India reports big jump in new coronavirus cases

By Shuriah Niazi

NEW DELHI, India (AA) - The death toll from coronavirus in India has risen to 38, with 1,637 confirmed cases, authorities said Wednesday.

According to the Health Ministry, Wednesday marked India's biggest spike in a day with 386 new cases confirmed.

However, the ministry said the figure soared due to inter-city travel by members of Tablighi Jamaat, an Islamic missionary society.

"As many as 1,800 people related to the group have been sent to hospitals and quarantine centers," said Lav Agrawal, a senior health official.

The Indian government imposed a 21-day lockdown in the country starting March 25 to stem the spread of the virus.

Malls, markets, restaurants, cinemas and public transport remain shut.

Indian Railways is also preparing to set up 320,000 isolation and quarantine beds by modifying 20,000 coaches.