After WHO classified the novel coronavirus as a pandemic, the government of Indian is taking effective measures to prevent the spread of the virus across the country.
In its most recent effort, the government has decided to suspend all visas, except a few categories such as diplomatic and employment, starting from tomorrow 5:30 am IST till April 15.
"All existing visas, except diplomatic, official, UN/International organisations, employment and project visas, stand suspended till 15th April 2020. This will come into effect from 1200GMT on 13th March 2020 at the port of departure," an official statement said.
Additionally, Indians returning from China, Italy, Iran, South Korea, Japan, France, Germany and Spain will be placed under quarantine for 14 days.
Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Harsh Vardhan has asked all Indians to abstain from non-essential travel abroad.
As a preventive measure, the Karnataka government has started a campaign called "Namaste over Handshake" to greet people in a traditional way rather than a hand shake.
Jammu and Kashmir has ordered the closure of cinema halls, aganwadi centers and primary schools across the region till March 31.
Kerala with 14 cases so far is the most affected state in the country. Yesterday, the Kochi authorities quarantined 42 people coming from Italy.
At least six people were hospitalized in Maharashtra so far.
The total number of coronavirus cases in the country has reached 74 and is counting.
