According to a new study, people with metabolic diseases, like Type-2 diabetes or cancer or those exposed to organophosphate pesticides are at a higher risk of contracting <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infection.

The study was conducted by a team from the US-based&nbsp;University of South Carolina and was led by Saurabh Chatterjee.

Chatterjee and his team identified an inflammation-linked basic mechanism that can increase susceptibility to COVID-19 infection among people exposed to organophosphates.&nbsp;

Their findings show that people suffering from cancer and/or Type-2 diabetes can also potentially be at a higher risk from COVID-19, because in such ailments, the body tends to display a similar inflammation type.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/people-with-o-blood-group-less-vulnerable-to-covid-19-indian-research-body-381106">People with 'O' blood group less vulnerable to COVID-19: Indian research body</a>

Gulf War Illness, a multi-symptomatic disorder, whose symptoms include fatigue, muscle pain, cognitive problems, insomnia, respiratory disorders, rashes and diarrhoea etc; is also caused by exposure to organophosphate pesticides.

The team also conducted an investigation into the increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in relation to exposure to organophosphate pesticide chlorpyrifos and increased levels of Interleukin 6 (IL-6).

As part of their study, multiple groups of cells were created. One group of human lung airway Epithelial cells were exposed to either IL-6 or Chlorpyrifos or to a combination of both, for six hours. While serving as a control, the other group of cells received no exposure.

After that, the cells with the spike proteins that cover the outside of SARS-CoV-2 were treated. During the course of infection, a process begins that allows the virus to release its genetic material into the healthy cell, this happens when spike proteins bind with angiotensin, converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors to our cells.

The researchers discovered that when the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was present, cells exposed to IL-6 and the pesticide exhibited increased apoptosis, or controlled cell death.

Compared to cells that were unexposed or exposed to the pesticide alone, cells exposed to both the pesticide and IL-6 notably had more ACE2 expression on the apical cell surface. While the basolateral membrane touches the surrounding tissues, the apical membrane of airway cells faces the interior of the airway. The researchers explained that increased ACE2 receptor expression on the apical surface means that additional viruses will attach to the cells.

Lead researcher Saurabh Chatterjee also said, “Since people with obesity, Type-2 diabetes or cancer also have high circulatory IL-6 levels, we think people with these conditions will also have increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection because of increased translocation of ACE2 receptor to the apical cell surface,”.

The findings of the study will be presented at the virtual Experimental Biology (EB) 2021 meeting to be held April 27-30.

According to a new study, people with metabolic diseases, like Type-2 diabetes or cancer or those exposed to organophosphate pesticides are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 infection.

According to a new study, people with metabolic diseases, like Type-2 diabetes or cancer or those exposed to organophosphate pesticides are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19 infection. The study was conducted by a team from the US-based University of South Carolina and was led by Saurabh Chatterjee. Chatterjee and his team identified an inflammation-linked basic mechanism that can increase susceptibility to COVID-19 infection among people exposed to organophosphates. Their findings show that people suffering from cancer and/or Type-2 diabetes can also potentially be at a higher risk from COVID-19, because in such ailments, the body tends to display a similar inflammation type. Also read | People with 'O' blood group less vulnerable to COVID-19: Indian research body Gulf War Illness, a multi-symptomatic disorder, whose symptoms include fatigue, muscle pain, cognitive problems, insomnia, respiratory disorders, rashes and diarrhoea etc; is also caused by exposure to organophosphate pesticides. The team also conducted an investigation into the increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in relation to exposure to organophosphate pesticide chlorpyrifos and increased levels of Interleukin 6 (IL-6). As part of their study, multiple groups of cells were created. One group of human lung airway Epithelial cells were exposed to either IL-6 or Chlorpyrifos or to a combination of both, for six hours. While serving as a control, the other group of cells received no exposure. After that, the cells with the spike proteins that cover the outside of SARS-CoV-2 were treated. During the course of infection, a process begins that allows the virus to release its genetic material into the healthy cell, this happens when spike proteins bind with angiotensin, converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors to our cells. The researchers discovered that when the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein was present, cells exposed to IL-6 and the pesticide exhibited increased apoptosis, or controlled cell death. Compared to cells that were unexposed or exposed to the pesticide alone, cells exposed to both the pesticide and IL-6 notably had more ACE2 expression on the apical cell surface. While the basolateral membrane touches the surrounding tissues, the apical membrane of airway cells faces the interior of the airway. The researchers explained that increased ACE2 receptor expression on the apical surface means that additional viruses will attach to the cells. Lead researcher Saurabh Chatterjee also said, “Since people with obesity, Type-2 diabetes or cancer also have high circulatory IL-6 levels, we think people with these conditions will also have increased susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection because of increased translocation of ACE2 receptor to the apical cell surface,”. The findings of the study will be presented at the virtual Experimental Biology (EB) 2021 meeting to be held April 27-30.

Diabetes, cancer, exposure to pesticide increase COVID-19 risk: Study

Scientists have developed a new way to remove polluting microplastics from the environment and they are trusting bacteria for this task.&nbsp;

Bacteria naturally form a group and stick to surfaces, creating an adhesive substance called "biofilm".&nbsp;

This substance can be seen while brushing our teeth or removing dental plaque for instance.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-among-seafood-highest-levels-of-microplastics-found-in-molluscs-study-352659">Among seafood highest levels of microplastics found in molluscs: Study</a>

Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) researchers want to use this sort of bacteria group and create tape-like microbe nets that can catch microplastics in polluted water to make an easy, disposable and recyclable blob, reports The Guardian.

At the Microbiology Society's annual conference, these findings were presented on Wednesday and though preliminary, could still lead to sustainably reducing plastic pollution levels.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/science/microplastics-found-in-the-placentas-of-unborn-babies-for-first-time-351801">Microplastics found in the placentas of unborn babies for first time</a>

"It is imperative to develop effective solutions that trap, collect, and even recycle these microplastics to stop the 'plastification' of our natural environments," Sylvia Lang Liu, microbiology researcher at PolyU and main researcher of this project said.

Generally smaller than 5 mm, microplastics are accidentally released into the environment during production and breakdown of items like water bottles, grocery bags, washing nylon clothes, among others.&nbsp;

Even though these particles are tiny, they cannot be biodegradable easily, thereby hanging in the environment for long and also absorbing toxic chemicals.&nbsp;

They also find themselves in the wastewater, oceans, threatening marine animals who end up feeding on them, eventually affecting the food chain and harming human health too.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Scientists have developed a new way to remove polluting microplastics from the environment and they are trusting bacteria for this task. Bacteria naturally form a group and stick to surfaces, creating an adhesive substance called "biofilm".

Scientists have developed a new way to remove polluting microplastics from the environment and they are trusting bacteria for this task. Bacteria naturally form a group and stick to surfaces, creating an adhesive substance called "biofilm". This substance can be seen while brushing our teeth or removing dental plaque for instance. Also read | Among seafood highest levels of microplastics found in molluscs: Study Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) researchers want to use this sort of bacteria group and create tape-like microbe nets that can catch microplastics in polluted water to make an easy, disposable and recyclable blob, reports The Guardian. At the Microbiology Society's annual conference, these findings were presented on Wednesday and though preliminary, could still lead to sustainably reducing plastic pollution levels. Also read | Microplastics found in the placentas of unborn babies for first time "It is imperative to develop effective solutions that trap, collect, and even recycle these microplastics to stop the 'plastification' of our natural environments," Sylvia Lang Liu, microbiology researcher at PolyU and main researcher of this project said. Generally smaller than 5 mm, microplastics are accidentally released into the environment during production and breakdown of items like water bottles, grocery bags, washing nylon clothes, among others. Even though these particles are tiny, they cannot be biodegradable easily, thereby hanging in the environment for long and also absorbing toxic chemicals. They also find themselves in the wastewater, oceans, threatening marine animals who end up feeding on them, eventually affecting the food chain and harming human health too.

Bacteria can be the answer to remove microplastics from environment

Strong quake hits India's Assam state

Top officials of a Hindu temple have been arrested in Sri Lanka for organising a festival in violation&nbsp;of a ban on mass gatherings due to a spike in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>cases, a media report said.&nbsp;

Several people attended the festival at the Sri Kamakshi Amman Kovil temple in Jaffna without following social distancing guidelines and wearing face masks, the Colombo Gazette newspaper reported.

Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-ultra-infectious-new-covid-19-strain-detected-in-sri-lanka-can-remain-airborne-for-up-to-60-minutes-380469">Ultra-infectious new COVID-19 strain detected in Sri Lanka, can remain airborne for up to 60 minutes</a>

The Chairman and Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the temple have been arrested, the police said.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka has banned large gatherings until May 31, which includes tuitions classes, public gatherings and parties after imposing Alert Level 3 following the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.

Health officials have expressed concerns over a possible spike in COVID-19 cases after traditional new year festivals in mid-April.&nbsp;

Casinos, night clubs and beach parties have also been temporarily shut down after new health guidelines.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka on Tuesday reported 1,111 new coronavirus cases, the most since the beginning of the pandemic in the country, taking the total number of infections to 103,487.

As many as 655 people have died in Sri Lanka due to COVID-19 as of Tuesday.

Top officials of a Hindu temple have been arrested in Sri Lanka for organising a festival in violation of a ban on mass gatherings due to a spike in coronavirus cases, a media report said.

Top officials of a Hindu temple have been arrested in Sri Lanka for organising a festival in violation of a ban on mass gatherings due to a spike in coronavirus cases, a media report said. Several people attended the festival at the Sri Kamakshi Amman Kovil temple in Jaffna without following social distancing guidelines and wearing face masks, the Colombo Gazette newspaper reported. Watch: Ultra-infectious new COVID-19 strain detected in Sri Lanka, can remain airborne for up to 60 minutes The Chairman and Secretary of the Board of Trustees of the temple have been arrested, the police said. Sri Lanka has banned large gatherings until May 31, which includes tuitions classes, public gatherings and parties after imposing Alert Level 3 following the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. Health officials have expressed concerns over a possible spike in COVID-19 cases after traditional new year festivals in mid-April. Casinos, night clubs and beach parties have also been temporarily shut down after new health guidelines. Sri Lanka on Tuesday reported 1,111 new coronavirus cases, the most since the beginning of the pandemic in the country, taking the total number of infections to 103,487. As many as 655 people have died in Sri Lanka due to COVID-19 as of Tuesday.

COVID-19: Sri Lanka Hindu temple officials arrested for holding large festival

As cases spike, here's a list of countries that have banned travellers from India

The co-founder of BionNTech&nbsp;on Wednesday said that testing of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>variant first found in India is underway and expressed confidence its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine </a>will work against the strain.&nbsp;

"We are still testing the Indian variant, but the Indian variant has mutations that we have already tested for and which our vaccine works against, so I am confident," Ugur Sahin, was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indians-asked-to-mask-up-at-home-380631/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The remarks came as the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday said that the variant found in India could be a factor in the huge rise of infections in the country and has been found in more than a dozen nations.&nbsp;

It said the B.1.617 strain, first detected in India had as of Tuesday been found in more than 1,200 sequences added in the GISAID open-access database "from at least 17 countries".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-has-failed-india-amid-record-surge-in-covid-19-cases-says-top-us-disease-expert-fauci-381019">World has failed India amid record surge in COVID-19 cases, says top US disease expert Fauci</a>

"Most sequences were uploaded from India, the United Kingdom, USA and Singapore," the WHO said.

The global health agency recently declared B.1.617 as a "variant of interest," but still did not include it in the list of "variant of concern".

The "variant of concern" means that the virus could be more transmissible, deadly or can kill the effects of the vaccine.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the new wave of COVID-19 continues to bring a massive surge in infections and death toll in India as the fatality toll went pass 200,000 on Wednesday.&nbsp;

India for the last many days is seeing the maximum number of daily cases than any other nation with hospitals reaching their capacity and patients struggling to get emergency care, oxygen and essential drugs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The co-founder of BionNTech on Wednesday said that testing of the coronavirus variant first found in India is underway and expressed confidence its vaccine will work against the strain.

The co-founder of BionNTech on Wednesday said that testing of the coronavirus variant first found in India is underway and expressed confidence its vaccine will work against the strain. "We are still testing the Indian variant, but the Indian variant has mutations that we have already tested for and which our vaccine works against, so I am confident," Ugur Sahin, was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. Watch | The remarks came as the World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday said that the variant found in India could be a factor in the huge rise of infections in the country and has been found in more than a dozen nations. It said the B.1.617 strain, first detected in India had as of Tuesday been found in more than 1,200 sequences added in the GISAID open-access database "from at least 17 countries". Also read | World has failed India amid record surge in COVID-19 cases, says top US disease expert Fauci "Most sequences were uploaded from India, the United Kingdom, USA and Singapore," the WHO said. The global health agency recently declared B.1.617 as a "variant of interest," but still did not include it in the list of "variant of concern". The "variant of concern" means that the virus could be more transmissible, deadly or can kill the effects of the vaccine. Meanwhile, the new wave of COVID-19 continues to bring a massive surge in infections and death toll in India as the fatality toll went pass 200,000 on Wednesday. India for the last many days is seeing the maximum number of daily cases than any other nation with hospitals reaching their capacity and patients struggling to get emergency care, oxygen and essential drugs. (With inputs from agencies)

BioNTech founder 'confident' its Covid vaccine willl work against strain first found in India

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday. 
&nbsp; 
Members belonging to "Querdenker" (Lateral Thinkers) movement is the largest group that has opposed Covid restrictions and encouraged conspiracy theories related to the pandemic.&nbsp;

The interior ministry said that some protest leaders "have clearly demonstrated that their agenda goes beyond simply mobilising protests against the government's corona measures".&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/germany-nurse-swaps-pfizer-vaccine-with-saline-to-hide-her-fault-380196">Germany: Nurse swaps Pfizer vaccine with saline to hide her fault</a>

Their main intent appears to "permanently undermine trust in state institutions and their representatives", the ministry added, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Such organisers are suspected to be involved with right-wing extremists such as "Reichsbuerger" (Citizens of the Reich), who have questioned the legitimacy of the modern Federal Republic of Germany and propagating anti-Semitic messages and QAnon theories, it said.&nbsp;

These promoters are also encouraging their supporters to challenge the state monopoly on violence and violate the official orders.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="http://wionews.com/world/germany-contemplates-easing-covid-restrictions-for-vaccinated-citizens-380154">Germany contemplates easing Covid restrictions for vaccinated citizens</a>

"Querdenker" protests are being conducted for the last year and have attracted thousands and at times tens of thousands of supporters.&nbsp;

Anti-vaxxers and conspiracy theorists are also seen participating in such protests.&nbsp;

Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) created a separate category to scrutinise these groups as they don't completely come under left-wing or right-wing extremism.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against coronavirus restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday.

Germany's domestic intelligence agency has been roped in to monitor top leaders who have participated in the protest movement against coronavirus restrictions, the interior ministry confirmed on Wednesday. Members belonging to "Querdenker" (Lateral Thinkers) movement is the largest group that has opposed Covid restrictions and encouraged conspiracy theories related to the pandemic. The interior ministry said that some protest leaders "have clearly demonstrated that their agenda goes beyond simply mobilising protests against the government's corona measures". Also read | Germany: Nurse swaps Pfizer vaccine with saline to hide her fault Their main intent appears to "permanently undermine trust in state institutions and their representatives", the ministry added, as quoted by news agency AFP. Such organisers are suspected to be involved with right-wing extremists such as "Reichsbuerger" (Citizens of the Reich), who have questioned the legitimacy of the modern Federal Republic of Germany and propagating anti-Semitic messages and QAnon theories, it said. These promoters are also encouraging their supporters to challenge the state monopoly on violence and violate the official orders. Also read | Germany contemplates easing Covid restrictions for vaccinated citizens "Querdenker" protests are being conducted for the last year and have attracted thousands and at times tens of thousands of supporters. Anti-vaxxers and conspiracy theorists are also seen participating in such protests. Germany's Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV) created a separate category to scrutinise these groups as they don't completely come under left-wing or right-wing extremism. (With inputs from agencies)

Germany ropes in spy agency to monitor anti-vaxxers, Covid deniers

India's second wave is not slowing down as the country in the last 24 hours has recorded more than 332,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>cases.&nbsp;

Yesterday, India set a world record in daily infections and today it has broken its own record.

India's total caseload has surpassed 16 million and of these 2.4 million are active cases.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-second-wave-regulators-approve-promising-drug-379602/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

More than 83 per cent of people in India have recovered from the virus.

Since last year, over 186,00 people have died, which is 1.15 per cent of the total cases.

The second wave has brought with it a crisis on every front.

Hospitals are taking to social media to complain about oxygen shortages and there's a crunch of beds and medicines too.

As many as 12 countries have imposed restrictions on travellers from India.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/13-patients-dead-in-fire-at-covid-hospital-in-maharashtras-palghar-379375">13 patients dead in fire at Covid hospital in Maharashtra's Palghar</a>

These measures include tough quarantine measures and even a ban on flights.

The UK, US, Canada, France, Australia, the UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, Israel, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia are the 12 countries that have put restrictions.&nbsp;

However, there are some positive developments too. Let's take a look.&nbsp;

India has now administered more than 130 million doses of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines </a>with over 109 million people getting one dose and more than 17 million being fully vaccinated.

India will open up its vaccination programme on May 1 and that should dramatically scale up the numbers.

Indian regulators today gave a restricted emergency use approval to a new drug called Virafin, made by India's Cadila Healthcare.

Virafin is actually a hepatitis C drug, but trials show its effectiveness in treating the Wuhan virus too.

Reports say about 91 per cent of the patients treated with this drug tested negative within seven days.

It also reduced the need for oxygen support.

Meanwhile, a hospital in Rome has begun treating patients in a radically new way.

They are using monoclonal antibodies for treatment.

Usually, when we fall sick, our antibodies attack the virus and prevent it from spreading, and the vaccine does the same.&nbsp;

Now, monoclonal antibodies are substitute antibodies, basically, lab-produced molecules that can enhance or mimic an immune system's response.

This therapy has been rolled out in several countries, but it has not been used widely.

The Castelli Hospital in Rome believes that monoclonal antibodies can stop infected patients from becoming sicker.

&nbsp;

India's second wave is not slowing down as the country in the last 24 hours has recorded more than 332,000 coronavirus cases. Yesterday, India set a world record in daily infections and today it has broken its own record.

India's second wave is not slowing down as the country in the last 24 hours has recorded more than 332,000 coronavirus cases. Yesterday, India set a world record in daily infections and today it has broken its own record. India's total caseload has surpassed 16 million and of these 2.4 million are active cases. Watch | More than 83 per cent of people in India have recovered from the virus. Since last year, over 186,00 people have died, which is 1.15 per cent of the total cases. The second wave has brought with it a crisis on every front. Hospitals are taking to social media to complain about oxygen shortages and there's a crunch of beds and medicines too. As many as 12 countries have imposed restrictions on travellers from India. Also read | 13 patients dead in fire at Covid hospital in Maharashtra's Palghar These measures include tough quarantine measures and even a ban on flights. The UK, US, Canada, France, Australia, the UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, Israel, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia are the 12 countries that have put restrictions. However, there are some positive developments too. Let's take a look. India has now administered more than 130 million doses of vaccines with over 109 million people getting one dose and more than 17 million being fully vaccinated. India will open up its vaccination programme on May 1 and that should dramatically scale up the numbers. Indian regulators today gave a restricted emergency use approval to a new drug called Virafin, made by India's Cadila Healthcare. Virafin is actually a hepatitis C drug, but trials show its effectiveness in treating the Wuhan virus too. Reports say about 91 per cent of the patients treated with this drug tested negative within seven days. It also reduced the need for oxygen support. Meanwhile, a hospital in Rome has begun treating patients in a radically new way. They are using monoclonal antibodies for treatment. Usually, when we fall sick, our antibodies attack the virus and prevent it from spreading, and the vaccine does the same. Now, monoclonal antibodies are substitute antibodies, basically, lab-produced molecules that can enhance or mimic an immune system's response. This therapy has been rolled out in several countries, but it has not been used widely. The Castelli Hospital in Rome believes that monoclonal antibodies can stop infected patients from becoming sicker.

As India is troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals.

The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-angela-merkel-says-europe-allowed-india-to-become-a-pharma-hub-379603/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Usually, India's healthcare facilities consume just 15 per cent of the country's oxygen supply, but during this second wave, oxygen supply to healthcare facilities has gone up to nearly 90 per cent.

Reports say 7,500 metric tonnes of oxygen is being diverted for medical use.

But German Chancellor Angela Merkel sees this surge as an opportunity to kick an ally down.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-troubled-with-fresh-covid-wave-a-drug-and-therapy-bring-hope-379586">As India troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope</a>

Merkel was discussing the future of Europe today and she said Europe had not treated its pharma industry well.

Then, she pivoted to India, saying she's worried about how India's second wave will impact the delivery of "pharmaceutical products" to Germany.

Then she took a dig at India's status as a leading exporter of medical goods.

She said Europe had allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer".

"India has become a major pharmaceutical producer and we expect to honour its promises and if it can't, we will have to rethink," Merkel said.&nbsp;

The German chancellor said "Europe will have to rethink," but here's something Europe should think about first.

In 2018, India exported 229 million dollars worth of pharmaceuticals to Germany.

When Europe became the global hotspot in the pandemic last year, it was India that shared life-saving medicines and supplies.

And now when India is fighting a crushing surge, the German chancellor wants New Delhi to think of Berlin first.

It is a perfect example of Western entitlement.

But, it's not just foreign partners who are letting India down, domestic politics is hurting the fight against the virus.

Today, the Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>held a meeting with chief ministers of 11 states.

The discussions were supposed to happen behind closed doors, but one leader broke protocol.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal decided to share his discussions with the prime minister with the press.

Kejriwal's statement was beamed by the media.

When Modi was made aware of this, he interrupted Kejriwal to object.

Politics is debilitating in the best of times and in a pandemic, it can be deadly.

The second wave is taking lives and India is going to need all the help it can get.&nbsp;

And there have been some offers of help.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron has sent this message through his ambassador in New Delhi.

"I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support," Macron said.

China's foreign ministry issued a statement today, saying: "The virus is a common enemy" and "China is willing to provide the necessary support and help".

The spokesperson didn't go into the specifics of China's offer and the Indian government hasn't issued any response.

They should think twice before accepting this offer.

Last year China offered supplies and the world was left complaining about faulty test kits and equipment.

We can't afford mistakes this time.

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals. The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals.

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals. The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals. Watch | Usually, India's healthcare facilities consume just 15 per cent of the country's oxygen supply, but during this second wave, oxygen supply to healthcare facilities has gone up to nearly 90 per cent. Reports say 7,500 metric tonnes of oxygen is being diverted for medical use. But German Chancellor Angela Merkel sees this surge as an opportunity to kick an ally down. Also read | As India troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope Merkel was discussing the future of Europe today and she said Europe had not treated its pharma industry well. Then, she pivoted to India, saying she's worried about how India's second wave will impact the delivery of "pharmaceutical products" to Germany. Then she took a dig at India's status as a leading exporter of medical goods. She said Europe had allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer". "India has become a major pharmaceutical producer and we expect to honour its promises and if it can't, we will have to rethink," Merkel said. The German chancellor said "Europe will have to rethink," but here's something Europe should think about first. In 2018, India exported 229 million dollars worth of pharmaceuticals to Germany. When Europe became the global hotspot in the pandemic last year, it was India that shared life-saving medicines and supplies. And now when India is fighting a crushing surge, the German chancellor wants New Delhi to think of Berlin first. It is a perfect example of Western entitlement. But, it's not just foreign partners who are letting India down, domestic politics is hurting the fight against the virus. Today, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with chief ministers of 11 states. The discussions were supposed to happen behind closed doors, but one leader broke protocol. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal decided to share his discussions with the prime minister with the press. Kejriwal's statement was beamed by the media. When Modi was made aware of this, he interrupted Kejriwal to object. Politics is debilitating in the best of times and in a pandemic, it can be deadly. The second wave is taking lives and India is going to need all the help it can get. And there have been some offers of help. French President Emmanuel Macron has sent this message through his ambassador in New Delhi. "I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support," Macron said. China's foreign ministry issued a statement today, saying: "The virus is a common enemy" and "China is willing to provide the necessary support and help". The spokesperson didn't go into the specifics of China's offer and the Indian government hasn't issued any response. They should think twice before accepting this offer. Last year China offered supplies and the world was left complaining about faulty test kits and equipment. We can't afford mistakes this time.

Some partners disappoint, others show solidarity when India gasps for oxygen

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a litmus test for alliances and has separated friends from partners.

A partnership is based on terms and conditions, but friendship is unconditional.

One country is treading this fine line with India.

We are talking about the United States.

Washington sees India as a key ally in the Indo-Pacific.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-the-us-testing-indias-resolve-379610">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-the-us-testing-indias-resolve-379610/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It turns on the charm offensive when needed.&nbsp;Like on climate change, the US needs India's support for climate action.

So it dispatched John Kerry to woo New Delhi. But when the shoe is on the other foot, Washington changes tack.

Let's look at four US actions in the last couple of months. Are these things you would expect from an ally?

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biden-administration-applauds-india-for-stepping-up-its-climate-change-commitment-379363">Biden administration applauds India for stepping up its climate change commitment</a>

<h2>Ban on vaccine raw material exports&nbsp;</h2>

We know that India is the biggest vaccine maker in the world, but to make vaccines, you need raw materials and most of it comes from the US.

But, Washington has banned the export of these items under the US Defence Production Act, a wartime law.

It diverted all resources to America's vaccine production and so none of it was available for export.

Now Washington insists there is no explicit embargo, but the supply of 35 key ingredients has been disrupted.

India has raised this issue multiple times with the US.

Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu flagged it as soon as US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;invoked the act.

Foreign Minister S Jaishankar raised it during his phone call with his counterpart Antony Blinken.

But Washington's response has been disappointing as Biden says he understands India's needs, but in the middle of shortages and deaths, understanding doesn't count for much.

Take a look back to the hydroxychloroquine craze of 2020 when India exported 50 million tablets to the US.&nbsp;

This was America's chance to repay that favour. Instead, Washington chose vaccine nationalism.

<h2>Currency manipulator</h2>

The US has put India on the currency manipulator watch list.

India's Reserve Bank has been accused of foul play in the foreign exchange market.

The RBI purchased dollars worth 5 per cent of the GDP and the US has set the threshold at 2 per cent.&nbsp;

Most experts have called it ludicrous and India's commerce secretary said there is no economic logic to America's move.

In fact, if anyone is manipulating the currency, it is the US.&nbsp;

The Federal Reserve has kept the interest rates so low that capital is flowing out of America.

These funds are flooding the Indian markets and affecting the rupee.&nbsp;

<h2>American adventurism in India's exclusive economic zone</h2>

The US Navy sailed its warship near India's Lakshadweep island and there was neither any warning nor any diplomatic outreach.

The US Navy apparently wanted to check India's excessive maritime claims.

These were peaceful waters with no cross-claims of sovereignty.

<h2>America's overreach into India's domestic issues</h2>

Last month, the State Department published its human rights report, which said the situation in India was deteriorating.

This week they published another report on religious freedoms.

America's own record on protecting the rights of minorities is abysmal and still, it continues to give its Western allies a pass.

But when it comes to India, interference is the norm.

So what is Biden's endgame here? Why is he testing his best bet against China?

A lot of it can be attributed to domestic pressure as the Democrats are pushing Biden to pursue a more hawkish India policy.

If Biden wants to chain the dragon, he will need India's help and New Delhi has already taken the first step.

After decades of non-alliance, India is now flirting with the idea of formalising the Quad.

So India is putting its money on the US, but this confused messaging from the US is not helping.

Biden, for starters, could send over those vaccine raw materials as India needs them to hasten vaccine production.

A sign of goodwill here would smooth some of the apprehensions.

Biden has a decision to make that India is a friend or partner.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a litmus test for alliances and has separated friends from partners. A partnership is based on terms and conditions, but friendship is unconditional.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a litmus test for alliances and has separated friends from partners. A partnership is based on terms and conditions, but friendship is unconditional. One country is treading this fine line with India. We are talking about the United States. Washington sees India as a key ally in the Indo-Pacific. Watch | It turns on the charm offensive when needed. Like on climate change, the US needs India's support for climate action. So it dispatched John Kerry to woo New Delhi. But when the shoe is on the other foot, Washington changes tack. Let's look at four US actions in the last couple of months. Are these things you would expect from an ally? Also read | Biden administration applauds India for stepping up its climate change commitment Ban on vaccine raw material exports We know that India is the biggest vaccine maker in the world, but to make vaccines, you need raw materials and most of it comes from the US. But, Washington has banned the export of these items under the US Defence Production Act, a wartime law. It diverted all resources to America's vaccine production and so none of it was available for export. Now Washington insists there is no explicit embargo, but the supply of 35 key ingredients has been disrupted. India has raised this issue multiple times with the US. Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu flagged it as soon as US President Joe Biden invoked the act. Foreign Minister S Jaishankar raised it during his phone call with his counterpart Antony Blinken. But Washington's response has been disappointing as Biden says he understands India's needs, but in the middle of shortages and deaths, understanding doesn't count for much. Take a look back to the hydroxychloroquine craze of 2020 when India exported 50 million tablets to the US. This was America's chance to repay that favour. Instead, Washington chose vaccine nationalism. Currency manipulator The US has put India on the currency manipulator watch list. India's Reserve Bank has been accused of foul play in the foreign exchange market. The RBI purchased dollars worth 5 per cent of the GDP and the US has set the threshold at 2 per cent. Most experts have called it ludicrous and India's commerce secretary said there is no economic logic to America's move. In fact, if anyone is manipulating the currency, it is the US. The Federal Reserve has kept the interest rates so low that capital is flowing out of America. These funds are flooding the Indian markets and affecting the rupee. American adventurism in India's exclusive economic zone The US Navy sailed its warship near India's Lakshadweep island and there was neither any warning nor any diplomatic outreach. The US Navy apparently wanted to check India's excessive maritime claims. These were peaceful waters with no cross-claims of sovereignty. America's overreach into India's domestic issues Last month, the State Department published its human rights report, which said the situation in India was deteriorating. This week they published another report on religious freedoms. America's own record on protecting the rights of minorities is abysmal and still, it continues to give its Western allies a pass. But when it comes to India, interference is the norm. So what is Biden's endgame here? Why is he testing his best bet against China? A lot of it can be attributed to domestic pressure as the Democrats are pushing Biden to pursue a more hawkish India policy. If Biden wants to chain the dragon, he will need India's help and New Delhi has already taken the first step. After decades of non-alliance, India is now flirting with the idea of formalising the Quad. So India is putting its money on the US, but this confused messaging from the US is not helping. Biden, for starters, could send over those vaccine raw materials as India needs them to hasten vaccine production. A sign of goodwill here would smooth some of the apprehensions. Biden has a decision to make that India is a friend or partner.

US needs to decide India is a friend or partner as New Delhi is being hurt

China is a country singularly focused on world domination.

And for achieving this, Beijing will use every trick in the book, even theft.

China knows technology is the way to superpowerdom.

Watch&nbsp;|

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-infiltrating-us-research-379611/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

If you can't beat the US, what do you do?

Our next report tells you how China is stealing research.&nbsp;

Science is a tough nut to crack and sometimes you hit a dead end and things appear impossible.

In such cases, most countries opt for technology transfer.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-needs-to-decide-india-is-a-friend-or-partner-as-new-delhi-is-being-hurt-379608">US needs to decide India is a friend or partner as New Delhi is being hurt</a>

They buy or borrow from people who have already figured it out.

But China likes a third option, theft.

Research is a key arena of the US-China cold war.

China is pumping huge money into research, but the US is still ahead by quite a distance.&nbsp;

So Beijing is deploying espionage to gain the tech edge.

More than 500 US-funded scientists are feared compromised and in most cases, a fixed pattern has been found.&nbsp;

The scientists get money from China and they hide this from the US government.

Then these scientists apply for American grants but are basically on Beijing's payroll.

They are researching in the US and also using its money.

On Wednesday, the Justice Department charged a math teacher at Southern Illinois University.

He secured 151,000 dollars in US funding but hid the fact that since 2018 he has also been getting Chinese funds.

And this trend is pan-industry, from corn farming to cancer research.

China has cast the net wide.

Out of the 500 scientists under investigation, 90 per cent are feared compromised by China.

But have these attempts been successful?

Last year, Song Guo Zheng, a university researcher, admitted to lying for grants.

He secured 4.1 million dollars from the US, but these funds were used to enhance Chinese expertise in rheumatology and immunology.

In 2020, China's tech theft intensified and it actively targeted America's vaccine research.

Hackers linked to Beijing tried to harvest data from Moderna.

Two Chinese nationals were charged by the Justice Department.

America's global recruitment programmes are an easy way in for China.

They are sponsored by the government and there is very little scrutiny because Washington doesn't want to drive away talent.

In the process, American intellectual properties are left exposed.

As many as 73 per cent of graduate engineering students are foreign-born in America.&nbsp;

Twenty eight per cent of science and engineering faculty is from abroad across the country.&nbsp;

Coupled with President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden's </a>"competition, not conflict approach," this is daylight robbery of valuable tech.

When China is fighting a multi-front war while PLA warships sail the Indo-Pacific, its hackers are busy infiltrating American research.

It is a classic battle strategy to strike at the enemy's blind spot.

If the US doesn't tighten scrutiny and cybersecurity, the much hyped tech edge could be flattened.

China is a country singularly focused on world domination. And for achieving this, Beijing will use every trick in the book, even theft. China knows technology is the way to superpowerdom.

China is a country singularly focused on world domination. And for achieving this, Beijing will use every trick in the book, even theft. China knows technology is the way to superpowerdom. Watch | If you can't beat the US, what do you do? Our next report tells you how China is stealing research. Science is a tough nut to crack and sometimes you hit a dead end and things appear impossible. In such cases, most countries opt for technology transfer. Also read | US needs to decide India is a friend or partner as New Delhi is being hurt They buy or borrow from people who have already figured it out. But China likes a third option, theft. Research is a key arena of the US-China cold war. China is pumping huge money into research, but the US is still ahead by quite a distance. So Beijing is deploying espionage to gain the tech edge. More than 500 US-funded scientists are feared compromised and in most cases, a fixed pattern has been found. The scientists get money from China and they hide this from the US government. Then these scientists apply for American grants but are basically on Beijing's payroll. They are researching in the US and also using its money. On Wednesday, the Justice Department charged a math teacher at Southern Illinois University. He secured 151,000 dollars in US funding but hid the fact that since 2018 he has also been getting Chinese funds. And this trend is pan-industry, from corn farming to cancer research. China has cast the net wide. Out of the 500 scientists under investigation, 90 per cent are feared compromised by China. But have these attempts been successful? Last year, Song Guo Zheng, a university researcher, admitted to lying for grants. He secured 4.1 million dollars from the US, but these funds were used to enhance Chinese expertise in rheumatology and immunology. In 2020, China's tech theft intensified and it actively targeted America's vaccine research. Hackers linked to Beijing tried to harvest data from Moderna. Two Chinese nationals were charged by the Justice Department. America's global recruitment programmes are an easy way in for China. They are sponsored by the government and there is very little scrutiny because Washington doesn't want to drive away talent. In the process, American intellectual properties are left exposed. As many as 73 per cent of graduate engineering students are foreign-born in America. Twenty eight per cent of science and engineering faculty is from abroad across the country. Coupled with President Joe Biden's "competition, not conflict approach," this is daylight robbery of valuable tech. When China is fighting a multi-front war while PLA warships sail the Indo-Pacific, its hackers are busy infiltrating American research. It is a classic battle strategy to strike at the enemy's blind spot. If the US doesn't tighten scrutiny and cybersecurity, the much hyped tech edge could be flattened.

No begging or borrowing: China is stealing tech to dominate world

French energy major EDF on Friday said it has submitted a binding techno-commercial offer to build six pressurised water reactors at Maharashtra's Jaitapur to Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL).

The energy major termed this as a major milestone, which will enable discussions aimed at converging towards a binding framework agreement in the coming months.

The offer is the culmination of the work carried out jointly with NPCIL further to the signature of the Industrial Way Forward Agreement on March 10, 2018, which was followed by a non-binding offer submitted later in the same year, a statement said.

"This key milestone has been achieved thanks to the trust-based relationship built over time with our Indian partner, and the excellent collaboration and continuous efforts of the EDF and NPCIL teams," EDF Group's chairman and chief executive Jean Bernard Levy said.

He called it a step towards the materialization of the flagship project, and the establishment of a long-term partnership in the civil nuclear field between both our leading nuclear industries.

The binding offer was submitted on Thursday, and includes the detailed technical configuration of the reactors, taking into account the information provided by NPCIL on the Jaitapur site conditions and the joint comprehensive work performed by EDF and NPCIL, and the comprehensive commercial terms and conditions for the supply of engineering studies and equipment for the six EPR reactors.

The statement from the French company said the offer is based on the complementary skills of EDF and NPCIL, and aims to build a long-term partnership between the French and Indian nuclear industries.

The main principles for the offer involves EDF providing the EPR technology, which includes getting the know-how from its subsidiary Framatome for engineering studies and supply for six nuclear steam supply systems and partners with its historical partner GE Steam Power for the supply of the engineering studies and equipment of the six conventional islands, the statement said.

EDF has also guaranteed the performance of each of the six EPR units under specific conditions and for a predefined period of time and will also offer training services for NPCIL's future operating teams, the statement said, making it clear that the French company is neither an investor in the project nor in charge of the construction.

The second principle of the offer includes NPCIL being responsible for the construction and the commissioning of each of the six units of the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant, as well as for obtaining all necessary permits and consents in India, including the certification of the EPR technology by the Indian safety regulator, as the owner and future operator of the plant.

During the construction phase, NPCIL may benefit from EDF and its partners' assistance, notably regarding the sharing of other EPR project-related lessons learned, it added.

In order to promote Indian interests, EDF will be identifying Indian companies that can act as suppliers for the project, it said, adding that about 200 entities have already been pre-qualified.

It will also launch a pre-feasibility study, conducted by EDF, I2EN (International Institute of Nuclear Energy) and VJTI (Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute), for the establishment of a centre of excellence in India aiming to train engineers and technicians, and to support the development of the necessary set of skills for the project.

The six reactors will create 25,000 jobs during the construction phase and 2,700 permanent jobs, it said, adding that the French industry will also be benefited during the 15 year long project.&nbsp;

French energy major EDF on Friday said it has submitted a binding techno-commercial offer to build six pressurised water reactors at Maharashtra's Jaitapur to Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL).

French energy major EDF on Friday said it has submitted a binding techno-commercial offer to build six pressurised water reactors at Maharashtra's Jaitapur to Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL). The energy major termed this as a major milestone, which will enable discussions aimed at converging towards a binding framework agreement in the coming months. The offer is the culmination of the work carried out jointly with NPCIL further to the signature of the Industrial Way Forward Agreement on March 10, 2018, which was followed by a non-binding offer submitted later in the same year, a statement said. "This key milestone has been achieved thanks to the trust-based relationship built over time with our Indian partner, and the excellent collaboration and continuous efforts of the EDF and NPCIL teams," EDF Group's chairman and chief executive Jean Bernard Levy said. He called it a step towards the materialization of the flagship project, and the establishment of a long-term partnership in the civil nuclear field between both our leading nuclear industries. The binding offer was submitted on Thursday, and includes the detailed technical configuration of the reactors, taking into account the information provided by NPCIL on the Jaitapur site conditions and the joint comprehensive work performed by EDF and NPCIL, and the comprehensive commercial terms and conditions for the supply of engineering studies and equipment for the six EPR reactors. The statement from the French company said the offer is based on the complementary skills of EDF and NPCIL, and aims to build a long-term partnership between the French and Indian nuclear industries. The main principles for the offer involves EDF providing the EPR technology, which includes getting the know-how from its subsidiary Framatome for engineering studies and supply for six nuclear steam supply systems and partners with its historical partner GE Steam Power for the supply of the engineering studies and equipment of the six conventional islands, the statement said. EDF has also guaranteed the performance of each of the six EPR units under specific conditions and for a predefined period of time and will also offer training services for NPCIL's future operating teams, the statement said, making it clear that the French company is neither an investor in the project nor in charge of the construction. The second principle of the offer includes NPCIL being responsible for the construction and the commissioning of each of the six units of the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant, as well as for obtaining all necessary permits and consents in India, including the certification of the EPR technology by the Indian safety regulator, as the owner and future operator of the plant. During the construction phase, NPCIL may benefit from EDF and its partners' assistance, notably regarding the sharing of other EPR project-related lessons learned, it added. In order to promote Indian interests, EDF will be identifying Indian companies that can act as suppliers for the project, it said, adding that about 200 entities have already been pre-qualified. It will also launch a pre-feasibility study, conducted by EDF, I2EN (International Institute of Nuclear Energy) and VJTI (Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute), for the establishment of a centre of excellence in India aiming to train engineers and technicians, and to support the development of the necessary set of skills for the project. The six reactors will create 25,000 jobs during the construction phase and 2,700 permanent jobs, it said, adding that the French industry will also be benefited during the 15 year long project.

India: French energy giant submits binding techno-commercial offer to build six nuclear reactors

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Zee News Rajasthan

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