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The Centre on Thursday confirmed that 13 fresh cases of novel coronavirus have been reported in the country.

With this the tally of positive cases has rose to 73.

Briefing media in New Delhi on Thursday evening, joint secretary of Health Ministry, Lav Aggarwal said, India has taken preventive measures to contain the spread of coronavirus.

Aggarwal also said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is continuously monitoring the situation.

Also read: India records first coronavirus death in Karnataka

Aggarwal said, the safety and welfare of the Indians living abroad is the top most priority of the government and 948 passengers – 900 Indians and 48 foreign nationals were evacuated so far.

Talking about Indians stranded in Iran due to Corona pandemic, joint secretary in Civil Aviation Ministry Rubina Ali said, 150 to 300 Indians are still to be evacuated from Iran and this will be done in two phases.

She said, 200 Indians will reach Mumbai on Friday from Iran and they will be sent to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan for 14 days quarantine period.