Researchers from IIT Madras and Rice University, USA&nbsp;have developed algorithms for lensless, miniature cameras that have applications in augmented/virtual reality, security, smart wearables, robotics among others. Lensless cameras are touted to be the future of miniature imaging technology, as they offer imaging capabilities similar to conventional cameras, but at much lesser weight and cost. They're also&nbsp;nearly-flat cameras.

In conventional cameras, the lens enables light to be focussed onto an imaging sensor, which captures a sharp, detailed photograph. However, in lensless cameras the light will fall on many pixels (giving a blurred image), from which the final image has to be derived via a software.&nbsp;

In 2016, Prof. Ashok Veeraraghavan’s lab at Rice University&nbsp;registered success in making a low-cost and low-weight ultra-thin lensless camera. In these newly developed lensless cameras, a thin optical mask was placed just in front of the sensor at a distance of approximately 1 mm. However, because of the absence of focusing elements, the lensless camera captures blurred images restricting their commercial use. The algorithm developed by the teams carries out the function of reducing the bur in the images and making them of usable quality.&nbsp;

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The findings were presented as a paper in the prestigious IEEE International Conference on Computer Vision and an extended version appeared in IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence.

According to Dr. Kaushik Mitra, Head of Computational Imaging Laboratory,&nbsp;IIT&nbsp;Madras and Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering,&nbsp;the existing algorithms produce low-resolution, grainy images, whereas their method offers significant improvement. “Our Research team used Deep Learning to develop a reconstruction algorithm called ‘FlatNet’, which was found to be effective in de-blurring images captured by lensless cameras. We are working on designing newer and better lensless cameras using data-driven techniques, devising efficient algorithms for&nbsp;&nbsp;lensless captures and looking into important applications like endoscopy and smart surveillance” he added.&nbsp;

This research was funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER and NSF EXPEDITIONS, US, Neural Engineering System Design (NESD) - Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), US, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grant, US, and Qualcomm Innovation Fellowship India 2020.

This Research was led at&nbsp;IIT&nbsp;Madras by Dr. Kaushik Mitra, Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering. The research team included Mr. Salman Siddique Khan, Mr. Varun Sundar and Mr. Adarsh VR from&nbsp;IIT&nbsp;Madras. Prof. Ashok Veeraghavan led the Rice University team which included Dr. Vivek Boominathan and Mr. Jasper Tan.

Researchers from IIT Madras and Rice University, USA have developed algorithms for lensless, miniature cameras that have applications in augmented/virtual reality, security, smart wearables, robotics among others.

Researchers from IIT Madras and Rice University, USA have developed algorithms for lensless, miniature cameras that have applications in augmented/virtual reality, security, smart wearables, robotics among others. Lensless cameras are touted to be the future of miniature imaging technology, as they offer imaging capabilities similar to conventional cameras, but at much lesser weight and cost. They're also nearly-flat cameras. In conventional cameras, the lens enables light to be focussed onto an imaging sensor, which captures a sharp, detailed photograph. However, in lensless cameras the light will fall on many pixels (giving a blurred image), from which the final image has to be derived via a software. In 2016, Prof. Ashok Veeraraghavan’s lab at Rice University registered success in making a low-cost and low-weight ultra-thin lensless camera. In these newly developed lensless cameras, a thin optical mask was placed just in front of the sensor at a distance of approximately 1 mm. However, because of the absence of focusing elements, the lensless camera captures blurred images restricting their commercial use. The algorithm developed by the teams carries out the function of reducing the bur in the images and making them of usable quality. The findings were presented as a paper in the prestigious IEEE International Conference on Computer Vision and an extended version appeared in IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence. According to Dr. Kaushik Mitra, Head of Computational Imaging Laboratory, IIT Madras and Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering, the existing algorithms produce low-resolution, grainy images, whereas their method offers significant improvement. “Our Research team used Deep Learning to develop a reconstruction algorithm called ‘FlatNet’, which was found to be effective in de-blurring images captured by lensless cameras. We are working on designing newer and better lensless cameras using data-driven techniques, devising efficient algorithms for lensless captures and looking into important applications like endoscopy and smart surveillance” he added. This research was funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER and NSF EXPEDITIONS, US, Neural Engineering System Design (NESD) - Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), US, National Institutes of Health (NIH) Grant, US, and Qualcomm Innovation Fellowship India 2020. This Research was led at IIT Madras by Dr. Kaushik Mitra, Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering. The research team included Mr. Salman Siddique Khan, Mr. Varun Sundar and Mr. Adarsh VR from IIT Madras. Prof. Ashok Veeraghavan led the Rice University team which included Dr. Vivek Boominathan and Mr. Jasper Tan.

Indian, US researchers develop algorithms to get clearer images from futuristic lensless cameras

With a very severe cyclonic storm 'Tauktae' predicted to make landfall near the Gujarat Coast on Tuesday morning (May 18), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has confirmed that it has ensured the safe return of 5,600 boats, rescued six personnel, and rerouted 335 merchant vessels.

With the storm having crossed the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka, Goa and Lakshadweep islands on India’s West Coast, the maritime force has said that there has been no loss of life at sea. The Coast Guard also added that their pre-emptive measures are focused on Maharashtra and Gujarat, which are expected to bear the brunt of the landfall.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-dead-as-powerful-cyclone-heads-for-india-385429" hreflang="en">Four dead as powerful cyclone heads for India</a>

Based on information from the fisheries authorities of the respective states, the ICG has said that all boats were accounted for and are safely tucked in harbour, while response operations for Tug Alliance and MV Coromondel, both off the coast of Karnataka are underway.&nbsp;

ICG Remote Operating Stations are constantly relaying weather alert messages in Indian languages on MMB radio for the seafarers and fishermen. In addition to this, Navtex warnings are being issued regularly and International Safety Net (ISN) has been activated to alert the vessels in and transiting through the area.

Ships at anchorage have also been advised to take shelter and necessary safety measures. Port authorities, Oil rig operators, shipping, fisheries authorities and fishermen associations have been forewarned about the cyclone and a close liaison and coordination for the safety of these platforms are being maintained.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-lockdown-tightened-further-night-and-weekend-curfew-to-remain-in-place-385089" hreflang="en">Tamil Nadu: Lockdown tightened further, night and weekend curfew to remain in place</a>

According to the agency, 40 Coast Guard Disaster Relief Teams (DRTs) with inflatable boats, Lifebuoys and lifejackets are on standby all along the western coast for undertaking disaster response operations. Medical teams and ambulances have also been kept on standby for swift mobilisation.

Right from May 11, when there were indications of a storm forming near the Lakshadweep region, ICG had geared up its preparation towards the preventive and response measures on the Western coast including Lakshadweep islands as well as the adjacent coastal states.

All the ashore, afloat and aviation units were put on high alert and by the time ‘Tauktae’, eventually formed in Lakshadweep seas, ICG Ships and aircraft had already alerted fishing boats as well as merchant vessels in the possible route of the storm.

The massive deployment of ICG assets towards preventive measures for cyclone ‘Tauktae’ has translated into 37 ship days and 75 aircraft hours at sea, said the coast guard.

With a very severe cyclonic storm 'Tauktae' predicted to make landfall near the Gujarat Coast on Tuesday morning (May 18), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has confirmed that it has ensured the safe return of 5,600 boats, rescued six personnel, and rerouted 335 merchant vessels.

With a very severe cyclonic storm 'Tauktae' predicted to make landfall near the Gujarat Coast on Tuesday morning (May 18), the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has confirmed that it has ensured the safe return of 5,600 boats, rescued six personnel, and rerouted 335 merchant vessels. With the storm having crossed the southern states of Kerala, Karnataka, Goa and Lakshadweep islands on India’s West Coast, the maritime force has said that there has been no loss of life at sea. The Coast Guard also added that their pre-emptive measures are focused on Maharashtra and Gujarat, which are expected to bear the brunt of the landfall. Also read | Four dead as powerful cyclone heads for India Based on information from the fisheries authorities of the respective states, the ICG has said that all boats were accounted for and are safely tucked in harbour, while response operations for Tug Alliance and MV Coromondel, both off the coast of Karnataka are underway. ICG Remote Operating Stations are constantly relaying weather alert messages in Indian languages on MMB radio for the seafarers and fishermen. In addition to this, Navtex warnings are being issued regularly and International Safety Net (ISN) has been activated to alert the vessels in and transiting through the area. Ships at anchorage have also been advised to take shelter and necessary safety measures. Port authorities, Oil rig operators, shipping, fisheries authorities and fishermen associations have been forewarned about the cyclone and a close liaison and coordination for the safety of these platforms are being maintained. Also read | Tamil Nadu: Lockdown tightened further, night and weekend curfew to remain in place According to the agency, 40 Coast Guard Disaster Relief Teams (DRTs) with inflatable boats, Lifebuoys and lifejackets are on standby all along the western coast for undertaking disaster response operations. Medical teams and ambulances have also been kept on standby for swift mobilisation. Right from May 11, when there were indications of a storm forming near the Lakshadweep region, ICG had geared up its preparation towards the preventive and response measures on the Western coast including Lakshadweep islands as well as the adjacent coastal states. All the ashore, afloat and aviation units were put on high alert and by the time ‘Tauktae’, eventually formed in Lakshadweep seas, ICG Ships and aircraft had already alerted fishing boats as well as merchant vessels in the possible route of the storm. The massive deployment of ICG assets towards preventive measures for cyclone ‘Tauktae’ has translated into 37 ship days and 75 aircraft hours at sea, said the coast guard.

Cyclone Tauktae: No loss of life at sea, 5600 boats back to safety, says Indian Coast Guard

With over 31,000 daily COVID-19 cases in the state and nearly 7,000 cases in Chennai city, the Tamil Nadu government has imposed restrictions in addition to the ongoing lockdown from May 10 to 24.

The decision to tighten the lockdown measures has been taken after consent from representatives of all major political parties, in an all-party meeting held on Thursday. As of Friday evening, the government bulletin had reported 195,000 active cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-young-scientists-at-isros-vssc-develop-ventilators-oxygen-concentrators-385016" hreflang="en">Exclusive: Young scientists at ISRO’s VSSC develop ventilators, oxygen concentrators</a>

All new curbs will come into place from 4 am on May 15 (Saturday) and will remain in place till May 24.&nbsp;

As per the new restrictions, the working hours of standalone grocery shops, supermarkets, meat shops, etc. will be from 6 am to 10 am. These shops must operate without air-conditioning and must permit only 50 per cent footfall. However, e-commerce services such as Dunzo and others will be allowed to deliver supplies from 6 am to10 am. Whereas, other E-commerce firms would be permitted to deliver goods between 2 pm and 6 pm.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-tauktae-to-hit-southern-india-heavy-rains-predicted-in-3-states-384979" hreflang="en">Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states</a>

While fuel stations, ATMs and&nbsp;medical shops will be open, all other stores including footpath vendors selling vegetables, flowers have been asked to go under lockdown. Tea shops too would remain closed too.&nbsp;

E-pass has been made mandatory for domestic and even inter-district travellers (who are going for essentials such as weddings, funerals, caregiving for elderly etc.) and is to be availed on eregister.tnega.org. The E-pass would be required from 6 am of May&nbsp;17.

The existing night curfew from 10 pm to 4 am and the Sunday total lockdown will continue to be in effect.&nbsp;

With over 31,000 daily COVID-19 cases in the state and nearly 7,000 cases in Chennai city, the Tamil Nadu government has imposed restrictions in addition to the ongoing lockdown from May 10 to 24.

With over 31,000 daily COVID-19 cases in the state and nearly 7,000 cases in Chennai city, the Tamil Nadu government has imposed restrictions in addition to the ongoing lockdown from May 10 to 24. The decision to tighten the lockdown measures has been taken after consent from representatives of all major political parties, in an all-party meeting held on Thursday. As of Friday evening, the government bulletin had reported 195,000 active cases. Also read | Exclusive: Young scientists at ISRO’s VSSC develop ventilators, oxygen concentrators All new curbs will come into place from 4 am on May 15 (Saturday) and will remain in place till May 24. As per the new restrictions, the working hours of standalone grocery shops, supermarkets, meat shops, etc. will be from 6 am to 10 am. These shops must operate without air-conditioning and must permit only 50 per cent footfall. However, e-commerce services such as Dunzo and others will be allowed to deliver supplies from 6 am to10 am. Whereas, other E-commerce firms would be permitted to deliver goods between 2 pm and 6 pm. Also read | Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states While fuel stations, ATMs and medical shops will be open, all other stores including footpath vendors selling vegetables, flowers have been asked to go under lockdown. Tea shops too would remain closed too. E-pass has been made mandatory for domestic and even inter-district travellers (who are going for essentials such as weddings, funerals, caregiving for elderly etc.) and is to be availed on eregister.tnega.org. The E-pass would be required from 6 am of May 17. The existing night curfew from 10 pm to 4 am and the Sunday total lockdown will continue to be in effect.

Tamil Nadu: Lockdown tightened further, night and weekend curfew to remain in place

Pan-India lockdown, local government restrictions and the new normal of work from home (WFH) have not deterred India’s best brains working at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

The first and second waves of the pandemic&nbsp;have affected the schedule of the core space-related activities at ISRO. However, even while working from home, ISRO's scientists have been immensely contributing to the country's COVID-19 fight by developing crucial medical equipment such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators and more.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sputnik-v-in-india-vaccine-to-cost-rs-995-per-shot-made-in-india-may-be-cheaper-384959" hreflang="en">Sputnik V in India: Vaccine to cost ₹ 995 per shot, made in India may be cheaper</a>

Dr&nbsp;S Somanath, Director, Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram, described the in-house medical technologies that are ready for industry adoption, free of cost.&nbsp;

Under the series 'Prana', three variants of ventilators that are fitted with displays and controls, have been developed by the ISRO teams from VSSC, based on modifications to existing designs and also based on their own unique, patented designs. The first one is similar to the AMBU-bags (artificial manual breathing unit), but this homegrown variant can deliver a good amount of volume and pressure, thanks to its unique design and proper actuation system.&nbsp;

A high-end ventilator, with pneumatic regulation (operated by air under pressure) has also been developed by this team and this offering is said to cost nearly Indian rupees 100,000, which is just about half or one-third the price of similar industry offerings.&nbsp;

ALso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/extended-gap-between-two-doses-of-covishield-reasonable-approach-says-anthony-fauci-384926" hreflang="en">Extended gap between two doses of Covishield reasonable approach, says Anthony Fauci</a>

The most unique of them all is a ventilator that does not require power or an electric motor, drive. Using compressed air and certain other technological features, it can facilitate the inhale-exhale cycle.

"All of this medical equipment have been designed and developed to WHO standards, our quality and testing teams worked with doctors for evaluating the devices. The electronics, controls, software, circuits, ventilators and oxygen concentrators are all developed in-house by our young scientists, but we will be giving it free to the industry for mass manufacture. This technology will be handed over to technically competent industries and many have approached us already, so it is expected to be ready in a week’s time." Dr Somanath told WION.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/tamil-superstar-rajinikanth-gets-covid-jab-daughter-shares-photo-on-twitter-384795" hreflang="en">Tamil superstar Rajinikanth gets Covid jab, daughter shares photo on Twitter</a>

As India's lead centre for building rockets and related technology, VSSC has the distinction of having engineers from across domains. It was this wide-ranging engineering expertise, coupled with immense knowledge of design, materials, mechanics and software that made these indigenous developments possible within a short span.&nbsp;

In designing and developing the oxygen concentrator,&nbsp;'Shwaas', ISRO took some valuable lessons from the country's upcoming human spaceflight programme Gaganyaan, for which they were developing carbon dioxide removal systems.

Despite the technology of oxygen concentrators being well-known and established, a vast majority of the oxygen concentrators being used in India are imported ones. Hence, ISRO focused on engineering with a unique technology that absorbs nitrogen (the largest constituent gas) from the air using molecular absorption.

Simply put, the air is pumped through a chemical column, which absorbs the nitrogen and provides oxygen of around 95 per cent&nbsp;purity. This equipment can function non-stop for up to a year, following which the chemical used in the absorption process (which is available in the market) will have to be replaced.&nbsp;

With the capability to provide 10 litres of oxygen per minute, it can simultaneously provide support for two regular patients or one critical patient. The prototype of this variant is already in operation at the VSSC hospital and it is expected to cost no more than INR 50,000.

"These medical equipment are not under our area of work, it requires a deep understanding of human physiology, breathing process etc. Such devices aiding respiration must be able to sense,&nbsp;sync with unique breathing patterns and assist doctors in saving lives. So, our young engineers, most of whom are in their 20s and 30s studied the theory and explored the processes to make this happen. It was a collaborative effort between several teams largely working from home and partly from labs, under the guidance of seniors and technicians. Ours is highly inspired work culture, it's not just about building rockets, we are ready to take on any challenge with our enthusiasm and ideas,"&nbsp;Dr S. Somanath says with pride.&nbsp;

The Indian government-run space agency has also been providing liquid oxygen to state governments in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, from their manufacturing facilities or from existing stock. It is important to note that liquid oxygen, known as (Lox) in aerospace parlance, is a crucial resource for any modern space agency, as it is used as an oxidizer in cryogenic engines that power large rockets.

ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, which is responsible for the production of cryogenic fuels has been supplying liquid oxygen to the state governments in Tamil Nadu and adjoining Kerala.&nbsp;

"IPRC has supplied over 150 tons of Lox to Kerala and Tamil Nadu governments since April 24 and continues to do so. Our daily production capacity was 2.5 tons, but we have progressively scaled up to 11 tons per day by working round-the-clock with more staff. Around 20 tons of Lox stored at our spaceport in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh has also been provided to the state government," Dr K.Sivan, Chairman, ISRO told WION.&nbsp;

ISRO has also provided the large capacity fuel tanks at their facilities to be repurposed and used as stores of liquid oxygen in various states. These tanks serve as a hub for mass storage of liquid oxygen, following which they can be distributed to the healthcare facilities in the region.&nbsp;

Pan-India lockdown, local government restrictions and the new normal of work from home (WFH) have not deterred India’s best brains working at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Pan-India lockdown, local government restrictions and the new normal of work from home (WFH) have not deterred India’s best brains working at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The first and second waves of the pandemic have affected the schedule of the core space-related activities at ISRO. However, even while working from home, ISRO's scientists have been immensely contributing to the country's COVID-19 fight by developing crucial medical equipment such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators and more. Also read | Sputnik V in India: Vaccine to cost ₹ 995 per shot, made in India may be cheaper Dr S Somanath, Director, Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram, described the in-house medical technologies that are ready for industry adoption, free of cost. Under the series 'Prana', three variants of ventilators that are fitted with displays and controls, have been developed by the ISRO teams from VSSC, based on modifications to existing designs and also based on their own unique, patented designs. The first one is similar to the AMBU-bags (artificial manual breathing unit), but this homegrown variant can deliver a good amount of volume and pressure, thanks to its unique design and proper actuation system. A high-end ventilator, with pneumatic regulation (operated by air under pressure) has also been developed by this team and this offering is said to cost nearly Indian rupees 100,000, which is just about half or one-third the price of similar industry offerings. ALso read | Extended gap between two doses of Covishield reasonable approach, says Anthony Fauci The most unique of them all is a ventilator that does not require power or an electric motor, drive. Using compressed air and certain other technological features, it can facilitate the inhale-exhale cycle. "All of this medical equipment have been designed and developed to WHO standards, our quality and testing teams worked with doctors for evaluating the devices. The electronics, controls, software, circuits, ventilators and oxygen concentrators are all developed in-house by our young scientists, but we will be giving it free to the industry for mass manufacture. This technology will be handed over to technically competent industries and many have approached us already, so it is expected to be ready in a week’s time." Dr Somanath told WION. Also read | Tamil superstar Rajinikanth gets Covid jab, daughter shares photo on Twitter As India's lead centre for building rockets and related technology, VSSC has the distinction of having engineers from across domains. It was this wide-ranging engineering expertise, coupled with immense knowledge of design, materials, mechanics and software that made these indigenous developments possible within a short span. In designing and developing the oxygen concentrator, 'Shwaas', ISRO took some valuable lessons from the country's upcoming human spaceflight programme Gaganyaan, for which they were developing carbon dioxide removal systems. Despite the technology of oxygen concentrators being well-known and established, a vast majority of the oxygen concentrators being used in India are imported ones. Hence, ISRO focused on engineering with a unique technology that absorbs nitrogen (the largest constituent gas) from the air using molecular absorption. Simply put, the air is pumped through a chemical column, which absorbs the nitrogen and provides oxygen of around 95 per cent purity. This equipment can function non-stop for up to a year, following which the chemical used in the absorption process (which is available in the market) will have to be replaced. With the capability to provide 10 litres of oxygen per minute, it can simultaneously provide support for two regular patients or one critical patient. The prototype of this variant is already in operation at the VSSC hospital and it is expected to cost no more than INR 50,000. "These medical equipment are not under our area of work, it requires a deep understanding of human physiology, breathing process etc. Such devices aiding respiration must be able to sense, sync with unique breathing patterns and assist doctors in saving lives. So, our young engineers, most of whom are in their 20s and 30s studied the theory and explored the processes to make this happen. It was a collaborative effort between several teams largely working from home and partly from labs, under the guidance of seniors and technicians. Ours is highly inspired work culture, it's not just about building rockets, we are ready to take on any challenge with our enthusiasm and ideas," Dr S. Somanath says with pride. The Indian government-run space agency has also been providing liquid oxygen to state governments in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, from their manufacturing facilities or from existing stock. It is important to note that liquid oxygen, known as (Lox) in aerospace parlance, is a crucial resource for any modern space agency, as it is used as an oxidizer in cryogenic engines that power large rockets. ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, which is responsible for the production of cryogenic fuels has been supplying liquid oxygen to the state governments in Tamil Nadu and adjoining Kerala. "IPRC has supplied over 150 tons of Lox to Kerala and Tamil Nadu governments since April 24 and continues to do so. Our daily production capacity was 2.5 tons, but we have progressively scaled up to 11 tons per day by working round-the-clock with more staff. Around 20 tons of Lox stored at our spaceport in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh has also been provided to the state government," Dr K.Sivan, Chairman, ISRO told WION. ISRO has also provided the large capacity fuel tanks at their facilities to be repurposed and used as stores of liquid oxygen in various states. These tanks serve as a hub for mass storage of liquid oxygen, following which they can be distributed to the healthcare facilities in the region.

Exclusive: Young scientists at ISRO’s VSSC develop ventilators, oxygen concentrators

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is actively repurposing existing resources, scaling up production capacity of their facilities and also transferring technology&nbsp;to aid the country’s fight against the severe second wave of COVID-19. In an exclusive conversation with Zee Media, Dr. K. Sivan, Chairman, ISRO elaborated on how the premier space agency’s facilities across the country have been contributing to India's fight against Covid.

According to Dr. K. Sivan, ISRO is no exception to the prevalent Covid situation across the country and their staff across facilities are infected, thus affecting the pace of their activities. However, he says that the organisation is doing the best possible amid the crisis and helping in every possible manner.&nbsp;

The Indian Government-run space agency has been providing liquid oxygen to state governments in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh&nbsp;from their manufacturing facilities or from existing stock. It is important to note that liquid oxygen, known as (Lox) in the aerospace and science parlance, is a crucial resource for any modern space agency, as it is used as an oxidiser in cryogenic engines that power large rockets.

ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, which is responsible for the production of cryogenic fuels has been supplying liquid oxygen to the state governments in Tamil Nadu and adjoining Kerala.&nbsp;

“IPRC has supplied over 150 tonnes of Lox to Kerala and Tamil Nadu Governments since 24th April and continues to do so. Our daily production capacity is 2.5 tonnes, but we have progressively scaled up to 11 tonnes per day by working round-the-clock with more staff. Around 20 tonnes of Lox stored at our spaceport in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh has also been provided to the state government” Dr. Sivan said.&nbsp;

Cryogenic fuels, as the name suggests, have to be stored at very low temperatures. As far as ISRO’s rockets are concerned their cryogenic engines are fuelled by liquid hydrogen, where oxygen serves as an oxidiser. Globally, Kerosene, methane are also used as rocket fuels, along with liquid oxygen as the oxidiser. ISRO has already developed ISROsene (rocket grade Kerosene) to power its future semi-cryogenic engines and their teams are working on using methane to power rockets.&nbsp;

ISRO has also provided the large capacity fuel tanks at their facilities to be repurposed and used as stores of liquid oxygen in various states. These tanks serve as a hub for mass storage of liquid oxygen, following which they can be distributed to the healthcare facilities in the region.&nbsp;

“Our Space Applications Center in Ahmedabad has nitrogen storage tanks with a capacity of 40,000 litres and 1 lakh litres, they were made suitable for storing Oxygen and the Gujarat government has been utilising them. Similarly, at the UR Rao Satellite Center in Bengaluru, we are ready to convert our large storage tanks for Lox storage. The Lox supplies we had in Chandigarh also have been provided to the government” Dr. Sivan added.&nbsp;

The pandemic has impacted ISRO’s mission schedule for 2021 and subsequent projects, with a good number staff (as possible, based on roles) working from home, as per government guidelines and lockdowns at the state level. Despite the pandemic-induced challenges faced by the agency, they are also working on transferring technology of oxygen Concentrators and ventilators developed in-house, to Indian industry for mass manufacture, which will help serve the nation’s needs.&nbsp;

Earlier this year in its maiden launch, in February, ISRO had launched a Brazilian satellite Amazonia-1 on a commercial arrangement. ISRO is expected to launch GISAT-1 an advanced Earth Observation satellite in the coming months, whereas the first unmanned trial of the ambitious Gaganyaan (human spaceflight) mission has been originally scheduled for the end of the year.&nbsp;India’s third moon mission Chandrayaan-3 had also been originally slated for launch by mid-2022.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is actively repurposing existing resources, scaling up production capacity of their facilities and also transferring technology to aid the country’s fight against the severe second wave of COVID-19.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is actively repurposing existing resources, scaling up production capacity of their facilities and also transferring technology to aid the country’s fight against the severe second wave of COVID-19. In an exclusive conversation with Zee Media, Dr. K. Sivan, Chairman, ISRO elaborated on how the premier space agency’s facilities across the country have been contributing to India's fight against Covid. According to Dr. K. Sivan, ISRO is no exception to the prevalent Covid situation across the country and their staff across facilities are infected, thus affecting the pace of their activities. However, he says that the organisation is doing the best possible amid the crisis and helping in every possible manner. The Indian Government-run space agency has been providing liquid oxygen to state governments in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh from their manufacturing facilities or from existing stock. It is important to note that liquid oxygen, known as (Lox) in the aerospace and science parlance, is a crucial resource for any modern space agency, as it is used as an oxidiser in cryogenic engines that power large rockets. ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, which is responsible for the production of cryogenic fuels has been supplying liquid oxygen to the state governments in Tamil Nadu and adjoining Kerala. “IPRC has supplied over 150 tonnes of Lox to Kerala and Tamil Nadu Governments since 24th April and continues to do so. Our daily production capacity is 2.5 tonnes, but we have progressively scaled up to 11 tonnes per day by working round-the-clock with more staff. Around 20 tonnes of Lox stored at our spaceport in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh has also been provided to the state government” Dr. Sivan said. Cryogenic fuels, as the name suggests, have to be stored at very low temperatures. As far as ISRO’s rockets are concerned their cryogenic engines are fuelled by liquid hydrogen, where oxygen serves as an oxidiser. Globally, Kerosene, methane are also used as rocket fuels, along with liquid oxygen as the oxidiser. ISRO has already developed ISROsene (rocket grade Kerosene) to power its future semi-cryogenic engines and their teams are working on using methane to power rockets. ISRO has also provided the large capacity fuel tanks at their facilities to be repurposed and used as stores of liquid oxygen in various states. These tanks serve as a hub for mass storage of liquid oxygen, following which they can be distributed to the healthcare facilities in the region. “Our Space Applications Center in Ahmedabad has nitrogen storage tanks with a capacity of 40,000 litres and 1 lakh litres, they were made suitable for storing Oxygen and the Gujarat government has been utilising them. Similarly, at the UR Rao Satellite Center in Bengaluru, we are ready to convert our large storage tanks for Lox storage. The Lox supplies we had in Chandigarh also have been provided to the government” Dr. Sivan added. The pandemic has impacted ISRO’s mission schedule for 2021 and subsequent projects, with a good number staff (as possible, based on roles) working from home, as per government guidelines and lockdowns at the state level. Despite the pandemic-induced challenges faced by the agency, they are also working on transferring technology of oxygen Concentrators and ventilators developed in-house, to Indian industry for mass manufacture, which will help serve the nation’s needs. Earlier this year in its maiden launch, in February, ISRO had launched a Brazilian satellite Amazonia-1 on a commercial arrangement. ISRO is expected to launch GISAT-1 an advanced Earth Observation satellite in the coming months, whereas the first unmanned trial of the ambitious Gaganyaan (human spaceflight) mission has been originally scheduled for the end of the year. India’s third moon mission Chandrayaan-3 had also been originally slated for launch by mid-2022.

From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle

At a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing all-time-high Covid-19 cases and vaccine hesitancy, superstar Rajinikanth has taken the jab. The septuagenarian actor just returned to his Chennai home after completing the filming of his upcoming film' Annatthe' in Hyderabad.&nbsp;

Rajinikanth's daughter Soundaryaa shared a picture of the veteran actor and Dadasaheb Phalke awardee getting jabbed at a hospital in Chennai.

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Our Thalaivar gets his vaccine 👍🏻 Let us fight and win this war against Corona virus together <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThalaivarVaccinated?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThalaivarVaccinated</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TogetherWeCan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TogetherWeCan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaskOn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaskOn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StayHomeStaySafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StayHomeStaySafe</a> <a href="https://t.co/P8Gyca4zdF">pic.twitter.com/P8Gyca4zdF</a>
— soundarya rajnikanth (@soundaryaarajni) <a href="https://twitter.com/soundaryaarajni/status/1392763799329939458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It must be recalled that it was owing to Covid-19 risk, fear of his health condition (after kidney transplant in 2016) and being on immunosuppressive medication that Rajini had backed out of politics, in December 2020. According to Rajini, he had faced fluctuation in his blood pressure and had to be admitted at the Apollo hospitals in Hyderabad, while filming in December last year. This was what led to the actor's re-think and withdrawal from politics.&nbsp; 
 
He had also made a mention of his fans welfare ands well-being during the pandemic and why he did not want to risk them as well. Rajini's biggest worry, according to his then statement was the risk of exposure to large number of people, once he ventures into electoral politics, ahead of the 2021 Tamil Nadu assembly polls.&nbsp;

At a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing all-time-high Covid-19 cases and vaccine hesitancy, superstar Rajinikanth has taken the jab. The septuagenarian actor just returned to his Chennai home after completing the filming of his upcoming film' Annatthe' in Hyderabad.

At a time when Tamil Nadu is witnessing all-time-high Covid-19 cases and vaccine hesitancy, superstar Rajinikanth has taken the jab. The septuagenarian actor just returned to his Chennai home after completing the filming of his upcoming film' Annatthe' in Hyderabad. Rajinikanth's daughter Soundaryaa shared a picture of the veteran actor and Dadasaheb Phalke awardee getting jabbed at a hospital in Chennai. Our Thalaivar gets his vaccine 👍🏻 Let us fight and win this war against Corona virus together #ThalaivarVaccinated #TogetherWeCan #MaskOn #StayHomeStaySafe pic.twitter.com/P8Gyca4zdF — soundarya rajnikanth (@soundaryaarajni) May 13, 2021 × It must be recalled that it was owing to Covid-19 risk, fear of his health condition (after kidney transplant in 2016) and being on immunosuppressive medication that Rajini had backed out of politics, in December 2020. According to Rajini, he had faced fluctuation in his blood pressure and had to be admitted at the Apollo hospitals in Hyderabad, while filming in December last year. This was what led to the actor's re-think and withdrawal from politics. He had also made a mention of his fans welfare ands well-being during the pandemic and why he did not want to risk them as well. Rajini's biggest worry, according to his then statement was the risk of exposure to large number of people, once he ventures into electoral politics, ahead of the 2021 Tamil Nadu assembly polls.

Tamil superstar Rajinikanth gets Covid jab, daughter shares photo on Twitter

One cannot emphasise enough the hardships that the medical fraternity is undergoing to help the world fight COVID-19. On the occasion of International Nurses Day&nbsp;that falls on May 12th, a group of doctors and other hospital staff have made a dance video to celebrate and recogniSe the efforts of nurses who are the true frontline caregivers and healers.&nbsp;

Grooving to a version of the viral Tamil track ‘Enjoy Enjaami’, with the modified lyrics being developed in-house, Doctors and other staff of the Dr Rela Institue and Medical Center in Chennai are seen enjoying their moves in the two and a half minute video.

With some medicos clad in scrubs, some in full-body PPE kits and support staff in plainclothes, the team has pulled out all stops to depict the efforts of nurses across functions in a hospital.&nbsp;

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The lines have been tweaked to highlight the efforts and struggles of nurses - right from their selfies service, immense grit, love and care, nerve-wracking routines, sleep-deprived work-life, godly profession and the challenges they face in going about their work.

While the lyrics are in Tamil, the video has English subtitles for greater reach.&nbsp;

“We conceptualised this about a month ago and sought the help of a professional singer to arrange a recording studio and get the beats and tempo right. The entire thing was shot in two days, despite the hectic and herculean tasks before us. We wanted to deliver our best for the sake of our nurses, without whom nothing happens. They literally handle the Covid-19 patients and end up getting infected in large numbers, much more than doctors” Dr Deepashree, HoD, Interventional Radiology, who is also featured in the dance video told Zee media.&nbsp;

Despite the song and shoot being planned over a month ago, the singer, herself a doctor, tested positive for COVID-19, thus delaying the shoot by at least two weeks. In fact, the video only involved old clips of nurses caring for patients, as this was meant to be a secret exercise to appreciate their contributions on May 12th.&nbsp;

“Nurses don’t ever get the limelight, hence none will know the effort taken by the nurses. But, we Doctors are seen and are well-known, hence we wanted to make a contribution in this tribute to them. During tough times, cheering up each other is very important, especially as there’s a lot of gloom and fear going around… The nurses were happy and humbled about their work being recognized in this way” Dr Kavya Harika, Consultant Hepatologist said.

One cannot emphasise enough the hardships that the medical fraternity is undergoing to help the world fight COVID-19. On the occasion of International Nurses Day that falls on May 12th, a group of doctors and other hospital staff have made a dance video to celebrate and recogniSe the efforts of nurses who are the true frontline caregivers and healers.

One cannot emphasise enough the hardships that the medical fraternity is undergoing to help the world fight COVID-19. On the occasion of International Nurses Day that falls on May 12th, a group of doctors and other hospital staff have made a dance video to celebrate and recogniSe the efforts of nurses who are the true frontline caregivers and healers. Grooving to a version of the viral Tamil track ‘Enjoy Enjaami’, with the modified lyrics being developed in-house, Doctors and other staff of the Dr Rela Institue and Medical Center in Chennai are seen enjoying their moves in the two and a half minute video. With some medicos clad in scrubs, some in full-body PPE kits and support staff in plainclothes, the team has pulled out all stops to depict the efforts of nurses across functions in a hospital. × The lines have been tweaked to highlight the efforts and struggles of nurses - right from their selfies service, immense grit, love and care, nerve-wracking routines, sleep-deprived work-life, godly profession and the challenges they face in going about their work. While the lyrics are in Tamil, the video has English subtitles for greater reach. “We conceptualised this about a month ago and sought the help of a professional singer to arrange a recording studio and get the beats and tempo right. The entire thing was shot in two days, despite the hectic and herculean tasks before us. We wanted to deliver our best for the sake of our nurses, without whom nothing happens. They literally handle the Covid-19 patients and end up getting infected in large numbers, much more than doctors” Dr Deepashree, HoD, Interventional Radiology, who is also featured in the dance video told Zee media. Despite the song and shoot being planned over a month ago, the singer, herself a doctor, tested positive for COVID-19, thus delaying the shoot by at least two weeks. In fact, the video only involved old clips of nurses caring for patients, as this was meant to be a secret exercise to appreciate their contributions on May 12th. “Nurses don’t ever get the limelight, hence none will know the effort taken by the nurses. But, we Doctors are seen and are well-known, hence we wanted to make a contribution in this tribute to them. During tough times, cheering up each other is very important, especially as there’s a lot of gloom and fear going around… The nurses were happy and humbled about their work being recognized in this way” Dr Kavya Harika, Consultant Hepatologist said.

Watch: Indian doctors and hospital staff offer unforgettable tribute on International Nurses day

With the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD) predicting a likely Cyclone formation over the Arabian Sea region between May 14 and 16th, the Indian Coast Guard has issued alerts to fishermen in the Arabian Sea coast and South Tamil Nadu coast.&nbsp;

“Indian Coast guard has issued advisory to the fisheries department to warn the fishermen not to proceed to sea and also to return to nearest harbour in view of cyclone building up in the Arabian Sea” read the Coast guard statement.&nbsp;

Predictions from the IMD indicate the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall during 14-16th May with isolated heavy rainfall over Lakshadweep on 14th and 15th May.

Similarly, heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted over parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and interior Karnataka during 14th-16th May.&nbsp;

The IMD warning advises fishermen not to venture out to the Southeast Araban sea and adjoining Maldives, Comoric and Lakshadweep area, Kerala Coast from May 13 and east-central&nbsp;Arabian Sea and off Karnataka-Goa and Maharashtra and Goa coasts from May 14 night.

With the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD) predicting a likely Cyclone formation over the Arabian Sea region between May 14 and 16th, the Indian Coast Guard has issued alerts to fishermen in the Arabian Sea coast and South Tamil Nadu coast.

With the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD) predicting a likely Cyclone formation over the Arabian Sea region between May 14 and 16th, the Indian Coast Guard has issued alerts to fishermen in the Arabian Sea coast and South Tamil Nadu coast. “Indian Coast guard has issued advisory to the fisheries department to warn the fishermen not to proceed to sea and also to return to nearest harbour in view of cyclone building up in the Arabian Sea” read the Coast guard statement. Predictions from the IMD indicate the possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall during 14-16th May with isolated heavy rainfall over Lakshadweep on 14th and 15th May. Similarly, heavy to very heavy rainfall is predicted over parts of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and interior Karnataka during 14th-16th May. The IMD warning advises fishermen not to venture out to the Southeast Araban sea and adjoining Maldives, Comoric and Lakshadweep area, Kerala Coast from May 13 and east-central Arabian Sea and off Karnataka-Goa and Maharashtra and Goa coasts from May 14 night.

Coast guard issues cyclone warning to fishermen in south Tamil Nadu, Arabian Sea coast

The issue of release of former Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts has again come to the fore. Shortly after the regime change, an&nbsp;ally of now-ruling DMK has demanded the long-pending release of the seven convicts.

Vaiko, general secretary of MDMK has written a letter in this regard to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. MDMK is allied to Stalin's DMK.

“Despite not having committed the crime, Murugan, Santhan, Perarivalan are languishing as death-row convicts. Similarly, Nalini, Ravichandran, Robert Payas, Jeyakumar have lost their fruitful youth years languishing in jail and suffering mental agony” says Vaiko in his letter.&nbsp;

Vaiko has written to Stalin saying that the Supreme Court Chief Justice had left the decision about their release to the state government&nbsp;over two-and-a-half years ago.&nbsp;

“Despite the apex Court having urged the Governor to facilitate their release, the Governor has treated it like consigning the matter to the dustbin. There is no need to ask the Central Government regarding this issue, but people are being misled saying that the Central Government has denied permission for their release” reads the statement.&nbsp;

Vaiko referred to how the DMK has been vocal about releasing the seven convicts for a long time and urged MK Stalin to pass an order to release the seven convicts and fulfill the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

The release of the convicts in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case has been an issue that Tamil Nadu’s political parties have been dilly-dallying over for many years.

Leaders from across parties have regularly&nbsp;expressed hope for the release of the convicts, but nothing has materialized yet. In 2020, when Home Minister Amit Shah was visiting Chennai, Tamil celebrities on Twitter trended hashtags pertaining to the release of the Rajiv Case convict Perarivalan.

The issue of release of former Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts has again come to the fore. Shortly after the regime change, an ally of now-ruling DMK has demanded the long-pending release of the seven convicts.

The issue of release of former Indian PM Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts has again come to the fore. Shortly after the regime change, an ally of now-ruling DMK has demanded the long-pending release of the seven convicts. Vaiko, general secretary of MDMK has written a letter in this regard to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin. MDMK is allied to Stalin's DMK. “Despite not having committed the crime, Murugan, Santhan, Perarivalan are languishing as death-row convicts. Similarly, Nalini, Ravichandran, Robert Payas, Jeyakumar have lost their fruitful youth years languishing in jail and suffering mental agony” says Vaiko in his letter. Vaiko has written to Stalin saying that the Supreme Court Chief Justice had left the decision about their release to the state government over two-and-a-half years ago. “Despite the apex Court having urged the Governor to facilitate their release, the Governor has treated it like consigning the matter to the dustbin. There is no need to ask the Central Government regarding this issue, but people are being misled saying that the Central Government has denied permission for their release” reads the statement. Vaiko referred to how the DMK has been vocal about releasing the seven convicts for a long time and urged MK Stalin to pass an order to release the seven convicts and fulfill the wishes of the people of Tamil Nadu. The release of the convicts in Rajiv Gandhi assassination case has been an issue that Tamil Nadu’s political parties have been dilly-dallying over for many years. Leaders from across parties have regularly expressed hope for the release of the convicts, but nothing has materialized yet. In 2020, when Home Minister Amit Shah was visiting Chennai, Tamil celebrities on Twitter trended hashtags pertaining to the release of the Rajiv Case convict Perarivalan.

DMK ally urges CM Stalin to release Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts

A Tanzanian man and woman arrived in Chennai on Qatar Airways flight 528 from Johannesburg via Doha, as they did not find a direct flight to Bengaluru. &nbsp;

The woman was travelling to India for treatment in Bengaluru and was accompanied by her male attendant, on a visa that was granted based on communication from the Bengaluru hospital.&nbsp;

Air Customs officials at the Chennai International Airport who maintained a high vigil, based on Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) information regarding narcotics smuggling from African countries, intercepted the duo.&nbsp;

Senior officials said that the duo appeared nervous and gave evasive replies on being questioned, following which their baggage was examined.&nbsp;

According to officials, even when the clothes and personal belongings were emptied, the empty suitcases were noticed to be very heavy. That's when the suitcases were examined thoroughly and plastic packets were found concealed beneath the trolley rods, pasted neatly to the shell of the suitcase. In this case, they had smeared some spicy powders to also hoodwink the dog squads and make it all the more difficult to detect.

Five plastic packets were recovered from each trolley suitcase. On testing, 15.6 kg of white coarse powder suspected to be Heroin valued at INR 100 crores was recovered and seized under The NDPS Act 1985, read with Customs Act.&nbsp;

A Tanzanian man and woman arrived in Chennai on Qatar Airways flight 528 from Johannesburg via Doha, as they did not find a direct flight to Bengaluru. The woman was travelling to India for treatment in Bengaluru and was accompanied by her male attendant, on a visa that was granted based on communication from the Bengaluru hospital.

A Tanzanian man and woman arrived in Chennai on Qatar Airways flight 528 from Johannesburg via Doha, as they did not find a direct flight to Bengaluru. The woman was travelling to India for treatment in Bengaluru and was accompanied by her male attendant, on a visa that was granted based on communication from the Bengaluru hospital. Air Customs officials at the Chennai International Airport who maintained a high vigil, based on Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) information regarding narcotics smuggling from African countries, intercepted the duo. Senior officials said that the duo appeared nervous and gave evasive replies on being questioned, following which their baggage was examined. According to officials, even when the clothes and personal belongings were emptied, the empty suitcases were noticed to be very heavy. That's when the suitcases were examined thoroughly and plastic packets were found concealed beneath the trolley rods, pasted neatly to the shell of the suitcase. In this case, they had smeared some spicy powders to also hoodwink the dog squads and make it all the more difficult to detect. Five plastic packets were recovered from each trolley suitcase. On testing, 15.6 kg of white coarse powder suspected to be Heroin valued at INR 100 crores was recovered and seized under The NDPS Act 1985, read with Customs Act.

Two Tanzanian nationals arrested for smuggling in Heroin worth INR 100cr

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting immediate supply of additional medical oxygen, in line with what was agreed in government meetings held on May 1 and 2.

The letter mentions that Tamil Nadu is facing a looming oxygen crisis and that the requirement of medical oxygen is projected to go from the current 440MT to 840MT.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Referring to the National Oxygen Plan, Stalin says that only 220MT was allocated for Tamil Nadu, following which the officials had requested DPIIT&nbsp;(on May 1 and 2) for an immediate supply. It is added that despite DPITT having agreed to provide 476MT of medical oxygen, such an order has not been issued.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The letter,&nbsp;which was released to the media,&nbsp;also adds that revised allotment orders for nearly 220MTs of medical oxygen from sources in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Rourkela are awaited.&nbsp;

Besides mentioning the death of 13 patients at the&nbsp;Chengalpattu&nbsp;Government hospital near Chennai a few days back, Stalin also requested the Central Government to provide at least 20 ISO Cryogenic Containers and trains to transport oxygen to Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Friday, Tamil Nadu witnessed 26,465 new COVID-19 cases, 22.381 recoveries, thus taking the active cases to 1,35,355. 197 deaths were recorded over the last 24 hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting immediate supply of additional medical oxygen, in line with what was agreed in government meetings held on May 1 and 2.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting immediate supply of additional medical oxygen, in line with what was agreed in government meetings held on May 1 and 2. The letter mentions that Tamil Nadu is facing a looming oxygen crisis and that the requirement of medical oxygen is projected to go from the current 440MT to 840MT. Referring to the National Oxygen Plan, Stalin says that only 220MT was allocated for Tamil Nadu, following which the officials had requested DPIIT (on May 1 and 2) for an immediate supply. It is added that despite DPITT having agreed to provide 476MT of medical oxygen, such an order has not been issued. The letter, which was released to the media, also adds that revised allotment orders for nearly 220MTs of medical oxygen from sources in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Rourkela are awaited. Besides mentioning the death of 13 patients at the Chengalpattu Government hospital near Chennai a few days back, Stalin also requested the Central Government to provide at least 20 ISO Cryogenic Containers and trains to transport oxygen to Tamil Nadu. On Friday, Tamil Nadu witnessed 26,465 new COVID-19 cases, 22.381 recoveries, thus taking the active cases to 1,35,355. 197 deaths were recorded over the last 24 hours.

Oxygen availability in Tamil Nadu critical, Stalin writes to PM Modi 

In his first move as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin has signed five orders that are aimed at fulfilling some of his poll promises and COVID-19 relief measures.&nbsp;

As per the government, at the cost of INR 4153.39 cr to the state exchequer, INR 2,000 would be provided in the month of May as COVID-19&nbsp;relief for rice-card holders, which covers about 2.07cr families. This is the first installment of the COVID-19&nbsp;aid that was announced as a poll promise.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kamal-haasans-political-party-makkal-needhi-maiam-crumbles-sees-multiple-resignations-383333" hreflang="en">Kamal Haasan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam crumbles, sees multiple resignations</a>

In another measure announced to fulfill a poll promise, Aavin, the state-run milk producers union, has been asked to slash prices of milk by 3 rupees per litre in their retail outlets. This will be effective from May 16.&nbsp;

Stalin has also implemented free travel (without tickets) for all women including those pursuing higher education, working in government institutions and also in&nbsp;ordinary buses. The government would pay INR 1,200cr to the State Transport Corporation as a subsidy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mk-stalins-cabinet-to-have-33-ministers-his-son-not-included-only-2-women-383254" hreflang="en">MK Stalin’s cabinet to have 33 ministers; his son not included, only 2 women</a>

The state government would bear the costs of treatment for COVID-19&nbsp;patients incurred in private hospitals under the Chief Minster’s Healthcare scheme.

He has also signalled the formation of a new department headed by an IAS officer to solve the issues faced by the people. Stalin had collected grievances from people across the state during his tours and assured people of resolving them within 100 days of coming to power. This initiative would be called “Chief Minister in your Constituency”.&nbsp;

COVID-19 is expected to be the major challenge for the new administration, as experts predict that handling the situation over the next two months would be crucial for Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

After being sworn in at the Raj Bhavan by Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Stalin headed for his late father and former Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi’s residence in Gopalapuram to pay his respects.

He turned emotional and was consoled by his sister Selvi.

At Raj Bhavan during the oath-taking, Stalin’s wife Durga too turned emotional on hearing her husband saying "I Muthuvel Karunanidhi…."&nbsp;while being administered the oath.

&nbsp;

In his first move as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin has signed five orders that are aimed at fulfilling some of his poll promises and COVID-19 relief measures.

In his first move as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, MK Stalin has signed five orders that are aimed at fulfilling some of his poll promises and COVID-19 relief measures. As per the government, at the cost of INR 4153.39 cr to the state exchequer, INR 2,000 would be provided in the month of May as COVID-19 relief for rice-card holders, which covers about 2.07cr families. This is the first installment of the COVID-19 aid that was announced as a poll promise. Also read | Kamal Haasan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam crumbles, sees multiple resignations In another measure announced to fulfill a poll promise, Aavin, the state-run milk producers union, has been asked to slash prices of milk by 3 rupees per litre in their retail outlets. This will be effective from May 16. Stalin has also implemented free travel (without tickets) for all women including those pursuing higher education, working in government institutions and also in ordinary buses. The government would pay INR 1,200cr to the State Transport Corporation as a subsidy. Also read | MK Stalin’s cabinet to have 33 ministers; his son not included, only 2 women The state government would bear the costs of treatment for COVID-19 patients incurred in private hospitals under the Chief Minster’s Healthcare scheme. He has also signalled the formation of a new department headed by an IAS officer to solve the issues faced by the people. Stalin had collected grievances from people across the state during his tours and assured people of resolving them within 100 days of coming to power. This initiative would be called “Chief Minister in your Constituency”. COVID-19 is expected to be the major challenge for the new administration, as experts predict that handling the situation over the next two months would be crucial for Tamil Nadu. After being sworn in at the Raj Bhavan by Governor Banwarilal Purohit, Stalin headed for his late father and former Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi’s residence in Gopalapuram to pay his respects. He turned emotional and was consoled by his sister Selvi. At Raj Bhavan during the oath-taking, Stalin’s wife Durga too turned emotional on hearing her husband saying "I Muthuvel Karunanidhi…." while being administered the oath.

Tamil Nadu: MK Stalin signs five orders on poll promises, COVID-19 relief on day 1

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