1)UN launches Global Humanitarian Response Plan to fight against COVID-19:- On March 25, 2020, the United Nations launched Global Humanitarian Response Plan to fight against COVID-19. The organization has allocated 2 billion USD to implement the plan. The plan has been launched in 51 countries of Africa, South America, Middle East and also Asia.
The plan is to be implemented by the United Nations in direct collaboration with international NGOs.
Under the plan, the organization is to deliver essential medical supplies and laboratory equipment to test the virus. It is to install hand washing stations in different settlements.
2)Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana launched to fight COVID-19:– On March 26, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman launched Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana. The scheme is an economic help package for people in the country to fight against COVID-19 and its effects. Around 1.7 lakh crore has been allocated under the package.
Under the scheme, around 80 crore people are to get 5 kg of free rice and wheat for the next three months. This is additional to the already allotted 5 kg of subsidized rice and wheat. Along with this, they will also get 1 kg of free pulses per household.
The scheme will provide insurance cover for doctors, sanitation workers, nurses, paramedics and other staffs working on the front line in the fight against the virus.
The scheme is to perform a direct benefit transfer of Rs 1000 to old age, Divyangs and pensioners. This will benefit 3 crore people.
3)Sunil Chhetri, Indian Football team Captain named for FIFA’s COVID-19 Campaign:- The World Governing body FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association or International Federation of Association Football) has selected Indian Football Captain Sunil Chhetri among 28 other stars for its campaign. The campaign is to combat COVID-19.