Two people in Punjab: a 15-year-old and a 24-year old have tested positive for the novel coronavirus disease in Ludhiana. Total confirmed cases in the district are now at 8, said Ludhiana Deputy Commissioner Pardeep Aggarwal, reports

The Centre on Wednesday approved a centrally funded 'India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package' with the objective of strengthening national and state health systems.

A circular signed by National Health Mission Director Vandana Gurnani, said the 100 percent centrally funded project will be implemented in three phases from January 2020 to March 2024.

"With the objectives of emergency COVID-19 response, strengthening national and state health systems to support prevention and preparedness, procurement of essential medical equipment, consumables and drugs, strengthening of surveillance activities including setting up of laboratories and Bio-security preparedness," the circular highlighted.

The letter addressed to additional chief secretaries Principal Secretaries/ Commissioners (Health) of all states/Union Territories in India said: "The MoHFW is releasing funds (as indicated in annexure) under the immediate response of this Package for your States/UT under the National Health Mission for implementation of phase 1 up to June 2020.