
  The products will help to alleviate the dry cough symptom generally associated with the coronavirus infection.
  
  Herbal Products:
  The two herbal products will be transferred to the entrepreneurs and start-up companies for further production.
  
  These newly developed products are effective to boost the immunity of a person.
  
  12 valuable herbs including Puranva, Ashwagandha, Mulethi, Harad, Baheda, and Sataver compounds have been used in both these products.
  
  The products have been found to be cheap, safe, and found to be effective.
  
  The products are produced as the coronavirus reduces the immune response of the infected person and it has been observed that this pandemic has mostly affected people with the low immune systems.
  
  
• IIT-Jodhpur scientist said COVID-19 may affect CNS causing loss of smell and taste
  Scientists of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Jodhpur have explored the neuroinvasive nature of the COVID-19 virus SARS-CoV-2. The study found that the loss of smell and taste of infected patients makes their entire Central Nervous System (CNS) and the underlying structures in the brain more prone to viral infection with devastating effects.
  
  Highlights:
  SARS-CoV-2 interacts with a specific human receptor known as hACE2 (human angiotensin-converting enzyme-2) which is the entry point of the virus.
  
  It has an almost ubiquitous presence in most human organs ranging from lung parenchyma to nasal mucosa. The brain expresses this receptor.
  
  The infected people attribute the loss of smell or taste as the nose and mouth both are very important entry points of the virus. It then slowly enters the olfactory bulb using the neurons of the olfactory mucosa. The olfactory bulb is located in the forebrain and is chiefly responsible for the sense of smell.
  
  It explains the loss of smell associated with many asymptomatic carriers of COVID-19 and also may be exposing the CNS to viral infection.
  
  When infecting CNS, the virus completely destroys the medulla oblongata of the hindbrain, which regulates breathing, heart, and blood vessel function in the COVID-19 patients.
  
  The study also suggested the brain autopsies of COVID-19 infected patients and the analysis of their cerebrospinal fluid.
  
  It suggested therapeutics agents ranging from the peptide-based therapeutics to curb the interaction between the viral protein and the human receptor to the strategic design of small molecule inhibitors designed against the viral spike protein that interacts with the ACE2.
  
  
• NAFED distributed about 6 lakh MT pulses to nearly 20 crore households for 3 months under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana
  Under Prime Minister Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, Centre is planning to transport and milling of pulses in the country to distribute one kilogram of pulses to about 20 crore households for 3 months.
  
  Highlights:
  The massive operation includes the lifting of un-milled pulses from the godowns, getting the pulses cleaned, and then reaching them to the states for distribution.
  
  Under the scheme, NAFED will distribute around 5.88 lakh metric tonnes (MT) pulses to about 20 crore National Food Security Act households through ration shops for 3 months. Most of the beneficiaries will receive the quota for the first month within April or the latest by the first week of May.
  
  In the first move, several States and Union Territories (UT) will get the pulses for all three months. The remaining state will preferably within the third week of May.
  
  The operation will involve about 2 lakh truck trips and loading and unloading operation over a period of four weeks.
  
  For implementation, the Department of Consumer Affairs has set up five groups of officers headed by Joint Secretaries to coordinate with states, NAFED, Dal mills, and warehousing corporations. It is monitored on a daily basis.
  
  The move will meet the protein needs of people during this hour of crisis due to the COVID-19 lockdown.
  
  The Central government has allowed the use of its stock of pulses lying in about 165 NAFED godowns across the country for this scheme.
  
  Over 100 Dal mills across the country have been pressed into service so far. The States and UTs have taken one-third of the monthly requirement of pulses to final destinations for distribution.
  
  17 States and UTs including Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu have begun distribution of pulses. So far, about 30,000 MT of pulses has been distributed.
  
  Many States and UTs, particularly the smaller ones like Andamans, Chandigarh, Dadra Nagar Haveli, Goa, Ladakh, Puducherry, and Lakshadweep have been provided with cleaned pulses for all 3 months.
  
  
• Team led by IIT-Bombay student develops Ruhdaar, a low-cost mechanical ventilator
  A team from the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT)-Bombay, NIT Srinagar and Islamic University of Science & Technology (IUST), Awantipora, Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir has developed "Ruhdaar," a low-cost ventilator using locally available materials.
  
  This invention will solve the problem of the ventilator, which is the primary requirement to treat COVID-19 patients, as the high-end ventilators used in hospitals cost in lakhs of rupees.
  
  Ruhdaar:
  Ruhdaar provides necessary functionalities that can provide adequate breathing support necessary to save the life of a critically ill COVID-19 patient.
  
  The prototype cost around Rs.10,000, which can get reduced during mass production.
  
  The ventilator can be used to control the basic parameters such as tidal volume, Breaths per Minute, and Inspiratory: Expiratory Ratio.
  
  It can also monitor pressure continuously during its operation.
  
  
• Andhra Pradesh CM launched Jagananna Vidya Deevena Scheme
  
  Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S.Jaganmohan Reddy launched the Jagananna Vidya Deevena Scheme on 28 April.
  
  Jagananna Vidya Deevena Scheme:
  Under the scheme over Rs.4,000 crore of funds have been released along with Rs.1880 crore towards the pending amount left by the earlier government.
  
  Under this scheme, fee reimbursement will be credited directly to mothers' accounts instead of college accounts in the coming academic year 2020-21.
  
  The state government will provide Fee reimbursement for ITI, B.Tech, B. Pharmacy, MBA, MCA, and B.Ed Courses.
  
  An amount of Rs.15,000 to Rs.20,000 will be offered for the eligible candidates through the Jagananna Vidya Deevena Scheme.
  
  Orders have been issued to the colleges to reimburse the entire fee amount paid by all the parents during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20.
  
  
• UIDAI allows Aadhaar updation facility through CSCs
  Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has allowed the Common Service Centre (CSCs), an SPV under the Ministry of IT and Electronics, to begin the Aadhaar updation facility at its CSCs facility which operates as Banking Correspondents (BCs).
  
  The announcement was made by the Union Minister for Communications, MEITY, and Law and Justice Ravi Shankar Prasad.
  
  Highlights:
  Around 20,000 CSCs will now be able to offer the service to citizens.
  
  The CSC Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLE) will start the Aadhaar work with responsibility and as per instructions issued by UIDAI in this regard.
  
  This facility will help a large number of rural citizens to get Aadhar services closer to their place of residence.
  
  It would further strengthen the efforts of achieving the goals of “Digital India” as envisaged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  
  The move will act as a big relief during the lockdown restrictions imposed to prevent spread of COVID-19.
  
  
• Assam govt announced Rs.50 lakh insurance cover to journalists
  Assam State government has announced an insurance cover of Rs.50 lakh for the frontline journalists who are covering COVID-19. The announcement was passed by Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
  
  Highlights:
  Frontline journalists have been bravely covering COVID-19 against all odds by risking their lives.
  
  Earlier, the Assam state government had announced a similar insurance cover of Rs.50 lakh for health, police, and other frontline people engaged in the COVID-19 outbreak.
  
  The journalists association in the state, including the Guwahati Press Club, welcomed the initiative taken by the Assam government.
  
  According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the total number of COVID-19 positive cases in Assam stand at 36.
  
  
• IIT-Bhubaneswar develop multi-surface sanitizer to disinfect devices
  IIT-Bhubaneswar has designed a safe and multi-surface sanitizer using UV light for the disinfection of devices in the combat against COVID-19.
  
  Highlights:
  When the infected object was placed into the chamber, it gets exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. The object would be disinfected within 15 minutes.
  
  The university has developed the chamber for the disinfection of masks, Personal protective equipment (PPE) worn by the doctors and devices like cell phones, etc as they cannot be disinfected with soap water.
  
  This device has been developed based on the results available for SARS COV-1 and the same device is expected to work for SARS COV-2.
  
  The device is yet to be certified by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for commercial use.
  
  The device was developed to control the number of deaths of healthcare workers due to COVID-19.
  
  
• Railway Emergency Cell for COVID-19 responds to about 13,000 queries, requests, and suggestions
  Indian Railways has taken several measures to ensure that the interest of the passengers and all commercial clients are taken care of and national supply chains keep running.
  
  Indian Railways stopped passenger train operations during Lockdowns 1 & 2, to arrest the spread of COVID-19. Indian Railway has set up Railway Emergency Cell for COVID.
  
  Railway Emergency Cell for COVID:
  Railway Emergency Cell for COVID is a nationwide Unit comprising of about 400 Officers and staff from Railway Board to Divisions. During the lockdown, the Cell has responded to about 13,000 queries, requests, and suggestions every day so far.
  
  Five communication and feedback platforms including Helplines 139 and 138, social media (especially Twitter), email ([e-mail]), and Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS).
  
  The 24-hours working Indian Railways Emergency Cell for COVID leads to a fleet-footed response to redress grievances of both Railways' customers and the general public.
  
  RailMadad Helpline 139 answered over 2,30, 000 queries on a one-on-one basis in the first four weeks of the lockdown, in addition to queries answered by its Interactive voice response (IVRS) facility.
  
  Queries over 138 and 139 are mostly for the commencement of train services and the relaxed refund rules.
  
  Other Measures:
  Railways played a pivotal role in transporting life-saving drugs to people unable to procure them in lockdown.
  
  It started timetabled parcel trains for the time-bound delivery of essential items like life-saving drugs. RMS and other consignments struck at various points were also cleared using Parcel specials.
  
  Railways incorporated suggestions received from the public and simply made things happen.
  
  
• Narendra Singh Tomar issued guidelines for SVAMITVA scheme and SOP for e-Gram Swaraj
  Union Minister of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Narendra Singh Tomar issued guidelines regarding the SVAMITVA scheme, a new initiative of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj. He also released a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) regarding e-Gram Swaraj.
  
  Aim:
  The aim of the program is to provide rural people with the right to document their residential properties so that they can use their property for economic purposes.
  
  SVAMITVA scheme:
  SVAMITVA scheme is a collaborative effort of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, State Panchayati Raj Departments, State Revenue Departments and Survey of India.
  
  The scheme aims to help in streamlining planning and revenue collection in rural areas and ensuring clarity on property rights. It will help in resolving property related disputes.
  
  The scheme will enable the creation of better-quality Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs), leveraging the maps created under this program.
  
  It also aims to provide an integrated property validation solution for rural India, engaging the latest Drone Surveying technology, for demarcating the inhabitant (Aabadi) land in rural areas.
  
  The program is being implemented in six states namely Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
  
  Under this scheme, mapping of rural housing land can be done using the latest survey methods and drones.
  
  SOP of e-Gram Swaraj:
  SOP of e-Gram Swaraj e-Gram Swaraj will ensure that the funds given to the panchayats are not misused and transparency can be maintained in its use.
  
  The process will help in establishing a strong financial system by integrating the Priya Soft and PFMS, the payment portals of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
  
  It aims to bring in better transparency and strengthening of the e-Governance in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) across the country through decentralized planning, progress reporting, and work-based accounting. It will also assist in enhancing the credibility of Panchayats which would induce greater devolution of funds to PRIs.
  
  e-Gram Swaraj provides a platform for effective monitoring by higher authorities. It will be a single platform for all planning and accounting needs of the Panchayats.
  
  Also, the Online Payment Module (erstwhile PRIASoft-PFMS Interface (PPI)) is one of its kind whereby Gram Panchayats are carrying out online payments to the vendors and service providers. The main objective of introducing such a module is to have a sound financial management system in the Panchayats leading to their greater credibility and image.
  
  These measures are in line with the "Digital India Programme" which is to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy "Faceless, Paperless, Cashless."
  
  
• Varanasi Smart City uses drones to sanitize sensitive areas to contain COVID-19 spread
  Varanasi Smart City used the spraying of sanitizer in the selected areas of Varanasi City under Smart Cities Mission to contain COVID-19 spread. For this purpose, the city has engaged with Garuda Aerospace Private Limited, a Chennai based company. The move comes due to the limited options for transportation during the lockdown period.
  
  Highlights:
  These drones were specially airlifted from Chennai through Air-India Cargo flights with special permission from the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA). A total of the seven-member team with two drones was made operational and trial runs were completed on 17 April 2020.
  
  Spraying of sanitizer through Drones is prioritized for Hot spots and Containment areas identified by the District Administration / Chief Medical Officer. After the hotspot areas, spraying is done on Isolation areas, Quarantined areas, Shelter Homes, and other places where manual spraying is difficult. The areas where Drones are to be deployed are decided by a team of Varanasi Nagar Nigam officials.
  
  The vehicles used for Drone Operations are fitted with GPS and GSM based wireless cameras by which the entire movement of Drones and their operations are centrally monitored from the Kashi Integrated Command and Control Centre, now converted to COVID-19 War Room.
  
  The Sanitary Inspector and other Team members report to the Nodal officer before and after drone operations are carried out at each designated location.
  
  The Capital Costs of the equipment are provided by the agency concerned, and the average cost of operations range from Rs.8000 to Rs.12000 per day per drone and is dependent on the area covered in acres.
  
  
• Prakash Javadekar stresses on climate finance in first virtual Petersberg Climate Dialogue
  Union Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar represented India in the first virtual Petersberg Climate Dialogue on 28 April. The first virtual Climate Dialogue was the eleventh session of Petersberg Climate Dialogue. It has been hosted by Germany since 2010.
  
  Highlight:
  The Dialogue aims to provide a forum for informal high-level political discussions.
  
  The meeting focused both on international climate negotiations and the advancement of climate action.
  
  Ministers and representatives of about 30 countries participated in the dialogue.
  
  Minister Javadekar urged to have climate technology as open-source which must be available at an affordable cost.
  
  He suggested adopting more sustainable consumption patterns in line with the requirement of sustainable lifestyles, as was first initiated by Prime Minister NarendraModi during the Paris Conference of the Parties (COP).
  
  The Union Minister also participated in an Indo-German bilateral meeting with Ms.SvenjaShulze, Minister, Federal Ministry of Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, Germany. The bilateral meeting was held through a video conference just before the Petersberg Climate Dialogue.
  
  
• Agartala Smart City uses Mobile Kiosk for COVID-19 sample testing
  Agartala Smart City used a Mobile COVID-19 sample collection kiosk under the smart city mission. Agartala Smart City has designed and submitted it to the city's Chief Medical Officer (CMO). This initiative is a major step by Agartala in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Highlights:
  The initiative was taken by the Municipal Commissioner, Agartala Municipal Corporation, who is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Agartala Smart City Limited.
  
  The kiosk ensures protection to the sample collecting doctor and prevents wastage of personal protection equipment (PPE).
  
  The kiosk is mounted on a three-wheeler vehicle. It enables the kiosk to navigate through narrow lanes and helps the collection of samples from the community itself.
  
  Under this initiative, the patients do not need to come to the hospital for giving the sample.
  
  It will also facilitate mass testing of a larger number of people in a shorter time frame.
  
  
• COVID Action Collab - Experts to develop method to test sewage for COVID-19 traces
  A multi-disciplinary expert group COVID Action Collab (CAC) is developing a protocol to test sewage for COVID-19 traces in selected densely populated urban residential areas of Bengaluru and Kolkata. The idea was initiated by the social enterprise platform Catalyst Group.
  
  Highlights:
  The move comes as it is suspected that sewage could be a simple and non-invasive method of community surveillance for coronavirus.
  
  The COVID-19 patients shed the virus through their stools and urine.
  
  Researchers say that sensitive laboratory tests can detect traces of coronavirus in sewage even with high levels of dilution.
  
  The experts are developing a cutting-edge sewage testing method of collecting and testing samples in a way that helps identify localities where traces of the COVID-19 infected patients can be found. This can help authorities to identify these areas.
  
  By mapping collection areas, authorities can easily narrow down the location of the people infected with the virus live. They can then follow it up with identification through clinical tests, quarantine, and treatment measures.
  
  
• India will produce indigenous RT-PCR kits by end of May
  India is set to produce indigenous rapid testing and RT-PCR diagnostic kits by the end of May. The information was passed by the Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan.
  
  Indigenous RT-PCR diagnostic kits:
  Several initiatives are taken by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and public sector undertakings (PSUs) namely Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and Bharat Immunologicals and Biologicals Corporation Limited (BIBCOL).
  
  Also, at least half a dozen candidate vaccines are being supported of which four are in an advanced stage.
  
  A multi-pronged research strategy and action plan for an immediate response and for long-term preparedness to tackle the pandemic is underway.
  
  Several kinds of research for the development of candidate vaccines, therapeutics, and suitable animal models for COVID-19 and the development of indigenous diagnostics and genomic studies on the host and pathogen are being processed.
  
  BIRAC has announced a COVID-19 research consortium call to support diagnostics, vaccines, novel therapeutics, and repurposing of drugs among other interventions to contain COVID-19 spread.
  
  DBT has developed many computational methods to predict the potential antiviral drug molecules.
  
  Surrogates of the virus are being developed representing one or more critical steps in the virus life cycle and inhibitors are being tested.
  
  Research to isolate neutralizing antibodies either from the patients recovered from COVID-19 or from human antibody libraries are being experimented. All the researchers are also conducting several experiments to discover a vaccine for COVID-19.
  
  
• CPWD issue guidelines on using AC amid lockdown
  As per the guidelines, the air-conditioning systems be disinfected and cleaned and humidity levels maintained at all times.
  
  Central Public Works Department (CPWD) has issued guidelines on using the central air-conditioners in public buildings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The move comes as per the guidance of Delhi High Court.
  
  The guidelines were the Indian Society of Heating Refrigerating and Air Conditioner Engineers (ISHRAE).
  
  Guidelines:
  As per the guidelines, the air-conditioning systems be disinfected and cleaned and humidity levels maintained at all times.
  
  The guidelines were issued with an aim to counter the fact use of air conditioners that might lead to increased spread of COVID-19.
  
  The air filters should be cleaned often.
  
  The ideal temperature of the room should be maintained between 24 degree Celsius and 30 degree Celsius.
  
  As per the guidelines, the relative humidity in the building or room should be maintained between 40% and 70% and ventilate with outdoor air.
  
  
• Jal Shakti Abhiyan began for monsoon
  Jal Shakti Abhiyan, under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, has provided various measures to combat the present health crisis. It has also taken several steps to boost the rural economy through its various components.
  
  In 2020, amid the COVID-19 emergency, and availability of large labour force in rural areas, the mission began its measures for the impending monsoon.
  
  Measures:
  Under the mission, a Joint Advisory has been issued from the Department of Rural Development, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Department of Land Resources, and Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation to all the Chief Secretaries of all States/ UTs.
  
  The guidelines include plans about the impending monsoon this year and the preparations to be done for water conservation and recharge which is of utmost importance for the country.
  
  The mission aims to ensure that all available resources be optimally deployed to catch the rain during the 2020 monsoon and preparatory activities are also well placed.
  
  Lockdown measures:
  Centre has allowed to take up MNGREGS works/ drinking water & sanitation works during lockdown with priority to be given to irrigation and water conservation works. The mission will ensure that all works are undertaken with strict implementation of social distancing, use of face covers/ masks, and other necessary precautions.
  
  Rejuvenation of traditional water bodies, removal of encroachments in the water bodies, desilting of lakes & ponds, construction/ strengthening of inlets/outlets, catchment area treatment can be taken up on priority.
  
  Also, rejuvenation of small rivers through community-driven River Basin Management practices may also be initiated. It is expected that this will ensure water source sustainability in rural areas. The Village Action Plan (VAP) prepared by the local community for JalJeevan Mission will provide a solid framework for the rural activities.
  
  
• NTRO reports increased cyber attacks due to work from home
  National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) under National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) assessment states that India's critical sectors may fall prey to inimical forces that could use relaxations in geofencing restrictions granted to employees working from home to make cyber attacks.
  
  Highlights:
  The report highlighted that several sectors including government undertakings, strategic and public enterprises, banking and financial services, telecom, power, energy, and transport, among others, are susceptible to such attacks.
  
  The report also stated that several critical sector entities have relaxed their geofencing restrictions so that their employees can log-in and work from home. This has increased the cyber attack from neighbouring countries.
  
  The cybercriminals also send out legitimate-looking corona related advisories impersonating as officials from the government and health organizations, through malicious e-mail attachments. The cyber criminals act like they seek donations for COVID-19 and try to steal credentials for online fraud.
  
  The government had advised its employees who are working in critical sectors to be vigilant, and closely monitor privileged users and administrators of critical accounts.
  
  Ministry of Home Affairs also instructed the firms to track all CRUD (create-read-update-delete) activities in Identity and Access Management (IdAM) and focus on the resilience of backups against ransomware attacks.
  
  
• Centre sanctioned Rs.33,300crore under MGNREGA
  Centre sanctioned Rs.33,300crore under MGNREGA out of which Rs.20, 624 crore has been released to liquidate all outstanding dues of previous years towards wages and material.
  
  The announcement was made by the Union Rural Development Minister Narendra Singh Tomar. This sanctioned amount is expected to meet expenses under MGNRGA until June 2020.
  
  Highlights:
  The States and Union Territories (UTs) have been directed to proactively implement Rural Development Schemes relating to employment generation, rural housing, and infrastructure development.
  
  The States/UTs should take all necessary COVID-19 related precautions while implementing the schemes.
  
  Under MGNREGA, the focus should be on water conservation, groundwater recharge, and irrigation work in convergence with the Schemes of Ministry of Jal Shakti and the Department of Land Resources.
  
  Centre has already released Rs.36,400crore to the States in the current financial year.
  
  The move by the Centre aims to ensure that rural development schemes are implemented in an effective manner so that the pain arising out of COVID-19 is mitigated.
  
  
• Task Force on NIP submits final report to Finance Minister
  The Task Force on National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) submitted its Final Report on the NIP for 2019-25 to the Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman. The report holds several recommendations on general and sectoral reforms relating to Infrastructure for implementation by Centre and States in India.
  
  Aim:
  The taskforce of NIP aims to provide world-class infrastructure across the country and improve the quality of life for all citizens. The main objective is to improve the project preparation, attract investments both domestic and foreign into infrastructure which will be crucial for the target of becoming a $5 trillion economy by FY 2025.
  
  Highlights:
  The report contained infrastructure trends in India along with global trends in all sectors of infrastructure.
  
  The report identified a set of reforms to scale up and propel infrastructure investments in various sectors throughout the country.
  
  It suggested methods and means of financing the NIP through deepening Corporate Bond markets, including the Municipal Bonds, setting up Development Financial Institutions for the infrastructure sector, accelerating Monetisation of Infrastructure Assets, Land monetization, etc.
  
  The Task Force has recommended setting up of 3 Committees namely:
  1) Committee to monitor NIP progress and eliminate delays
  2) Steering Committee in each Infrastructure ministry level for following-up implementation
  3) Steering Committee in DEA for raising financial resources for the NIR
  The report forecasts a total infrastructure investment of Rs.111 lakh crore during the period FY 2020-25 with the additional/amended data provided by Central Ministries/State Governments.
  
  
• The Global Report on Internal Displacement (GRID) 2020
  Geneva-based Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) released its Global Report on Internal Displacement (GRID) 2020 on 29 April. The reports stated that 5 million people were displaced in India in 2019, the highest in the world, due to disasters, including cyclones and monsoon floods.
  
  Report Highlights:
  The report highlighted that the displacements were caused due to a combination of increasing hazard intensity, high population exposure, and high levels of social and economic vulnerability.
  
  India reported 50,37,000 displacements in 2019.
  
  As per the report Political and electoral violence, primarily in Tripura and West Bengal in the first half of the year, accounting for more than 7,600. Conflict and violence triggered about 19,000 new displacements and 2,89,000 people were evacuated in Gujarat in June ahead of cyclone Vayu in 2019. Also, Cyclone Bulbul in Odisha and West Bengal triggered 1,86,000 displacements.
  
  India's neighbouring countries Bangladesh recorded 40,86,520 displacements, Afghanistan recorded 40,86,520 displacements, Pakistan recorded 1,16,000 displacements, Nepal recorded 1,21,000 displacements.
  
  South Asia recorded a total of 9.5 million new displacements associated with disasters in 2019.
  
  
• Smart city Kalyan-Dombivli COVID-19 dashboard now opens for public
  Maharashtra's Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC) has recently launched a dashboard about the COVID-19 situation in the KDMC area. It is now available in the public domain.
  
  The page has been linked with the website of the municipal corporation, and other social media handles of city government including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and is open for viewing by the public.
  
  KDMC dashboard:
  KDMC dashboard can be accessed at https://kdmc-coronavirus-response-skdcl.hub.arcgis.com/
  
  The dashboard uses the drop menu, citizens can get to know the status of COVID-19 situation in any of the electoral ward and related graphs.
  
  Citizens can also get the status by clicking on the respective wards on a spatial map of the city.
  
  The dashboard also provides multiple options to view the maps by changing the background base map from the options such as satellite view, road map, etc
  
  
• Ayushman Bharat Diwas 2020 is celebrated on 30 April
  Ayushman Bharat Diwas is celebrated on 30 April. The day aims to promote affordable medical facilities in remote areas of the country based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census database. It will also promote health and wellness and provide insurance benefits to the poor.
  
  Ayushman Bharat:
  Ayushman Bharat PradhanMantri Jan ArogyaYojana (AB PMJAY), also known as the National Health Protection Mission (AB-NHPM), was launched by PM NarendraModi on 14 April 2018, at Bijapur, Chhattisgarh.
  
  The scheme will enable the beneficiaries to take cashless benefits from public and private hospitals across the country.
  
  The scheme aims to cover 50 crore beneficiaries in India and it covers secondary and tertiary healthcare. So far, the scheme has benefitted 10 crore families in India, of which 8 crore families in rural areas and 2.33 crore families from urban areas.
  The Scheme includes various benefits with a cover of Rs.5 lakh per family to be given per year.
  
  
• Maharashtra, Gujarat celebrates state formation day on 1 May
  Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day is celebrated in the Indian states of Maharashtra and Gujarat on 1 May every year to commemorates the formation of the state on this day in 1960.
  
  History:
  In 1960, the Bombay Reorganization Act, 1960 was passed by India's Parliament to divide the multilingual state of Bombay into Gujarat and Maharashtra. Bombay formerly consisted of speakers of different languages such as Gujarati, Marathi, Konkani, and Kutchi. As a result of the Samyukta Maharashtra Samiti movement, the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat were formed.
  
  
• Manipur Chak-Hao, Gorakhpur terracotta gets GI tag
  Chak-Hao, the black rice of Manipur, and the Gorakhpur terracotta bagged the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The information was announced by Chinnaraja G. Naidu, deputy registrar, Geographical Indications.
  Chak-Hao:
  Chak-Hao is scented glutinous rice. It has been cultivated in Manipur over centuries. It is characterized by its special aroma. It is normally eaten during community feasts and is served as Chak-Haokheer. Chak-Hao has also been used by traditional medical practitioners as part of traditional medicine. This rice takes the longest cooking time of 40-45 minutes due to the presence of a fibrous bran layer and higher crude fibre content.
  
  Gorakhpur terracotta:
  The terracotta work of Gorakhpur is a centuries-old traditional art form. In this method, the potters make various animal figures like horses, elephants, camels, goats, ox, etc. with hand-applied ornamentation.
  
  The entire work is done with bare hands and artisans use natural colour, which stays fast for a long time. There are more than 1,000 varieties of terracotta work designed by the local craftsmen.
  
  The major products of craftsmanship include the Hauda elephants, Mahawatdar horse, deer, camel, five-faced Ganesha, singled-faced Ganesha, elephant table, chandeliers, hanging bells, etc.
  
  The craftsmen are mainly spread over the villages of Aurangabad, Bharwalia, LangadiGularia, Budhadih, Amawa, Ekla, etc. in Bhathat and Padri Bazar, Belwa Raipur, Jungle Ekla No-1, Jungle Ekla No-2 in Chargawan block of Gorakhpur.
  
  
• DST launches programme YASH focus on COVID-19 pandemic
  National Council for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC), Department of Science & Technology (DST) launched 'Year of Awareness on Science & Health (YASH)' a programme on health and risk communication with a focus on COVID-19.
  
  YASH Programme:
  YASH Programme is a comprehensive and effective science and health communication effort for promoting grass-root level appreciation and response on health and would help to save and shaping the lives of people at large and build confidence, inculcate a scientific temper, and promote health consciousness among them.
  
  The programme aims to convey the authentic best practices of cutting down on the transmission of coronavirus.
  
  The programme will encompass development of science, health, and risk communication software, publications, audio-visual, digital platforms, folk performances, trained communicators, especially in regional languages to cater to various cross-sections of the society in the country.
  
  Under the programme, strategies have been worked out to involve academic, research, media, and voluntary organizations to facilitate necessary actions and emergency preparedness of society to address the challenge.
  
  The programme is aimed at minimizing risks at all levels with the help of public communication and outreach activities, promoting public understanding of common minimum science for community care and health safety measures like personal sanitation and hygiene, physical distancing, maintaining desired collective behaviour and so on.
  
  
• CSIR identifies top 25 drug candidates for repurposing
  Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has identified the top 25 drugs/drug candidates for repurposing as they can be quickly deployed for treatment.
  Highlights:
  One of the top 25 drugs is Favipiravir.
  
  Favipiravir is a broad-spectrum inhibitor of viral RNA polymerase and has emerged as one of the most promising drugs.
  
  Favipiravir was developed by Fujifilm Toyama Chemical Ltd. It is an approved treatment for common influenza and is marketed in Russia, China, and Japan.
  Hyderabad-based CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) has developed a convenient and cost-effective synthetic process for Favipiravir.
  
  As a collaborative effort with industry, CSIR-IICT transferred the entire process and significant quantities of pharma grade API of Favipiravir to Cipla a leading pharmaceutical company.
  
  Cipla will be conducting the investigations prior to launching on the drug against COVID-19 in India.
  
  The drug will be launched after the approval of the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI).
  
  Favipiravir is a generic drug and already being used for the treatment of influenza and also is in clinical trials for COVID-19 in many countries such as in China, Japan, and Italy.
  
  Under the auspices of ICMR, Cipla will conduct a suitable limited trial prior to marketing the product as Ciplenza.
  
  
• NGMA celebrated painter and artist Raja Ravi Varmas 172nd birth anniversary
  National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) paid tribute to celebrated painter and artist Raja Ravi Varma on his 172nd birth anniversary on 29 April 2020 through a virtual tour.
  
  This virtual tour showcased the entire collection of his artworks at reserve collection, NGMA in New Delhi. The website for Virtual Tour is http://www.ngmaindia.gov.in/virtual-tour-of-raja-ravi-varma.asp
  
  Who is Raja Ravi Varma?
  Raja Ravi Varma was born into an aristocratic family in Kerala on 29 April 1848. He was largely a self-taught artist as European techniques. He was a master at handling the oil medium and achieved magical ease with European naturalism.
  
  He represented the Hindu mythological stories so loved by the Indian imagination, with an illusionistic flair that mirrored the society of his time. He excelled as a portrait painter and a painter of various other genres like history painting, painting of female figures, and so on. His dramatic history paintings influenced the pioneers of Indian cinema like Dadasaheb Phadke and Baburao Painter. He was also a poet, scholar, and visionary far beyond his times.
  
  
• Ministry of Coal launched a Project Monitoring Unit to facilitate early operationalisation of coal mines
  Ministry of Coal (MoC) launched a Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) for the facilitation of early operationalization of coal mines allocated by the Central Government. The move will promote Ease of Doing Business.
  
  Highlights:
  PMC will support the Coal mines allocatees in obtaining timely approval or permissions to operationalize the mines.
  
  The allocates to freely utilize the services of the Consultant in sorting out their issues so that the coal production may begin at the earliest.
  
  The Unit will help the allocatees of coal mines in obtaining various clearances required from the Central and State government authorities for the operationalization of coal mines. It will lead to a ramping up of coal production in the country.
  
  This move aims to attract bidders for the ensuing auction round of commercial blocks. This measure will improve the production and business environment in the coal industry.
  
  M/s KPMG, has been appointed as the Consultant, in Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) through a transparent bidding process.
  
  
• AYURAKSHA programme was organized for Delhi Police
  A programme titled AYURAKSHA "Corona Se Jung- Delhi Police Ke Sang" was organized for Delhi Police personnel at New Delhi on 30 April. The programme aims to fight against corona through simple and time tested Ayurveda immunity-boosting measures.
  
  The AYURAKSHA programme was organized by the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), under the Ministry of Ayurvedic, Yoga, and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH) and Delhi Police.
  
  AYURAKSHA programme:
  The programme comes after the joint venture of AIIA and Delhi Police, which is the biggest ever first of its kind and will be successful and role model for others, in treating COVID-19 patients.
  
  Delhi Police proposed to maintain the health of front line COVID warriors through Ayurveda immunity-boosting measures.
  
  It highlighted the role of Giloy as Vayasthapana (Anti-aging herb).
  
  The programme also recommended formulations like Chyawanaprasha (Amla as main content), AnuTaila, and SanshamaniVati (prepared from Guduchi) which are time tested and scientifically proven for enhancing immunity.
  
  The programmes suggested the Ministry of AYUSH for the distribution of medicines, special Kits which will contain the formulations, method of use, and advisory issued by the Ministry of AYUSH in Hindi and English. The medicines would be procured from government pharmacies (IMPCL) under the Ministry.
  
  Delhi police have identified 15 nodal officers of AIIA for 15 districts of Delhi. The police personnel will be working in close coordination with 15 Nodal officers from Delhi Police.
  
  Phase I: All quarantined police officers and officials
  Phase II: Police officials/officers deputed in containment zones
  Phase III: Police officials/officers deputed in quarantine zones
  Phase IV: All policemen working as front line workers in the field.
  
  AIIA has suggested ways of identifying police officials/officers with comorbid conditions like Diabetes, Stress, Hypertension, etc. who are more susceptible to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Also, it was decided that a proper health record would be maintained in a digital format, at the Digital ArogyaSanjivani, for all the officers/officials taking these medicines.
  
  
• NLC India Limited commences Coal production for the first time
  NLC India Limited has commenced the production of Coal for the first time. The coal produced from Talabira II and III Mines in Odisha will be used to meet the requirement of its existing and future coal-fired power plants. Odisha state allotted the mines to NLCIL in 2016 with a capacity of 20 Million Tonne (MT) per annum.
  
  Highlights:
  The move by the company will aid the energy security of the country especially as the country is currently avoiding import of coal.
  
  This coal block has been developed through the mine developer and operator (MDO) model which is innovatively developed and successfully implemented by the NLC team.
  
  This Mine has a low stripping ratio of 1.09 and coal is of G 12 grade which will enable the company to generate competitive power. The coal production commenced on 26 April 2020.
  
  Earlier, NLC India Limited has successfully commissioned its one of the two Units of lignite based power plant, 1000 MW-2 Units of 500 MW each, the first of its kind in the country. During 2019-2020, NLCIL has also successfully achieved a Renewable Energy Generation capacity of 1404 MW comprising 1353 MW of Solar and 51 MW of Wind Power.
  
  
• Agra Smart City launched GIS dashboard to monitor COVID-19 hot-spots
  Agra Smart City, Uttar Pradesh has created a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) dashboard which will show various hotspots, heat maps, positive cases, recovered cases, etc of COVID-19.
  
  Highlights:
  Agra Smart City dashboard updates the COVID-19 latest detail on a daily basis and it can be accessed from the link: http://covid.sgligis.com/agra
  
  The dashboard is developed on the IGiS platform, an indigenous technology that brings GIS, Image Processing, Photogrammetry, and CAD together on a single platform.
  
  It caters to many solutions across industries like Agriculture, Defence, Forestry, Disaster Management, Land Information, Mining, Power, Smart City, Urban Planning, Utilities, and Location-Based Service amid the COVID-19 crisis.
  
  
• Procurement operations of Pulses and Oilseeds directly from Farmers
  The union government of India made Central Nodal Agencies like NAFED and FCI striving to assure better returns for the farmers. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) from the farmers in several States in the Rabi 2020-21 season has started.
  
  Procurement of Pulses & Oilseeds at MSP from farmers under the Price Support Scheme (PSS) scheme in Rabi 2020-21 season currently in progress in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan.
  
  The quantity of 1,33,987.65 MT of Pulses & 29,264.17 MT of Oilseeds was procured by NAFED/FCI valued at Rs 784.77 Crores through which 1,14,338 farmers have been benefited.
  
  Price Stabilisation Fund (PSF) scheme and Toor procurement under PSS/PSF Kharif 2019- 20 season is underway in the States of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka &Telangana. The procurement of pulses and oilseeds in the Kota Division was stopped after the announcement of lockdown.
  
  About 27,276.77 MT of Mustard seed has been procured from about 10,111 farmers in the first two days. Procurement of Gram, Masoor, and Mustard in Madhya Pradesh.
  
  
• Power Ministry floats draft Electricity Act Bill 2020
  The supply of quality power at affordable prices is essential for sustained growth of the economy of the country. Ministry of Power issued a draft proposal for amendment of Electricity Act, 2003 in the form of the draft Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2020 for comments/suggestions from Stakeholders on 17th April 2020.
  
  Cost reflective Tariff:
  Direct Benefit Transfer: The tariff is determined by Commissions without taking into account the subsidy.
  
  1. Establishment of Electricity Contract Enforcement Authority: High Court is proposed to be set-up with powers of the Civil Court to enforce performance of contracts related to purchase or sale or transmission of power.
  2. Payment Security Mechanism for scheduling of electricity - Load Dispatch Centres to oversee the establishment of adequate payment security mechanism before scheduling dispatch of electricity, as per contracts.
  3. Appellate Tribunal (APTEL): APTEL to seven apart from the Chairperson so that multiple benches can be set-up to facilitate quick disposal of cases.
  4. Multiple Selection Committees: It is proposed to have one Selection Committee for selection of Chairpersons and Members of the Central and State Commissions and uniform qualifications for appointments of Chairperson and Members of Central and State Electricity Regulatory Commissions.
  5. Penalties: In order to ensure compliance of the provisions of the Electricity Act and orders of the Commission, section 142 and section 146 of the Electricity Act are proposed to be amended to provide for higher penalties.
  
  
• CSIR and CFTRIs protein-enriched biscuits for COVID-19 patients
  Mysuru-based CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CRTRI) made available high-protein biscuits to the corona affected patients in the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS), New Delhi.
  
  CFTRI supplied 500 kg of high-protein biscuits and 500 kg of high-protein rusks to the Dietetics department of AIIMS to supply to the patients. The biscuits contain 14% of protein while usual biscuits contain around 8-9% protein.
  
  The ingredients made available of the biscuits: whole wheat flour (Atta), wheat flour (Maida), sugar, hydrogenated fat, soya flour, whey protein, soy protein, milk solids, glucose, INS 500II and INS 503II agents, salt and flavours. A 100-g packet of biscuits clearly pack a punch with its energy quotient of 400 kcal and its nutritional value: carbohydrate (63.2 g), protein (14 g), fat (17.1 g) and minerals (1.2 g).
  
  The biscuits being manufactured in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, by Seven Seas Private Limited based on the formulation developed by CSIR-CFTRI.
  
  
• Shri Santosh Gangwar designate Nodal Officers for resolving Grievances of Workers
  Union Minister of State (I/C) for Labour and Employment Shri Santosh Gangwar requested various State/UT Governments to designate a nodal officer from Labour Department.
  
  The main aim is to coordinate with Control Rooms set up by the Union Government for addressing issues of the labour/workers in the country.
  
  Ministry of Labour and Employment recently set up 20 Control Rooms under the Chief Labour Commissioner (C) on pan India basis due to issues of workers arising in the backdrop of COVID-19.
  
  Initially, Control Rooms were concerned with wage-related grievances related to the central sphere and issues of migrant labour. Around 20 Control Rooms till yesterday, 1400 pertains to various State/UT Governments. Central Control Rooms along with names of officers deputed by the Central Government for ready reference.
  
  
• Ten lakhs rupees compensation to all Postal employees
  Department of Posts planned to extend the payment of compensation of 10 lakh rupees to all postal employees including Gramin Dak Sevaks employees to the corona disease.
  
  Department of Posts comes under essential services and the employees are performing various routine duties along with delivering COVID-19 test kits, food packets, rations, and essential medicines across the country.
  
  The Department of Posts has decided to extend the payment of compensation of 10 lakh rupees to all postal employees, including Gramin Dak Sevaks succumbing to the corona disease.
  
  The guidelines will come into effect with immediate effect and continue for the period until the crises of COVID-19 is over. Postal employees perform various duties such as providing mail delivery to customers, Post Office Saving Bank, Postal Life Insurance, the ease of money withdrawal at his/her doorstep from any bank and any branch under the AePS facility
  
  
• TVS acquires Britain iconic sporting motorcycle brand Norton
  TVS Motor Company announced the acquisition of the UK’s most iconic sporting motorcycle Norton for £16 million, by acquiring certain assets of Norton Motorcycles (U.K.)
  
  The brand is known for its classic models and eclectic range of luxury motorcycles, ranging from the authentic retro classic reboots. Finally TVS Motor Singapore Pte. Ltd signed an asset purchase agreement with Norton Motorcycles Holdings Ltd and Norton Motorcycles (UK) Ltd
  
  TVS Motor enhanced its cost-reduction measures. The focus would be on developed markets.
  
  The company has committed to absorbing all 55-60 employees. Due to the challenges it had in the last few years, the firm feels the scale-up potential to create value is quite large.
  
  TVS is excited about existing and upcoming products at Norton Motorcycles, including Commando, Dominator, and V4 RR.
  
  
• Kisan Rath Mobile App launched to facilitate transportation of food grains
  Agriculture Ministry launched Kisan Rath Mobile App. The main aim of the app is to facilitate transportation of food grains, and the National Informatics Centre develops it. The central government to ensure farmers and traders can find transport for Agriculture and Horticulture produce.
  
  Kisan Rath App:
  The Kisan Rath App will greatly facilitate farmers' FPOs and Cooperatives in the country to find a suitable transport facility to transfer their agriculture produce from the farm gate to markets.
  
  The Government has exempted random selection of test samples, subsequent batch testing after the expiry validity of test reports, updating of CMVR, COP & Type approval applicable to Tractors, Power Tillers, Combine Harvesters and other self-propelled agricultural machinery till 31.12.2020.
  
  Testing of tractors as per revised BIS Standard IS 12207-2019 and Implementation of new technical critical specifications of 51 agricultural machineries has also been deferred till 31.12.2020.During lockdown period, the Government has agreed to extend the validity of the license of Seed dealers which are expired or going to be expired till 30.09.2020.
  
  The validity of import permissions till September 2020 after consideration of the requirement of seed/planting material of the importing parties. They extend the validity of all pack-houses, processing units and treatment facilities whose validity is expiring up to 30th June 2020 for a period of one year without a physical inspection of such facility through a simplified procedure to facilitate the export of agriculture products.
  
  
• Government extends regular and e-visas of all foreigners stranded till May 3
  Home Ministry extended regular and e-visas of all foreigners who are stranded in India due to the coronavirus lockdown till May 3 on a gratis basis. The Home Ministry also said the visa granted to those foreigners, except diplomats and UN officials, who are supposed to come to India, will remain suspended till May 3.
  
  The home ministry said that after considering the matter, it has been decided to extend the period of providing consular services by the Office of Foreigners Regional Registration Officers and Foreigners Registration Officers to foreign nationals, presently stranded in India.
  
  Exit to such foreign nationals, if requested during this period, will also be granted up to 14 days beyond May 3, i.e. May 17, without any overstay penalty.
  
  
• Union Health Minister instructs New Delhi hospitals to take of non-COVID patients
  Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan had a detailed meeting with medical officials with Delhi Medical Superintendents of various hospitals in New Delhi. Medical Superintendents of the hospitals in the city to take proper care of non-COVID patients. He receives complaints regarding denial of treatment to patients suffering from critical ailments other then COVID-19 and who require dialysis or are suffering from heart disease.
  
  We have dedicated COVID-19 facilities in hospitals like AIIMS and Safdarjung, and two dedicated COVID Delhi Government hospitals - LNJP hospital and Rajiv Gandhi Super Speciality Hospital in the city. The other hospitals are supposed to take care of on- COVID patients.
  
  
• Ministry of Road launched website to aid drivers and cargos during lockdown
  The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) launched a dashboard link on its website on 20th April. The website aims to aid drivers who travel to different places in the country.
  
  Highlights:
  The website provides a list and details of Dhabas and Truck repair shops available across the country by various organizations like the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), States, Oil Marketing companies.
  
  The list can be accessed at https://morth.nic.in/dhabas-truck-repair-shops-opened-during-covid-19.
  
  The website will facilitate the truck and the cargo drivers and cleaners in their movement while traveling between different places of the country for delivering required goods during the lockdown which was imposed to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Regular contact is being maintained with various stakeholders particularly States/UTs, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), etc in providing information that is then updated on the dashboard link on the MoRTH website.
  
  NHAI's centralized call number 1033 has also been enabled to answer calls and help drivers/cleaners to find information about the dhabaas and repair shops along National Highways.
  
  It may be stated that these Dhabas and repair shops, drivers, cleaners or any other person in the chain of movement of goods, shall follow all the necessary precautions and healthcare protocols of social distancing, use of masks, hygiene, etc.
  
  
• India sets up high-level task force to develop vaccine for COVID-19 pandemic
  Government of India formed a high-level task force to research on coronavirus and develop a vaccine. The task force will work along with the international community on the vaccine development process for coronavirus.
  
  High-level taskforce:
  The high-level task force will be co-chaired by Member, NITI Aayog, and Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Professor K Vijay Raghavan.
  
  The central coordinating authority of the task force is the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
  
  The task force is to set up a process for vaccine development.
  
  It will make a list of national and international organizations working on vaccine development. DBT will monitor the progress of research works and also facilitate the process.
  
  The task force will create clinical cohorts that focus on long term follow-up of people for a better understanding of the disease. It will also collect bio-specimens which will form the basis for further trials of drugs and vaccines. This is different from sample testing protocols.
  
  Over 70 clinical trials are taking place all over the world to find a vaccine for coronavirus. At least 5 have entered the human trial stage. Indian companies, including the Serum Institute, ZydusCadila, Bharat Biotech and Biological E are also working on the vaccine, but they are in the preclinical stage.
  
  
• Study says renewable energy subsidies in India dropped by 35 percent in 2016-19 period
  A new study by the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) and the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW) report stated that India's renewable energy subsidies fell 35% between 2016-17 and 2018-19.
  
  Report Highlights:
  The report was titled "Mapping India's Energy Subsidies 2020" which said that the support for renewable energy was to increase again. But the COVID-19 pandemic has made it critical to stay on track.
  
  Policy decisions such as the solar safeguard duty and tariff caps on auctions meant that there was a slowdown in new capacity addition and as a result of lower state subsidy outgo as well.
  
  Those resources post-COVID-19 will present a good opportunity for the government to rein in specific fossil fuel subsidies and create more fiscal room to promote renewables and other welfare schemes.
  
  It also said that the oil and gas subsidies, however, increased by 65% in the same period.
  
  
• UP became the first state in India to geotag its 7,368 community kitchens
  Uttar Pradesh became the first state in India to geotag its 7,368 community kitchens and community shelters across 75 districts which produce 12 lakh food packets a day.
  
  Highlights:
  The UP state government has partnered with Google to 'Geo-map' the locations of all these establishments on the Google Maps app for ease of beneficiaries.
  
  The state government has established community kitchens in adequate numbers in each of the 75 districts.
  
  More than two crore food packets have been distributed in Uttar Pradesh since 25 March.
  
  Out of these 7,368 community kitchens in the state, 668 are being run by NGOs and religious institutions.
  
  The government faced a challenge during the lockdown about passing the information among the general populace regarding the location of shelter homes and community kitchens. To solve this issue, the IT Department and the Remote Sensing Applications Centre (RSAC), Lucknow, are developing for a solution.
  
  
• States, UTs to ensure Smooth Movement of the entire Supply Chain of essential goods
  Centre issued an order to exempt certain activities under the consolidated revised guidelines to all Ministries/Departments of the country. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
  
  Highlights:
  As per clause 14(v) of the consolidated revised guidelines, MHA excluded the companies relating to E-commerce companies.
  
  The operations of e-commerce companies for non-essential goods stand prohibited and they will continue to operate for essential goods as has been allowed earlier and continue to be allowed under the guidelines.
  
  The government earlier approved that the vehicles used by e-commerce operators would be allowed to ply with necessary permissions.
  
  The States/UTs have been directed to clarify the announcement of MHA to all the field agencies. It also adequately disseminated amongst the general public to ensure smooth movement of the entire supply chain of essential goods, including by e-commerce.
  
  It has also been communicated that the guidelines/ Orders issued by the State Governments/UT Administration in pursuance to MHA Orders may be suitably modified to reflect the correct position.
  
  
• Centre launched online data pool of critical human resource to combat COVID-19 pandemic
  Government of India has created an online data pool on https://covidwarriors.gov.in of doctors including Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) doctors, nurses and other health care professionals, volunteers from National Cadet Corps (NCC), National Service Scheme (NSS), Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY), ex-Servicemen, etc. The data pool aims for use by the ground level administration at state, district or municipal levels.
  
  Highlights:
  The Dashboard master database of details of Healthcare Professionals and Volunteers contains state wise and district wise availability of the large pool of human resources from various groups along with contact details of the nodal officers.
  
  The dashboard is available for use by various authorities to prepare Crisis Management/Contingency Plans based on the available manpower, in coordination with nodal officers for each group.
  
  This database can also be used to utilize the services of volunteers for enforcing social distancing at banks, ration shops, mandis and for providing help to elderly, divyang and orphanages.
  
  It will help States/UTs to move human resources from one location to the other for their utilization.
  
  Background:
  Earlier, Centre has also launched iGOT online training modules mounted on an especial digital platform Integrated Government Online Training (iGOT) portal (https://igot.gov.in) for training and capacity building of doctors, nurses, paramedics, hygiene workers, technicians, AYUSH doctors and staff, other frontline workers and volunteers. This platform provides anytime onsite delivery of training material/modules through any device (mobile/laptop/desktop).
  
  Government of India has constituted 11 Empowered Groups to formulate plans and provide solutions to address the challenges of the COVID-19 outbreak in the country. Empowered Group headed by Dr.Panda, Secretary, MSME was mandated with identification of human resources for various COVID-19 related activities along with necessary capacity building for them.
  
  
• Pune develops Saiyam app to track home-quarantines citizens
  Pune Municipal Corporation under Smart Cities Mission (SCM) has launched a mobile application named "Saiyam".
  
  The app aims to effectively track home-quarantines citizens and ensure they are actually staying in the home.
  
  Saiyam app:
  The app has been developed to monitor home quarantined citizens.
  
  The city administration has appointed dedicated teams for five zones to conduct a follow-up with people under home quarantine on a daily basis.
  
  The teams will check on people who have recently returned from international trips and those discharged after treatment for COVID-19.
  
  The teams will seek updates from quarantined people on their health status and details of persons in contact with them.
  
  For persons sporting the home quarantine stamp, the teams will check if separate food, bed, utensils, clothes, and washrooms are provided to them.
  
  They will check if those under home quarantine have downloaded the Saiyam Mobile Application. The Mobile Application has GPS tracking so that whenever quarantined citizens leave their homes, City Administration gets alerted and the local ward or the local police station gets informed, who then visit the family.
  
  Movements of the citizens can be monitored centrally in real-time from the monitoring cell and are marked as Red, Amber or Green. Red signifies that the person has ventured out for longer duration; Yellow signifies that the person has limited movements and Green signifies that the person is confined to house limits.
  
  
• Secretary’s day is observed on 21 April
  Secretary's day or Administrative Professionals Day is observed on 21 April every year in India. The day aims to celebrate the administrative professionals who work as the glue in keeping a business together. The Secretary's week is observed on the last full week in April of each year.
  
  History:
  The National Secretary's Day was created in 1952 through the work of Harry F. Klemfuss of Young and Rubicam. He recognized the importance and value of the secretarial position to a company and management. He promoted the values and importance of the job that secretaries do and created the holiday in recognition of the importance of secretaries. The day aims to encourage more women to become secretaries.
  
  The two new names of the word "Secretary" used these days are "Administrative Professionals" and "Executive Administrators."
  
  
• Harsh Vardhan launched the COVID India Seva
  Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan launched the COVID India Seva on 21 April.
  
  The interactive platform aims to establish a direct channel of communication with millions of Indians amid the pandemic.
  
  Highlights:
  The initiative is aimed at enabling transparent e-governance delivery in real-time and answering citizen queries swiftly, at scale, especially in crisis situations like the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Through this platform, people can pose queries @CovidIndiaSeva and get them responded to in almost real-time.
  
  @CovidIndiaSeva works off a dashboard at the backend that helps process large volumes of tweets, converts them into resolvable tickets, and assigns them to the relevant authority for real-time resolution.
  
  Everyone can benefit from the responses received around common queries because of its transparency. It is important to note that the Ministry will respond to broader queries and public health information. This does not require the public to share personal contact details or health record details.
  
  
• Daporijo Bridge was inaugurated in Arunachal pradesh for traffic movement
  Border Roads Organisation (BRO) constructed the Daporijo bridge over the Subansiri river. Despite nationwide lockdown, BRO constructed it, keeping in mind utmost precautions against COVID-19 and to connect the strategic Line of Communication in Arunachal Pradesh.
  
  The bridge was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Arunachal Shri Pema Khandu over video conferencing and open for traffic movement from 20 April.
  
  Daporijo bridge:
  Bridge on the Daporijo River is a strategic link towards the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. All supplies, rations, constructional material and medicines pass over this bridge.
  
  The Old Bridge developed cracks which could lead to a major catastrophe. With the intervention of DGBR and CE Arunank, expeditious sanctions were obtained from the Ministry of Defence and Arunachal Government.
  
  Work for construction of the bridge began on 17 March 2020. After 27 days on 14 April 2020, the bridge was jacked down successfully and safely on the supports.
  
  The bridge was successfully upgraded from class 24 tons to class 40 tons. This will now allow heavier vehicles to pass catering for not only Army requirements but the future Infrastructure development requirements of Upper Subansiri district.
  
  
• Advisory Council of the 15th Finance Commission to meet on 23-24 April
  The Economic Advisory Council of the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XIV-FC) has been scheduled to meet on 23-24 April 2020. The online meeting will be presided by Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission Shri N.K. Singh.
  
  The meeting will be attended by all the Members, Senior Officials of the Finance Commission and the 5 Members of the Council including Dr.Krishnamurthy Subramanian, Dr.Sajjid Z Chinoy, Dr.Prachi Mishra, Mr. Neelkanth Mishra and Dr. Omkar Goswami on 23 April 2020.
  
  The meeting with the remaining Members of the Council will be held on the next day 24 April, 2020.
  
  Agenda:
  The meeting will discuss the implications of the pandemic for GDP growth in 2020-21 and 2021-22.
  
  The Ministers and officials will discuss the uncertainty about macro variables over time.
  
  Discussions will include possible assumptions for tax buoyancy and revenue in 2020 & 2021 and idea to the public expenditure fillip to shore up the economy.
  
  
• Chandigarh city uses Vehicle tracking applications for waste collecting in COVID-19 pandemic
  Chandigarh city uses Vehicle tracking applications and GPS (Global Positioning System) enabled smartwatches for waste collection drivers in its fight against COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Waste Collection:
  The city has allocated 15 vehicles with a team of drivers and helpers equipped with Personal protective equipment (PPE) kits were deputed for collection and transportation of waste from Quarantines households. Quarantined households were divided into four zones supervised by one supervisor each.
  
  All the drivers of these collection vehicles wear GPS enabled smartwatch under the e-Human Resource Tracking Project (E-HRTS). The movement of all vehicles is tracked through these smartwatches through a dashboard. The sole target of this tracking is to ensure that no Quarantined household should be left out.
  
  Other Measures:
  Public places are sanitized regularly. Sanitization of dense areas/ slums and mandis is being carried out using Drones.
  
  The migrant-worker shelter has been set up where pre-cooked food is being served to the workers.
  
  For urban poor, the city government has tied up with civil society, private sector, restaurants and various donors for distribution of food, soap, sanitary napkins and ration through NULM and Vendor cell network.
  
  Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh (MCC) has developed Google forms to identify requirements of shopkeepers and maintained the supply chain by making it available to the distributors.
  
  Municipal Corporation in collaboration with Chandigarh Transport Undertaking also started delivering fruits and vegetables at a neighbourhood level on a regular basis. The service is available to all 12 lakh citizens and is being utilized across the city by over one and a half lakh households.
  
  Doorstep distribution of Personal Hygiene kits which includes masks, sanitizers, sanitary napkins, baby diapers, soap, disinfectants such as Dettol, Savlon, etc.; 500kg of dry ready to eat oatmeal; 4 days dry Ration including Wheat flour 10kg, pulses, sugar 1 kg each, mustard oil 1 litre, half kg detergent and 200gm pickles to urban poor households was carried out in the city to avoid COVID-19 spread.
  
  
• Ramesh Pokhriyal chaired the review meeting on SWAYAM and SWAYAM Prabha in New Delhi
  Union Minister for Human Resource Development (MHRD) Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' held a detailed review of the National online education platform SWAYAM and the 32 DTH Television Education Channels SWAYAM PRABHA in New Delhi on 20 April.
  
  During the lockdown, there occurred a tremendous increase in demand and the usage of SWAYAM Courses and SWAYAM PRABHA videos.
  
  Highlights:
  SWAYAM:
  SWAYAM was launched in 2017 by MHRD, GoI. Currently, there are 1902 courses available in SWAYAM. It has been offered to 1.56 crore students. Over 26 lakh students are taking 574 courses on offer.
  
  SWAYAM 2.0 also supports the launch of Online degree programs. Mapping of SWAYAM courses to the AICTE model curriculum has been done, gaps identified. A similar exercise for non-technical courses is underway by a committee of UGC.
  
  It was decided that all the 1900 SWAYAM Courses and 60000 SWAYAM PRABHA videos would be translated into ten regional languages and made available to the students so that more benefits can be derived from the same. The whole project has been scheduled to be completed in a time-bound manner.
  
  MHRD has announced to provide more courses under SWAYAM, appropriate incentives for their career will be provided. Also, UGC was asked to prepare guidelines regarding online and Distance learning guidelines to increase Gross Enrolment Ratio.
  
  SWAYAM Prabha:
  The SWAYAM PRABHA is a group of 32 Direct-to-home television (DTH) channels devoted to telecasting high-quality educational programs on 24X7 basis using the GSAT-15 satellite. There will be new content for a minimum of 4 hours which will be repeated 5 more times in a day, allowing the students to choose the time of their convenience.
  
  SWAYAM Prabha has been directed to redistribute the channels to match available content, and viewership shall be explored. It was also decided to enrich the content in SWAYAM PRABHA by collecting content from those who are willing to contribute the same under Vidya Daan Programme. For the translation of the content of four IIT-PAL channels, CBSE, NIOS shall provide all assistance to IIT-Delhi. This matter shall be followed up by JS( IEC) in MHRD.
  
  
• GoI released Rs.17,793 crore Under PM-KISAN Scheme farmer families during lockdown
  The Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare of Government of India has taken several measures to facilitate the farmers and farming activities at field level during the nationwide lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Measures:
  Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme, over 8.89 crore farmer families have been benefitted. A total amount of Rs.17,793 crore has been released so far.
  
  The Government has decided to distribute pulses to the eligible households under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY). It aimed to provide food security during the COVID-19 pandemic. About 107,077.85 MT pulses have been issued to the States/Union Territories so far.
  
  Under PMGKY, the States/UTs namely Andaman and Nicobar, Andhra Pradesh, Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Daman & Diu, Goa, Gujarat have commenced the distribution of pulses to the beneficiaries. The other states like Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal have received the partial stock. The states will commence the distribution to the beneficiaries in a phased manner as per their plan.
  
  The distribution of pulses under PMGKY will benefit around 19.50 crore households spread across 36 States and UTs.
  
  
• TIFAC explores best methods to revive Indian economy post COVID-19
  Technology Information, Forecasting, and Assessment Council (TIFAC), an autonomous Government of India prepared a white paper to strategize revival of post-COVID 19 Indian economy.
  
  The main aim of the document would mainly focus on strengthening Make in India initiatives, commercialization of Indigenous technology, developing a technology-driven transparent Public Distribution System (PDS), efficient rural health care delivery, reduction of import, adoption of emerging technology domains like AI, Machine Learning, Data Analytics and many more. The pandemic outbreak affecting the human life of both developed and emerging economies with the impact spread over almost all sectors ranging from manufacturing to trade, transport, tourism, education, healthcare. The extent of the economic impact will depend on how the pandemic outbreak unfolds.
  
  TIFAC’s team of scientists from a range of disciplines is exploring the best methods to revive the Indian economy and reduce the impact on it post COVD 19. They are also designing future strategies to face similar situations.
  
  TIFAC will help in showing a way ahead to strengthen the Indian economy post-COVID-19.
  
  
• Indian Railways providing 10000 water bottles per day to Delhi Police
  Indian Railways among the organizations started providing 10,000 water bottles per day to Delhi Police personnel out on the streets in the fight against COVID-19. Indian Railways along with IRCTC, RPF and Zonal Railways distributed 50,000 water bottles in New Delhi.
  
  These policemen are performing their duties round the clock to not only to ensure that lockdown is implemented but also accompany doctors and paramedics in various locations under challenging circumstances.
  
  Indian Railways also providing hot cooked meals to needy people during the lockdown. Distribution of free hot cooked meals by Indian Railways has crossed the two million mark.
  
  
• Shri Narendra Singh Tomar participates in the G-20 Agriculture Ministers Meeting through Video Conferencing
  Union Agriculture Minister Shri Narendra Singh Tomar took part in an extraordinary virtual meeting of G-20 Agriculture Ministers. The main aim is to address the issue of COVID-19 impacts on food security, safety, and nutrition.
  
  The Government of India exempts all agriculture operations during the lockdown period and ensuring the continued availability of essential agriculture produce and supply.
  
  Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi supporting countries to tide over this crisis in various ways and that agriculture will not lag, consistent with the needs of our citizens.
  
  The G-20 Agriculture Ministers virtual meeting organized through video conferencing by the Saudi Presidency to deliberate on the ways and means of ensuring continuity of food supply value chain, including the livelihood of farmers.
  
  Shri Tomar welcomed the initiative taken by Saudi Arabia to bring the G-20 countries together. The G-20 nations resolved to have international cooperation in the backdrop of COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  They decided to work together for food security and nutrition, share best practices and lessons learned, promote research, responsible investments, innovations, and reforms that will improve the sustainability and resilience of agriculture and food systems. The G-20 nations agreed to develop science-based international guidelines on stricter safety and hygienic measures for zoonosis control.
  
  
• Uttar Pradesh govt orders complete sealing of Delhi-Noida border
  Uttar Pradesh government ordered complete sealing of the Delhi-Noida border till further orders as a precautionary measure to contain the spread of COVID-19 infection in Gautam Budhha Nagar district.
  
  The final order issued by the District Magistrate, Gautam Buddha Nagar, the COVID-19 related services with a valid pass issued by an authorized official. The movement of transport vehicles, Ambulance Services, specialist doctors serving in Noida based hospitals shall be allowed.
  
  The Central Government Officers above the rank of Deputy Secretary with identity card issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Media personnel with a valid pass issued from the office of Additional Commissioner of Police.
  
  The old system of accepting ID cards shall be in place till 22nd April. This relaxation is valid for media personnel only.
  
  
• Road Ministry Launches Dashboard with Dhabas List
  National Highways Authority of India's centralized call number 1033 enabled to answer calls and help drivers/cleaners. The road transport ministry launched a dashboard containing a list of dhabas and truck repair shops.
  
  India centralized call number 1033 enabled to answer calls and help drivers/cleaners to find information about the dhabas and repair shops along National Highways. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) created a dashboard link on its website for providing lists and details of dhabas and truck repair shops available across the country by various organizations like NHAI, states, oil marketing companies.
  
  The main aim is to facilitate truck/cargo drivers and cleaners in their movement amid lockdown announced to curb Covid-19 pandemic. A regular contact maintained with various stakeholders particularly states/UTs, oil marketing companies.
  
  
• Union Govt refutes claims of procuring wristbands embedded with ArogyaSetu app
  ArogyaSetu app helps people self-assess and track COVID-19 infections more accurately and effectively. The government is now working towards procuring thousands of wristbands that will be integrated with the app.
  
  These bands will help medical personnel and authorities keep track of the movement of patients in hospitals and those under self-quarantine along with supporting frontline workers to take proper safety measures
  
  Once integrated with AarogyaSetu app, there will be many more parameters that will be available for the health officials’ supervision.
  
  The price of these bands will be ranging at around Rs 2200 per piece. However, the prices may go down if the demand reduces.
  
  The development comes at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic is showing no signs of slowing its spread across the globe. The total tally of positive cases in India this morning was at 20,178 with 645 deaths.
  
  For its launch, Broadcast Engineering Consultants India (BECIL) will be looking after the technological requirements of the government and is working with various Bengaluru and Gurugram based startups on designing the tools. It will also work with AIIMS and other government hospitals, the report said.
  
  Recently, the government-promoted AarogyaSetu app had alarmed some activists and people alike over privacy issues. Many privacy crusaders have been expressing serious concerns over the kind of surveillance Aarogya Setup could lead to.
  
  In its response, the government had denied the charges as baseless that the app will be used for surveillance. The app had also become the fastest to amass 50 million-plus downloads within just two weeks of its launch.
  
  A few Indian states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala are also using home quarantine tracking systems and GPS solutions. Hong Kong too has deployed tracker wristbands to geofence people placed under quarantine.
  
  
• India gifts 23 tonnes of essential medicines to Nepal
  India and Nepal to fight COVID-19 Pandemic, Ambassador of India to Nepal Vinay Mohan Kwatra handed over 23 tonnes of medicines to Nepal’s Minister for Health and Population Bhanubhakta Dhakal in Kathmandu.
  
  The package 8.25 lakhs dosage of essential medicines, including 3.2 lakhs dosage of Paracetamol and 2.5 lakhs dosages of Hydroxychloroquine. Prime Minister NarendraModi held a video conference of SAARC Leaders on 15 March 2020 and offered all possible assistance to India’s neighbors, pledging 10 million US dollars to SAARC COVID-19 Emergency Fund.
  
  Indian and Nepali health professionals are collaborating their efforts on the ground to contain and stop this Pandemic. India is committed to preparing, act, and succeed together in partnership with Nepal and other South Asian partner countries to fight against COVID 19 Crisis.
  
  
• Lifeline Udan flights support Covid-19 fight by delivering over 541 tons of medical cargo
  Domestic Udan flights operate in a hub and the main focus has been on the North East Region, island territories and the hill states. Lifeline Udan cargo includes enzymes, medical equipment, testing kits, Personal protective equipment (PPE), masks, gloves by State/UT Governments and postal packets.
  
  Air India and IAF collaborated primarily for J&K, Ladakh, North-East and other island regions. Light-weight and voluminous products like masks, gloves and other consumables, that consume relatively larger storage space on the aircraft.
  
  Lifeline Udan flights have received excellent support from State Governments and Domestic Cargo Operators SpiceJet, Blue Dart and Indigo are operating cargo flights on a commercial basis. Spicejet operated 447 cargo flights from 24 March to 20 April 2020 covering a distance of 6,64,675 km and carrying 3516 tons of cargo. A cargo air-bridge established with East Asia for transportation of pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and COVID-19 relief material.
  
  
• India Drops 2 Places to Rank 142nd on Global Press Freedom Index
  World Press Freedom Index 2020 murders of journalists in India in 2019, as against six in the year 2018 and the security situation for the country's media might seem on the face.
  
  India dropped two places on a global press freedom index to be ranked 142nd out of 180 countries in the annual Reporters without Borders analysis.
  
  Paris-based Reporters Sans Frontieres (RSF), or Reporters without Borders, is a non-profit organization that works to document and combat attacks on journalists around the world.
  
  Norway is ranked first in the Index for the fourth year running. China in the 177th position is just three places above North Korea, which is on 180th.
  
  South Asia features poorly on the Index, with Pakistan dropping three places to 145, and Bangladesh dropping one place to 151.
  
  
• Indian researchers to go for clinical trial of sepsis drug against coronavirus
  Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) planned to implement the drug, Sepsivac. Cytokines are produced in response to an infection. Cytokines are essential for host defense against pathogens.
  
  There are six types of cytokines called cytokine profiles, acts on various pathogens. One of the significant contributors to death by COVID-19 is heightened immune response, called a cytokine storm.
  
  The immune system starts attacking both infected and uninfected cells. The drug modulates the immune system of the body, and the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI)approved the trial, and it will start soon at multiple hospitals.
  
  The drug contains heat-killed Mycobacterium W (Mw). Extensive clinical trials have been conducted by Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd on preventing deaths against gram-negative Sepsis, with more than 50% reduction in deaths of critically ill patients.
  
  CSIR, through its flagship New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative (NMITLI) program, has been supporting Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Ahmedabad, since 2007 for developing this drug to save lives of critically ill patients suffering from Gram-negative Sepsis.
  
  This entire development effort (pre-clinical and clinical studies) has been supervised by CSIR appointed Monitoring Committee. The faster recovery of organ dysfunction seen in this condition. It is now approved for marketing in India.
  
  
• Ministry of Tourism presented its 7th webinar of Dekho Apna Desh Webinar Series
  Ministry of Tourism presented its 7th webinar of Dekho Apna Desh Webinar Series on "Photowalking at Varanasi: A Visual Treat," on 23 April 2020.
  
  Varanasi: A Visual Treat:
  The Varanasi: A Visual Treat webinar was presented by the team of City Explorers Private Limited.
  
  They introduced Varanasi's diversity, mysticism, spirituality, cultural literacy, life experiences, and personal memories.
  
  It showcased Varanasi as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world hidden at every corner along with one of the finest river frontages in India.
  
  The series also touched upon the shifting hues of Varanasi’s ancient history, cultural heritage, spiritual connection, delicious cuisines through each pitstop.
  
  DekhoApnaDesh webinar:
  The Ministry will showcase the diverse and remarkable history and culture of India including its natural landscapes, monuments, cuisine, arts, dance forms, festivals, and many other aspects of the rich Indian civilization. It also holds a session that raises awareness about tourism and social history. The webinar series will be available on the Ministry of Tourism's social media handles, "IncredibleIndia" on Instagram and Facebook.
  
  
• Defence Minister launched Mobile Virology Research and Diagnostics Laboratory
  Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled a Mobile Virology Research and Diagnostics Laboratory (MVRDL) via video conference on 23rd April.
  
  The laboratory was developed by DRDO in association with ESIC Hospital, Hyderabad, the Private industry. The launching of this testing facility will aid the country to fight COVID-19.
  
  MVRDL:
  Biosafety Level 2 and Level 3 lab will help to process more than 1,000 samples in a day. It will enhance the country's capabilities in fighting COVID-19.
  
  MVRL related R&D activities was developed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), the Hyderabad based laboratory of DRDO in consultation with ESIC Hospital, Hyderabad.
  
  The labs are built as per the World Health Organization (WHO) and ICMR Bio-safety standards to meet international guidelines.
  
  The labs have built-in electrical controls, LAN, Telephone cabling, and CCTV.
  
  The Mobile Lab will carry out the diagnosis of COVID-19.
  
  It will also help in virus culturing for drug screening, Convalescent plasma-derived therapy, comprehensive immune profiling of COVID-19 patients towards vaccine development early clinical trials specific to the Indian population.
  
  This mobile lab can be positioned anywhere in the country, as per requirement.
  
  
• BRO constructs Permanent bridge on river Ravi
  Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has constructed a new permanent bridge on the river Ravi connecting Kasowal enclave in Punjab to the rest of the country. The bridge was opened on 22nd April. The bridge was completed ahead of the schedule and opened to farmers.
  
  Highlights:
  The 484-meter bridge was built by 141 Drain Maintenance Coy of 49 Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) of Project Chetak.
  
  The cost for the construction of the bridge is Rs.17.89 crore, excluding various approaches.
  
  The bridge consists of 16 cells of 30.25 m length each.
  
  the enclave is around 35 square kilometers. It had been connected via a pontoon bridge of limited load capacity.
  
  The pontoon bridge used to be dismantled every year prior to the Monsoon so that it does not get washed away in the strong currents of the river. Because of this issue, thousands of acres of fertile land across the river could not be tilled by farmers during the Monsoon.
  
  To avoid this, a Class 70 permanent bridge with all-weather connectivity was planned and built by the BRO.
  
  The bridge will ensure that the locals will not suffer during the harvest season. The bridge has been built in a way that it does get damaged because of the heavy discharge of water and the tendency of the river to change course in the monsoons.
  
  
• CSIR-IGIB develops FELUDA, a low-cost coronavirus test for detection of the pathogen
  Scientists from the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB) have developed 'Feluda', a low-cost coronavirus test for detection of the pathogen. It will not require any expensive machines.
  
  Feluda:
  The device 'Feluda' was named after the detective character in legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray's stories.
  
  The test was developed by Debojyoti Chakraborty and Souvik Maiti. It is expected that this test will be a simpler way of detecting SARS-coV2 presence in clinical samples.
  
  The start of the test method is similar to the real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), where the ribonucleic acid (RNA) is extracted and converted into DNA.
  
  But the newly developed method differs by using a specifically designed PCR reaction to amplify a part of the viral nucleic acid sequence. After this, a highly specific CRISPR, FnCAS9 binds to that sequence which can be visualized as a positive band. CRISPR, FnCAS9 were developed at IGIB.
  
  The method uses fluorescent reporters, to amplify and detect viral nucleic acid presence.
  
  The total time required for the test is less than one hour.
  
  Implementation of the method requires expensive Real-Time PCR machines that are available at specialized sites.
  
  After successful validation by regulatory agencies, it would allow the test to be done in local path-labs that do not have expensive real-time PCR machines, but simple cheap thermo-blocks used for conventional PCR.
  
  
• Karnataka launched Apthamitra helpline and app to fight against coronavirus
  The Karnataka State government launched the "Apthamitra" helpline on 22 April. It was aimed to empower people in the state's fight against coronavirus. It was launched by Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa.
  
  The system and website are owned by Health and Family Welfare Department and State Disaster Management Authority. The system functions under the aegis of NASSCOM, Bengaluru. Also, the Digital Mobile app was developed by Infosys BPM.
  
  Apthamitra:
  Apthamitra is provided with an exclusive toll-free number and a mobile app. It was aimed to provide required medical advice and guidance for those in need during the lockdown.
  
  Anyone who has symptoms of coronavirus can call the helpline from their home, get medical advice or assistance, and get their doubts cleared.
  
  Based on the symptoms said by the customer, an expert team of doctors will provide suggestions and guidance.
  
  The 'Apthamitra' helpline will function from 8 am to 8 pm. The helpline Centers are located at six locations in Bengaluru (4 centers), Mysore and Mangalore (Bantwal) with a total of 300 seat capacity.
  
  It is a 2-tier system. Tier I is manned by AYUSH or nursing or pharma final year volunteer students and tier-II is manned by MBBS or Integrated Medicine or AYUSH volunteer doctors.
  
  It will connect the people from their respective locations for risk assessment, counselling, telemedicine, and referral for testing and treatment.
  
  The helpline "14410" will cover residents in all parts of the state.
  
  The 'Apthamitra' App will help smartphone users to seek advice for telemedicine from doctors directly.
  
  The initiative will help people to identify the people who have Influenza-Like Illness (ILI), Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SERI), coronavirus like symptoms, or having a high risk of getting infected.
  
  It will identify people with low risk, but having some symptoms similar to those of coronavirus and provide them telemedicine support with OTC medicines, and counsel them for self-quarantine.
  
  
• Cabinet approves Rs.15,000 crore for India COVID-19 Emergency Response
  The Union Cabinet led by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved significant investments to the tune of Rs.15,000 crore for 'India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package'.
  
  Highlights:
  The funds will be utilized in 3 Phases. Out of the total amount, an amount of Rs.7,774 crore will be used for immediate COVID-19 Emergency Response and the rest of the amount for medium-term support, of around 1-4 years, will be provided under mission mode approach.
  
  The main objectives of the package will support the mounting emergency response to slow and limit COVID-19 in India through the development of diagnostics and COV1D-19 dedicated treatment facilities. It will also provide aid to the centralized procurement of essential medical equipment and drugs required for the treatment of infected patients, strengthen and build resilient National and State health systems to support prevention and preparedness for future disease outbreaks.
  
  Under this, the Centre will set up laboratories and bolster surveillance activities, biosecurity preparedness, pandemic research and proactively engage communities and conduct risk communication activities.
  
  The interventions and proactive initiatives would be implemented under the overall umbrella of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
  
  Phase I aims to strengthen existing health facilities as COVID Dedicated Hospitals, Dedicated COVID Health Center, and Dedicated COVID Care Centers.
  
  It will also provide detailed guidelines, protocols, and advisory for quarantine, isolation, testing, treatment, disease containment, decontamination, social distancing, and surveillance.
  
  The amount will be used for mounting robust emergency response, strengthening National and State health systems followed by strengthening pandemic research and multi-sector national institutions and platforms for One-Health, community engagement, and risk communications and implementation, management, capacity building, monitoring, and evaluation components.
  
  
• Manipur commemorated ‘Khongjom Day’ at Khongjom War Memorial Complex
  Manipur state government commemorated Khongjom Day at Khongjom War Memorial Complex, Thoubal on 23rd April, 2020. The state paid tribute to the valiant people who fought in the Anglo-Manipuri War in 1891.
  
  Khongjom Day:
  The last battle fought between the Manipur kingdom and the British Empire was the 1891 armed conflict. The battle was fought in Kheba Hill of Khongjom in the Thoubal district. Manipur Kingdom lost the war. It marked the beginning of British rule in the then princely state. Since then, the Manipur state government has been observing 23 April as 'Khongjom Day' every year.
  
  
• Shilpa Medicare launched the anti-cancer drug Dasashil
  Shilpa Medicare launched its generic version of cancer drug Dasatinib. The monthly therapy cost of Rs.6,440. The company launched the Indian branded generic of Dasatinib, an anti-cancer drug with a brand name "Dasashil."
  
  Dasashil:
  Dasashil, the branded generic anti-cancer drug, will be available in all dosage strengths of 20 mg, 50 mg, 70 mg, and 100 mg tablets.
  
  The drug is used for the treatment of Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML).
  
  Dasashil will revolutionize the treatment by ensuring to make therapy available for more Indian patients due to increased affordability.
  
  The products are being manufactured and supplied from the company's US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved manufacturing facility.
  
  The drug can benefit around 10,000 to 15,000 new patients of CML in India.
  
  
• IIFPT manufactures nutrient-rich foods to COVID-19 patients
  Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IIFPT), under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has taken initiative to manufacture nutrient-rich foods for COVID-19 patients at a time when the need for healthy and immunity-boosting foods is indispensable.
  
  Highlights:
  IIFPT has been manufacturing such nutrient-rich foods for COVID-19 patients under medical examination.
  
  The aim is to focus on nutrition to improve immunity in the wake of COVID-19.
  
  The scientists from the IIFPT have developed novel food product formulations that have been packed with a range of indigenous foods.
  
  Bread, cookies, rusks, and millet pops are being prepared on a daily basis at IIFPT's Hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) and ISO Certified Food Processing Business Incubation Center (FPBIC).
  
  All products are being prepared and packed carefully by the IIFPT staff. No synthetic additives are being added to these products.
  
  They are supplied to the Medical College and Hospital to be served to the COVID-19 patients.
  
  
• SC ruled Quantity will determine punishment not the purity of narcotic drugs
  The Supreme Court (SC) ruled that punishment for possessing banned drugs under Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985 will depend on the quantity of banned substances seized from the person. It will not depend on the purity of the illicit drug.
  
  SC considered the fact that illicit drugs are often sold in a pure form. These drugs are adulterated with other substances like chalk powder, zinc oxides, and other cheaper but more dangerous impurities.
  
  Therefore, the three-judge bench of Justices Arun Mishra, Indira Banerjee and M R Shah ruled that per the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, the punishment for possessing a commercial quantity of drugs will be more compared to the small quantity.
  
  Background:
  In 2008, the SC had ruled that since adulterated drugs contained several neutral substances which are not psychotropic in nature, it would be wrong to punish a person based on the weight of the seized drug.
  
  Hence, it had ruled that the punishment for possessing drugs, whether small or commercial quantity, would be based on determining the weight of a pure banned substance and not by the entire weight of the seized drugs.
  
  
• Union HRD Minister launched Alternative Academic Calendar for the upper primary stage
  Union Human Resource Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ released the alternative academic calendars at the upper primary stage (Classes VI to VIII) on 23 April. The calendars were developed by the NCERT under the guidance of the MHRD.
  
  Aim:
  The move by the government is to engage students meaningfully during their stay at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic through educational activities at home with the help of their parents and teacher. The Calendar will empower the students, teachers, school principals, and parents to find out positive ways to deal with COVID-19 using on-line teaching-learning resources and also improving their learning outcomes by getting school education at home.
  
  New Academic Calendar:
  The Calendar will provide guidelines to the teachers on the use of various technological tools and social media tools available for imparting education in fun-filled, interesting ways, which can be used by learners, parents, and teachers even while at home.
  
  The varying levels of access to such tools like Mobile, Radio, Television, SMS, and various social media were taken into account.
  
  The calendar guides teachers to further guide parents and students through SMS on mobile phones or through voice calls.
  
  The calendar holds a week-wise plan. It consists of interesting and challenging activities including various themes or chapters taken from syllabus or textbook. The themes and the learning outcomes are mapped to facilitate teachers/parents to assess the progress in the learning of children and also to go beyond textbooks.
  
  It will cover experiential learning activities such as Arts Education, Physical Exercises, yoga, pre-vocational skills, etc.
  
  The Calendar contains class-wise and subject-wise activities related to four languages as subject areas namely Hindi English, Urdu, and Sanskrit in tabular forms.
  
  The calendar includes a link for Chapter wise e-content available on the e-pathshala, NROER, and DIKSHA portal of GoI.
  
  The calendar also reduces stress and anxiety among teachers, students, and parents.
  
  The Alternative Academic Calendar for the primary stage has been released by the Union HRD Minister on 16th April 2020. The remaining classes, that is, IX to XII and subject areas, will be covered under this calendar.
  
  
• Minister of HRD launched the #MyBookMyFriendcampaign
  Union Minister of Human Resource Development Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' launched the #MyBookMyFriendcampaign on social media on 23 April on the occasion of World Book Day. World Book Day was celebrated amid the lockdown in India.
  
  #MyBookMyFriendcampaign:
  The campaign aims to support the students at the time of lock down.
  
  The students must read some books of interest in addition to course books so that they will be given the opportunity to learn something new.
  
  Various Union Ministers and prominent personalities from various parts of India were suggested to join the campaign.
  
  The campaign is expected to inspire all the countrymen.
  
  #MyBookMyFriend campaign will run for the next 7 days.
  
  People across India can join the campaign and gain benefits.
  
  
• National Panchayati Raj Day is observed on 24 April
  The National Panchayati Raj Day is observed on 24 April in India every year. On this day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed village Panchayats across the country to mark the National Panchayati Raj Day.
  
  Significance:
  On this day, the Constitution of India recognized Panchayats as 'Institutions of self-government'. It marks the passing of the Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 with effect from 24 April 1993.
  
  As per the amendment, the states are empowered to carry out steps to organize village panchayats. The states can provide them with the necessary powers and authority necessary to facilitate them to function as units of self-government.
  
  What is Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992?
  The Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 came into force with effect from 24 April 1993. The Act vested "Constitutional status" on Panchayati Raj institutions.
  
  The 73rd Amendment added the "Part IX" titled "The Panchayats" to the Constitution of India. It covers provisions from Article 243 to 243(O). Also, a new XI Schedule that covers 29 subjects within the functions of the Panchayats was added. It implemented Article 40 of Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) which says that the State shall take steps to organize village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority. It is necessary to enable them to function as units of self-government.
  
  History:
  National Panchayati Raj Day was celebrated for the first time in 2010. The enactment of the 73rd Amendment Act helped in the decentralization of political power to the grassroots level. The act also led to the institutionalization of Panchayati Raj through the village, Intermediate and District level Panchayats.
  
  
• Around 32 crore people receive benefits under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package
  Centre has provided over Rs.28,000 crore support through Direct Benefit Transfer to around 32 crore beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY) announced in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  GoI's measures:
  Ministry of Finance has announced around Rs.14,000 crore to 7 crore farmers under PM-KISAN. The fund has been directly transferred to approximately.
  
  GoI has also given around Rs.10,000 crore to over 19 crore Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) women account holders and Rs.3,000 crore to 2 crore building and other construction workers so far.
  
  Also, over Rs.1400 crore has been transferred in the accounts of around three crore divyangs, senior citizens and aged widows in the country.
  
  
• TRIFED to supply masks made by tribal artisans
  Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs is to work along with the Tribal artisans, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Van Dhan Beneficiaries and NGOs.
  
  The move by TRIFED is to offer marketing support of their handloom, handicraft and natural products.
  
  Highlights:
  These suppliers are currently making masks to support the community against the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  These suppliers aim to establish a model for creating livelihoods with safety for them.
  
  TRIFED focuses to identify additional suppliers who can contribute by supplying masks in the crisis.
  
  To manufacture a mask for protection against coronavirus, the Government of India has issued guidelines and standards to manufacture masks. Several private companies are also making masks along with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and ventilators.
  
  
• DST to fund Seagull BioSolutions for vaccine production
  The Department of Science and Technology (DST), under the Ministry of Science & Technology, is to fund Seagull BioSolutions Pvt. Ltd. (SBPL) to undertake the development of Active Virosome (AV) Vaccine and Immunodiagnostic kits for COVID-19 emergency.
  
  Active Virosome Technology (AVT):
  AVT developed by Seagull Bio can be used for the production of vaccines and immunotherapeutic agents.
  
  The AVT platform produces novel, non-hazardous and economical Active Virosome agents expressing desired antigens from the target pathogen. These will be used to develop a novel vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 infection and also immunodiagnostic ELISA kits for COVID-19.
  
  SBPL has planned to produce two types of AV agents, one that expresses S protein of COVID-19 (AV-S) and another that expresses structural proteins of COVID-19 (AV-SPs).
  
  It is expected that the Immunodiagnostic kits will be ready for field trials by August 2020 and approved by the end of 10-11 months. The development of the AV vaccine is expected to take a longer time.
  
  
• OFB develops cost-effective solution for isolation wards
  Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) has developed a cost-effective solution for isolation wards, Fumigation Chamber, Hand sanitizers and face masks as a measure to fight against COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  OFB's measures:
  Two-Bed Tents:
  The two-bed tents are fitted with medical equipment for screening, isolation, and quarantine. These special tents can be used for a medical emergency, medical screening, hospital triage, and quarantine purposes.
  
  These tents has a floor area of 9.55 square metre. The floor is made up of waterproof fabric, mild steel, and aluminum alloy. The tents can be set up in any place, terrain, and help in creating additional facilities other than those in conventional hospitals within a short period of time.
  
  The tents were manufactured by the Ordnance Equipment Factory, Kanpur. So far, 50 tents have been sent to the Government of Arunachal Pradesh.
  
  Fumigation Chamber:
  The fumigation chamber was developed by Ordnance Factory Ambajhari (OFAJ) Nagpur. The chamber is created for the purpose of sanitization. It is fully portable and can be shifted with ease. It is installed at the main entrance of OFAJ Hospital.
  
  Hand sanitizers and face masks:
  Opto Electronics Factory Dehradun of OFB has donated 2,500 bottles (100 ml each) of hand sanitizers and 1,000 face masks to the Governor, Uttarakhand.
  
  Cordite Factory Aruvankadu of OFB handed over 100 litres of sanitizers to the Nilgiris District Police authorities in Tamil Nadu.
  
  High Explosives Factory (HEF) in Pune despatched the first batch of 2,500 litres sanitizers to M/s HLL, Belgavi.
  
  Handwashing System:
  Ordnance Factory Dehradun handed over indigenously made pedal-operated handwashing system fitted with a soap dispenser to the police authorities. Ordnance Factory Dehu Road, Pune distributed food kits amongst labourers at Dehugaon village.
  
  
• NITI Aayog recommended relaxing mandi norms for farmers for 6 months
  NITI Aayog recommended to the government that the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) Act be kept in suspended animation for the next 6 months in view of the COVID-19.
  
  The NITI Aayog recommendation was moved by member and agricultural policy expert Ramesh Chand. It also recommended that it should be done across states even if an ordinance is required. The aim of the move is to ease pressure on farmers and ensure a smooth supply of farming goods.
  
  Highlights:
  The APMC Act will empower the state governments to specify market areas that are operated and regulated by market committees. The market area is where farmers bring their produce for sale.
  
  Any relaxation in the provisions of the Act will have to be done through state governments.
  
  The recommendation also included that the farmers be allowed to take processed or cleaned up produce directly to the warehouse. Earlier, the farmers brought the produce to the mandi.
  
  
• JK government released Rs.183 crore to MGNREGA beneficiaries
  J&K government released Rs.183 crore to the beneficiaries under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The move is to benefit poor wage seeking households.
  
  Highlights:
  The amount was transferred electronically into the accounts of beneficiaries within a period of 5-6 days. The move benefitted around 15.50 lakh active workers under MGNREGA in J&K.
  
  Around 12 lakhs transactions were made by the officials of the Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, J&K.
  
  The release of wages is to help the needy during the 21-day lockdown to combat the deadly coronavirus that has rendered daily wagers, workers and other vulnerable households of J&K without any work and livelihood.
  
  The funds were directly transferred into the bank accounts of beneficiaries through Public Financial Management System (PFMS) through digitally signed Fund Transfer Orders.
  
  The move is to help the people not to take a risk by going out to collect the payment physically.
  
  
• BSF to tighten vigil along Pakistan, Bangladesh borders
  Union Home Minister Amit Shah has directed the Border Security Force (BSF) to enhance vigil along the Indian borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, especially in the non-fenced areas of India.
  
  The security of the two borders was reviewed by the Minister. The move comes in the wake of coronavirus outspread.
  
  The BSF personnel were directed to ensure that no cross-border movement takes place at these two fronts. The Ministry is to ensure enforcement of the ongoing coronavirus lockdown.
  
  
• Dharmendra Pradhan participated in the G20 Extraordinary Energy Ministers' virtual Meeting
  Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Steel, participated in the G20 Extraordinary Energy Ministers' virtual Meeting on 10 April 2020. The meeting was hosted by Saudi Arabia, it is the President of G20 countries.
  
  Participants:
  The meeting was chaired by Saudi Arabia Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz. The meeting was attended by Energy Ministers of G20 countries, guest countries and heads of international organizations including Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), International Energy Agency (IEA) and International Energy Forum (IEF).
  
  Meeting Highlights:
  The G20 Energy Ministers' focused on ways and means to ensure stable energy markets, which are affected due to demand reduction in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing surplus production-related matters.
  
  Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted PM's Ujjwala scheme, to provide 80.3 million poor families free LPG cylinders, as part of a 23 billion dollars relief package. He also highlighted the Government of India’s efforts to fill in our Strategic Petroleum Reserves.
  
  The G20 Energy Ministers' meeting is to adopt a Joint Statement, which inter alia, proposes to establish a Task Force to advise the G20 Energy Ministers on the next steps, and agreed to remain engaged in the future.
  
  
• National Safe Motherhood Day observed 11 April
  National Safe Motherhood Day observed on 11th April every year to raise awareness about the proper healthcare of women and maternity facilities to pregnant and lactating women.
  
  The day also aims to spread awareness about healthcare facilities for women. India became the first country to officially declare a National Safe Motherhood Day in the world.
  
  History:
  National Safe Motherhood Day (NSMD) initiative was started by the White Ribbon Alliance India (WRAI). The day was designated to provide women with various healthcare programs during pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal services. The first NSMD was observed in 2003. The day also coincides with the birth anniversary day of Kasturba Gandhi.
  
  
• National Pet Day is celebrated on 11 April
  National Pet Day is celebrated on 11th April every year. The day encourages people to help reduce the number of animals in shelters. On this day, the pet owners celebrate their animal companion.
  
  A survey by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) determined that the animals contribute to the physical and mental benefits to overall cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.
  
  History:
  Colleen Paige founded National Pet Day was established in 2006 with an aim to celebrate the joy pets can bring to the people. Paige is an animal welfare advocate and pet and family lifestyle expert. She wanted to bring attention to the ongoing needs of many pets of all kinds waiting in shelters to be adopted. She encouraged people who want purebred dogs and cats to contact rescue organizations instead of going to a breeder.
  
  
• PM Narendra Modi's 7-point message to fight COVID-19
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday i.e., 14 April, 2020 urged the people to come together and support him in fighting the coronavirus pandemic. The Prime Minister mentioned seven key areas where he would like the people to help in fighting the deadly pandemic.
  
  Seven points mentioned by PM Narendra Modi:
  1. Take care of elders, Kids at home, those who have a history of ailments. Keep them safe.
  2. Lockdown and social distancing has to be followed. Use homemade masks at all times.
  3. To increase your immunity, use guidelines given by Ayush ministry.
  4. Everyone should download Arogya Setu mobile app.
  5. As much as possible, help the poor. See if we can help with their food needs.
  6. Look after the people those who work in your companies and farms.
  7. Health workers (doctors), Sanitizarion workers, Police forces. Let’s show them respect and honour them for their work.
  
  
• Odia New Year is celebrated on 13th April
  MahaBishuba Pana Sankranti is celebrated as the Odia New Year on 13 April every year. The day is named after "Pana", a drink offering. The day is celebrated with great joy, social, cultural and religious performances.
  
  Pana Sankranti:
  The reason the day is observed is that it is the first day of the solar year. Only on this day, the Sun fully rests on the equator on two occasions namely 'MeshaSankranti' and 'Tula Sankranti'. After MeshaSankranti, the Sun moves in the northern direction to the side where India is situated to the north of the equator. Hence from this day of the first movement of the Sun from MeshaSankranti that the New Year is counted.
  
  As per the tradition of Odia, the PanaSankranti is believed to be the birthday of the Hindu deity Hanuman. His loving devotion to Vishnu avatar Rama in Ramayana is legendary. His temples, along with those of Shiva and Surya (the sun god) are revered in the new year. Hindus also visit Devi temples on PanaSankranti.
  
  Celebrations:
  On this day, people use a small pot filled with "pana" or a sweet drink of Mishri and water is hung on a basil (Tulsi) plant. A hole is made at the bottom of the pot which allows the water to fall from the pot, representing rain.
  
  The festival is observed widely in the coastal areas, in some towns and villages of other areas as a rigorous ritualistic observance in Odisha.
  
  Other festivals are otherwise known as JharnuYatra, HingulaYatra or PatuaYatra, DandaYatra, UdaYatra culminate in the BishubaSankranti.
  
  
• April 13, 2020 marked the 101st anniversary of Jallianwala Bagh Massacre
  13 April 2020 marked the 101st anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. On this day, the martyrs who were killed mercilessly in Jallianwala Bagh are remembered.
  
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the innocent martyrs who showed great courage and sacrifice.
  
  Jallianwala Bagh massacre:
  The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, or the Amritsar slaughter, happened on 13 April 1919. On this day, the British Indian Army troops under the command of Colonel Reginald Dyer fired rifles into a crowd of Indians in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar, Punjab.
  
  The civilians had assembled for a peaceful protest to condemn the arrest and deportation of two national leaders, Satya Pal, Saifuddin Kitchlew and the Rowlatt Act. General Dyer took a strike force of 50 rifles and 40 khukri-wielding Gurkhas into the enclosed ground, Jallianwala Bagh. Without warning, he ordered open fire on the crowd that resulted in the death of several hundreds of people, and many were wounded.
  
  
• AIM, NITI Aayog, NIC launched CollabCAD in ATL schools
  Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), policy think tank NITI Aayog and National Informatics Centre (NIC) jointly launched CollabCAD, a collaborative network, on 13 April.
  
  The computer-enabled software system provided a total engineering solution from 2D drafting &detailing to 3D product design.
  
  Aim:
  The aim of the initiative is to provide a great platform to students of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) across the country. It also plans to create and modify 3D designs with a free flow of creativity and imagination. The software is focused to enable students to create data across the network and concurrently access the same design data for storage and visualization.
  
  CollabCAD:
  CollabCAD will provide tinkering spaces to children to sharpen the innovative ideas and creativity.
  
  CollabCAD is a platform for students to utilize indigenous, state-of-the-art made-in-India software for 3D modeling/slicing to use 3D Printing.
  
  It is a customized version of CollabCAD for ATLs with features that are most relevant to school students to materialize their ideas and creativity into physical solutions. It will enable design without constraints and, thus, allowing creativity and innovation to thrive.
  
  CollabCAD online will make 3D printing an integral part of the new 21st century innovations. It will enable designing through CollabCAD in 5000 Atal Tinkering Labs with over 2.5 million students having access to it.
  
  
• Amid lockdown 85 lakh PMUY beneficiaries received LPG cylinder in April
  Government of India has announced pro-poor initiatives under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKY). The move by GoI comes as an economic response to nationwide lockdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
  
  Aim:
  The move is aimed to alleviate the hardships faced by the poor due to economic disruption by Coronavirus.
  
  Highlights:
  As per the scheme, free Liquefied petroleum gas Refills will be provided to Ujjwala beneficiaries over the period of 3 months, that is, from April-June 2020.
  
  So far, Oil Marketing Companies have transferred Rs.5,606crore into 7.15 crorePradhanMantriUjjwalaYojana (PMUY) beneficiary accounts for availing free delivery of LPG cylinder under the PMGKY.
  
  1.26 crore cylinders have been booked in April by the beneficiaries, out of which about 85 lakh cylinders have been delivered to PMUY beneficiaries.
  
  A total of over 27.87 crore active LPG consumers are there in the country, with the PMUY beneficiaries accounting for over 8 crore. Due to the lockdown, 50 to 60 lakh cylinders are being delivered daily in the country. When there is nationwide lockdown and the people are staying home to stay safe, LPG delivery boys and all those in the supply chain of LPG are working tirelessly to ensure that clean fuel reaches people directly at their homes.
  
  Oil marketing majors namely IOCL, BPCL, and HPCL have announced an ex-gratia amount as a one-time special measure of Rs.5 lakh each in the unfortunate case of demise of personnel like Mechanics and Delivery boys, attending duty in the LPG distributorship chain, Show-room Staff, Godown-keepers, due to COVID-19 infection.
  
  
• MHRD launched YUKTI web-portal in New Delhi
  Centre launched a web-portal "Young India Combating COVID with Knowledge, Technology and Innovation" (YUKTI) in New Delhi.
  
  The web-portal was launched by the Union Minister for Human Resource Development Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal"Nishank."
  
  YUKTI portal:
  YUKTI portal is a unique portal and dashboard to monitor and record the efforts and initiatives of the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD). The portal aims to cover the different dimensions of COVID-19 challenges in a very holistic and comprehensive way.
  
  The primary aim is to keep the Indian academic community healthy, both physically & mentally. It also aims to enable a continuous high-quality learning environment for learners. The portal is an effort of MHRD to achieve the goal in these difficult times.
  
  The portal will cover various initiatives and efforts of the institutions in academics, research especially related to COVID-19, social initiatives by institutions and the measures taken for the betterment of the total well-being of the students.
  
  The portal will cover both qualitative and quantitative parameters for the effective delivery of services to the academic community at large.
  
  Through this portal, several institutions can share their strategies for various challenges to tackle COVID-19 and other future initiatives.
  
  The portal will give inputs for better planning and will enable MHRD to monitor effectively its activities for the coming six months.
  
  The portal focuses on establishing a two-way communication channel between the MHRD and the institutions in the country. Through this, the Ministry aims to provide the necessary support system to the institutions.
  
  
• KVIC developed Double Layered Khadi Masks
  Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) have developed a double-layered Khadi mask to contain the spread of COVID-19. It has procured orders for supplying it in large quantities.
  
  KVIC masks:
  The masks prepared by KVIC will help to retain 70% of the moisture content inside and provide an easy passage for the air to pass through. It also proves to be the best easily available, pocket-friendly alternative Face Masks.
  
  The masks are made of hand-spun hand woven khadi fabric which is breathable, can easily be reused, washable and biodegradable.
  
  These masks are prepared from DT fabric and these masks can meet the quality and scale of demand while precisely matching medical guidelines.
  
  The cotton reusable mask will be of 7 inches length and 9 inches breadth with three pleats, four strips at the corner for tying.
  
  Other measures of KVIC:
  Also, KVIC has bagged an order to supply 7.5 lakh pieces of Khadi Masks to Jammu & Kashmir Government. Under the project, around 5 lakh masks will be supplied to Jammu district, 1,40,000 masks to Pulwama district, one lakh to Udhampur district and 10,000 to Kupwara district. Once prepared, it will be supplied to assist the Development Commissioners of these districts by 20 April.
  
  Khadi Stitching Center at Nagrota near Jammu has been turned into a Mask stitching center. The center is producing 10,000 masks per day, while the rest of the orders are being distributed amongst various Self Help Groups (SHGs) and Khadi institutions in and around Srinagar.
  
  All Khadi Institutions have been directed to provide at least 500 masks free to the local administration for further use and circulation.
  
  KVIC has 2400 active khadi institutions and this action alone will provide 12 lakh masks across the country.
  
  
• NRLM SHG women to face the challenge of COVID-19 situation in India
  Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), Ministry of Rural Development, has contributed to the challenge of COVID-19 situation in the country.
  
  Around 690 lakh women members of around 63 lakh Self Help Groups (SHGs) have emerged as community warriors to contain the spread of COVID-19. The SHG volunteers are playing their role to ensure that people maintain social distancing in markets, PDS shops, etc.
  
  Measures by SHGs:
  JEEViKA, Bihar is working on Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to raise awareness and preparedness for the COVID-19 outbreak. They have spread information about hand wash, sanitation, quarantine and isolation, and social-distancing.
  Rangolis for awareness:
  SHG women from UP SRLM 'Prerna' have used their creativity to make rangolis and mark lines and circles to re-emphasize the need for 'social distancing'. They have also been making wall paintings to spread key messages about COVID prevention in their communities.
  Didi Helpline:
  The Didi helpline is a telephonic helpline initiated by Jharkhand SRLM. It is available 24X7 hours to help migrant labourers by providing them verified information. It enables them to provide their data to state authorities to help evacuate them from different states, back to Jharkhand.
  Efforts to dispel fake news:
  Notable efforts have been made by SHG women of Kudumbashree in Kerala, to help dispel the widespread fake news that causes panic. Through its network of WhatsApp groups with 1,16,396 Women as members, Kudumbasree is trying to propagate only the right information to the community. These platforms are used specifically to disseminate immediate, authentic information and updates on the outbreak and precautionary measures.
  
  
• Efforts by CSIR to combat COVID-19 outbreak
  Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Science & Technology reviewed and directed the CSIR scientists to develop COVID-19 mitigation solutions to effectively combat the disease.
  
  He reviewed the steps undertaken by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) and its constituent 38 labs towards mitigation of Coronavirus outbreak in the country.
  
  Measures by CSIR against COVID-19:
  CSIR has set up Core Strategy Group (CSG) and five verticals including Digital and Molecular Surveillance; Rapid and Economical Diagnostics; New Drugs / Repurposing of Drugs and associated production processes; Hospital Assistive Devices and PPEs; and, Supply Chain and Logistics Support Systems are carried being carried out by CSIR.
  
  CSIR is carrying out "Genome sequencing" which is expected to play a crucial role in identifying the host response and population vulnerability to the disease.
  
  CSIR has partnered with Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Major industries, Public sector undertakings (PSUs) working on RT-PCR machines. It also carries out Plasma-based therapy.
  
  CSIR-NAL along with BHEL and BEL is developing and providing Ventilators, Oxygen Enrichment Devices and are also developing 3-D printed face shields, face masks, gowns, and other protective equipment.
  
  CSIR scientists, for their research process, have collaborated using Video Conferencing tools while doing research, in order to observe social distancing and lockdown.
  
  
• Anti-COVID team underway to produce therapeutic antibodies against coronavirus
  As the whole world is racing to find therapeutic antibodies, a team led by Professor Vijay Chaudhary at the University of Delhi South Campus-Centre for Innovation in Infectious Disease Research, Education and Training (UDSC-CIIDRET) is planning to find solution/cure to the coronavirus.
  
  UDSC-CIIDRET is supported by the Department of Biotechnology under the Ministry of Science & Technology, Government of India. This work is being undertaken as part of an Anti-COVID consortium involving Dr. Amulya Panda at the National Institute of Immunology and Dr. Sanjay Singh at Gennova Biopharmaceutical Limited, Pune (GBL).
  
  Research:
  The team is currently isolating genes encoding antibodies, which can neutralize the SARS-CoV-2, using a large antibody library already available in-house and a library made from cells of patients who have recovered from COVID-19 infection. The antibody genes will be used to produce recombinant antibodies in the laboratory, which, if successful in neutralizing the virus, will become a perennial source of antibodies against this virus, both for prophylactic and therapeutic purposes.
  
  
• ICMR stated that over 40 vaccines are under development
  The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) stated that over 40 vaccines are under various stages of development. But no vaccines have reached the final stage.
  
  The information was passed by Dr. Manoj Murhekar of ICMR. It also stated that as of now, there is no vaccine. There are 219 facilities, 151 government, and 68 private, COVID-19 testing facilities in India.
  
  COVID-19 cases in India:
  As of 12 April, 1,86,906 samples were tested. Out of the tested samples, 7,953 (4.3%), were tested positive. In the last five days, 15,747 samples per day were being tested. Of this, 584 samples were coming positive per day
  
  As per the data provided by the Health Ministry, so far, India reported 8,446 COVID-19 positive cases. 764 people have been cured/discharged, 273 people died and 1 person migrated.
  
  
• BRO opened Srinagar-Leh highway to allow essential commodities
  Border Roads Organisation (BRO) opened the strategic Srinagar-Leh highway on 11 April. The highway connects Ladakh with the rest of the world. Earlier, few oil tankers and other essential commodities were allowed to move towards Leh/Ladakh from Zojila pass.
  
  Why was Srinagar-Leh highway closed?
  The 425 km Srinagar-Leh highway was closed since the month of December 2019 due to heavy snowfall at Zojila pass. As per the directions from Divisional Commissioner Ladakh, there was an emergent need for stockpiling essential commodities in the Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh. Snowfall in the year 2020 broke the record of the last six decades.
  
  The Project Beacon and Project Vijayak operation cleared fresh snow around Zojila were cleared at the height of 11,500 feet and made the road motorable. The snow clearance operations were undertaken by project Beacon of BRO from Gagangir to zero point and the same was done by project Vijayak from Drass towards zero point.
  
  
• Centre to pass ordinance to give states flexibility to raise work hours of employees
  The Centre is to pass an ordinance which will allow the state governments the flexibility to increase the work hours of employees across establishments to 12 hours per day from eight hours.
  
  The move is aimed to address the issue of labour shortage and facilitate companies to maintain social distancing.
  
  Ordinance Provisions:
  The ordinance will enforce the Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSH&WC) that empowers states or 'appropriate authority' to notify work hours. The ordinance is yet to be passed.
  
  The earlier Act prescribed 8 hours a day or 48 hours a week.
  
  The ordinance will help address labour shortage. It will help companies adhere to social distancing norms.
  
  As per the Ordinance, the workers will work in extended shifts.
  
  
• Ambedkar Jayanti is celebrated on 14 April
  The birth anniversary of Dr.B R Ambedkar is celebrated on 14 April. The day is celebrated to honour his countless contributions in the making of independent India. Ambedkar Jayanti is also known as Bhim Jayanti.
  
  India, amid the lockdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak, celebrated the birth anniversary of Dr.BR Ambedkar, digitally, to mark their respect.
  
  Dr.B R Ambedkar:
  Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was born on 14 April 1891 in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. He is the Father of the Indian Constitution. He led a crusade for the upliftment and empowerment of Dalits in India. He held doctorates in economics from premier institutes like Columbia University and the London School of Economics. He was a scholar in various disciplines including economics, law and political science.
  
  Ambedkar became a key advocate and campaigner for the independence of India from British rule. He fought for Dalits rights.
  
  He gave significant contributions toward the establishment of the Indian states and the principal architect of drafting the Indian Constitution. His ideas served as the foundation of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). In 1956, he was converted to Buddhism.
  
  He completed the final manuscript of his book on Buddhism ‘The Buddha and His Dhamma’ in December 1956. He passed away on 6 December 1956. Dr.BR Ambedkar was conferred Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, posthumously in 1990.
  
  
• Centre to inject Rs.1 lakh crore into rural hands
  The Government of India aims to inject Rs.1 lakh crore into villages. The move is to boost the rural economy.
  
  GoI has also announced a massive grain purchase by official agencies and direct cash transfers. It will also support the farmers if the lockdown further delayed the harvest.
  
  Highlights:
  The government initiative aims to ease restrictions on farm products during the lockdown.
  
  Food Corporation of India (FCI) is to procure grains in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh from 15 April. The massive procurement involves farmers, transporters, traders and labourers. FCI plans to buy 40 million tonnes of wheat at Rs.19,250 per tonne.
  
  Due to the lockdown, many farmers have suffered the loss of perishable products like fruit and vegetables that could not reach the market.
  
  Government will also pay around Rs.80,000crore to farmers in the next three months.
  
  GoI will also transfer Rs.16,000crore directly into bank accounts of 80 million farmers in April 2020 under the PM-KISAN scheme. It will give them a cash benefit of Rs.6,000 a year in three equal installments. So far 74.7 million have already been paid the April installment.
  
  
• Centre sets up 20 control rooms to address wage-related grievances of workers
  Ministry of Labour and Employment has set up 20 control rooms under the Office of Chief Labour Commissioner (CLC) across India.
  
  The aim of the control room is to sort out the issues that are arising in the backdrop of COVID-19.
  
  Highlights:
  The control rooms will address wage-related grievances of workers employed in Central Sphere.
  
  It will also mitigate the problems of migrant workers through coordination with various state governments.
  
  The call centers set up by GoI can be accessed by the workers through Phone numbers, Whatsapp and Emails.
  
  These control rooms are being managed by Labour Enforcement Officers, Assistant Labour commissioners, Regional Labour Commissioners, and Deputy Chief Labour Commissioners of the respective regions.
  
  The functioning of all the call centers will be monitored and supervised by CLC-C of Head Quarter on a daily basis.
  
  The concerned officers and officials of the control rooms have been directed to adopt a humane approach to assist the aggrieved workmen to the maximum possible extent. The centers will ensure the delivery of timely relief to the needy ones.
  
  The centers have been set up in Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Asansol, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Cochin, Dehradun, Delhi, Dhanbad, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jabalpur, Kanpur, Kolkata, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna, and Raipur.
  
  
• Science-based website CovidGyan on COVID-19 was launched
  CovidGyan, a Science-based website, was launched. The website aims to bring the scientific and factual aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak onto the public domain, multi-institutional, multi-lingual science communication.
  
  Website partners:
  The website was launched by the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and Tata Memorial Centre (TMC).
  
  Many other partners including VigyanPrasar, IndiaBioscience, and the Bangalore Life Science Cluster (BLiSc), which includes Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem), Centre for Cellular And Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP), and National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) have also joined the initiative.
  
  CovidGyan:
  CovidGyan serves as a hub to bring together a collection of resources in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.
  
  These resources are generated by research institutions in India and several associated programs. The content presented on the website provides a scientific understanding of the disease and its transmission.
  
  The information provided is authentic.
  
  The main objective of the website is to create public awareness and bring in a holistic approach to the understanding of COVID=19 disease and potential means to mitigate it.
  
  It will aid as a 'go-to' repository of information regarding COVID-19. The website was designed with multi-faceted aspects to provide 'right information' through talks from eminent scientists in audio or podcast formats, infographics, posters, videos, FAQs and Mythbusters, and even links to scientific papers.
  
  The website of CovidGyan is https://covid-gyan.in.
  
  
• e-NAM completes four years of implementation
  The National Agriculture Market portal, e-NAM completed four years of implementation on 14 April 2020. The portal aims to achieve the vision of the "One Nation, One Market" for Agri-produce.
  
  Achievements:
  e-NAM has been expanded to cover an additional 415 mandis which will take the total number of e-NAM mandis to 1000 soon.
  
  The online platform aims to reform the agriculture market in India.
  
  Over 1.66 crore farmers and 1.28 Lakh traders registered on the e-NAM platform. By registering, the farmers can upload their produce for sale online to the traders across all e-NAM mandis. Traders can then bid for the lots available for sale on e-NAM from any location.
  
  With this interface, the traders have accessed more than 7.76 lakh trucks through e-NAM Platform.
  
  e-NAM:
  e-NAM was launched on 14 April 2016. eNAM is an online trading portal for agricultural products in India. It functions under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, GoI. The Union Minister responsible is Narendra Singh Tomar. The platform facilitates the smooth marketing of their produce.
  
  e-NAM was an innovative initiative in agricultural marketing to enhance farmers' accessibility digitally to the multiple numbers of markets and buyers. It aims to bring transparency in trade transactions with the intent to improve price discovery mechanism, quality commensurate price realization and also to develop the concept of One Nation One Market for agriculture produce.
  
  
• First remote health monitoring system has been set up in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
  First remote health monitoring systemhas been set up in India by All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Rishikesh along with Bharat Heavy Electronics Limited (BHEL), a Government of India Navratna company in the defense sector.
  
  The system is expected to be used in Uttarakhand state to monitor COVID-19 patients.
  
  First remote health monitoring system:
  The digital medical system has been developed so that the doctor sitting in AIIMS can monitor the patient's body temperature and the amount of oxygen in the blood and the speed of his breath while at home.
  
  The therapeutic system will not unnecessarily hospitalize the patient. For this purpose, a website and mobile application have been created.
  
  Using the system, the vital parameters of the patient will be displayed in the AIIMS command & control center.
  
  The patients can inform the doctors about their illness and the doctors will give proper counseling after seeing the symptoms stated by the patient.
  
  If the patient is suspicious of the corona infection, then he will be provided with a monitoring kit from the institute. The patient can sit at his home and consult the doctor.
  
  The kit will issue alert if the patient needs to be admitted to the hospital.
  
  The system will also show in which parts of the state the disease is spreading in a serious way.
  
  
• ICMR approves Remdesivir drug against Coronavirus
  The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) announced that the antiviral drug Remdesivir can be used against COVID-19.
  
  ICMR stated that Research on the efficacy in the treatment of COVID-19 is a part of the "Solidarity Trial" of the World Health Organization (WHO).
  
  Remdesivir:
  Remdesivir drug is used to during the Ebola outbreak.
  
  The drug can be used as it is highly effective in stopping the replication mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19. The drug may be highly effective in stopping the replication mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19.
  
  A study stated that 2 ill coronavirus infected patients who were on oxygen support or on ventilators showed signs of improvement when they were administered remdesivir.
  
  The drug hinders the reproduction of coronavirus which is why they believe that it could be effective in COVID-19 treatment.
  
  Remdesivi is not presently available in India and the government is working on to see if any pharmaceutical company can manufacture it.
  
  
• DRDO develops COVSACK to combat COVID-19 spread
  Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed COVID-19 Sample Collection Kiosk (COVSACK) to combat COVID-19.
  
  COVSACK:
  COVSACK was developed by DRDL in consultation with the doctors of Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), Hyderabad.
  
  The COVSACK is a kiosk for use by healthcare workers for taking COVID-19 samples from suspected infected patients. The patient under test walks into the Kiosk and a nasal or oral swab is taken by health care professionals from outside through the built-in gloves.
  
  The Kiosk is automatically disinfected without the need for human involvement, making the process free of infection spread. The shielding screen of the kiosk cabin protects the health care worker from the aerosols/droplet transmission while taking the sample.
  
  It will reduce the requirements of Personal protective equipment (PPE) change by health care workers.
  
  After the patient leaves the Kiosk, four nozzle sprayers mounted in the kiosk cabin disinfect the empty chamber by spraying disinfectant mist for a period of 70 seconds. It is further flushed with water and Ultraviolet (UV) light disinfection.
  
  The system is ready for the next use in less than two minutes. Voice command is given through a two-way communication system integrated with the COVSACK. It is possible to configure COVSACK to be used either from inside or outside as required by the medical professionals.
  
  The COVSACK costs nearly Rs.1 lakh and the identified industry based at Belgaum, Karnataka can support 10 units per day.
  
  The DRDO has designed and developed two units and handed over these to ESIC Hospital, Hyderabad after successful testing.
  
  
• Baisakhi, RongaliBihu, NabaBarsha, Vaisakhadi, Puthandu is celebrated on 14 April
  President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have greeted people on the occasion of Baisakhi on 14 April.
  
  On this auspicious day, people celebrate Vaisakhi, Vishu, RongaliBihu, NabaBarsha, Vaisakhadi, Puthandu, Pirappu, which are being celebrated in different parts of the country.
  
  The festival is a religious festival celebrated by Sikhs and Hindus.
  
  Highlights:
  The harvest festivals are a celebration of the hard work and efforts of the farmers. These festivals show a glimpse of India's rich and diverse culture.
  
  The festival celebrates the Solar new year, based on the Hindu VikramSamvat calendar. The festival is aimed to celebrate farmers as they produce food grains for everyone and bring food security and prosperity through their tireless efforts.
  
  Baisakhi is the Harvest Festival of Punjab. It is celebrated on 14 April.
  
  Vishu is the Malayalam New Year. It is celebrated on 14 April.
  
  Puthandu is the Tamil New Year. It is celebrated on 14 April.
  
  PoilaBoishakh (NabaBarsha) is the Bengali New Year. It is celebrated on 15 April.
  
  RongaliBihu is the Harvest Festival of Assam. It is celebrated on 15 April.
  
  
• GoI launched All India Agri Transport Call Centre
  Government of India launched the All India Agri Transport Call Centre at a function in New Delhi on 15 April. The center was launched by Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar.
  
  All India Agri Transport Call Centre:
  The initiative was introduced by the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare (DAC&FW), GoI.
  
  The Call center aims to facilitate the inter-state movement of perishables including Vegetables & Fruits, Agri Inputs like seeds, pesticides, and fertilizer, etc, in the current situation of lockdown due to the COVID-19 threat.
  
  The Call Centre numbers are 18001804200 and 14488.
  
  These numbers can be called from any mobile or landline phone at any time.
  
  Truck drivers and helpers, transporters farmers, traders, retailers, manufacturers or any other stakeholder who faces problems can call the center.
  
  Call Center Executives will forward the vehicle and consignment details along with the help needed, to State Government officials for resolution of issues.
  
  The Call Centre Executives will also maintain records and verify the disposal of the problem as the case may be.
  
  The center is manned by 10 customer executives round the clock in 3 shifts of 8 hours each.
  
  
• MHA issued Consolidated Revised Guidelines to contain COVID-19 epidemic
  Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued Consolidated Revised Guidelines for the Containment of COVID-19 epidemic in the Country. The lockdown measures will remain in force up to 3rd May 2020.
  
  Revised guidelines of MHA:
  MHA guidelines directed the Ministries and Departments of Government of India, State/UT Governments to follow the guidelines for the containment of the COVID-19 epidemic in the country.
  
  The guidelines prescribed National Directives for COVID-19 management.
  
  It also announced Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for Social Distancing at offices, workplaces, factories, and establishments.
  
  The Ministry announced penalties for offences regarding violation of lockdown measures under relevant sections of the Disaster Management Act 2005 and IPC, 1860.
  
  MHA has also directed all the Ministries/Departments of Government of India and State Governments /UT Administrations for the strict implementation of the existing guidelines on lockdown and the consolidated revised guidelines.
  
  
• Government likely to exempt IGST for PPE, ventilators
  Government of India has decided to exempt Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) for the imported personal protection equipment (PPE), ventilators, sanitizers, masks, and other medical equipment.
  
  Exemptions:
  Currently, GoI levies 12% IGST on most of these products. Upon considering COVID-19 pandemic, the input tax credit can be availed for the PPEs, sanitizers
  
  Hospitals that buy such products from dealers, who take the input tax credit for the supplies will be eligible for the exemption.
  
  The exemption will be allowed from April 2020, along the lines of the exemption from basic customs duty and health cess on medical equipment, PPEs, and COVID-19 testing kits.
  
  The government has also exempted imported input materials required for making these products locally.
  
  
• IIT Guwahati developed an antimicrobial spray-based coating for PPE
  Researchers from IIT-Guwahati have developed an affordable antimicrobial spray-based coating for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and 3D printed Ear Guard for comfortable use of face masks by healthcare workers.
  
  Antimicrobial coating for PPE:
  The aim of the antimicrobial spray-based coating is to safeguard healthcare workers and citizens from the current coronavirus crisis and other infectious diseases.
  
  The antimicrobial spray-based coating for PPE kits can kill and prevent the spread of microbes once they come in contact with the coated PPE surface.
  
  The strategic association of metal nanoparticles in the spray such as copper, silver and other active ingredients acts as an antimicrobial agent. It ensures limited penetration and accumulation of microbial contaminants on PPE.
  
  The coating can reduce the risk of secondary infection as it limits the transmission of the microbes.
  
  The spray-coating is affordable and readily deployable using existing infrastructure available with PPE manufacturers.
  
  It can be sprayed or dipped onto any kind of surface including textiles and other medical device surfaces to get rid of microbes.
  
  It will allow the reusability of PPEs and easy containment of the microbes.
  
  3D printed Ear Guard:
  The researchers have also developed a 3D printed Ear Guard for the health workers who combat COVID-19.
  
  The ear guard holds the face mask strap in a place without giving pressure to the ear. Hence, the masks can be worn effortlessly for hours without pain or discomfort to the wearer.
  
  The Ear Guards are made in a free size to fit all, using 3D printers using polymer resins.
  
  The 3D printed Ear Guard is affordable, long-lasting and designed to give a comfortable wearing
  
  
• ICMR researchers found Bat coronavirus in 2 Indian bat species
  Researchers of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) found the presence of a different kind of coronavirus, bat coronavirus (BtCoV), in two bat species from Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Puducherry, and Tamil Nadu.
  
  It claimed that there is no evidence or research to claim that these bat coronaviruses can cause disease in humans.
  
  Highlights:
  BtCoV was found positive in 25 bats of Rousettus and Pteropus species from Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Puducherry, and Tamil Nadu.
  
  The bat coronaviruses have no relation with SARS-CoV2 which is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  The Pteropus bat species were earlier found positive for the Nipah virus in 2018 and 2019 in Kerala.
  
  An association of Pteropusmedius bats with the Nipah virus was reported earlier in Inda. The recently emerged severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is suspected to have its association with bats.
  
  Bats are the natural reservoir for many viruses. Some of these viruses are potential human pathogens.
  
  As a result of the study and its findings, the scientists stressed the need for proactive surveillance of zoonotic infections in bats.
  
  
• GoI procures pulses, oilseeds from states during lockdown
  The Government has started procurement of pulses and oilseeds from states during the nationwide lockdown.
  
  National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (Nafed), the central procurement agency, has purchased over 1.21 lakh tonnes of pulses and oilseeds costing around Rs.595.52 crore. It has benefitted around 90,000 farmers.
  
  Measures:
  GoI had recently released Rs.1,250crore for procurement of 1.71 lakh tonnes of chana and 0.87 lakh tonne of Masur. The Ministry has bought these pulses at minimum support price (MSP) in 13 states.
  
  The MSP of chana was fixed at Rs.4875 a quintal and Masur can be purchased at Rs.4800 a quintal.
  
  States has been directed to purchase 25% of the total production of these commodities at MSP.
  
  Under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PM-GKY), the ration cardholder will get the free distribution of 1 kg pulse per month for three months, more than 5500 tonnes of pulses have been dispatched to be delivered in states.
  
  The Centre aims to ensure that every poor household gets pulses, which is considered the cheapest source of protein.
  
  
• MeitY recommended MHA to permit more digital kiosks during the lockdown
  The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has requested the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to allow more digital kiosks to function in rural areas during the nationwide lockdown.
  
  Digital kiosks are commonly known as the Common Service Centres (CSCs) across the country. The information was passed by the Union Minister for Electronics and IT, Ravi Shankar Prasad.
  
  The MeitY suggested that the strong network of the CSCs can be helpful in times of difficulty, like the COVID-19 lockdown, especially in rural areas.
  
  Digital kiosks:
  Digital kiosks or CSCs help to distribute the essential services such as withdrawals of government subsidies sent directly into Aadhaar-linked bank accounts under schemes such as the PM-Kisan.
  
  At present, there are only 50,000 of these centres operating due to restrictions by the police.
  
  At present, around 18,000 CSCs only are carrying out banking-related services while 15,000 of them process transactions through the Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AEPS).
  
  The centres that are operational are already processing 1 withdrawal through AEPS, totalling transactions worth Rs.13 crore in a single day.
  
  Around 2,60,000 CSCs are enabled to carry out AEPS transactions. If all centres are given the go-ahead, it will help those living in rural areas to access government money and services without going too far from their homes during the COVID-19 crisis.
  
  
• Ministry of Tourism launched Dekho Apna Desh webinar series
  The Ministry of Tourism has launched its "Dekho Apna Desh" webinar series to provide information on the many destinations and details and expanse of the culture and heritage of our Incredible India.
  
  The move comes as tourism is hugely impacted with no movement happening either domestically or from across the border due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Dekho Apna Desh webinar:
  The first webinar of Dekho Apna Desh shall unfold and touch upon the long history of Delhi. The webinar was titled 'City of Cities- Delhi's Personal Diary'. It unfolded Delhi as 8 cities, each one unique in its character and leaving behind traces which makes Delhi, today's magnificent city.
  
  The webinars will be an on-going feature of the Tourism Ministry.
  
  The Ministry will showcase the diverse and remarkable history and culture of India including its natural landscapes, monuments, cuisine, arts, dance forms, festivals and many other aspects of the rich Indian civilization.
  
  It also holds a session that raises awareness about tourism and social history.
  
  The series will be available on the Ministry's social media handles 'IncredibleIndia' on Instagram and Facebook.
  
  The next webinar will be telecasted on 16 April from 11 am to 12 noon and shall take visitors to the amazing City of Kolkata.
  
  
• Smart cities use latest technology for COVID-19 awareness
  Smart cities in India including Vadodara, Bengaluru, KalyanDombivali, Agra, Kakinada, Chandigarh, are using the latest technology to create awareness about COVID-19 and the safety of people in the society.
  
  Highlights:
  Vadodara:
  The Vadodara district administration has installed a helium balloon attached with two cameras for surveillance on lockdown violators. The balloon has a public address system attached to it. The administration has divided the city into four zones, red, orange, yellow and green as part of a strategy to deal with the coronavirus pandemic.
  Bengaluru:
  Model COVID-19 War Room at the Bengaluru-COVID-19 data dashboard of Karnataka acts as the single source of all COVID-related data. The database holds the details of people under quarantine, their contacts, medical personnel on the ground, hospitals, taluk-wise and City-wise data and beyond. This real-time data is being put together with a host of software and applications.
  KalyanDombivali:
  Videos are published on the KDMC Facebook page to create awareness and keep citizens informed about Corona awareness. The city has identified local experts from different fields such as Yoga, Culinary Art, Aerobics, music, poetry, ghazal, Kathak and Bharatanatyam, philosophy and allotted time slots to each of them, in which they come live in Facebook Page of KDMC during scheduled time slots.
  Agra:
  E-Doctor Seva is a tele-video consultation facility, launched by Agra Smart City Ltd for the local population. Through this, the patient can get an appointment and have a tele/video call with the doctor at the scheduled time. They can also download the online prescription from the site/app. On request, required medicines will be delivered at home from the Smart Health Centre-Pharmacy.
  
  Along with district administration, the cooked food bank has been established which collect cooked food packets from various NGOs and it has been distributed to needy, destitute and labourers, etc., 5000 food packets have been distributed.
  Kakinada:
  COVID-19 data dashboard developed in Kakinada ICCC. Kakinada, district, state, and country-level information is being displayed in the ICCC. The details can be accessed at https://covid19.kkdeservices.com:2278.
  Chandigarh:
  Chandigarh has installed a comprehensive 'Fight COVID station' with facilities of thermal screening by taking temperature, pedestal operated hand-wash and soap dispenser, mist spray of sodium hypochlorite solution and hand dryer facility. It has been installed at the Main Mandi sector-25, Chandigarh by Municipal Corporation of Chandigarh and all visitors to Mandi are expected to pass through the station.
  
  
• Fit India launched Fit India Active Day program for school students
  Fit India, the Government of India’s flagship fitness movement, has launched the Fit India Active Day program. The new series of fitness sessions will be organized in partnership with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) for school children from across the country.
  
  Fit India Active Day program:
  During the program, the guidelines of the Ministry of AYUSH to stay healthy will be shared with students.
  
  The fitness experts will ensure that children practice fitness even when at home.
  
  It also aims to ensure that everyone, especially children remain healthy and has strong immunity.
  
  The guidelines of the Ministry of AYUSH with regard to following simple steps to increase immunity will also be discussed.
  
  Live sessions of the program will commence from 15 April 2020 at 9:30 am. The students can get access to these live sessions on Facebook and Instagram handles of Fit India Movement and CBSE.
  
  
• Government initiates dialogue to revive Agri sector exports in the aftermath COVID-19 crisis
  Government of India has initiated a dialogue with the exporters of Agri and Allied commodities. The aim is to address issues affecting the Agri sector issues raised due to the lockdown initiated to contain the spread of COVID-19 disease.
  
  Highlights:
  As per the move, the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar and the Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare Sanjay Agarwal held a video conference to gain a first-hand account of the problems being faced by the exporters of Agri and Allied commodities.
  
  The aim is to help them sustain through the current COVID-19 crisis.
  
  Exporters, representatives of Associations of producers/exporters of Agri commodities namely, Fruits, Vegetables, Basmati and Non-basmati Rice, Seeds, Flowers, Plants, Organic produce, Agriculture Equipment, and Machinery participated in the meeting.
  
  The representatives of industries including food processing, spices, cashew nuts, and machine & equipment (M&E) sectors requested permission to open/operate at least 25-30% strength. They also offered to commit their industries to proper health advisory in their functioning.
  
  
• UP became the first state to start Pool Testing of coronavirus
  Uttar Pradesh became the first state to start the Pool Testing of the coronavirus samples as the number of COVID-19 positive patients reached 558. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) gave permission for pool testing to the state in order to help maximize the testing of samples on a daily basis.
  
  Pool testing is expected to boost the daily testing capacity of the state health department.
  
  Pool Testing:
  In Pool Testing, if 10 samples are mixed and tested for COVID-19 and if they test negative, then it will be an indicator that all samples are negative. But if the test is not negative, then individual testing will be done.
  
  This will increase the testing capacity and accelerate the process.
  
  The health department of UP tested around 2000 samples per day in the state.
  
  The state has also commenced the telephonic consultation facility in UP under which the people can call on toll-free number 18001805145 and can consult with the doctors who have retired from the army and the government.
  
  
• NIOS of MHRD introduced effective schooling to reach the unreached directly at doorstep
  The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) has taken several initiatives to ensure that the education of learners should not get affected due to the nationwide lockdown because of COVID-19.
  
  The Ministry of HRD has directed the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) to initiate a unique method to ensure effective schooling to reach the unreached directly at doorstep.
  
  Highlights:
  NIOS has initiated the 'SWAYAM' MOOC platform of MHRD for various subjects from class 9th to 12th.
  
  Along with Self Learning Material, the 'SWAYAM' portal provides video lectures and facilities of self-assessment. The questions and queries of the students will be resolved through a discussion forum.
  
  The videos will be telecasted on MHRD SWAYAMPRABHA TV channels with Live sessions to interact with their teachers and subject experts for those who do not have much access to the internet.
  
  The move will benefit the students who are preparing for JEE and NEET are benefited while sitting at home through this initiative.
  
  NIOS has also made excellent innovations in the telecast of Live session through Skype in joint association with Kendriya Vidyalaya (KVS), Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and NCERT through Swayam Prabha DTH Channel Panini (#27), Channel Sharda (#28) of NIOS and Channel Kishore Manch (#31) of NCERT.
  
  Now, the subject experts are able to connect for the Live telecast of SWAYAMPRABHA through the SKYPE from their home.
  
  
• Measures taken at panchayat level against COVID-19 pandemic
  District administrations and Gram Panchayats across the country are proactively taking various measures to check the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Ministry of Panchayati Raj, Government of India remains in close coordination with State Governments, District authorities and Gram Panchayats to ensure that lockdown conditions are not violated and norms of social distancing are followed.
  
  Measures at panchayat level:
  Various initiatives were taken at the panchayat level to contain COVID-19.
  
  Uttar Pradesh:
  In Uttar Pradesh, some Gram Panchayats provide access to cash through microATM.
  
  Proper facilities of food and lodging have been made by Gram Pradhan/ Secretary.
  
  It provided the destitute families with Rs.1000 per month as relief in this difficult time.
  
  Kerala:
  1304 community kitchens have been started in Panchayats and Municipalities with the help of Local Self Government Institutions (LSGI).
  
  The Kudumbashree program prepared and distributed more than 18 lakh cotton masks through around 300 tailoring units.
  
  LSGIs with the help of Kudumbashree has formed 1.9 lakh WhatsApp groups with 22 lakh Neighbourhood Group (NHG) members to educate them about Government instructions regarding COVID-19 during the lockdown. Currently, information is being sent to NHG groups via this platform.
  
  Dadra & Nagar Haveli:
  Awareness about Dos & Don'ts is being provided daily along with sanitization of Panchayat areas.
  
  3 IEC Vehicle for awareness on COVID –19 is being circulated in all villages of 20 Gram Panchayats giving awareness to the general public.
  
  10,000 Handbills/ pamphlets were distributed in all 20 Gram Panchayats.
  
  Andhra Pradesh:
  In Andhra Pradesh, the state govt. is distributing over 16 crore masks to citizens to help check COVID-19 and the state is also carrying out a third round of the door-to-door survey.
  
  Around 1.43 crore households out of the total 1.47 crore have been covered to identify COVID cases.
  
  
• Centre launches SAHYO app to help area-specific strategies, decisions in COVID-19 outbreak
  The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, developed mobile application SAHYO, an Integrated Geospatial Platform out of available geospatial datasets, standards-based services, and analytic tools.
  
  The mobile application and the website prepared and managed by the Survey of India (SoI)
  
  SAHYO:
  Narendra Singh Tomar addressed The SAHYO aims to help decision making during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  It will aid devising area-specific strategies to handle the socio-economic impact in the recovery phase.
  
  The platform will strengthen the public health delivery system of the Central and State Governments.
  
  It will provide the necessary geospatial information support to citizens and agencies dealing with the challenges related to socio-economic distress, health, and livelihood challenges.
  
  SAHYO is also available as a web portal in https://indiamaps.gov.in/soiapp/
  
  The app has been customized to collect COVID-19 specific geospatial datasets through community engagement to augment the response activities by the Government of India to the pandemic.
  
  Information parameters required as per the strategy of the Government of India strategy and containment plan for large outbreaks have been incorporated in the SAHYOG application.
  
  This integrated geospatial platform will strengthen India's health emergency management due to the COVID-19 outbreak and support the socio-economic recovery process through the seamless provision of spatial data, information, and linkage between human, medical, technological, infrastructural and natural resources
  
  
• the 2020 National Conference on Kharif crops
  Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar addressed the "National Conference on Kharif crops 2020" through a video conference.
  
  Highlights:
  All States were directed to achieve the Kharif target as doubling of farmers' income should be taken up in mission mode.
  
  The Central govt. assured the States that the Government of India will remove any obstacles that the States are facing.
  
  The main aim of the National Kharif Conference was to discuss various issues and list out steps in consultation with the States about preparedness for Kharif cultivation in view of the lockdown situation.
  
  The Minister urged the state's leaders to explain the two schemes namely PM FasalBimaYojana and Soil Health Card scheme to each farmer in the State.
  
  They also discussed ways to accelerate the production and productivity of agriculture and horticulture sectors for ensuring food and nutritional security in the rural areas.
  
  
• CIL to hold a meeting on mine development on 18 April
  State-owned Coal India Limited (CIL) is to deliberate on model bid documents for the development and operation of underground mines. CIL has decided to augment its dry-fuel output to coal through mine operators.
  
  CIL meeting:
  A Pre-NIT Meet will be convened on 18 April with the stakeholders on the model bid documents comprising of Request for Bid (RFB) and Model Contract Agreement (MCA) for 'Development and Operation of Underground mines' of CIL on Mine Developer-cum- Operator (MDO) model.
  
  The scope for mine operator will include the development of the project, including detailed designing, financing, mine construction, procurement of mining and other equipment, operation and maintenance of the mine under the project for extraction and delivery of the coal and performance of all other obligations of the mine operator.
  
  CIL recorder high coal output:
  About 80% of India's domestic coal production comes from CIL. CIL recorded a high coal output of 84.36 million tonnes during March 2020. It registered a 6.5% growth compared to 79.19 MT it produced in March 2019.
  
  The company closed fiscal 2019-20 with annual coal production of 602.14 million tonnes (MT). The country's coal import increased marginally by 3.2% to 242.97 MT in the past fiscal 2019-20.
  
  
• MHA makes Spitting offence under Section 51 b of the Disaster Management Act
  The Government of India has announced Spitting in public act a punishable offence under the strict Disaster Management Act in its revised guidelines for lockdown issued to contain COVID-19. The announcement was made by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in its revised guidelines.
  
  Highlights:
  The guidelines also mandated the wearing of face masks in public places.
  
  MHA has made spitting punishable with a fine under Section 51 (b) of the Disaster Management Act.
  
  Spitting in public has been already made an offence under municipal laws in various cities. This has been hardly taken seriously by the people in the country.
  
  Measures have been taken by the Municipal corporations of Delhi and several other states.
  
  Assam, Bihar, Haryana, Maharashtra, Nagaland, Jharkhand, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand have already issued orders to ban tobacco products and spitting in public places amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  MHA imposed a strict ban on the sale of liquor, 'gutka', tobacco, etc. It strictly prohibited spitting in public places.
  
  The directives shall be implemented by district magistrates through fines and penal action given under the Disaster Management Act, 2005.
  
  Anyone refusing to comply with the order of government orders under the Disaster Management Act will result in imprisonment up to one year or a fine, or both.
  
  
• GoI assures SC that the WHO norms on Health workers safety is followed
  On 15 April, the Government of India assured the Supreme Court that World Health Organizations (WHO) guidelines for the safety of health workers is being followed in all cases including doctors, nurses, other health staff and sanitation workers
  
  Highlights:
  As per the WHO guidelines, the doctors, nurses and health workers must be equipped with PPEs, and their concerns should be addressed. GoI assured that the rule is followed.
  
  The government is to set up a separate helpline for nurses to address their complaints in two hours.
  
  In India, the petition on behalf of the nurses was filed by the United Nurses Association. It seeks a national corona management protocol.
  
  A dedicated helpline will also be provided to nurses to redress all their complaints and issues related to PPEs, salary cut, eviction by homeowners, etc.
  
  The government also ensures the right to life of sanitation workers or 'safaikaramcharis'.
  
  
• Health Ministry Colour code districts to help manage COVID-19 pandemic
  The Government of India decided to divide all districts across the country into hotspots, non-hotspots and green zones. The announcement was made by Lav Agarwal, joint secretary of the Health Ministry.
  
  Highlights:
  The aim is to help manage the COVID-19 pandemic. It will also help the partial opening up of economic activities during the extended period of the nationwide lockdown.
  
  The move also aims to help in the management of hotspots and the spread of the pandemic. The health and family welfare ministry has launched a new set of guidelines for the second phase of lockdown till 3 May.
  
  As of 15 April, the Ministry has identified 170 hotspot districts, 207 non-hotspot districts reporting cases and 359 green zone districts not reporting any cases across the country.
  
  These numbers will increase or decrease based on fresh cases of COVID-19 infection.
  
  The new guidelines by the Ministry are aimed to help the central and state governments to allow some economic activities in select areas.
  
  The economic activities in the green zone districts will be allowed but restricted in the red zones, which will continue to have the current lockdown measures.
  
  
• ICAR developed Pusa Decontamination and Sanitizing Tunnel
  Pusa Decontamination and Sanitizing Tunnel are developed by the Division of Agricultural Engineering, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR), New Delhi.
  
  The tunnel was inaugurated by the Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Kailash Choudhary on 16 April in New Delhi.
  
  Pusa Decontamination and Sanitizing Tunnel:
  The sanitization protocol of the tunnel included handwashing with foot-operated soap and water dispenser and fogging in a sanitizing tunnel for 20 seconds.
  
  In the tunnel, Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QAC) are used at a concentration of 0.045%, as per the recommendation of the Health Department.
  
  QAC are cationic detergents and disinfectants. It can be used to remove organic material. It will denature the proteins of the fungal or bacterial cell and affects the metabolic reactions of the cell and causes vital substances to leak out of the cell which will lead to the death of the virus.
  
  
• DRDOs PPE testing facility shifted from DRDE Gwalior to INMAS Delhi
  Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) shifted its testing facility from Defence Research Development Establishment (DRDE), Gwalior to Institute of Nuclear Medicine & Allied Sciences (INMAS), New Delhi. The move is to overcome the time delays and to speed up delivery of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and masks.
  
  The DRDE, Gwalior has stood at the forefront in fighting COVID-19. It has now been tasked to do the testing of masks only received by HLL Lifecare Limited from foreign countries before it is distributed to various agencies.
  
  
• DRDO develops Automatic Sanitiser Dispensing Unit and UV Sanitisation Box to fight coronavirus
  Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed Automatic Mist Based Sanitiser Dispensing Unit and UV Sanitisation Box and Hand-held UV device to fight against COVID-19.
  
  Automatic Mist Based Sanitiser Dispensing Unit:
  Centre for Fire Explosive & Environment Safety (CFEES), Delhi has developed an automatic mist based sanitizer dispensing unit. It is a contactless sanitizer dispenser that sprays alcohol-based hand rub sanitizer solution for sanitization of hands while entering the buildings/office complexes, etc. It is based on water mist aerator technology, which was developed for water conservation.
  
  It operates without contact and is activated through an ultrasonic sensor. A single fluid nozzle with a low flow rate is used to generate aerated mist to dispense the hand rub sanitizer. The sanitizer will sanitize the hands with minimum wastage. Using an atomizer, only 5-6 ml sanitizer is released for 12 seconds in one operation
  
  
• AIIB to lend USD 500 million to India to help fight COVID-19 pandemic
  Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has announced that it is to finance $500 million projects in India to help the country improve its health care systems. With this, AIIB has doubled its funds under the COVID-19 Crisis Recovery Facility.
  
  Highlights:
  The aim of the move is to help reduce health care pressures in pandemic preparedness and health infrastructure in India. It will also provide liquidity, fiscal and budgetary support.
  
  The funding is to be used for the purchase of equipment and for detection capacity.
  
  The move comes as India approaches AIIB for financial assistance to combat COVID-19.
  
  
• Delhi to begin clinical trial of plasma enrichment technique
  Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced that the Doctors will conduct the clinical trial of plasma enrichment technique to treat severely-ill coronavirus patients soon.
  
  Clinical trial of plasma method:
  The clinical trial of the plasma method will be conducted in Delhi.
  
  If the trial is successful, the method will be implemented to save the lives of serious COVID-19 patients.
  
  The method was used in the past to treat diseases such as polio, measles, mumps, 1918 flu epidemic, and in previous outbreaks of respiratory infections namely H1N1 influenza, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS).
  
  Under the method, Plasma from the blood of the people who have recovered from COVID-19 will be collected. It is believed that it might contain antibodies to the virus that causes the disease and might be effective against the infection.
  
  
• Chhattisgarh launched Cghaat website for online essential delivery
  Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Bhupesh Baghel inaugurated the online delivery website 'Cghaat' on 16 April. Cghaat will facilitate doorstep delivery of fruits and vegetables during the extended lockdown phase due to contain COVID-19 spread.
  
  Cghaat:
  The web portal, cghaat.in, has been developed by Chhattisgarh government's agency Chips.
  
  The fruit and vegetable vendors who are interested to provide services can register online through this portal.
  
  After registering, they can provide home delivery against online orders placed as soon as they receive Collector's permission.
  
  Cghaat service is available free of charge to vendors.
  
  Customers interested in purchasing from the portal can also register free of charge and choose the vendor of their choice.
  
  Other essential items such as milk, groceries, forest-produce, etc is set to be delivered soon through the portal.
  
  The portal will come in handy for people who practice physical distancing and will also minimize the chances of crowding at the shops.
  
  
• CCMB to develop Inactivated virus vaccine for novel coronavirus
  Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) is currently developing an inactivated virus vaccine for COVID-19. These inactivated vaccines are known for their safety and easy production.
  
  What is an inactivated virus vaccine?
  Generally, the active virus is cultured in large numbers. They are then killed either by a chemical or heat. Although the pathogen is killed or made to lose its reproduction capacity, various parts of the virus, like the spike protein with which it enters the cells, remains intact.
  
  The antigen or the chemical structure that is recognized by the immune system will be left unimpaired. When this dead microbe is introduced, the immune system is tricked to respond by producing antibodies against specific antigens still left intact, without knowing that the pathogen is dud. Inactivated polio vaccine and the rabies vaccine are made this way.
  
  The pathogen cannot reproduce as they are dead and it can't cause even a mild disease. Hence, it will be safe to administer to even people with lesser immunity, like the old and those who have comorbidity.
  
  If a large amount of virus is grown and made inactive, it will become a material for the candidate vaccine to be injected. Now the virus will not be active but the human body will recognize the proteins of the virus and start making antibodies against it. So, it acts as the inactivated virus vaccine.
  
  
• Shri Sanjay Dhotre launched Hack the Crisis India overcome COVID 19 pandemic
  Minister of State Electronics & Information Technology, Communications and Human Resource Development Shri Sanjay Dhotre launched Hack the Crisis – India, an Online Hackathon to find working solutions for overcoming COVID 19 pandemic.
  
  This hackathon is part of a global initiative. It is organized by Hack A Cause – India and Ficci Ladies Organization Pune and supported by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India (MEITY).
  
  Aim of this hackathon:
  To fight against COVID19. The winning ideas from a few top participating teams, as implementable solutions on the corona crisis, is expected to help India and global citizens.
  
  Minister of State Electronics & Information Technology stated that we should, and we will overcome this challenge and come out stronger as a country and thereby also support humanity at large to prevail.
  
  Hack the Crisis – India, an Online Hackathon to find working solutions for overcoming COVID 19 pandemic. This hackathon is part of a global initiative organized by ‘Hack A Cause – India’ and ‘Ficci Ladies Organization Pune’ and supported by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India (MEITY).
  
  Around 2000 teams and over 15000 participants will be enhancing their working prototypes in a 48hour hackathon with expert mentoring from India, Estonia, and Finland. Top teams from India will participate in 'Hack the Crisis - World’ global hackathon in the coming weeks.
  
  
• Union HRD Minister launches MHRD AICTE COVID-19 Student Helpline Portal
  Students are facing difficulties due to the closure of colleges and hostels due to the COVID 19 Pandemic.
  
  AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) has come out with MHRD AICTE COVID-19 Student Helpline Portal to address the issues.
  
  Aim of the portal:
  The portal is mostly available to connect who are willing to provide help with those who need help.
  
  The nature of support includes Accommodation, Food, on line Classes, Attendance, Examinations, Scholarships, Health, Transport, Harassment. Around 6500 colleges have already come forward to provide support at such a crucial juncture.
  
  Students in difficulty are encouraged to get connected with them through this portal directly. AICTE also appealed to voluntary organizations, NGOs. Social organizations, philanthropists to come forward and render their support similar to the 6500 colleges.
  
  
• IAS IPS officers associations form Caruna an initiative to fight Coronavirus
  Associations representing officers of Central Civil Services, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the Indian Police Service (IPS), formed an initiative called Caruna to support and supplement the government's efforts in fighting coronavirus.
  
  Caruna:
  'Caruna' stands for Civil Services Associations Reach to Support in Natural Disasters and represents a collaborative platform on which civil servants, industry leaders, NGO professionals, and IT professionals, among others, have come together to contribute their time and abilities.
  
  
• Union Government orders about 10 crorehydroxychloroquine tablets for healthcare workers
  Union Health Ministry has placed an order of about ten crorehydroxychloroquine tablets from various pharmaceutical companies for health care workers.
  
  Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has suggested the use of hydroxychloroquine tablets only for health care workers and caregivers involved in the treatment and direct contact with the suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients.
  
  The COVID-19 patients, who require Intensive Care Unit care, the Health Ministry has suggested the use of hydroxychloroquine tablets in combination with Azithromycin.
  
  
• ArogyaSanjeevani Policy Cigna launched with IRDAI guidelines
  Manipal Cigna Health Insurance Company has announced the launch of its ArogyaSanjeevani Policy, Manipal Cigna. This standard health cover policy in line with IRDAI from one of the 29 insurers who have received the go-ahead to launch such policies in the industry.
  
  Every general insurance company has to launch a standard health plan and has to have an official name ArogyaSanjeevani Policy (name of insurer) for easy comparison by the buyers.
  
  ArogyaSanjeevani Policy:
  The product provides a family discount of 15% for covering two and more family members under the single individual policy to make it more affordable for families. It covers necessary hospitalization expenses incurred at any medical facility registered with ManipalCigna’s network in India and even in non-network hospitals.
  
  It includes the expenses incurred towards – dental treatment or plastic surgery necessitated due to disease or injury. The policyholder will be provided a grace period of up to 30 days, for a yearly mode of payment. The insured shall be allowed fifteen days from the date of receipt of the policy.
  
  
• NHA signs pact with Uber for transportation service for public healthcare workers
  National Health Authority (NHA) inked a pact with ride-hailing app Uber to provide transport services for frontline healthcare workers involved in the treatment of COVID-19 patients.
  
  Highlights:
  Uber planned to facilitate the provision of 150 cars free of cost to support medical facilities in certain cities, namely New Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Kanpur, Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Patna through its UberMedic service.
  
  The NHA will be equipped with roof-to-floor plastic sheeting enclosing the driver’s seat, thereby acting as a protective barrier between the rider and driver.
  
  Every UberMedic car will be disinfected after every ride to ensure adequate safety and hygiene.
  
  The limited mobility options had made it difficult for frontline workers to travel to their workplaces, which is the hospital. This initiative will further strengthen India’s response to contain the spread of COVID-19. This ride-hailing app has been taking steps towards battling the outbreak of coronavirus in the country.
  
  
• Central government taking measures to ensure smooth harvesting of Rabi Crop
  Central government taking several measures to ensure the smooth harvesting of Rabi Crop and the sowing of the summer crop.
  
  Department of Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers Welfare conducted a video conference with all States and Insurance companies to review the payment of claims and also the status of Conduct of Crop Cutting Experiments, CCEs for Rabi crops.
  
  The implementation of the Smart Sampling Technique ensures that the farmers do not suffer from any adverse fall out during the lockdown period. The letters issued to all States for co-witnessing Crop Cutting Experiments.
  
  Phyto-Sanitary Certification:
  Phyto-Sanitary Certification export consignments and Import releases of plant and plant products are continuing. Around of 3,776 PSCs have been issued for export consignments and 1,074 import consignments.
  
  Kisan Call Centres at all 21 locations are being operated by diverting calls to personal mobile numbers of Farm Tele Advisors who are now operating from homes. All 454 KCC seats are being operated daily between 6 A.M. to 10 P.M. Call flow is about 15 thousand to 20 thousand per day.
  
  
• Indian Railways issues restoration plan to prepare for resumption of services
  Indian Railways have begun preparing to resume all its services from April 15 after a 21-day suspension of its passenger trains in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
  
  All railway safety personnel, running staff, guards, TTE and other officials have told to be ready to join their posts from April 15. The operations only after a green signal from the government which had formed a Group of Ministers (GoM) on the issue.
  
  The Indian Railways has issued a restoration plan to all its railway zones with a schedule of trains to be run, their frequency and the availability of rakes. All 17 zones have been sent a missive to be prepared to run their respective services.
  
  
• India seeks $6 billion of loans from ADB, AIIB to fight coronavirus pandemic
  India is seeking as much as $6 billion of loans from multilateral institutions such as the Asian Development Bank to bolster its efforts to fight the coronavirus outbreak.
  
  World Bank
  The World Bank already committed $1 billion. At the same time, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government is in talks with Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and ADB, the people said, asking not to be identified because the details haven’t been finalized.
  
  
• Lupin launched drug used for prevention of organ rejection in kidney transplant in the US
  Drug firm Lupin launched generic Mycophenolic acid delayed-release tablets in the US market.
  
  The drug is used to prevent organ rejection in patients receiving kidney transplants.
  
  Drug:
  The tablets Mycophenolic acid delayed-release tablets are of strengths 180 mg and 360 mg.
  
  The drug is the generic version of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation's Myfortic delayed-release tablets.
  
  Lupin's alliance partner Concord Biotech Ltd has received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) earlier for the product.
  
  The tablets are indicated for prophylaxis of organ rejection in adult patients receiving kidney transplants and in pediatric patients at least 5 years of age and older who are at least 6 months post kidney transplant.
  
  
• National Maritime Day is celebrated on 5th April in India
  National Maritime Day is celebrated on 5th April in India. The day creates awareness to support intercontinental commerce and the global economy as the most well-organized, safe and sound, environmentally responsive approach of transporting goods from one place to another of the world.
  
  Theme:
  The theme for the 57th National Maritime Day is "Sustainable shipping for a sustainable planet." The theme aims to raise awareness of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  
  The theme also showcase the work that the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and its Member States are taking various measures to achieve the targets.
  
  History:
  National Maritime Day is being observed since 1964. On 5 April 1919, navigation history was created in India, when SS Loyalty, the first ship of The Scindia Steam Navigation Company Ltd travelled to the United Kingdom from Mumbai.
  
  The move was very important to Indian shipping history when sea routes were controlled by the British. The transaction marked a red-letter day in the maritime history of India. This day is celebrated to spread awareness in supporting intercontinental commerce and the global economy.
  
  
• Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated on 6th April
  Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated on 6th April every year. It is one of the most auspicious festivals in the Jain community.
  
  Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated on the 13th day of the bright half of the moon in the month of Chaitra.
  
  Mahavir Jayanti:
  Mahavir Jayanti is also known as Mahaveer Janma Kalyanak or the Birth Anniversary of Lord Mahavira. Jainism was founded by Mahavir Jayanti. The festival is celebrated widely by the Jain community in memory of the last spiritual teacher of the religion.
  
  A procession with the idol of Lord Mahavira called the RathYatra is held on a special day. On this day, the Jains recites stavans (Jain prayers) and give a ceremonial bath called "abhisheka" to the statues of the Lord Mahavira.
  
  
• C-MET develops a low-cost indigenous prototype of polymer swab
  A scientist from the Pune-based Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET) has developed a low-cost indigenous prototype of polymer swab.
  
  It can be used to collect the samples for coronavirus testing. If the product gets approved for production, the country will not need to depend on imported swabs.
  
  Polymer swabs:
  India has been importing testing kits and polymer swabs primarily from Italy, Germany and the United States. Because of the import restrictions and international lockdown, a shortage of these kits might occur.
  
  The swad satisfies the guidelines of the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP).
  
  The polymer swab is used to collect a sample from the upper respiratory tract of a patient.
  
  A specialty polymer from the polyester family and a rod made up of Polypropylene has been used to develop the prototype of the swab.
  
  The Prototype will be forwarded for clinical trial and testing.
  
  
• CSIF to provide COVID-19 protective gear and healthcare paraphernalia to its personnel
  The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is to provide COVID-19 protective gear and healthcare paraphernalia for it’s over 40,000 personnel.
  
  The CISF personnel will be having close physical interaction with lakhs of passengers once airports and the Delhi Metro re-start operations.
  
  CSIF measures:
  The CISF take several measures on anti-coronavirus protection for its troops. The move comes after 2 of the CSIF personnel in Mumbai have tested positive for the COVID-19 infection. CSIF has enhanced beds in 349 units of isolation wards so that more personnel can be accommodated in case of requirement.
  
  
• MSME Technology Centres contributed to combat COVID-19 outbreak
  MSME Technology Centres in India have provided masks, medical gowns, ventilators, sanitizers, components of Corona Testing Kits, etc. to combat Coronavirus.
  
  18 operational Technology centres of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) are playing a major role in the fight with COVID-19.
  
  Measures taken by MSME sector:
  Central Footwear Training Institute (CFTI) Chennai provided masks and medical gowns.
  
  MSME Technology Centre, Hyderabad is developing a prototype of an electro-mechanical ventilator which is based on sensors. The first prototype will be ready soon.
  
  SME TC, Aurangabad developed and supplied a 3D prototype of Face mask.
  
  Central Tool Room and Training Centre (CTTC), Kolkata developed a simple and low-cost ventilator system in consultation with SagarDatta Super specialty hospital. It has also developed a Face shield prototype.
  
  MSME Technology Centre, Kannauj is manufacturing Alcohol-based sanitizers and is supplied to DM, Farrukhabad, Railways and other organizations.
  
  Institute for Design of Electrical Measuring Instruments (IDEMI) is developing an ion-based sanitizer.
  
  MSME Technology Centre, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, and Jamshedpur have manufactured components for 650 Corona Testing Kits.
  
  GM, TC Bhubaneswar is making tools and components through its various TCs namely CTR, Ludhiana; IDEMI, Indo German Tool Room (IGTR), Aurangabad, Kolkotta and IDTR, Jamshedpur.
  
  ESTC Ramnagar has designed Intravenous (IV) Stand.
  
  ESTC hostels have been converted as Shelter home for 80 migrant labours.
  
  MSME Technology Center, Bhiwadi, and TC, Jamshedpur offered vacant rooms for establishing isolation centres.
  
  Process and Product Development Center (PPDC) AGRA and IGTR Indore jointly manufacture hospital furniture.
  
  PPDC, Meerut has fabricated Face masks and distributed free of cost.
  
  CFTI Agra has fabricated Medical Gowns for M/s Ramsons, Agra and fabricate triple-layered Face masks.
  
  
• FCI sets record in transportation of food grains amid lockdown
  Food Corporation of India (FCI) has set a record by moving 70 rakes carrying 1.93 Lakh Metric Tonnes (LMT) continuously in single-day movement during the lockdown.
  
  FCI aims to ensure that enough food grain stocks are made available in every part of the country during the countrywide lockdown.
  
  It also works to fulfill the regular requirements of food grains under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
  
  FCI's measures:
  Under PM GaribKalyan Ann Yojana (PMGKAY), FCI provided wheat and rice directly at Open Market sale rates to ensure a continuous supply of food grains in the open market, earlier it used an e-auction route.
  
  So far, Punjab accounted for about 46% of total food grain movement at 7.73 LMT, Haryana accounted 3.02 LMT, Telangana accounted 2.04 LMT, Chhattisgarh accounted 1.15 LMT, Uttar Pradesh accounted 2.07 LMT followed by Bihar accounted 1.96 LMT, West Bengal accounted 1.65 LMT and Karnataka accounted 1.57 LMT and North Eastern inducted 1.4 LMT food grains during the lockdown.
  
  So far, FCI has allotted 1.38 LMT Wheat in 13 states and 1.32 LMT Rice in 8 states for further distribution through their channels.
  
  
• Jobless rate in India rose to 23 percent due to Lockdown said CIME
  A survey released by the Center for Monitoring Indian Economy Pvt. Ltd. (CMIE) stated that the unemployment rate in India has climbed to more than 20%.
  
  The decline has occurred as the people lost jobs after the nationwide lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
  
  Highlights:
  The report stated that the jobless rate based on a sample size of 9,429 observations was 23.4% as of 5 April 2020.
  
  CMIE estimated the jobless rate for the month of March 2020 as 8.7% compared with 7.8% in February.
  
  Labor statistics for March 2020 was declined.
  
  It also stated that an estimated 100 million workers in mining, construction, manufacturing, and services sectors have been rendered jobless due to the lockdown.
  
  
• Commerce Ministry launched online platform to issue of certificate of origin for exporters
  The Ministry of Commerce has designed an online platform for the issuance of a key document required for exports to those countries with which India has trade agreements.
  
  The move aims to facilitate shipments during the COVID-19 crisis.
  
  Highlights:
  As per the guidelines of the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), an exporter should submit a certificate of origin (COO) at the landing port of the importing country. The certificate is essential to prove where their goods come from.
  
  The submitted documents will be important to claim duty concessions under free-trade agreements (FTAs).
  
  The platform has been designed as single-point access for all FTAs/preferential trade agreement (PTA), for all designated COO issuing agencies and for all export products
  
  The platform can be accessed at https://coo.dgft.gov.in.
  
  The preferential certificate of origin for exports to various other countries under following FTAs/PTAs shall be applied and issued only from the online platform with effect from 7 April 2020.
  
  Previously, the certificate for exports from India to Chile under a PTA, exports to Nepal under South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) and SAARC Preferential Trading Arrangement (SAPTA) and shipments to Korea under India-Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement have been applied and issued through this online platform.
  
  
• Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal announced a 5T plan to stop the spread of Coronavirus
  Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced a 5T plan to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus. The 5T plan is testing, tracing, treatment, teamwork, and track.
  5Ts to curb COVID-19 spread:
  1. Testing:
  Aggressive testing can curb the spread of the new coronavirus. The Delhi government will conduct one lakh rapid tests in hotspot areas like Dilshad Garden and Nizamuddin.
  2. Tracing:
  Tracing the people who are identified to have come in contact with a positive patient and are asked to self-quarantine. The Delhi Police is ensuring if the self-quarantine is being followed.
  3. Treatment:
  In Delhi, over 2,950 beds are reserved for coronavirus patients. And hospitals like LNJP, GB Pant and Rajiv Gandhi hospitals will treat only coronavirus patients. It also plans to take over 12,000 hotel rooms for the treatment.
  4. Teamwork:
  COVID-19 can only be defeated through teamwork. Doctors and nurses are key members of the teams. All the Indian states are working along with the Centre to stop the spread of the virus.
  5. Tracking & Monitoring:
  The Delhi government is actively tracking the developments and actions taken to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
  
  
• ICCC of Smart city missions is used to monitor and track COVID-19 patients
  Indian Smart Cities namely Bengaluru, Pune, Surat, and Tumakuru are using the integrated data dashboards to provide up-to-date information about the status of coronavirus in different administrative zones of their cities.
  
  The data dashboards are developed by the data analysts and data experts who work with their Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) and function as COVID-19 War Rooms in many cities.
  
  Pune:
  In Pune, the Pune Smart City Development Corporation Limited (PSCDCL) partnered with Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). The partnership has aimed to develop an integrated data dashboard to fight COVID-19 pandemic. The city administration uses heat-mapping technologies and predictive analytics to develop a containment plan and the containment zones get reflected on the dashboard.
  
  Surat:
  In Surat, the Surat Municipal Corporation has published an online dashboard on its municipal website, https://www.suratmunicipal.gov.in/others/CoronaRelated, to provide regular updates to the citizens.
  
  Bengaluru and Tumakuru:
  In Bengaluru, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has set up a 'war room' to use technology to conduct surveillance on people within an 8km radius of a confirmed patient, so as to contain the spread of the virus.
  
  
• Railway Control Office to assist to resolve issues in freight operations
  Indian Railways has opened a Railway Control Office after the declaration of lockdown amid due to the coronavirus pandemic in order to assist railway passengers, other citizens and help resolve issues in freight operations.
  
  Centralized Control Office:
  Railway control office has been doing 24x7 monitoring of four communication and feedback platforms namely Helplines 139, 138, social media and email ([e-mail]).
  
  The queries were answered by its IVRS facility.
  
  Railways aim to ensure a seamless flow of information and suggestions between Railway Administration and the general public during the lockdown.
  
  Under the facility, the Railway personnel has responded to over 1,25,000 queries in the first 10 days on designated communication platforms, out of which over 1,09,000, 87% queries, were handled through direct human interaction over the phone.
  
  
• NHAI achieved highest ever Construction of National Highways in 2019-20 Financial year
  National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has accomplished the construction of 3,979 km of national highways in the financial Year 2019-20.
  
  It is the highest ever highway construction achieved in a financial year by NHAI.
  
  Bharatmala Pariyojana:
  The ambitious highway development program of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways includes the development of about 65,000 km of national highways.
  
  Under Phase-I of Bharatmala Pariyojana, the Ministry has approved the implementation of 34,800km of national highways in 5 years with an outlay of Rs.5,35,000 crore.
  
  NHAI has been mandated to develop about 27,500km of national highways under Bharatmal Pariyojna Phase-I.
  
  Also, a large number of initiatives have been taken to revive the stalled projects and expedite completion of new projects including:
  
  ? Streamlining of land acquisition and acquisition of a major portion of land prior to the invitation of bids.
  
  ? Cases to be disposed of the Change of Scope (CoS) and Extension of Time (EoT) in a time-bound manner
  
  ? Procedure for approval of General Arrangement Drawing for ROBs simplified and made online.
  
  ? Close coordination with other Ministries and State Governments
  
  ? One time fund infusion
  
  ? Regular review at various levels and identification/ removal of bottlenecks in project execution
  
  ? Proposed exit for Equity Investors
  
  ? Securitization of road sector loans
  
  ? Disputes Resolution mechanism revamped to avoid delays in the completion of projects.
  
  
• Indian Railways has converted 2500 coaches into Isolation Units
  Indian Railways is to make more designs of the isolation coaches as a measure to combat COVID-19.
  
  Indian Railways has successfully converted 2500 coaches as Isolation Units with limited manpower amid the lockdown due to coronavirus outbreak. The move by the Railways is to supplement the national efforts in combating COVID-19.
  
  The initial task was to prepare 5000 coaches as isolation wards for the COVID-19 infected patients.
  
  With the conversion of around 2500 coaches, 40000 isolation beds are now ready for contingency. On average, 375 coaches per day are being converted by Indian Railways. The conversion is being carried out at 133 locations in the country.
  
  Isolation Units:
  The isolation coaches will be used all across the country and will remain on railway premises.
  
  These coaches are equipped as per medical advisories issued.
  
  For the isolation cabin, middle berth from one side and all the three berths have been removed in front of the patient berth.
  
  Air curtains in each compartment have been provided.
  
  Each compartment is provided with four bottle holders and a 220-volt electric point for medical instruments.
  
  The aisle areas of the bathrooms have been modified to prepare the isolation coaches. A hand shower, one bucket, and a mug are placed in each bathroom.
  
  With these provisions, there are 10 isolation wards in each coach.
  
  Indian Railways is to make more designs of the isolation coaches as a measure to combat COVID-19.
  
  The isolation coaches are being prepared only as a contingency and to supplement the efforts of the Ministry of Health in fighting the COVID 19.
  
  
• Module Innovation to develop rapid test for detection of COVID-19 infection
  The Department of Science & Technology (DST) funded 'Module Innovations', a Pune based healthcare startup to develop a rapid diagnosis of diseases to develop a product for detecting COVID 19 with a 10 to 15-minute test.
  
  nCoVSENSEs (TM) module:
  The startup is now developing nCoVSENSEs (TM) module. It is a rapid test device for the detection of antibodies that have been generated against the COVID-19 in the human body.
  
  The nCoVSENSe test detects the Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies that generated in the human body upon the onset of viral infection and is targeted against the Spike proteins making it specific for COVID-19.
  
  The rapid test device will make it possible to confirm infection in patients and also determine whether an infected patent has recovered.
  
  The device will also identify the stage of infection in the patients.
  
  The new rapid test will help manage the problem in a more efficient way at a lesser cost. The current confirmatory method of Real-TimeReverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) takes a long time and needs trained manpower.
  
  The test kit will be used to screen patients and passengers at airports, railway stations, hospitals to safeguarding in any future outbreak as well.
  
  
• NCC to provide services under Exercise NCC Yogdan in fight against COVID-19 pandemic
  Ministry of Defence (MoD) has allowed temporary employment of National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets under 'Exercise NCC Yogdan'.
  
  The Ministry also provided guidelines in this regard. The exercise was launched as per the request of the Civil and police administration in the fight against Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
  
  Exercise NCC Yogdan:
  NCC has offered its help to help civilians and combat COVID-19 under the exercise.
  
  These cadets will offer to state and municipal authorities to augment relief efforts.
  
  Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh has requisitioned for the employment of 8 cadets in supply chain management.
  
  Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have sought 245 cadets in supply chain and traffic management.
  
  Uttar Pradesh has asked for services of volunteer cadets from NCC Group Headquarters Gorakhpur
  
  Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Chandigarh (PHHPC) Directorate sought for services of 86 cadets.
  
  Kancheepuram in Tamil Nadu (TN) has approached services of NCC cadets and Tamil Nadu has provided services of 75 cadets and 57 cadets for Puducherry, so far.
  
  
• Cabinet approved Non-operation of MPLADS for two years
  The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved Non-operation of Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) for two years from 2020-21 to 2021-22.
  
  The move is to provide support in managing the COVID-19 outbreak. The move is a part of the Government's continued efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19.
  
  The funds from the scheme will be used to strengthen the Government's efforts in managing the challenges and adverse impact of COVID19 in the country.
  
  MPLADS:
  The scheme was launched on 23 December 1993. It was administered by the Ministry of Rural Development.
  
  The scheme enables the Members of Parliaments (MP) to recommend developmental work in their constituencies to create durable community assets based on locally felt needs.
  
  
• DST sets up CAWACH to combat COVID-19 pandemic
  Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India has set up a Centre for Augmenting WAR with COVID-19 Health Crisis (CAWACH).
  
  The centre is a rapid response to combat COVID-19 global pandemic.
  
  Aim:
  The CAWACH program focus to leverage the youthful energy, intelligence and extraordinary innovative potential of technology incubators and startups.
  
  It also aims to empower them to speedily address the multi-dimensional challenges of COVID-19 across respiratory aids, information and monitoring assists, disinfection systems, protective gear and coatings, diagnostics, and a plethora of other relevant materials, devices, and solutions
  
  CAWACH:
  The total cost of the centre is Rs.56 crore.
  
  The centre is to evaluate and support the innovations and start-ups that address COVID-19 challenges.
  
  The centre will be implemented by Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE), a technology business incubator at IIT-Bombay.
  
  Through the program, DST aims to support R&D initiatives by boosting innovations offering comprehensive solutions like Ventilators, Diagnostics, Therapeutics, Informatics and other intervention for control and mitigation of COVID-19.
  
  The centre will support startups at different stages for fast-tracking commercialization process and journey and scale-up across geographies which will have a significant impact in the long term.
  
  It will provide access for all India networks for testing, trial and market deployment of these products and solutions in the identified areas of priority COVID-19 solutions.
  
  The program will help to address various challenges faced by the country due to the Coronavirus crisis.
  
  
• Andhra Pradesh state to procure 3 lakh rapid testing kits
  Andhra Pradesh state government has placed an order for 3 lakh rapid testing kits for COVID-19.
  
  AP's measures:
  The AP state government has identified and designated 13 hospitals in 13 districts as COVID hospitals.
  
  It has a dedicated hospital where no other patients will be treated. The move is to avoid further transmission, said the government of the disease.
  
  The AP government authorities are to undertake extensive testing in containment zones that are established across the state where positive COVID-19 cases have been reported.
  
  After the delivery of the ordered equipment, the AP state is to undertake the exercise of randomly testing 8,000 samples from across the state to better understand the extent of the spread.
  
  The state govt. used the equipment that is used for testing of Tuberculosis on 5 positive cases and 5 negative cases. The results were accurate and hence the government has decided on a two-step testing process from hereon in some cases.
  
  
• IAF provides medical supplies during COVID-19 lockdown
  Indian Air Force (IAF) has rendered continuous support in the fight against Coronavirus by providing medical supplies to all the states in the country. Medical supplies are transported to equip the state governments/Union Territories (UTs) and supporting agencies to combat the contagion effectively and efficiently.
  
  IAF Measures:
  IAF has provided essential medical supplies and commodities from nodal points to Manipur, Nagaland, and Gangtok in the North-Eastern region and the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh.
  
  An-32 aircraft of IAF airlifted personnel and 3500 kg of medical equipment of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) from Chennai to Bhubaneshwar for setting up testing labs and facilities in Odisha.
  
  IAF has allocated aircraft at nodal points to airlift medical supplies and equipment at short notice to proactively support operations against COVID-19.
  
  
• Centre extended 7th Economic Census data collection period by 6 months
  The Government of India has announced the extension of the data collection period for the Seventh Economic Census by 6 months, that is, till 30 September 2020. The announcement was made by the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
  
  The survey engaged around 1 million people in fieldwork. The data is collected through the door to door survey of each household and commercial establishment. It is done under the provisions of the Collection of Statistics Act 2008.
  
  Background:
  The economic census is conducted in 2020 after a gap of five years. For the survey data collection, MoSPI has partnered with CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd.
  
  Earlier, the MoSPI had put on hold several economic surveys including the measurement of domestic tourism, unemployment, and a multiple indicator survey, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  The 7th Economic Census survey is being carried out since 29 June 2019. But the speed of data collection was slow.
  
  
• ILO reported 400 million workers in India may face poverty due to COVID-19 crisis
  United Nations' International Labour Organization (ILO) reported that the Indian economy is to face catastrophic consequences in the second quarter of 2020 in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.
  
  ILO's report highlights:
  In its report titled 'ILO Monitor 2nd edition: COVID-19 and the world of work', ILO described COVID-19 pandemic as "the worst global crisis since World War II".
  
  It stated that about 400 million people working in the informal economy in India are at risk of falling deeper into poverty due to the coronavirus crisis.
  
  The report highlighted that the economic breakdown will wipe out 195 million full-time jobs or 6.7% of working hours globally in the second quarter of the year 2020.
  
  The COVID-19 pandemic might cause a catastrophic effect on working hours and earnings across the globe.
  
  
• Indian researchers begin novel coronavirus genome sequencing
  Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad and Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi began research on the whole genome sequencing of novel coronavirus for the first time.
  
  Genome Sequencing:
  Genome Sequencing will help scientists to understand the evolution of the virus, how dynamic it is and how fast it imitates.
  
  The study will help to know how fast it evolves and what are the future aspects of it.
  
  3-4 people from each institute are continuously working on the whole genome sequencing. At least 200-300 isolates will be studied and the information would help them to make some further conclusions about the behaviour of this virus.
  
  National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune has also been requested to give a virus that has been isolated from different places.
  
  It is expected that the virus will help the institutes to establish the family tree of the virus.
  
  How it is done?
  The whole-genome sequencing method is used to determine the complete Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequence of the genome of a specific organism.
  
  For genome sequencing, samples from patients that have been found to be positive should be taken and sent to a sequencing centre. The method needs a very large number of samples for the study. Without much data, no conclusion can be made right. With around a few hundred sequencing, scientists can make many inferences from many biological aspects of this virus.
  
  
• Essential services, medicines delivered at doorstep of patients by SwasthkeSipahi under PMBJP
  Swasthke Sipahi pharmacists of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra (PMJAK) are delivering essential services and medicines at the doorstep of patients and elderly under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) during the nationwide lockdown.
  
  SwasthkeSipahi:
  The pharmacist is working as part of PMJAK. Currently, they are extending essential services by making available quality generic medicines at affordable prices to the common people of the country and the elderly persons at their doorstep to fight the Corona pandemic.
  
  SwasthkeSipahi is supporting the government's initiative of practicing social distancing.
  
  PMJAK:
  PMJAKs are being run by the Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI) under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India.
  
  The main objective of PMJAK is to provide quality and affordable healthcare to anyone in need. Currently, more than 6300 PMJAKs are functioning across the nation, covering 726 districts of the country.
  
  
• FastSense Diagnostics develops rapid diagnostic kit for COVID-19 screening
  FastSense Diagnostics announced that it is currently developing two modules for the detection of COVID-19.
  
  The startup is being funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
  
  Highlights:
  The major challenges of testing for COVID-19 are speed, cost, accuracy, and accessibility at the point-of-care or use.
  
  The Company is to roll out two products.
  
  One is a modified Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based detection kit for confirmatory analysis in less time compared to existing detection methods. Approximately 50 samples can be tested in an hour.
  
  The second is a portable chip-based module for rapid screening of the target population based on the on-chip sensing technology that would provide on the spot results in less than 15 min per sample.
  
  The sample size for confirmatory tests can also be increased in the future to 100 samples/ hour.
  
  The point of care detection kits of FastSense Diagnostics that can provide on the spot detection rapidly and without highly trained technicians could boost India's testing efforts in the fight against COVID-9.
  
  The two proposed modules by the company will be deployed at any real locations and hotspots like hospitals, airports, densely populated areas where screening of population can be done to prevent the spread of coronavirus to healthy individuals. The data can be generated with ease in less than an hour.
  
  It is believed that the company will make it with less cost and more affordable.
  
  
• SCTIMST developed disinfected barrier-examination booth to examine COVID-19 patients
  Scientists at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) have designed and developed a disinfected barrier-examination booth to examine COVID-19 patients. It is a thoughtfully designed protective booth with clinician inputs.
  
  Disinfected examination booth:
  The innovative disinfected examination booth is closed like a telephone booth. It has been designed to examine the patient without direct contact with the doctor to prevent transmission of infection.
  
  The booth is equipped with a lamp, table fan, rack, and Ultraviolet (UV) light.
  
  The booth is installed with UV light that disinfects the chamber after each patient leaves.
  
  The UV light installed in the booth has a wavelength of 254nm with a 15 watts rating, which effectively removes most of the viral load within 3 minutes of exposure.
  
  A pair of gloves is provided in the examination booth to examine the patient's physical status. An entry tunnel on the side frame of the booth is provided to pass a Stethoscope within the chamber. This feature would help the doctor to place a stethoscope on the patient and listen to heart and breath sounds.
  
  After examination, the patient will vacate the chamber. Immediately after that, UV light will be turned on for 3 minutes. When UV exposure in the chamber is completed, the next patient can be examined.
  
  The Examination Booth has dimensions of 210 cm (H) X 150cm (D) X 120cm (W). It is designed in a way that the booth provides enough space for the patient.
  
  
• DST to fund IIT-Bombay to develop a gel for nasal passage to prevent coronavirus entry
  Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) is to support and fund a technology by the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering (DBB), IIT-Bombay to capture and inactivate novel coronavirus.
  
  Highlights:
  The funding by SERB will help DBB of IIT-Bombay to develop a gel that can be applied to the nasal passage, which is a major entry point of the coronavirus.
  
  The solution is expected to protect the safety of health workers and lead to a reduction in community transmission of COVID-19.
  
  It will help to manage the spread of coronavirus.
  
  The health providers including doctors and nurses are at maximum risk as they work closely with the contagious COVID-19.
  
  The researchers are planning for a 2-pronged approach to limit the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
  
  Firstly, the viruses replicate within host cells of the lungs, the first component of the strategy will be to inhibit the binding of viruses to host cells. This is expected to reduce infection in the host cell, and the viruses that will still remain active should be inactivated.
  
  Secondly, a method where biological molecules that are incorporated, would inactivate the trapped viruses in a manner similar to that of detergents. The successful completion of the project will lead to the development of gels that can be locally applied in the nasal cavity.
  
  The team who work on the project has expertise in the areas encompassing virology, structural biology, biophysics, biomaterials, and drug delivery. It is expected that the technology would be ready in about 9 months.
  
  
• IIL partners with Griffith University of Australia to develop vaccine for coronavirus
  Vaccine manufacturer Indian Immunologicals (IIL) partnered with Australia's Griffith University to do research and develop a vaccine for COVID-19. The two entities have signed a pact regarding this.
  
  Highlights:
  Under the partnership Scientists from India and Australia will develop a 'live attenuated SARS–CoV-2 vaccine' using the latest codon deoptimization technology.
  
  IIL stated that the technology looks promising for developing a vaccine for prophylactic, active, single-dose immunization against novel coronavirus in humans, with an enhanced safety profile.
  
  The vaccine is expected to provide long-lasting protection with a single dose administration with an anticipated safety profile similar to other licensed vaccines for active immunization.
  
  Upon the completion of the research, the vaccine strain will be transferred to ILL. It will work with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), to conduct clinical trials. IIL intends to use its Vero cell platform tech for mass production of the vaccine.
  
  IIL is promoted by the National Dairy Development Board. It is committed to addressing critical public health needs by engaging in this collaboration.
  
  
• India relaxed ban on exports of paracetamol, hydroxychloroquine drugs
  The Government of India has relaxed a ban on exports of paracetamol and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) that are used to treat COVID-19. The drugs are currently placed in the licensed category.
  
  The move came as the US President Donald Trump had threatened India with retaliation if India rejected the US's demand for the supply of hydroxychloroquine.
  
  Ban relaxation:
  Doctors and scientists are divided over the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine drug which is used to treat malaria and auto-immune diseases. It has been found that the drug hydroxychloroquine is the key to battle the infection.
  
  A panel led by drug pricing regulator Shubhra Singh was tasked with assessing the capability and the manufacturing capacity of domestic pharmaceutical companies.
  
  The decision was taken after verifying stock availability in the country.
  
  India is one of the biggest manufacturers of the drug across the world.
  
  The US along with 30 countries, including South Asian neighbours and key global partners in West Asia, had asked India to lift the ban on the export of hydroxychloroquine drugs.
  
  
• CSIR-CFTRI to provide testing equipment for COVID-19 detection
  Mysore-based Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Food Technological Research Institute (CSIR-CFTRI) has partnered with the district administration of Mysore, Karnataka to provide enough equipment needed for testing of samples.
  
  Highlights:
  CSIR-CFTRI is providing two Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machines and one RNA extraction unit along with necessary chemicals to the district administration. It helps to deal with such a large number of samples that are to be tested.
  
  The test for COVID-19 is very sophisticated and is being done in select centres approved for testing by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Along with the equipment, CSIR-CFTRI has deployed two skilled technicians for the period required by the District Administration.
  
  Mysore Medical College and Research Institute, Mysore college received the PCR machines on 5 April. It is expected that the centre will triple the number of tests done per day.
  
  Also, under the partnership the RNA extraction unit will be delivered soon.
  
  PCR method:
  Currently, the COVID-19 infection is detected by a sophisticated and precise technique called Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method. As per the PCR method, the RNA of the virus is extracted from samples and amplification of the same using a PCR machine. The main advantage of the PCR test is that it can detect the virus in a person at a very early stage, even symptoms emerge.
  
  
• MHRD launched Samadhan, a challenge to find quick solution to COVID-19 pandemic
  The Innovation Cell of the Ministry of Human Resources Development (MHRD) in collaboration with All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and Forge and InnovatioCuris launched "SAMADHAN", a mega online challenge, to test the ability of students to innovate.
  
  Samadhan:
  Students can participate in the Samadhan challenge.
  
  The participating candidates are expected to search and develop new measures that can provide quick solutions to the Coronavirus epidemic and other such calamities. The solution can be made available to the government agencies, health services, hospitals, and other services
  
  Samadhan will be done to make citizens aware, to motivate them, to face any challenge, to prevent any crisis and to help people get a livelihood.
  
  Under the Samadhan challenge, the faculty and students can conduct new experiments and make new discoveries. The experiments should be provided with a strong base leading to a spirit of experimentation and discovery.
  
  Applications to participate in the competition will start on 7 April 2020. he last date for submission of application is 14 April 2020.
  
  The names of the contestants after shortlisting will be declared on 17 April 2020. The contestants are expected to submit their entries between 18-23 April 2020. The final list of Samadhan will be released on 24 April and the grand online jury will decide the winners of the challenge on 25 April 2020.
  
  
• Centre to deploy drones to monitor the ban on religion gatherings during the lockdown
  The Central government has announced that it will deploy more drones to enhance monitoring of the lockdown. GoI aims to ensure that a large number of people do not gather at religious congregations, with several festivals.
  
  The issue was taken up at the Group of Ministers (GoM) meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on 7 April.
  
  The move is followed by the concern raised by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) that the community leaders are being reached out to deter gatherings during Hanuman Jayanti, Good Friday and Easter-Sunday.
  
  Drones have been put to different use by many states during the lockdown. Drones will be deployed for monitoring of religious gatherings.
  
  Measures taken by MHA:
  Government is taking appropriate measures and ensure hoarding and black marketing are not done.
  
  Around 152 cargo flights were operated to ensure pharma supplies across India helping to stabilize the availability of medicines.
  
  Special attention has been taken to keep the supply of medical oxygen smooth and hassle-free.
  
  Also, the cyber and information security wing of MHA has cautioned against fake coronavirus videos on social media platforms. It stated that spreading fake, unverified content may make one liable for punishment as per the law.
  
  
• Centre frames norms to avoid cohorting of COVID-19 patients
  The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has framed detailed guidelines to manage suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases in separate graded facilities. The move is to avoid cohorting of COVID-19 patients with other patients.
  
  Highlights:
  Centre has prepared a special plan to separate the healthcare facilities to treat patients who show mild, moderate and severe symptoms and treat them at designated centres.
  
  As per the norms, the healthcare facilities will be graded and designated as COVID Care Centre (CCC), Dedicated COVID Health Centre (DCHC) and Dedicated COVID Hospital (DCH).
  
  A COVID Care Centre is a basic facility for patients who show mild symptoms will admitted to a CCC. It will makeshift facilities like a stadium, school, hostel or a quarantine facility.
  
  A COVID Health Centre is for people who show moderate symptoms. They will be admitted to a DCHC or a separate wing of a big hospital. It would mandatorily have an adequate oxygen supply for each bed.
  
  A person with severe symptoms will be taken care of in a Dedicated COVID hospital, which has intensive care, blood bank, and oxygen supply facilities.
  
  The three facilities would be connected with the CCC attached to a DCH. As per the norms, a patient with mild symptoms gets serious, he can be shifted to DCH.
  
  The gradation of hospitals for COVID-19 patients comes after a detailed study of countries like Italy and Spain.
  
  
• Cabinet approved ordinance to take 30 percent pay cut for one year
  The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided to amend the Salary, Allowances, and Pension of Members of Parliament (MP) Act through an ordinance.
  
  As per the amendment, there will be a salary cut of all ministers, including Prime Minister, for a year by 30%. The information was passed by the Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Prakash Javadekar in New Delhi.
  
  The move is to provide financial assistance to the COVID-19 crisis. President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice-president Venkiah Naidu and governors will also take a salary cut of 30% for a year. The savings from the salaries will go to the Consolidated Fund of India (CFI).
  
  What is Consolidated Fund of India?
  CFI is the revenues collected by the Centre through direct taxes and indirect taxes, license fees, money received by the government in loan repayment, profits from public sector undertakings. CFI is used for all the expenses of the government. CFI of the Central government was established under Article 267 of the Indian Constitution and State Government was established under Article 266 of the Indian Constitution.
  
  Only with the approval of Parliament, money can be withdrawn from CFI. The fund is audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India and the reports will be submitted to the Union legislatures. Rajiv Mehrishi is the current CAG of India.
  
  
• TRIFED collaborates with UNICEF to launch a digital campaign for Tribal Gatherers safety
  Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) has partnered with United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) to ensure the tribal gatherers carry on their work safely.
  
  The partnership aims to develop a digital communication strategy for promoting a digital campaign for Self Help Groups (SHGs) to highlight the importance of Social Distancing.
  
  Collaboration Provision:
  As per the partnership, UNICEF will provide the necessary support to be circulated to the SHG centers in the form of Digital Multimedia content; Webinars for Virtual training basic orientation on COVID response, key preventive behaviors; Social Media campaigns on social distancing, home quarantine; and Vanya Radio.
  
  TRIFED joined with the Art of Living Foundation #iStandWithHumanity Initiative with a Stand With Tribal Families component to provide much-needed food and ration for the survival of the tribal community.
  
  The webinar to promote the campaign will be held on 9 April 2020. The initiative aims to cover tribal regions across all the 27 States.
  
  So far, a total of 1205 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) have been sanctioned in 27 States and 1 Union Territory (UT). It involves around 18,075 Van Dhan Self Help Groups.
  
  Also, 15,000 of the SHGs will be promoted as Van Dhan Social Distancing Awareness cum Livelihood Centers' through a digital training program. It will create awareness and share about Do's and Don'ts Advisories during COVID-19, provide suggestive practices for maintaining personal hygiene, adopt cashless practices, among others.
  
  
• CSIR-CECRI partners with 3D Lycan for Face Shield
  CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CECRI) at Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, has developed a series of lab-made Personal protective equipment (PPEs) to fight COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  CSIR-CECRI partnered with 3D Lycan, Bangalore company to increase the mass production of Face Shield.
  
  Measures by CSIR-CECRI:
  The PPEs prepared by CSIR-CECRI include Hand sanitizer solutions, as per the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations, Hand washes solutions using coconut oil and Sodium hypochlorite based disinfectant solutions.
  
  These solutions are packed in containers, printed for instructions to use and distributed to the needy organizations at free of cost.
  
  It benefits the nearby Municipal Corporation, Govt. Medical College Hospital, Govt. Hospital, other police stations, and few nationalized banks, among others.
  
  Digital training to make face masks:
  
  CSIR-CECRI is also offering digital training to make face masks by interested rural women to help and cater to the needs of the people. A 3D printed face shield with reusable options has been given to the Dispensary staff of CSIR-CECRI to protect them effectively from a sneeze, cough and aerosol communication of the patients. It also launched the preparation method for electrochemical synthesis of hypo-chlorite (Disinfectant) to MSMEs to increase the production rate.
  
  
• Indian Railways uses Timetabled Parcel Trains to boost supply chain
  Indian Railways introduced "Timetabled Parcel Train services" for nationwide transportation of essential commodities and other goods. The move by the Railways is to boost the supply chain across the country amid the major lockdown.
  
  The unhindered services offered by Indian Railways is expected to boost the availability of vital goods required for ordinary citizens, industry, and agriculture.
  
  Time Tabled Parcel Trains:
  Time Tabled Parcel Trains are planned according to the demand of the customers. With this, the Indian Railways makes sure that all the parts of the country are connected.
  
  The trains connect vital corridors of the country namely Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
  
  Under this service, proper connectivity has been ensured to Guwahati in order to ensure supplies in the North-eastern region of the country.
  
  Over 90 routes and 109 trains for Parcel Special Trains were notified since the start of the lock-down. The train service connects all the important cities of India for the transportation of vital goods at a fast speed. These services might be scaled up.
  
  The Time Tabled Parcel Trains delivers Milk Specials, Milk products, and Food products as per the customers' demand.
  
  
• DoPT launches digital learning platform to train COVID-WARRIORS
  The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, is to launch "iGOT platform," a learning platform to combat COVID-19 for all front-line workers.
  
  The digital platform to train all healthcare people who fight against coronavirus in India.
  
  DoPT's iGOT platform:
  DoPT aims to equip the front-line workers, including doctors, nurses and health care workers, with quality training and updates to cope up with the Pandemic.
  
  The guidelines are made available in https://igot.gov.in.
  
  The move is to provide appropriate training to them for the subsequent stages of the pandemic and training to other potential second line workforce so that the country can be better prepared for the emergent situations.
  
  The platform delivers curated and role-specific content, to each learner/user at his place of work or home in any device of the choice.
  
  Who are the front-line workers?
  The front-line workers and the target group of people are the Doctors, Nurses, Paramedics, Hygiene Workers, Technicians, Auxiliary Nursing Midwives (ANMs), Central & State Government Officers, Police Organisations, National Cadet Corps (NCC), Civil Defence Officials, Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS), Bharat Scouts & Guides (BSG), National Service Scheme (NSS), and other volunteers who participate in the fight against COVID-19.
  
  
• Centre to deposit Rs 1,000 in women PMJDY accounts in two installments
  Ministry of Finance announced Rs.500 has been deposited in each Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) account held by women for the month of April and Rs.500 more will be given over the month of May in equal installments.
  
  A total of 38.08 crore accounts are benefitting under the PMJDY. Out of it, 20.60 crore accounts are held by women across India. As of 1 April 2020, the deposits in the PMJDY accounts stood at over Rs 1.19 lakh crore.
  
  The aim is to provide help and support to the people amid the lockdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
  
  Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY):
  PMJDY was launched on 28 August 2014. It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with an aim to provide universal access to banking facilities to all households. The main objective of the scheme is to expand and provide affordable access to financial services like bank accounts, remittances, credit, insurance, and pensions.
  
  
• SC directs private labs to make COVID-19 test free of cost
  The Supreme Court (SC), in an interim order, directed the government to make COVID-19 testing by private laboratories free of charge.
  
  Currently, the Private lab charges are capped at Rs.4,500 apiece whereas the test is free at government facilities. The move by the SC comes as the fee charged for testing may not be affordable for most people.
  
  Highlights:
  The order stated that Private hospitals and labs must play an important role in containing the scale of the pandemic by extending philanthropic services in the hour of national crisis.
  
  It said that the tests must be carried out in labs that are certified by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) or agencies approved by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
  
  There are 118 government labs in India that can afford only 15,000 tests. Hence the SC asked the Central government to tie up private test labs.
  
  It directed the corporates to reimburse Rs.2,000-2,500 through corporate social responsibility (CSR) to private labs so that their material costs can be recovered.
  
  
• SCTIMST design super absorbent material for safe management of infected respiratory secretions
  Scientists at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) have designed and developed the "Chitra Acrylosorb Secretion Solidification System," a highly efficient superabsorbent material for liquid respiratory and other body fluid solidification. It can also be used as disinfection for the safe management of infected respiratory secretions.
  
  What is the need?
  Generally, in the ICU, the secretions of the patients are sucked by a suction machine into bottles or canisters. It should be emptied when it gets full. It includes the decontamination process in a sluice room and discarded through the waste fluid disposal systems.
  
  Hence, well-equipped sluice rooms with disinfection facilities, which is an issue in less well-equipped hospitals or makeshift isolation wards during epidemics.
  
  Chitra Acrylosorb Secretion Solidification System:
  The newly designed superabsorbent material can be effective in the safe management of infected respiratory secretions. In the developed system, suction canisters, disposable spit bags have been designed with "AcryloSorb" technology. AcryloSorb can absorb liquids at least 20 times more than its dry weight and also contains a decontaminant for in situ disinfection.
  
  Containers filled with this material will immobilize the contaminated fluid by solidifying it in a gel-like form. It will avoid spillage and will also disinfect it. The canister containing the solidified waste canister can then be decomposed as all other biomedical waste by incineration.
  
  This technology reduces the risk for the hospital staff, the need for personnel for disinfecting and cleaning the bottles and canisters for reusing them and makes the disposal safer and easier. It will reduce the risk faced by the nursing and cleaning staff with highly contagious diseases such as COVID-19.
  
  
• MoHUA launches revised version of Swachhata App to handle queries specific to COVID-19 pandemic
  The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) announced the launch of a revised version of the existing "Swachhata-MoHUA App".
  
  The pilot version of the revised version of the App is being tested. After its feedback, it will be launched across India.
  
  Swachhata-MoHUA App:
  The Swachhata-MoHUA App is a highly popular grievance redressal tool for citizens. It functions under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban) and already has over 1.7 Crore+ urban users across the country.
  
  The app has now been modified and strengthened further in order to enable citizens to get their COVID-related complaints also redressed by their respective Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).
  
  The revised version of the Swachhata App includes 9 categories to better support citizens during this COVID pandemic.
  
  The nine categories of the revised Swachhata App are:
  1. Request for Fogging and Sanitation during COVID-19
  2. Violation of Quarantine during COVID-19
  3. Violation of Lockdown during COVID-19
  4. Report Suspected case of COVID-19
  5. Request Food during COVID-19
  6. Request Shelter during COVID-19
  7. Request Medicine during COVID-19
  8. Request assistance for COVID-19 patient Transport
  9. Request Waste Pickup from Quarantine Area
  
  Swachhata App serves as an effective digital tool that enables the citizens to play an active role in the Swachhata of their cities and increase accountability on the part of ULBs.
  
  
• Fuel demand may decline to 40 percent in April amid lockdown
  A report by India Ratings stated that the fuel demand witnessed a fall by around 20% in March amid the lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, capacity utilization levels have fallen to 50% in March.
  
  Report Highlights:
  The decline in the fuel demand will impact pricing and increase borrowing costs for oil marketing companies.
  
  It stated that the fuel demand will decline further to 40% in the month of April 2020.
  
  This is due to the 21-day national lockdown because of which individuals have remained indoors, shops and businesses shut, and vehicular movement, including the airlines, railways, trucks and private vehicles, remaining off the roads.
  
  The report also stated that the capacity utilization has remained high for oil marketing companies (OMCs) whose sales to own production ratio is significantly high, as they lowered external purchases while ensuring their refineries run at full utilization.
  
  
• NCL partners with BEL to speed up the manufacturing of Digital IR Thermometer
  CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) Pune, Maharashtra has designed and developed Digital IR Thermometer to held in the help in the mitigation of the Coronavirus outbreak.
  
  NCL has partnered with Bharat Electronics Ltd, Pune (BEL) to speed up the manufacture of the newly designed thermometer.
  
  Digital IR Thermometer:
  CSIR-NCL developed a handheld digital Infra-Red (IR) thermometer. It is the primary and important component that is used to measure Coronavirus infection. Digital IR Thermometer can be charged using a mobile phone or power bank as a power source.
  
  NCL has made the design of IR thermometers available in open source to manufacturers across India for free. The guidelines give complete details about the manufacturing ready hardware and software design.
  
  The effort is to enable a large number of manufacturers to manufacture the thermometers and cater to their local demands.
  
  About 100 prototype units will be made for pilot distribution and testing at TUV Rheinland India Pvt Ltd Bangalore.
  
  
• DST funds Genrich Membranes to develop membrane oxygenator equipment
  Department of Science and Technology (DST) is to support and provide funding to the Genrich Membranes, a spin-off company, based on proprietary technology licensed from CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune to increase the membrane oxygenator equipment (MOE).
  
  MOE is developed to treat COVID-19 patients. The equipment was successfully tested at Genrich.
  
  Membrane Oxygenator Equipment:
  Innovative-based MOE is an indigenous hollow-fiber membrane technology that enriches oxygen in the air up to 35% under pressure of 4-7 bar, using an oil-free compressor.
  
  MOE consists of membrane cartridge, oil-free compressor, output flowmeter, humidifier bottle, nasal-cannula, and tubing and fittings. The compressed, filtered air which comes out from the compressor is fed to the membrane cartridge. It selectively permeates oxygen over nitrogen offering oxygen-enriched air as the product at the ambient pressure. The membrane cartridge can distinguish oxygen and nitrogen restricts the passage of viruses, bacteria, and particulate matter. The product air is of medical grade.
  
  The equipment does not need trained manpower for its operation. It is portable, compact, and needs minimum maintenance. It is provided with a plug-and-play facility providing on-site and quick-start oxygen-enriched air.
  
  Medical grade oxygen-enriched air is the need of the hour facility to treat COVID-19 situations.
  
  The device has been designed to meet the requirement of respiratory interventions to treat breathlessness of the patients who have been released from Intensive Care Units (ICU).
  
  
• GoI approved ex-gratia compensation for FCI officials in case of death
  Government of India has approved the proposal for a grant of ex-gratia monetary compensation to 1,08,714 employees and officers of the Food Corporation of India (FCI).
  
  It included 80,000 labour who are working round the clock to supply food grains across the country amidst the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. The announcement was made by union minister for food and consumer affairs minister Ram Vilas Paswan.
  
  Highlights:
  GoI has affirmed its commitment to provide all possible security to the Corona-warriors engaged in providing essentials and services to the common man during these times of crisis.
  
  As per the provisions, during the six month period, from 24 March 2020 to 23 September 2020 if anybody dies due to COVID-19 infection while on duty with FCI, the regular FCI labourer will get a compensation of Rs.15 lakh and the contractual labourer will be entitled to Rs.10 lakh compensation, Category-1 Officers Rs.35 lakh, Category-2 officers will get Rs.30 lakh and Category -3 and 4 workers will get Rs.25 lakh.
  
  At present, the families of FCI employees are entitled to compensation in the event of death due to terrorist attacks, bomb blast, mob attack or natural disaster. But regular and contractual labourers are not covered under its provisions.
  
  
• G-20 finance ministers, central bank Governors to meet on 15 April
  G-20 countries are to hold a meeting to discuss the way forward in supporting the economy after the COVID-19 pandemic on 15 April. From India, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das.
  
  The meeting follows the Extraordinary Energy Ministers meeting of the G-20 countries which was held on 31 March 2020.
  
  In the meeting, the leaders and the working groups would give their suggestions to deal with the aftermath of COVID-19. Several rating agencies and surveys have forecasted lower growth for the world economy with India projected to clock a 30-year low level of growth at 2% in 2020-21.
  
  The G-20 ministers are meeting at a time when rating agencies and economists are saying that the lockdown due to COVID-19 may lead the world economy into recession.
  
  
• CSIR-CMERI develops Disinfection Walkways and Road Sanitizer Unit to counter coronavirus
  CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CMERI) has developed technologies and products namely Disinfection Walkways and Road Sanitizer Unit. The technologies can help to counter the menacing coronavirus.
  
  Disinfection Walkways:
  The two variants of the Disinfection Walkway are Pneumatic Variant Disinfection Walkway and Hydraulic Variant Disinfection Walkway. This Walkway ensures maximum target coverage with the minimum shadow area of an individual.
  
  The Disinfection Walkways can be deployed at multiple critical locations such as Isolation/Quarantine facilities, Mass Transit System Entry points, Medical Centres and any other location with a considerable amount of footfall.
  
  Road Sanitizer Unit:
  The Road Sanitizer Unit is a tractor-mounted Road Sanitizing System. The Unit will be displayed on long stretches of highways, vicinity of toll plazas, Housing Complexes, Office Complexes, Sports Arenas, Apartment buildings and in places where there is a massive volume of traffic and higher chances of the infection spreading.
  
  
• ICMR validates Truenat beta CoV test for COVID-19 screening tests
  The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) validated the Truenat beta CoV test, a tuberculosis testing machine for COVID-19 screening tests. The ICMR had updated its testing strategy for COVID-19.
  
  Truenat beta CoV test:
  The revised strategy ICMR stated that asymptomatic direct and high-risk contacts of a confirmed case should be tested once between the fifth and fourteenth day of coming in his/her contact.
  
  ICMR has validated the Truenat beta CoV test on the Truelab workstation. It has recommended it as a screening test.
  
  Under the test, the throat/nasal swabs will be collected in the viral transport medium (VTM) with virus lysis buffer provided along with the kit.
  
  Previous studies have shown that virus lysis buffer neutralizes Nipah and H1N1 viruses. The results of the stability of viral RNA after neutralization of SARS-CoV-2 by virus lysis buffer are awaited from ICMR-NIV, Pune. Until then, Truenat beta CoV test should only be performed with all biosafety precautions in BSL-2 or BSL-3 setups at laboratories.
  
  
• MHRD launched Bharat Padhe Online campaign
  Union Minister for Human Resource Development Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ has launched the 'Bharat Padhe Online' campaign on 10 April in New Delhi.
  
  The campaign aimed for crowdsourcing of Ideas for Improving the Online Education ecosystem of India.
  
  Aim:
  A week-long campaign aims to invite all the best brains in India to share suggestions and solutions directly with the Ministry of Human Resource Development to overcome constraints of online education while promoting the available digital education platforms.
  
  Bharat Padhe Online:
  Ideas can be shared on [e-mail] and on twitter by using # BharatPadheOnline up to 16 April 2020.
  
  While using Twitter one must tag @HRDMinistry and @DrRPNishank so that the ideas can be notified to them.
  
  Students and teachers are the main target audience of the campaign.
  
  It aims to improve existing online education methods.
  
  The teachers and students can suggest their ideas and queries about what is lacking in the existing online platforms and how can it be made more engaging.
  
  Educators across the country have been asked to contribute with their expertise and experience in the field of education.
  
  
• CRPF celebrated 55th CRPF Valour Day on 9 April
  The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) celebrated the 55th CRPF Valour Day (ShauryaDiwas) on 9 April 2020. On the occasion, President of India Ram Nath Kovind paid homage to police martyrs at National Police Memorial in New Delhi.
  
  CRPF Valour Day or ShauryaDiwas:
  The 55th CRPF Valour Day commemorates the defence of the Sardar Post in the Rann of Kutch at the onset of the India-Pakistan War of 1965.
  
  On the night of 8 and 9 April 1965, nearly 3500 men from the 51st Infantry of Pakistani Army invaded India at Sardar Post with a mission to capture the Indian territory defended by Sardar Post. The Pakistani Army comprised 18 Punjab Battalion, 8 Frontier Rifles, and 6 Baluch battalions.
  
  The post was guarded by two battalions of CRPF, roughly 150 soldiers. Compared to the Pakistani Army, the CRPF soldiers were no match in terms of an arsenal. Additionally, the terrain was disadvantageous for the defending forces.
  
  A fight ensued in which the Pakistani Army made three attempts to overrun the post. The battle lasted for 12 hours. In the end, the Pakistani Army fled the battleground leaving behind 34 of their men dead and CRPF lost six of its brave soldiers. Ever since the day has been celebrated by the CRPF as the Valour Day or ShauryaDiwas.
  
  
• Delhi government launched Operation SHIELD to contain COVID-19 pandemic
  The Delhi government launched 'Operation SHIELD' in 21 containment zones in the state. The announcement was made by the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.
  
  Operation SHIELD:
  Operation SHIELD aims to curb the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  People who are living in containment areas have been directed to cooperate in implementing Operation SHIELD.
  
  S-Sealing of area
  The government sealed the area immediately and its surroundings after geographical marking following positive cases there.
  H-Home quarantine
  As a second move of the operation, people in the sealed areas will be kept under Home quarantine.
  I-Isolation of infected patients
  The Delhi government will isolate the COVID-19 infected people and keep them monitored at the isolation centre
  E-Essential services ensured
  Under the operation, the government ensures the home-delivery of essential items.
  L-Local sanitization
  In this fifth step, the government will sanitize the select areas by the local authorities
  D- Door to door survey
  In the last step, the government will check door-to-door houses to ascertain whether anybody in containment has a cough or any other symptoms of COVID-19.
  
  The Delhi government has made it compulsory for people to wear masks while stepping out of their houses.
  
  Under the operation, the people who misbehave with the healthcare personnel will be punished. The operation by the government is a strict measure to protect them and others from COVID-19.
  
  
• ICMR unveiled new strategy for COVID-19 testing in India
  Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has released a new strategy for COVID-19 testing in India, hotspots, cluster, large migration gatherings or evacuees centres.
  
  New strategy:
  The new strategy for COVID-19 testing, provided by ICMR, includes all symptomatic individuals who have undertaken international travel in the last 14 days and all symptomatic contacts of laboratory-confirmed cases.
  
  All the symptomatic health care workers and all patients with severe acute respiratory illness like fever, cough, and shortness of breath should be tested.
  
  Asymptomatic direct and high-risk contacts of a confirmed case should be tested once between 5th day and 14 days of coming in his or her contact.
  
  People who are in hotspots, marked by Health and Family Welfare Ministry, with symptomatic having fever, cough, sore throat, and runny nose will undergo real-Time Reverse transcription-polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR) test within seven days of illness.
  
  After 7 days of illness antibody test will be done if rRT-PCR confirms it negative.
  
  
• GOI sets up PM-CARES fund to deal with COVID-19 pandemic
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Prime Ministers' Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM-CARES) fund on 28 March to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Prime Minister will be the Chairman of the trust and its Members include Defence Minister, Home Minister and Finance Minister.
  
  PM-CARES Highlight:
  • The dedicated national fund aims to deal with any kind of emergency or distress situation, like the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Citizens and organizations can visit the website pmindia.gov.in and donate to PM-CARES Fund. The fund will enable micro-donations that allow a large number of people to contribute with the smallest of denominations.
  • Donations to this fund will be exempted from income tax (IT) under section 80(G).
    Details to fund PM-CARES: Account number: 2121PM20202
    IFSC code: SBIN0000691
    SWIFT code: SBININBB104
    UPI id: pmcares@sbi
  Citizens can also donate to the fund on pmindia.gov.in using UPI, Net Banking, Real-time gross settlement (RTGS), National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) and debit and credit cards.
  
  
• Indian Railways prepares train coaches for isolation units for COVID-19 patients
  The Indian Railways have prepared a prototype of train coaches that can be used as isolation units for COVID-19 patients. The move is to face challenges that might be caused due to the outbreak of Coronavirus.
  
  Highlights:
  Initially, 10 coaches will be converted into isolation units for those affected by COVID- 19. There are 17 zones in Indian Railways.
  
  The isolation coaches will be used all across the country and will remain in railway premises.
  
  The prototype has been developed by Northern Railway.
  
  It is expected that other zones will give their outputs in 3-4 days. Indian Railways is yet to finalize a particular design in this regard.
  
  For the isolation cabin, middle berth from one side and all the three berths have been removed in front of the patient berth.
  
  Air curtains in each compartment has been provided.
  
  Each compartment is provided with four bottle holders and a 220-volt electric point for medical instruments.
  
  The aisle areas of the bathrooms have been modified to prepare the isolation coaches. A hand shower, one bucket, and a mug is placed in each bathroom.
  
  With these provisions, there are 10 isolation wards in each coach.
  
  Indian Railways is to make more designs of the isolation coaches as a measure to combat COVID-19.
  
  
• NMC launched a health app to provide guidance for people under isolation due to coronavirus infection
  Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has developed a health app named "COVID-19", after the virus itself, under the guidance of Municipal Commissioner, Tukaram Mundhe.
  
  COVID-19 health app:
  The app is aimed to help the citizens who are under isolation and experiencing symptoms like dry cough, respiratory disorders, and fever.
  
  The app was launched with the support of HLL Life Care GOL.
  
  A person should download the app.
  
  He/She should fill out personal details and the symptoms they have been going through and then press the submit button.
  
  After the successful submission of the query, the doctors and medic will contact the person and guide according to the health issue.
  
  The app is made only for those who have symptoms of novel coronavirus and should not be used by those who have other symptoms than the mentioned ones.
  
  
• Odisha announced 2 dedicated COVID-19 hospitals
  The Odisha state government announced that it will set up two 500-bed hospitals to exclusively treat COVID- 19 patients.
  
  The move by the state government is to prepare for any possible deterioration in the situation.
  
  Measures taken by Odisha:
  The hospitals are being set up in partnership with the Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital. It will be made functional in a fortnight.
  
  Panchayats across the state have prepared 7,200 beds for isolation and quarantine purposes. The state's health and family welfare department also warned patients against visiting the city's Kar Clinic for outpatient and inpatient care.
  
  The dedicated COVID-19 hospitals will operate out of buildings provided by the two medical colleges. Also, the PSU Orissa Mining Corporation and Coal India subsidiary Mahanadi Coal Ltd is to fund the initiative from their Corporate social responsibility (CSR).
  
  Over 84,000 people had returned to the state recently from other states and abroad. As of 26 March, 3 COVID-19 positive cases have been reported in the state.
  
  
• India to begin antibody tests on coronavirus
  India is set to begin antibody tests for the coronavirus to confirm whether a person had previously been infected with the virus.
  
  The move is expected to help understand the epidemiology of COVID-19 in the country.
  
  Highlights:
  The antibody test is named as "serological test".
  
  The test looks for antibodies in the blood, it is different from the current, diagnostic tests that determine active infection through nasal or throat swabs.
  
  Serological tests will help the scientists and doctors to determine if a person has previously had a viral infection, based on the presence of antibodies in the blood, possibly even if they were asymptotic.
  
  It is not a confirmatory test. It will be used for the purpose of surveillance to generate data and understand whether people got exposed to the virus.
  
  
• Sikkim government announced an economic package to provide immediate relief to EWS
  Sikkim Chief Minister P S Tamang announced an economic package to provide immediate relief to economically weaker sections (EWS) of society following a meeting of the State Task Force for COVID-19 prevention in Gangtok on 27 March.
  
  Highlights:
  The package includes the provision of rice, pulses, cooking oil, salt, potatoes and onions to families without a government job and a daily wage of Rs.300 for labourers working in all pharma companies operating in Sikkim during the lockdown.
  
  The State government also announced a one-time monetary incentive of Rs.3,000 for various sections including Sikkim Police personnel engaged in screening and maintaining law and order, health department workers posted at hospitals and checkpoints, truck drivers under State Transport Department engaged in the transportation of essential commodities and Safai Karamcharis working during the lockdown period.
  
  The State Government has also decided to provide insurance to all the frontline workers and permit the State Bank of Sikkim to allow a three-month moratorium on all loans.
  
  
• DRDO prepared four different items ready to be deployed in War against Corona
  Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has prepared four different items ready to be deployed in the war against Corona as a result of a focused approach.
  
  DRDO's efforts:
  The four different items prepared by DRDO are Hand sanitizer, Ventilators, N99 masks, Body Suits.
  
  Hand sanitizers, the basic instrument against the spread of COVID-19, have been developed in-house at DRDO. DRDO has distributed hand sanitizers to Indian Armed forces, Armed Forces Medical Corps, Defence Security Corps, Ministry of Defence, Delhi Police and 40 nakas so far. Sanitizers were produced in the DRDO lab, Defence Research & Development Establishment (DRDE), Gwalior.
  
  As COVID-19 affects pulmonary functions, DRDO is on to create a ‘Multi patient-ventilator’ wherein several patients can be supported by a single ventilator. DRDO announced around 5,000 ventilators will be produced in the first month and 10,000 subsequently.
  
  N99 masks have developed five-layer N99 masks with two layers of nanomesh that are very advanced. DRDO assured to prepare 10,000 N99 masks per day.
  
  Body Suits were manufactured for medical and paramedical staff to manage and evacuate the causalities in the event of radiological emergencies.
  
  
• GoI declared Hydroxychloroquine as Schedule H1 Drug
  The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a directive that restricts the sale and distribution of hydroxychloroquine.
  
  The drug has been declared an essential drug to treat the COVID-19 patients.
  
  Highlights:
  The Central government has specified the sale of the drug in "Schedule H1 to the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945."
  
  Under this, the sale by retail of any preparation containing the drug Hydroxychloroquine should be in accordance with the conditions for the sale of drugs specified in Schedule H1.
  
  The drug must possess a warning label of "only prescription sale" and against self-medication.
  
  Also, the chemists should maintain records for the name and address of the prescriber, the name of the patient, the name of the drug and the quantity supplied.
  
  These records must be maintained for three years and be open for inspection.
  
  Previously, the National Task Force for COVID-19 constituted by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) recommended the usage of hydroxychloroquine to treat COVID-19 patients.
  
  
• Indian Army launched Operation Namaste
  Indian Army has launched an initiative christened 'Operation Namaste' to extend all possible assistance to the government in containing the spread of coronavirus.
  
  The operation was launched by Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on 27th March.
  
  Operation Namaste:
  Under the operation, the Indian Army has issued several directives to all its bases to insulate the force from the coronavirus.
  
  The army has set up a command-wise helpline as part of measures to deal with any possible eventualities arising out of the pandemic.
  
  The army has set up 28 service hospitals to deal with coronavirus cases including civilian patients.
  
  Isolation wards are being established at hospitals in formations along the border areas besides launching communication campaigns for the soldiers and officials.
  
  
• Centre approved more than Rs.5 crore to 8 states
  Government of India approved an additional Rs.5,751.27 crore as an aid to 8 states that were hit by floods, landslides, cyclone 'Bulbul' and drought in 2019.
  
  The approval was decided by a high-level committee under the Chairmanship of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The eight states which will be given the financial assistance are Bihar, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Nagaland, Odisha, Rajasthan, and West Bengal.
  
  Highlights:
  The fund will be released from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) which is subject to the adjustment of 50% of balances available in the SDRF account as on 1 April of the current financial year.
  
  The Centre has already released: Rs.953.17 crore to Bihar, Rs.1758.18 crore to Maharashtra, Rs.1119.98 crore to Rajasthan, Rs.1090.68 crore to West Bengal, Rs.11.48 crore to Karnataka
  
  
• JK exclusively dedicated 2 hospitals for treating COVID-19 patients
  In Jammu, two hospitals Psychiatry Hospital and Chest Diseases hospital have been exclusively dedicated to treating COVID-19 patients.
  
  The move is the part of the state's efforts in the fight against the COVID-19.
  
  The State government stated that any additional manpower, if required, in the two hospitals will be provided by the National Health Mission (NHM).
  
  The Union Territory J&K has already dedicated Government Hospital Gandhi Nagar entirely for treating COVID-19 patients. The hospital provides 200 isolation beds in addition to the 90 beds in place.
  
  
• GoI approves insurance scheme for health workers
  The Central Government approved the launch of insurance scheme for health workers, who are fighting the COVID-19 outbreak, under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan package.
  
  InsuranceScheme:
  Under the scheme, GoI is to provide insurance, to a person who meets with an accident, that covers Rs.50 lakhs for 90 days to a total of around 22.12 lakh public healthcare providers including community health workers who are under the contact and care of COVID-19 patients.
  
  The announcement came after the announcement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's who ordered a 21-day lockdown in the entire country to deal with the spread of the coronavirus.
  
  
• Nagaland CM launches Self Declaration COVID-19 App
  Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio launched the Self Declaration COVID-19 Nagaland App at Kohima on 28th March.
  
  The app is aimed to trace the person who entered the state, as a measure to tackle the spread of Coronavirus.
  
  Self Declaration COVID-19 Nagaland App:
  The app will be mandatory for any person who entered Nagaland after 6th March. The app is available for Android and iOS users.
  
  The app is crucial for tracking and surveillance of high-risk cases.
  
  People can download the app from the website nagalandhealthproject.org.
  
  Users will be directed to click the menu button and select the nCOVID-19 App.
  
  Upon successful registration, a person will be instructed to fill up all the details under the visitor checklist and submit. Also, the fields with an asterisk sign (*) are mandatory.
  
  
• IIT Madras collaborated with two Industry Partners for research projects
  Indian Institutes of Technology-Madras (IIT-Madras) has partnered with two industry partners namely MagGenome Technologies and BUDDI Health.
  
  The partnership aims for research in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and magnetic nanoparticles-based products.
  
  Provisions of Partnership:
  MagGenome Technologies:
  MagGenome Technologies is a Chennai-based nano-biotechnology start-up. It focuses on developing magnetic nanoparticles-based technologies for application in life science, chemical, pharmaceutical, and engineering industries.
  
  Under the collaboration, IIT-Madar and MagGenome Technologies will develop magnetic nanoparticles-based products including developing advanced nucleic acid extraction kits.
  
  It will also focus on many other applications of magnetic nanoparticles for providing solutions in the areas of diagnostics, therapeutics, and environmental remediation.
  
  BUDDI Healthcare Technologies:
  BUDDI Health is a US-based cloud-based patent-pending deep learning platform for Healthcare.
  
  With BUDDI Healthcare Technologies, IIT-Madras will develop AI-based software products for the Healthcare industry.
  
  
• Jharkhand launched PRAGYAAM to provide essential services
  State government has launched PRAGYAAM, a Mobile application, on 30 March. The app was launched by the State Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
  
  The app aims to issue e-passes to everyone associated with the delivery of essential services during the nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19.
  
  Other measures:
  Jharkhand govt has announced to provide 2 months ration in advance to the beneficiaries of the public distribution system (PDS). It is expected that around 90% of the families in the state will benefit from the decision.
  
  The state also launched an app 'VeggiGo' for people to place an order for essential commodities.
  
  
• Rajasthan celebrated Statehood day on 30 March
  Rajasthan state celebrated the statehood day on 30th March 2020. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the people of Rajasthan on its State Day.
  
  The people of Rajasthan are known for their courage, bravery, and valour.
  
  Rajasthan:
  Rajasthan (meaning Land of Kings) was formed on 30 March 1949. The State was formed when Rajputana was merged into the Dominion of India.
  
  The state holds main features including Indus Valley Civilisation at Kalibanga and Balathal, the Dilwara Temples, a Jain pilgrimage site, the Keoladeo National Park among others.
  
  
• TRIFED launched Trifed VanDhan GIS-based website
  A group of 500 officials from the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) has unveiled Trifed VanDhan GIS-based website, the power of Webinars to keep in touch with each other and keep moving and working.
  
  The move aims to support people working from home amid the lockdown due to the Coronavirus outbreak. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, people across 27 states are working from home. Working on their computers from home, they have raised the bar very high, achieving unbelievable results.
  
  TRIFED VanDhan GIS-based website:
  The TRIFED VanDhan GIS-based website remains the future medium of communication for 50 lakh tribal gatherers.
  
  The website was launched online for testing with 27 State teams. TRIFED is arranging atleast 2 team meetings every day and the Team is reaching out to partners to keep moving forward.
  
  TRIFED set up 1205 VANDhan Centers across 22 states of the country, employing 3 lakh 70 thousand Tribals in ventures to promote entrepreneurship.
  
  
• PMO sets up high-level panels to deal with situation post lockdown
  The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) constituted 10 different high-level committees on 29th March.
  
  The committee will suggest measures to ramp up healthcare, put the economy back on track, reduce the problems faced by the people post 21-day lockdown imposed to contain the coronavirus pandemic.
  
  Highlights:
  These committees are looking after various aspects that will work under the overall guidance of PK Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister.
  
  The pro-active initiative is taken by the government to deal with multiple challenges, which coronavirus has posed and made the country to deal with an emergency situation.
  
  These committees will also work on a strategy to restore normalcy in their respective sectors in the shortest possible time frame.
  
  The panel on the 'Economy and Welfare' is headed by Economic Affairs Secretary Atanu Chakraborty. The team has been tasked to address the concerns of various sectors, including both formal and informal segments of the economy.
  
  Two other working groups are constituted under the leadership of NITI Aayog member V K Paul and Environment Secretary C K Mishra. The committee will work on preparedness for a medical emergency, seamless supply of medicine, medical equipment, and hospital availability.
  
  The committee will also focus on research and development in the medical field.
  
  The committee has been directed to submit the result in a weeks time.
  
  
• GoI launched CoNTeC, National Teleconsultation Centre
  Government launched "COVID-19 National Teleconsultation Centre (CoNTeC)." It was launched by the Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Dr. Harsh Vardhan.
  
  The Project CoNTec was conceptualized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and implemented by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi.
  
  Project CoNTec:
  Project CoNTec was initiated with a view to connect the Doctors across the country to AIIMS in real-time for the treatment of the COVID-19 patients. Under the project, the Doctors would be available in the facility 24X7 and to keep it operational 24 hrs.
  
  The boarding and lodging facility for the doctors will be made available. With this facility, the small states should also make use of the vast experience of the Doctors at AIIMS. The facility will connect the doctors in the country together to discuss amongst themselves the protocols undertaken and provide the best treatment accordingly.
  
  Doctors can dial to a single mobile number, [phone], from anywhere in the country/world to reach the CoNTeC which has six lines that can be used simultaneously at present. The CoNTeC Managers will connect to the expert doctors from the clinical domains as desired by the calling specialists managing the COVID-19 cases anywhere in the country. They can also connect two-way video calls using the WhatsApp, Skype or Google Duo as preferred by the caller.
  
  
• Centre launched Stranded in India to help foreign tourists
  The Ministry of Tourism has launched a portal 'Stranded in India'. The portal aims to help foreign tourists who are stuck in various parts of the country.
  
  Stranded in India:
  The aim of the portal is to extend support to the foreign tourists who are stranded in India.
  
  The Ministry of Tourism launched the portal to disseminate information regarding the services that can be availed by foreign tourists who are stuck far away from their homeland. People can visit the strandedinindia.com.
  
  The portal consists of information around COVID-19 helpline numbers and call centres that foreign tourists can reach out for help from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) control centers.
  
  
• NGMA launched Virtual Tour of its permanent collection
  National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) celebrated the 66th Foundation Day on 29 March 2020.
  
  On the occasion, NGMA launched "Virtual Tour of its permanent collection" for the visitors.
  
  Virtual Tour by NGMA:
  People are not allowed to visit NGMA due to the lockdown for 21 days in India as a measure to curb COVID-19 spread.
  
  The Virtual launch was launched so that the visitors can enjoy without having to physically visit the Museum. It had plenty to explore and ponder over.
  
  The permanent collection reflected its repository as an institution of dynamic and progressive collective acumen.
  
  The sculptures, paintings, and prints in the visual tour are a step further to showcase the hidden treasures of the reserve collection.
  
  The visual tour was a tribute to the modern masters. It was expected that it will generate greater interest among people towards the legacy of sculptures, paintings, and prints as a creative medium.
  
  The website for the virtual tour is "http://www.ngmaindia.gov.in/index.asp".
  
  
• NBT launched Corona Studies Series books
  National Book Trust (NBT) is to launch Corona Studies Series books to provide relevant reading materials for all age-groups for the post-Corona readership needs. The information was passed by the Ministry of Human Resource Development.
  
  Corona Studies Series books:
  NBT's initiative aims to launch the series in order for the people to realize the extraordinary psychological, social, economic and cultural significance of Corona Pandemic for human society in times to come.
  
  NBT has comprised a 'Study Group' in this regard. The group comprises of Dr.JitenderNagpal, Dr.Harsheeta, Sq. Ldr (Rtd.) MeenaArora, Lt. Col. TarunUppal, Mrs. RekhaChauhan, Mrs. SonieSidhu, and Ms. Aparajita Dixit.
  
  The 'Corona Studies Series' is expected to be the long-term contribution to prepare and engage readers with the various aspects of the Corona times. NBT plans to bring out affordable books in various Indian languages in the identified subject areas.
  
  It also provides a platform for the authors and researchers to contribute to this genre. It aims to bring out the affordable books in various Indian languages in the identified subject areas.
  
  
• Centre increased wages under rural employment guarantee scheme
  Ministry of Rural Development has revised wages under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural employment guarantee scheme on 31 March.
  
  It will be effective from 1 April. The average hike of Rs.20 in the wages of rural workers is part of the Rs 1.7 lakh crore fiscal package announced recently to mitigate the economic crisis arising out of the outbreak of COVID-19.
  
  The focus of Mahatma Gandhi NREGS is on individual beneficiary-oriented works which directly benefit SC, ST, women-headed households, small & marginal farmers and other poor households.
  
  It directed close consultation and guidance of the state and district to ensure that lockdown conditions are not violated and norms of social distancing are scrupulously followed.
  
  
• Government extends crop loan repayments due to COVID-19 lockdown
  GoI has extended the benefit of 2% Interest Subvention (IS) to Banks and 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI) to all farmers up to 31 May 2020.
  
  The extension is applicable to the crop loans up to Rs.3 lakh given by banks which have become due or are becoming due between 1 March and 31 May 2020.
  
  The move comes in the wake of lockdown due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  GoI's measures to farmers:
  Many farmers are not able to travel to bank branches for payment of their short term crop loan dues, due to restrictions imposed on the movement of people to curb the spread of COVID-19. It caused difficulties to the farmers in repayment of their short term crop loans falling due during this period.
  
  The extension announced by the government is expected to address the problem being faced by farmers. It is also believed that the move by GoI will help the farmers to repay such loans up to the extended period at 4% p.a. interest without attracting any penalty.
  
  In another measure, the Government is providing concessional crop loans to farmers through banks with 2% p.a. interest subvention to banks and 3% additional benefit on timely repayment to farmers. It has approved to provide loans up to Rs.3 lakh at 4% p.a. interest in timely repayment.
  
  
• GoI extends validity of expired Driving Licences and Vehicle Registration till 30 June
  The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced an extension on the validity of documents like driving licenses, permits and registration that are expired since 1 February.
  
  The Ministry has directed all states and Union Territories (UT) to treat the documents as valid till 30 June.
  
  Highlights:
  The move by the Government aims to help the people who face difficulties in renewing the validity of various motor vehicle documents due to nationwide lockdown and closure of government transport offices due to the coronavirus outbreak.
  
  As per the Ministry's guidelines, the documents include fitness, permits of all types, driving licence, registration or any other concerned document under the Motor Vehicle Rules.
  
  The Ministry has directed all states/UTs to implement so that the people and transporters and organizations that render essential services do not get harassed and face difficulties amid the lockdown aimed to curb the spread of COVID-19.
  
  
• ICAR directs farmers to handle safety measures during Rabi harvesting
  The government's agri-research body Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) directed the farmers to follow social distancing and safety precaution while handling farm machines and labour in the field during the Rabi harvesting.
  
  Guidelines for Farmers:
  The farmers should consult with agri-scientists in KrishiVigyanKendras (KVKs), ICAR research institutes and state agricultural universities to tackle any emerging issue related to managing crops, livestock and fisheries.
  
  As the harvesting season of rabi food crops such as wheat, millets, pulses and oilseeds and other crops in coinciding with the COVID-19 outbreak, the farmers should take precautions while being engaged in the harvesting of grains, fruits and vegetables, milk, eggs, and fish.
  
  Farmers should check for proper sanitation for using shared or hired machinery for harvesting. Proper sanitization includes washing of hands with alcohol rub or soap and maintaining isolation distance at a personal level and proper cleaning of shared machinery.
  
  The government recently exempted farming operations, farmworkers, custom hiring centres of farm harvesters from the lockdown rules.
  
  
• Indian Army prepares amid the lockdown
  The Indian Army has prioritized essential activities that are necessary for its functioning in view of the coronavirus outbreak.
  
  Centre's nationwide lockdown has led to the formations and military stations reducing contact with civilians. Some of the units have isolated themselves from the outside environment and other units.
  
  Army's lockdown:
  As per the social distancing norms, troops have isolation themselves within a unit. It ensured regular sanitation and dividing troops into groups that maintain distance from each other.
  
  Some of the preventive measures include not allowing civilians to enter the unit lines, maintenance of distance between individuals and groups, avoiding interactions, keeping markets out of bounds, sanitizing persons and vehicles, reporting sick if there are symptoms and establishing different barracks for troops.
  
  The Army has extended leaves for those who are already on leave. Troops returning from temporary duty will undergo sanitization and checking symptoms before being taken away for isolation.
  
  To avoid contagion within a unit, the troops have been divided into small teams that maintain a distance of 500m. Different barracks were allotted for different teams.
  
  
• Assam State Disaster Management Authority launched COVID-19 Control Room in Guwahati
  The Assam State Disaster Management Authority launched an Upgraded State COVID-19 Control Room in Guwahati, Assam on 31 March.
  
  The aim is to render uninterrupted service to the people during the lockdown due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
  
  Highlights:
  Personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and Assam Police have been deployed for any response needed. The Control room will work round the clock and help people who need help. District Emergency Operation Centres have been upgraded in 33 districts of the state.
  
  On the other hand, the short awareness Music video in Assamese on Do's and Dont's on COVID 19 have been prepared by the Disaster Management Authority. Deputy Commissioners have been directed to distribute relief materials for the affected population in Municipal towns of the state.
  
  
• Haryana designated 3 private labs in Gurugram for COVID-19 testing
  Haryana State Government has designated three private laboratories in Gurugram district of the state for COVID-19 testing in the State.
  
  The three labs are SRL Limited in Sector-18, Strand Life Sciences in Sector-34, and Core Diagnostics Pvt. Ltd. in UdyogVihar of Phase-3.
  
  The private labs shall carry out COVID-19 testing as per guidelines of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
  
  The state has directed these private labs to reserve up to 50% of their testing capacity for samples to be referred from Government Health facilities, as per requirement, through Civil Surgeons of the State.
  
  Apart from this, these labs have been directed to charge Rs.4500 for the sample test, as prescribed by ICMR for the sample tests. It includes Rs.1500 for the screening test and Rs.3000 for confirmatory test charges.
  
  
• Himachal Pradesh launched mobile app to monitor quarantined people
  Himachal Pradesh State government has unveiled 'Corona Mukt Himachal', a mobile application on 31 March as a measure to protect the State's people. The app will track and monitor the people who are quarantined for COVID-19.
  
  Corona Mukt Himachal:
  Corona Mukt Himachal app was developed by the Department of Information Technology. Using the app, the health workers of the Health Department will monitor the people, especially on home quarantine.
  
  It is an OTP based application which would be given by the health worker. Violation of quarantine will be monitored through this tracking application.
  
  Background:
  So far, Himachal Pradesh has kept 1,779 people under home quarantine. A total of 211 samples have been taken, out of which 208 were negative. Three persons were reported positive out of whom one was cured, one Tibetan Refugee died and the other is being treated.
  
  
• India expands its capacity for PPE kits, 12 domestic firms meet the norms
  The central government has approved the qualification of 12 Indian companies to meet the demands of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits and the challenge posed by COVID-19.
  
  The 12 companies have set parameters to manufacture personal protective gear for use by healthcare workers.
  
  Approval:
  PPE consists of a special gown, mask, eye shield, shoe cover, and gloves that doctors wear while treating the patients.
  
  The 12 approved Indian manufacturers cleared the South India Textile Research Association (SITRA) test to supply PPE to the government.
  
  The companies are Sai Synergy-Gurgaon, Sure Safety-Vadodara, Amaryllis-Bangalore, SCG Enterprises-Ghaziabad, Shree Healthcare-Chennai, Anirut, Industries, Frontiers Protective wear, Arvind, Manchanda, Shiva Texyan Ltd, JCT Pagwara.
  
  As per the data provided by the Health Ministry, 3.34 lakh PPEs are available in various hospitals across the country. So far, GoI has already procured and supplied 60,000 PPE kits.
  
  Also, two other companies namely Venue Healthcare and Magnum, were approved to manufacture N-95 masks. The companies are currently providing a supply of 50,000 masks per day. The companies are planning to manufacture lakh masks per day within the next week. Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) is currently providing over 20,000 masks per day.
  
  
• GoI passed Ordinance to make PM CARES donations tax free
  The government of India passed "Taxation and Other Laws (Relaxation of Certain Provisions) Ordinance, 2020" on 31 March.
  
  The Ordinance will give relief in compliance in filing income tax, Goods and Services Tax (GST), customs and central excise returns, to help taxpayers tide over the coronavirus crisis.
  
  Ordinance Highlights:
  The ordinance provides relaxation in several compliances including the extension in deadline to 30 June to make investments in instruments such as National Savings Certificates, Public Provident Fund for claiming income tax benefits.
  
  The Ordinance seeks amendment to the Income-tax (IT) Act, Benami Act.
  
  It aims to amend the IT Act to enable a 100% deduction for donations made to the PM's Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM CARES) Fund. It was set up to enable citizens to contribute to the government's effort to curb the spread of the Coronavirus outbreak.
  
  It will also provide an extension of various time limits for making various investments or payments including for claiming deduction under 80C, 80D, and 80G to 30 June 2020.
  
  Contribution towards PM CARES Fund was eligible for a 50% deduction as it was notified under section 80G(5). Also, contributions to PM National Relief Fund and to CM's Relief Fund/Lieutenant Governor's Relief Fund in respect of any State/Union Territory (UT), were eligible for 100% deduction under Section 80G(1) read with clause (iii a) of section 80G(2).
  
  
• Maharashtra announced pay cut of government employees for March
  Maharashtra State government announced a 60% pay cut for all government employees with an aim to financially assist the state in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
  
  The decision was made by the Deputy Chief Minister and State Finance Minister Ajit Pawar after consultation with Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and various unions of employees.
  
  Pay cut:
  The 60% pay cut will be in the March salaries of the Chief Minister, all other ministers, MLAs, MLCs, and representatives of local governing bodies.
  
  The salaries of Class I and II will be cut by 50% and of Class III employees will be cut by 25%.
  
  The state announced no pay cut of remaining classes in the state bureaucracy.
  
  The move is to provide strong financial support for the state to combat coronavirus.
  
  
• NPPA sets up Price Monitoring and Resource Unit in JK
  Jammu & Kashmir Union Territory (UT) has become 12th State to get the Price Monitoring & Resource Unit (PMRU) on 1 April 2020.
  
  It was set up by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA).
  
  Price Monitoring & Resource Unit (PMRU):
  The PMRU is a registered society. It shall function under the direct control and supervision of the State Drug Controller of Jammu & Kashmir.
  
  The unit will be funded and supported by NPPA for its recurring and non-recurring expenses.
  
  The PMRU shall help NPPA and State Drug Controller to ensure the availability and accessibility of medicines at affordable prices.
  
  The unit will organize seminars, training programs, and other information, education and communication (IEC) activities in the areas of availability and affordability of medicines for all.
  
  PMRU will collect samples of medicines, analyze data and make reports with respect to availability and over-pricing of medicines for taking action under the provisions of Drug Price Control Order (DPCO).
  
  PMRU will add significance and J&K will assist NPPA and Governments in checking overpricing and identifying causes and addressing local issues of shortages or hoarding in the combat against COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  PMRUs have been set up by NPPA in 11 States, including, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Mizoram, Odisha, Punjab, Haryana, Nagaland, Rajasthan, Tripura, and Uttar Pradesh.
  
  
• Centre launched DARPGs National Monitoring Dashboard
  Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, launched the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances' (DARPG) National Monitoring Dashboard on COVID-19 Grievances on 1 April.
  
  National Monitoring Dashboard:
  The National Monitoring Dashboard was developed and implemented at https://darpg.gov.in.
  
  COVID-19 related grievances received in Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) with all Ministries/Departments and States/Union Territories (UT) are monitored on a priority basis by a technical team of DARPG.
  
  The establishment of National Monitoring Dashboard pursuance of the Empowered Group of Officers 10 constituted under the Disaster Management Act 2005 on Public Grievances and Suggestions to ensure timely implementation of COVID-19 Response Activities.
  
  It will ensure timely redressal of COVID-19 grievances and directions that have been issued to all Ministries/ Departments to prioritize these grievances and provide redressal in a period of 3 days.
  
  The portal will be updated and monitored at senior levels in Government on a daily basis.
  
  The National Monitoring Dashboard received 43 grievances of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 31 grievances of Ministry of External Affairs and 26 grievances of Ministry of Finance, so far. The nature of grievances related to quarantine facilities, lockdown not being adhered to complaints, essential supplies related complaints, examination related complaints, rescheduling of interest repayments on loans, evacuation requests from foreign countries, etc.
  
  
• Utkal Diwas is observed on 1 April
  Utkal Diwas means Odisha day is observed on 1 April in Odisha every year. The day marks the formation of the state in the year 1936.
  
  The day remembers the contributions and sacrifices made by the people of Odisha. Utkal Diwas is celebrated in many cities, towns in India and abroad where people from Odisha reside.
  
  History:
  The state was formed as a politically separate state under British rule on a linguistic basis on1 April 1936. The newly formed Orissa State consisted of six districts namely Puri, Baleswar, Sambalpur, Koraput, Ganjam, and Cuttack. The capital of Odisha was Cuttack. The first Governor of Odisha Province was John Austin Hubback.
  
  In 1950, the State became a constituent state of India. In 2011, the name of the state was changed to Odisha from Orrisa and the name of its language was changed to Odia from Oria. Later, with an increased population, the state was divided into 30 districts.
  
  
• Lifeline Udan flights supplied medical supplies to treat COVID-19 across India
  Lifeline Udan flights have transported over 15.4 tonnes of essential medical supplies across India amid coronavirus lockdown.
  
  The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) stated that 62 Lifeline Udan flights were operated in this regard.
  
  Lifeline Udan:
  Lifeline Udan was launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA). It was launched to transport essential medical supplies across the country.
  
  A total of 62 Lifeline Udan flights were operated during the five-day period from 26-30 March.
  
  The Lifeline Udan cargo includes essential medical supplies for COVID-19 related reagents, medical equipment, enzymes, testing kits, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), masks, gloves and other accessories that are required to treat the COVID-19 patients across the country.
  
  The carriers involved in Lifeline Udan operations include the Indian Air Force (IAF), Pawan Hans, Air India, and Alliance Air.
  
  Also, few private carriers like Spicejet, Blue Dart, and IndiGo are operating medical cargo flights on a commercial basis.
  
  The Lifeline Udan flights are planned using a hub and spoke model. Cargo hubs were established in Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Kolkata. Lifeline Udan flights connect these hubs to each other and different parts of the country.
  
  
• IIT-Kanpur to develop portable ventilator to support medical infrastructure
  Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Kanpur is currently working on a portable ventilator to support the medical infrastructure amid the COVID-19 outbreak.
  
  The prototype of the ventilator is to be launched. Once implemented, it can be used as a life support system.
  
  Portable ventilator:
  The portable ventilator is needed amidst the rising cases of COVID-19 in the country.
  
  A ventilator is a very important medical equipment for COVID-19 Patients, especially those who are old and the virus can prove fatal to them. IIT-Kanpur has prepared a design of live saver portable ventilator.
  
  The move by IIT-Kanpur will strengthen the health system of the country amid the Coronavirus crisis. So far, an expert team has designed the portable ventilator and it will soon be assembled.
  
  
• AP provides doorstep pension payment to 58 lakh beneficiaries
  The Andhra Pradesh state government has started distributing pensions at the doorstep to 58,44,240 beneficiaries with an objective to offer them held and to avoid the spread of coronavirus.
  
  The state used 2.5 lakh volunteers to eliminate the need for pensioners to step out of their homes.
  
  Highlights:
  Under the move of the govt. a wide range of people will benefit from the disbursement of the pension that began on 1 April.
  
  Also, old-age persons, widows, single women, weavers, fishermen, folk artists, and traditional cobblers will receive an amount of Rs.2,250 each.
  
  To support the people in the state during the COVID-19 outbreak, people with disabilities, transgenders and Dappu artists will receive an amount of Rs.3,000.
  
  Also, people who suffer chronic disease and are undergoing kidney dialysis at government and network hospitals will receive an amount of Rs.10,000.
  
  The fund will be first distributed to the pensioners and then the government will give financial relief to the poor and needy delivered at the doorstep on the 4 April using the same network of volunteers.
  
  
• Andhra Pradesh to give away house sites on 14 April under Navaratnalu-PedalandarikiIllu program
  Andhra Pradesh State government issued modified guidelines for the distribution of 25 lakh house sites to the poor in urban and rural areas under Navaratnalu-PedalandarikiIllu (Houses for all the poor) program. The modification is done as per the directions of the High Court. The State is to give away the sites on 14 April.
  
  The state government aims to tie up with HUDCO and other organizations for securing loans apart from getting necessary approvals under PradhanMantriAwasYojana (PMAY).
  
  Navaratnalu-PedalandarikiIllu Program:
  Under the Navaratnalu-PedalandarikiIllu program, sites for the houses will be allotted at a concessional rate of Rs.1 to the beneficiaries with white ration cards.
  
  A sum of Rs.20 will be collected from them. Out of Rs.20, Rs.10 is collected towards the cost of stamp paper, and Rs.10 for lamination charges.
  
  As per the programme, the beneficiaries should use the sites for no purpose other than constructing houses.
  
  Also, the title deeds will be in the form of conveyance deeds containing security features like thumb impressions, photographs of the parties, signatures along with their required details, watermarks, and emblems, etc. on the stamp papers.
  
  
• Centre mobilizes Ex-Servicemen to fight COVID-19 pandemic
  Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (ESW), Ministry of Defence (MoD) has taken the initiative to mobilize services of the Ex-Servicemen (ESM) community as a part of the augmentation of human resource to assist the State and District administration to combat the coronavirus outbreak.
  
  Highlights:
  RajyaSainik Boards, ZilaSainik Boards are playing a huge role to identify and mobilize the maximum ESM volunteers to assist the State and District Administration.
  
  The volunteers will perform public outreach activities such as contact tracing, community surveillance, management of quarantine facilities or any such tasks assigned to them.
  
  Ex-Servicemen are highly disciplined, motivated and well trained to operate in adverse situations and they have a pan-India presence in all the districts and villages across the country.
  
  Services of ESM Community:
  An organization called ‘Guardians of Governance’, comprising 4,200 ESM, is assisting in data collection from all the villages in Punjab. In the Chhattisgarh government, ESM has been employed some ESM to assist the police.
  
  In Andhra Pradesh, all the District Collectors have asked for ESM volunteers. In Uttar Pradesh, all ZilaSainikKalyanAdhikaris are in touch with District Control Rooms and retired Army Medical Corps personnel have been identified and kept ready. Also, Sainik Rest Houses are being prepared in Uttarakhand to act as isolation/quarantine Centres if the need arises. In Goa, a control room has been established and ESM has been asked to remain on standby for any assistance to the local administration.
  
  
• Naval Dockyard develops low-cost device to screen people
  Naval Dockyard (ND), Mumbai has designed and developed its own handheld Infrared radiation (IR)-based temperature sensor to screen people at gates.
  
  The sense will screen a large number of Naval personnel at the entry gates of the yard reducing the load on the security sentries at the gate.
  
  IR-based temperature sensor:
  The instrument was manufactured under Rs.1000 through in-house resources.
  
  The accuracy of the instrument is 0.02 deg Celsius.
  
  The non-contact thermometer has an IR and an LED display integrated with a microcontroller that runs on a 9V battery.
  
  The instrument will screen a large number of Naval personnel at the entry gates of the yard thereby reducing the load on the security sentries at the gate.
  
  The low-cost instrument has the capability to scale up production of these if required towards which sourcing of the components is in progress.
  
  Reason:
  Over 20,000 personnel enter the premises of the Naval Dockyard of Western Naval Command (WNC) every day. Inorder to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the yard and the Western Fleet, initial screening of the Navy personnel who enter the dockyard was very important.
  
  The primary method to screen a probable COVID-19 infected person/patient is to check the body temperature by a non-contact thermometer.
  
  In the view of the COVID-19 outbreak, the non-contact thermometers and temperature guns have become scarce and are being sold at a very high cost in the country.
  
  In order to overcome the scarcity and requirement of large numbers, ND has designed and developed its own handheld IR based temperature sensor.
  
  
• Freightwalla launched app to offer all remote services
  Freightwalla, a Digital freight forwarding startup, has launched a mobile application to offer all the services. The app is a part of a larger "work from anywhere, anytime" initiative.
  
  The startups aim to make logistics and supply chain accessible 24x7, from anywhere, on any device.
  
  The apps are to make it possible for logistics managers and business owners to plan, manage and track their shipments right on their mobile screens.
  
  Freightwalla's Mobile app:
  Freightwalla's new mobile app is an extension of the Freightwalla digital web platform.
  
  The app uses the same technology as the website of the logistics, which is backed by a secure SSI encryption.
  
  The app offers USPs namely Instant quotations, Online chat support, Intelligent Cargo Tracking, Real-time status reports and Documentation Management.
  
  The app complies with the highest level of security for several user data and information that is exchanged on the app.
  
  
• Indigram awarded the winners of the Adhunik Gram program
  A leading agri-tech focused incubator Indigram Labs Foundation has announced the winners of its smart village program 'Adhunik Gram',
  
  Winners:
  The winner of the program was Indus Till FarmeTech Pvt. Ltd. The firm was awarded a cash prize of Rs.1 Lakh.
  
  The first runner up was Urdhvam Environmental Technologies Pvt. Ltd. It was awarded a cash prize of Rs.50,000 and the second runner up was Impagro farming solutions Pvt. Ltd. which won a cash prize of Rs.30,000.
  
  It received over 120 applications of which 14 start-ups were shortlisted and 11 start-ups presented on demo day.
  
  Adhunik Gram:
  Adhunik Gram is an initiative to empower agribusiness in rural India. The program was launched in September 2019. The program was launched with support from NABARD.
  
  The program aimed not only to help the people in the rural area to earn a very basic livelihood but for the upliftment of the rural economy as a whole. The program aims to adopt a balanced approach to maintain a balance between rural and urban quality of life.
  
  It is also expected that policies, tools, and instruments should deliver valuable building blocks for 'Smart Villages'. The mission of the program is "A Better Life in Rural Areas".
  
  So far, the program has achieved significant outcomes for the selected start-ups to address agricultural and rural development issues in rural India in collaboration with farmers, Cooperatives, Government and private Institutions.
  
  
• Centre to treat Medical devices as Drugs from 1 April
  The Central government announced that all medical devices that are sold in India will be treated as drugs under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
  
  The move came into effect from 1 April 2020. The instructions were issued by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers.
  
  Medical devices as drugs:
  As per the instructions of GoI, all medical devices will be regulated by the government as drugs for quality control and price monitoring.
  
  At present, GoI is regulating 24 classes of medical devices under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. These 24 classes of devices will be regulated as drugs under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act (DCA) 1940 and Drugs and Cosmetics Rules 1945.
  
  All medical devices that are used to treat a patient including syringes, needles, a knee implant, digital thermometers, cardiac stents, CT scan, MRIs, dialysis machines will be treated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
  
  Ceiling prices for four medical devices have been fixed and the devices are under price control. The 4 medical devices are Intrauterine devices (Cu-T), condoms, cardiac stents, and drug-eluting stents.
  
  
• MHA issued 2020 JK Reorganisation Adaptation of State Laws Order
  Centre issued Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Adaptation of State Laws) Order, 2020. The order was issued by the Union Ministry for Home Affairs (MHA) on 1 April. The order came with immediate effect.
  
  Out of the total 138 state laws of J&K, 25 laws have been repealed as a whole and other laws have been adopted with substitutes.
  
  J&K Reorganisation (Adaptation of State Laws) Order, 2020:
  The order aims for the adaptation and modification of State Laws specific to the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir. It will also further facilitate the application of Central Laws to the newly formed Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
  
  The 25 laws that were repealed include J&K State Aid to Industries Act, J&K Civic Laws Act, J&K Civil Services Act, J&K Deputy Ministers Salaries and Allowances Act, J&K State Emergency Relief Fund Act, among others.
  
  MHA added a domicile clause in the J&K Civil Services (Decentralisation and Recruitment Act). Jobs will be reserved under domicile for only those who fulfill the requirements of "Domicile".
  
  
• Telangana announced 75 percent pay cut to government employees to fund COVID-19 crisis
  The Telangana State government announced a huge pay cut for its employees ranging from 10% to 75% on 30 March. The decision was made at a high-level review meeting conducted in the wake of the state's financial situation amid the coronavirus outbreak.
  
  Highlights:
  The State government has announced 75% cut in the salaries of the Chief Minister, state cabinet, MLCs, MLAs, state corporation chairpersons, and local bodies representatives.
  
  There will be a 60% pay cut of IAS, IPS IFS and other such central services officers.
  
  There will be a 50% salary cut for all other categories of employees.
  
  There will be a 10% pay cut for the Class IV outsourcing and contract employees and for all categories of pensioners, there will be a 50% cut.
  
  
• SCTIMST, WIPRO partners to make automated ventilators to meet COVID-19 related crisis
  Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST) has partnered with Wipro 3D, Bengaluru.
  
  The partnership aims to jointly build upon a prototype of an emergency ventilator system based on the Artificial Manual Breathing Unit (AMBU) which was developed by SCTIMST followed by its clinical trial and manufacture.
  
  Highlights:
  The ventilators are expected to meet the urgent requirements caused due to the COVID-19 outbreak. It was developed in a week.
  
  AMBU bag or a bag-valve-mask (BVM) is a hand-held device used to provide positive pressure ventilation to a patient who is either not breathing or who is breathing inadequately. The use of a regular AMBU needs a bystander for its operations who is highly susceptible and non-advisable to be in close contact with the COVID-19 patient.
  
  SCTIMST's Automated AMBU Ventilator with inputs from clinical faculty will assist the breathing of the critical patients who have no access to ICU ventilators.
  
  To enabling rapid production, the device is designed with readily available components so that it becomes an alternative solution. AMBU will provide ventilation support to the needy and is an ideal solution for ventilation shortages.
  
  The device will enable positive pressure ventilation with a controlled rate of expiration, Inspiratory to Expiratory Ratio, Tidal Volume, and so on. Also, to maintain pressure on the lower airways at the end of the breathing cycle, a Positive End Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) Valve can be added as an extra component which prevents the alveoli from collapsing during expiration.
  
  The automatic AMBU will minimize the need for support personnel in the isolation room and enable a safer and effective lung-protective operation to COVID patients.
  
  
• Action COVID-19 Team launched in India to combat COVID-19 crisis
  Founders of leading startups, investors, advisors, supporters, investment advisory firms have launched Action COVID-19 Team (ACT).
  
  ACT aims to provide guidance and resources to startup founders and employees in the country. It also aims to empower teams through financial grants and mentoring.
  
  Action COVID-19 Team:
  ACT Grants will grant a Rs.100 crore program. It aims to seed over 50 initiatives through grants to combat the economic crisis caused in India due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
  
  The platform will bring its networks, startup assets, and team money to create a force multiplier to help these initiatives make rapid meaningful progress.
  
  In order to combine the resources of the startup community, a 25-member team has been formed. The team will enable rapid evaluation and recommendations on potential projects.
  
  The group will be supported by NGOs and leading industry veterans. It will also collaborate with government agencies to scale up solutions that show promising results.
  
  
• DST-SERB announces first set of approved projects to combat COVID-19 crisis
  The Department of Science and Technology-Science and Engineering Board (DST-SERB) has announced several special research projects to ramp up national R&D efforts against the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
  Highlights:
  DST-SERB has selected the first set of 5 projects. It will be supported for further development into implementable technologies.
  
  Three of the selected projects aim to address the issue of antiviral and virustatic surface coating of inanimate surfaces, such as personal protection equipment (PPE).
  
  The 4th project deals with the identification of metabolite biomarkers in CoVID-19 infected patients enabling therapeutic target identification.
  
  The 5th project is concerned with the development of antibodies against the receptor-binding domain of the spike glycoprotein of coronavirus.
  
  The 5 projects of DST-SERB are:
  1) Identification of global metabolite biomarkers in CoVID-19 infected patients for targeted therapy.
  2) Development of functionalized inanimate surfaces with repurposable multi-targeted viricidal agents/drugs for preventive and cost-effective antiviral applications.
  3) Development of antiviral surface coatings to prevent the spread of infections caused by the influenza virus.
  4) Development of formulations for viral decontamination of inanimate surfaces
  5) Antibody-based capture of 2019-nCoV and its inactivation using lipid-based in situ gel.
  
  
• MCA extends tenure of Prakash Kumar as acting President of NCLT for 3 years
  The Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has extended the tenure of Shri BSV Prakash Kumar as acting President of National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) for a period of 3 years.
  
  MCA informed NCLT about the extension of the tenure to another three months or till the joining of new President, whichever is earlier. The appointment will effective from 5 April 2020
  
  Earlier, Prakash Kumar was appointed as acting President for a period of three months from 5 January 2020 after the retirement of Justice MM Kumar as the NCLT President. The three months tenure is set to expire on 5 April.
  
  
• DRDO develops bio-suit for medical practitioners who treat COVID-19 patients
  Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed a bio-suit for the safety of the paramedical, medical, and other personnel engaged in combating COVID-19 safe from the deadly virus.
  
  DRDO's bio-suit:
  DRDO Scientists have used textile, coating, and nanotechnology to develop the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) having a specific type of fabric with coating.
  
  The suit was prepared with the help of the industry and subjected to rigorous testing for textile parameters and protection against synthetic blood. The protection against synthetic blood exceeded the criteria defined for body suits by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).
  
  The DRDO is to ensure that enough number of bio-suits are produced to serve the medics, paramedics and other personnel in the front line combating COVID-19.
  
  M/s Kusumgarh Industries is producing the raw material, coating material, for the production of the special bio-suit in large quantities. The complete bio-suit is manufactured with the help of another vendor.
  
  At present, the production capacity is 7,000 suits per day.
  
  
• ICMR approves antibody tests for COVID-19 patients
  The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) provided interim approval on the use of rapid antibody tests for COVID-19 patients in the Country.
  
  Antibody Tests:
  The Antibody test reveals if the antibodies were released in response to infection by the coronavirus in individuals who may not have shown symptoms of the disease.
  
  As per the approval, antibody tests can be carried out in hotspots zones suspected to have a widespread prevalence of the disease.
  
  The positive cases of the antibodies test will be made to do RT-PCR tests, which can reveal the presence of the virus. Once confirmed, the people will be quarantined at home.
  
  Companies that have CE-In-Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) approved kits can use them after proper approval from the Drug Controller General of India and an intimation to ICMR.
  
  
• MoD received USD 8.82 million FDI during 2000-2019 periods
  Ministry of Defence (MoD) has received foreign direct investment (FDI) of $8.82 million (around Rs.51.93 crore) during the period April 2000 and December 2019.
  
  The Ministry announced it on 1 April. As per the data provided by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, FDI in the defence sector was aggregated at $2.18 million in 2018-19.
  
  Highlights:
  The data showed that, during the period April 2000-December 2019, the Foreign fund inflows in retail trading stood at $2 billion.
  
  The top countries from where India attracted maximum FDI during the period are Mauritius, Singapore, Japan, Netherlands, and the US.
  
  Also, the total merchandise imports from China were $76.3 billion in 2017-18 and it decreased to $70.3 billion in 2018-19. The total imports from China during April 2019- January 2020 were $57.9 billion.
  
  
• Moong dal price raised by 20 percent
  The Moong dal price has been raised by about 20% although the supply of other staples is normal.
  
  The reason is because of the smaller harvest and disruption in transportation has caused shortages of moong dal.
  
  Reason:
  The major suppliers of Moong dal in India are the states of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. The supply has been disrupted due to the erratic weather hit in Rajasthan, the largest producer.
  
  Also, the current availability of moong in Rajasthan has reduced due to a smaller crop.
  
  The prices of the high-quality whole moong dal rose 13% to Rs.83 per kg, leading to upto 20% increase in wholesale and retail prices.
  
  
• Centre permits farmers to use eNAM to avoid market place
  Government of India (GoI) allowed farmers to directly sell produce from premises of farmers producer organizations (FPO) and selected warehouses through electronic marketing platform Electronic National Agriculture Market (eNAM).
  
  The announcement was made by Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar on 2 April. The minister launched the logistics module to support the transportation of produce directly from FPO centres and warehouses.
  
  Benefits:
  The aim of the move is to introduce a major agriculture reform that will decongest market place.
  
  The move by GOI will help farmers to sell produce at remunerative prices near to their farm gate without coming to the market place (mandis).
  
  The Centre launched the required software facilities to create a direct marketing channel alternative to mandis.
  
  FPOs and farmers can now use online facilities for transportation that can be tracked.
  
  It is being planned that eNAM will soon be expanded to 1,000 mandis from the existing 585 mandis across 16 states and two UTs.
  
  For this purpose following 3 modules, namely Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (e-NWRs) module in eNAM software, FPO trading module, Logistic Module has been launched to enhance the effectiveness of eNAM.
  
  3 Modules:
  Under the Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (e-NWRs) module, the farmers can sell the products across the Nation to get better Price and at the same time can save themselves from the hassle of mandi. It will help the depositor to save the Logistics expenses and will have a better income.
  
  FPO trading module will help FPOs by reducing transaction costs (Transportation) and enhancing their bargaining power. It will also facilitate FPOs to avail online payment facility with ease of doing business.
  
  Logistic Module will help in seamless transportation of Agri produce. It will also promote inter-State trade under e-NAM by providing online transport facilities for distant buyers.
  
  
• Centre released SOPs for transit of COVID-19 negative foreign nationals
  The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) laid down Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the transit of COVID-19 negative foreigners stranded in India on 2 April.
  
  Also, the release of quarantined persons after being tested COVID-19 negative will be carried out by the Home Affairs Ministry.
  
  Highlights:
  It has been decided that the Home Ministry will examine every request received from a foreign government for the evacuation of their nationals from India.
  
  Before their departure, the foreign nationals will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms as per the standard health protocol.
  
  Under the standard health protocol, only the foreign nationals would be allowed to leave, who are asymptomatic for COVID-19. For symptomatic persons, the future course of treatment would be followed.
  
  MHA also released SOPs for release of quarantined persons, after the expiry of the quarantine period and tested COVID-19 negative.
  
  The provisions will not be applied to a group, where even one person tests positive for COVID- 19.

Published date : 30 Apr 2020 01:16PM