India Reports Biggest Rise In Both COVID-19 Cases, Death Toll In 24 Hours 

Amid the 21-day lockdown announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 24, India reports the biggest rise in both the number of cases and deaths. As per the latest update from the Union Health Ministry, the total number of COVID-19 cases in the country has crossed the 5,000-mark- the current confirmed cases are 5,194. 

With the rise in cases, India recorded total of 149 deaths linked to coronavirus, while 35 people died in the last 24 hours. 

According to a NDTV report, as soon as India crossed 5,000 positive cases, several states have asked the government to extend the lockdown. So that stricter measures can be taken to prevent the virus from spreading further.

While the government is yet to consider the states' proposal, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said a decision would be taken "in the national interest" at the right time, NDTV further reported.