The total number of coronavirus cases in India has risen to 21,393, according to the Union Health Ministry’s Thursday morning update. Of these, 4,257 people have recovered. The death toll has increased to 681.
Here are the top 10 developments this Thursday morning:
1. The Union Cabinet on Wednesday cleared an ordinance to make attacks on health workers a cognizable and non-bailable offence, with a maximum jail term of seven years and a fine of Rs 5 lakh.
2. With 1,409 new cases and 41 deaths being reported in the last 24 hours, the tally is now 21,393 cases (4,257 recovered) and 681 deaths.
3. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) withdrew their protest after meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah via video-conference, who assured them of their safety. The IMA had planned a candlelight vigil at 9 pm today to urge the government to enact a law against healthcare violence.
4. The Union Health Ministry in an advisory has suggested hospitals located in and around COVID-19 containment zones to treat all patients coming to them as suspected cases of coronavirus infection until proven otherwise and exercise standard care.
5. There can be no compromise on safety of healthcare workers, PM Modi tweeted.
The Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 manifests our commitment to protect each and every healthcare worker who is bravely battling COVID-19 on the frontline.
It will ensure safety of our professionals. There can be no compromise on their safety!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 22, 2020
6. No decision has been taken yet on the resumption of flight operations. An announcement will be made on time as to when it will resume: Union minister Prakash Javadekar
7. An employee of the Ministry of Civil Aviation, who attended office on April 15, has tested positive for the coronavirus. Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said medical aid and support has been extended to the patient. Those who were in contact with the patient have been asked to follow laid down procedures.
8. PM Modi is scheduled to hold a video conference with Chief Ministers on April 27 to discuss the COVID-19 situation.
9. More than 60% of the COVID1-9 cases are from just the top five states – Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu.
10. Maharashtra has the most number of cases (5,649), followed by Gujarat (2,407) and Delhi (2,248).