Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

"For God's sake, this man [Putin] cannot remain in power," United States President Joe Biden said this to a crowd in Warsaw, Poland on Saturday (March 26) while condemning Russia's month-long invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

The comments appeared to be a call for Putin's exit and went viral in no time. However, it sent the Biden administration rushing course-correction and giving explanations.&nbsp;

Biden's comments were delivered during the close of three days of marathon diplomacy. The remarks were termed a "horrendous gaffe" by one Republican senator.&nbsp;

US Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), a ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told CNN: "He gave a good speech at the end, but as you pointed out already, there was a horrendous gaffe right at the end of it."&nbsp;

During his address, Biden cast Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a battle in a much broader conflict between democracy and autocracy.&nbsp;

"The battle for democracy could not conclude and did not conclude with the end of the Cold War. Over the last 30 years, the forces of autocracy have revived all across the globe," Biden said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-zelensky-says-ukraine-ready-to-discuss-adopting-neutral-status-466182">President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status</a>

Biden and other Western allies have been aiming at presenting a determined front against Russia's invasion.

However, the 'regime change' comments had risks that could have, to some extent,&nbsp;jeopardised efforts being done to defuse the situation.&nbsp;

In the aftermath of the incident, which apparently caught even US advisors off guard, the White House clarified within minutes that Biden was not advocating "regime change" in Russia.&nbsp;

Hours earlier Biden had described the Russian President as a "butcher".&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that he thinks the President "made the point last night that", quite simply, President Putin cannot be empowered to wage war or engage in aggression against Ukraine or anyone else.&nbsp;

"As you know, and as you have heard us say repeatedly, we do not have a strategy of regime change in Russia - or anywhere else, for that matter," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/refrain-from-publishing-russia-warns-media-says-dont-report-interview-with-zelensky-466209">'Refrain from publishing': Russia warns media, says don't report interview with Zelensky</a>

The Russia and Ukraine conflict has already escalated with reports of multiple loss of lives and massive destruction.&nbsp;Amid all the chaos, such comments can act as a catalyst to aggravate the situation further.&nbsp;

Even France's President Emmanuel Macron warned such language could "escalate" a conflict the United States and its NATO allies have sought at all costs to contain. It can even undercut Western efforts to help suffering Ukrainians.&nbsp;

And as long as gaffes are concerned, Biden has a decades-long reputation for unfortunate off-the-cuff remarks.&nbsp;

Risch said the president had again shot himself in the foot. He told the media outlet, "I wish he would stay on script."

"I think most people who don’t deal in the lane of foreign relations don’t realize that those nine words that he uttered would cause the kind of eruption they did,"&nbsp;Risch added.&nbsp;

"Anytime you say, or even as he did suggest, that the policy was regime change, it’s gonna cause a huge problem," the&nbsp;senator added.&nbsp;

Top media outlets and newspapers have previously listed his "top 10 gaffes of all time".&nbsp;

The comments then a U-turn is a clear example that world leaders should keep a filter while speaking regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Biden admin's course-correction over 'regime change in Russia' remark

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. "For God's sake, this man [Putin] cannot remain in power," United States President Joe Biden said this to a crowd in Warsaw, Poland on Saturday (March 26) while condemning Russia's month-long invasion of Ukraine. The comments appeared to be a call for Putin's exit and went viral in no time. However, it sent the Biden administration rushing course-correction and giving explanations. Biden's comments were delivered during the close of three days of marathon diplomacy. The remarks were termed a "horrendous gaffe" by one Republican senator. US Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), a ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told CNN: "He gave a good speech at the end, but as you pointed out already, there was a horrendous gaffe right at the end of it." During his address, Biden cast Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a battle in a much broader conflict between democracy and autocracy. "The battle for democracy could not conclude and did not conclude with the end of the Cold War. Over the last 30 years, the forces of autocracy have revived all across the globe," Biden said. ALSO READ | President Zelensky says Ukraine ready to discuss adopting neutral status Biden and other Western allies have been aiming at presenting a determined front against Russia's invasion. However, the 'regime change' comments had risks that could have, to some extent, jeopardised efforts being done to defuse the situation. In the aftermath of the incident, which apparently caught even US advisors off guard, the White House clarified within minutes that Biden was not advocating "regime change" in Russia. Hours earlier Biden had described the Russian President as a "butcher". US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that he thinks the President "made the point last night that", quite simply, President Putin cannot be empowered to wage war or engage in aggression against Ukraine or anyone else. "As you know, and as you have heard us say repeatedly, we do not have a strategy of regime change in Russia - or anywhere else, for that matter," he added. ALSO READ | 'Refrain from publishing': Russia warns media, says don't report interview with Zelensky The Russia and Ukraine conflict has already escalated with reports of multiple loss of lives and massive destruction. Amid all the chaos, such comments can act as a catalyst to aggravate the situation further. Even France's President Emmanuel Macron warned such language could "escalate" a conflict the United States and its NATO allies have sought at all costs to contain. It can even undercut Western efforts to help suffering Ukrainians. And as long as gaffes are concerned, Biden has a decades-long reputation for unfortunate off-the-cuff remarks. Risch said the president had again shot himself in the foot. He told the media outlet, "I wish he would stay on script." "I think most people who don’t deal in the lane of foreign relations don’t realize that those nine words that he uttered would cause the kind of eruption they did," Risch added. "Anytime you say, or even as he did suggest, that the policy was regime change, it’s gonna cause a huge problem," the senator added. Top media outlets and newspapers have previously listed his "top 10 gaffes of all time". The comments then a U-turn is a clear example that world leaders should keep a filter while speaking regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. WATCH | Biden admin's course-correction over 'regime change in Russia' remark ×

What does Joe Biden's 'horrendous gaffe' over Ukraine mean?

The House committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol released a report Sunday laying out reasons to charge two allies of former President Donald Trump's with criminal contempt of Congress for their participation in efforts to overturn the 2020 election and their subsequent refusal to comply with the panel’s subpoenas.

In a 34-page report, the panel argued that the allies — Peter Navarro, a former White House adviser, and Dan Scavino Jr., a former deputy chief of staff — were closely involved in efforts to keep Trump in power even after he lost decisively at the polls.

The committee is set to hold a public vote on whether to recommend the charges Monday. A contempt of Congress charge carries a penalty of up to a year in jail. A recommendation from the panel would send the matter to the full House, which would then have to vote to refer the charge to the Justice Department.

Navarro and Scavino are among a handful of Trump’s closest allies who have refused to sit for interviews or turn over documents even as more than 750 witnesses — including other top White House officials — have complied with the committee’s requests.

The committee said Navarro had worked with Steve Bannon, another Trump ally, to carry out a plan to delay Congress’ certification of the election on Jan. 6, 2021, and ultimately change the election’s outcome. Navarro said more than 100 members of Congress had signed on to the plan.

Navarro also wrote a report alleging a stolen election, which was widely shared with others working to overturn the election. Navarro claimed Trump “himself had distributed Volume 1 of the report to every member of the House and Senate” before Jan. 6, 2021.

The committee issued a subpoena in February to Navarro, but he said he would not comply, citing Trump’s invocation of executive privilege over White House materials from his time in office.

When committee staff members emailed him seeking his lawyer’s name, he replied: “No counsel. Executive privilege.”

The committee argues that Navarro’s work trying to overturn the election was not a part of his official duties and not covered by executive privilege.

As for Scavino, the committee said he had worked with Trump to spread false information via social media regarding election fraud and had recruited a crowd to Washington on that Jan. 6.

The House committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol released a report Sunday laying out reasons to charge two allies of former President Donald Trump's with criminal contempt of Congress for their participation in efforts to overturn the 2020 election and their subsequent refusal to comply with the panel’s subpoenas.

The House committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol released a report Sunday laying out reasons to charge two allies of former President Donald Trump's with criminal contempt of Congress for their participation in efforts to overturn the 2020 election and their subsequent refusal to comply with the panel’s subpoenas. In a 34-page report, the panel argued that the allies — Peter Navarro, a former White House adviser, and Dan Scavino Jr., a former deputy chief of staff — were closely involved in efforts to keep Trump in power even after he lost decisively at the polls. The committee is set to hold a public vote on whether to recommend the charges Monday. A contempt of Congress charge carries a penalty of up to a year in jail. A recommendation from the panel would send the matter to the full House, which would then have to vote to refer the charge to the Justice Department. Navarro and Scavino are among a handful of Trump’s closest allies who have refused to sit for interviews or turn over documents even as more than 750 witnesses — including other top White House officials — have complied with the committee’s requests. The committee said Navarro had worked with Steve Bannon, another Trump ally, to carry out a plan to delay Congress’ certification of the election on Jan. 6, 2021, and ultimately change the election’s outcome. Navarro said more than 100 members of Congress had signed on to the plan. Navarro also wrote a report alleging a stolen election, which was widely shared with others working to overturn the election. Navarro claimed Trump “himself had distributed Volume 1 of the report to every member of the House and Senate” before Jan. 6, 2021. The committee issued a subpoena in February to Navarro, but he said he would not comply, citing Trump’s invocation of executive privilege over White House materials from his time in office. When committee staff members emailed him seeking his lawyer’s name, he replied: “No counsel. Executive privilege.” The committee argues that Navarro’s work trying to overturn the election was not a part of his official duties and not covered by executive privilege. As for Scavino, the committee said he had worked with Trump to spread false information via social media regarding election fraud and had recruited a crowd to Washington on that Jan. 6.

Jan. 6 panel makes case for contempt charges for 2 former Trump aides

Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk said on Monday (March 28) that he has "supposedly" tested positive for the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19). He, however, mentioned that he doesn't have major symptoms.&nbsp;

Terming Covid as the virus of Theseus, Musk revealed on his official Twitter handle that he has been tested positive.

He wrote, "Covid-19 is the virus of Theseus. How many gene changes before it’s not Covid-19 anymore? I supposedly have it again (sigh), but almost no symptoms."&nbsp;

Musk was recently seen dancing and joking with fans as he oversaw the handover of Tesla's first German-made cars at its Gruenhide plant in Germany last week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/different-variants-may-cause-different-long-covid-19-symptoms-says-study-466250">Different variants may cause different long COVID-19 symptoms, says study</a>

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Covid-19 is the virus of Theseus. 
 
How many gene changes before it’s not Covid-19 anymore? 
 
I supposedly have it again (sigh), but almost no symptoms.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1508356357967122434?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Previously, Musk remained had grabbed attention because of his comments on Covid, the accuracy of tests and vaccines. He had questioned the accuracy of Covid tests in November 2020 after claiming that results showed he tested positive twice and then negative twice all on the same day.&nbsp;

He then said he "most likely" has a moderate case of COVID-19, as he continued to question the accuracy of the tests.&nbsp;

He did not mention whether the results were from polymerase chain reaction tests, which are more accurate than rapid tests.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Israeli PM Naftali Bennett tests Covid-19 positive ahead of India trip

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(With inputs from agencies)

Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk said on Monday (March 28) that he has "supposedly" tested positive for the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19). He, however, mentioned that he doesn't have major symptoms.

Tesla Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk said on Monday (March 28) that he has "supposedly" tested positive for the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19). He, however, mentioned that he doesn't have major symptoms. Terming Covid as the virus of Theseus, Musk revealed on his official Twitter handle that he has been tested positive. He wrote, "Covid-19 is the virus of Theseus. How many gene changes before it’s not Covid-19 anymore? I supposedly have it again (sigh), but almost no symptoms." Musk was recently seen dancing and joking with fans as he oversaw the handover of Tesla's first German-made cars at its Gruenhide plant in Germany last week. ALSO READ | Different variants may cause different long COVID-19 symptoms, says study Covid-19 is the virus of Theseus. How many gene changes before it’s not Covid-19 anymore? I supposedly have it again (sigh), but almost no symptoms. — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 28, 2022 × Previously, Musk remained had grabbed attention because of his comments on Covid, the accuracy of tests and vaccines. He had questioned the accuracy of Covid tests in November 2020 after claiming that results showed he tested positive twice and then negative twice all on the same day. He then said he "most likely" has a moderate case of COVID-19, as he continued to question the accuracy of the tests. He did not mention whether the results were from polymerase chain reaction tests, which are more accurate than rapid tests. ALSO WATCH | Israeli PM Naftali Bennett tests Covid-19 positive ahead of India trip × (With inputs from agencies)

'Covid-19 is the virus of Theseus': Elon Musk 'supposedly' tested positive for coronavirus again

Turkey&nbsp;on Monday said a second mine which could have come from Ukraine was discovered off its coast near Bulgaria, adding that experts had been sent to defuse it.

Russia had warned more than a week ago that some aged mines that Ukrainians had deployed in the Black Sea against its invading troops had become dislodged from their cables by storms and could drift as far as the Straits of Bosphorus and the Mediterranean Sea.

On Monday, the Turkish defence ministry tweeted that "A mine was detected off Igneada near the Bulgarian border" on the Black Sea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-oligarchs-welcome-in-turkey-says-foreign-minister-mevlut-cavusoglu-465935">Russian oligarchs welcome in Turkey, says Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu</a>

"The mine has been secured... and an intervention launched to neutralise it," it said.

A first mine was found on Saturday and defused by the Turkish navy, after a fisherman had reported seeing it about two kilometres (1.2 miles) off Rumelifeneri, on the entrance of the Bosphorus north of Istanbul.

Ankara has spoken to Ukrainian and Russian authorities to follow up "coordination on this subject,"&nbsp;Turkey's defence minister said on Saturday.

In its warning on March 19, Russia's FSB security service said that "dilapidated" mines that Ukrainians had deployed against its forces had broken from their cables and were floating in the Black Sea.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-world-cannot-burn-bridges-with-moscow-465999">Turkey says world cannot 'burn bridges' with Moscow</a>

Several days ago, Turkish authorities warned on the NAVTEX maritime alert system that there was a risk of mines floating from Ukrainian waters after being dislodged from their anchors by a storm.

Underwater mines normally have to be equipped with systems that render them harmless if they break free from their anchors.

But older mines could lack &nbsp;this safety measure, Turkish media reported.

Watch | Gravitas: Turkey taking advantage of war in Ukraine?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-turkey-taking-advantage-of-war-in-ukraine-461453/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Turkey on Monday said a second mine which could have come from Ukraine was discovered off its coast near Bulgaria, adding that experts had been sent to defuse it.

Turkey on Monday said a second mine which could have come from Ukraine was discovered off its coast near Bulgaria, adding that experts had been sent to defuse it. Russia had warned more than a week ago that some aged mines that Ukrainians had deployed in the Black Sea against its invading troops had become dislodged from their cables by storms and could drift as far as the Straits of Bosphorus and the Mediterranean Sea. On Monday, the Turkish defence ministry tweeted that "A mine was detected off Igneada near the Bulgarian border" on the Black Sea. Also read | Russian oligarchs welcome in Turkey, says Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu "The mine has been secured... and an intervention launched to neutralise it," it said. A first mine was found on Saturday and defused by the Turkish navy, after a fisherman had reported seeing it about two kilometres (1.2 miles) off Rumelifeneri, on the entrance of the Bosphorus north of Istanbul. Ankara has spoken to Ukrainian and Russian authorities to follow up "coordination on this subject," Turkey's defence minister said on Saturday. In its warning on March 19, Russia's FSB security service said that "dilapidated" mines that Ukrainians had deployed against its forces had broken from their cables and were floating in the Black Sea. Also read | Turkey says world cannot 'burn bridges' with Moscow Several days ago, Turkish authorities warned on the NAVTEX maritime alert system that there was a risk of mines floating from Ukrainian waters after being dislodged from their anchors by a storm. Underwater mines normally have to be equipped with systems that render them harmless if they break free from their anchors. But older mines could lack this safety measure, Turkish media reported. Watch | Gravitas: Turkey taking advantage of war in Ukraine?

Turkey says second mine found floating off its coast

The White House's deputy&nbsp;spokeswoman&nbsp;said Sunday she has tested&nbsp;positive&nbsp;for&nbsp;Covid-19 following a trip to Europe with President Joe&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;that she only joined because the senior press secretary canceled after getting her own&nbsp;positive&nbsp;test.

The announcement by Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was the latest in a string of&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;cases among people who have spent time with&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;or people around him.

Jean-Pierre said she had a&nbsp;positive&nbsp;PCR test after returning in the early hours of Sunday to the United States with&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;from Brussels and Poland. But she said the president, who has been vaccinated and boosted, was not in danger.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-biden-not-seeking-regime-change-in-russia-clarifies-white-house-465824">&nbsp;President Biden not seeking regime change in Russia, clarifies White House</a>

"This afternoon... I took a PCR test. That test came back&nbsp;positive. I last saw the president during a socially distanced meeting yesterday, and the president is not considered a close contact as defined by CDC guidance," she said in a statement.

"I am sharing the news of my&nbsp;positive&nbsp;test today out of an abundance of transparency," said Jean-Pierre, who added that she is experiencing "mild symptoms" and has been fully vaccinated.

Last Tuesday, on the eve of&nbsp;Biden's departure, Press Secretary Jen Psaki announced she had received a&nbsp;positive&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;test. This required Jean-Pierre to fill in for Psaki on the high-profile trip, which included a series of summits in Belgium and a visit with US troops and Ukrainian refugees in Poland.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wary-of-escalation-france-calls-for-restraint-after-bidens-butcher-jibe-466052">Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe</a>

Earlier this month,&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;attended a dinner in Washington where he met with Ireland's prime minister, Micheal Martin, who then abruptly left the gala after being informed of a&nbsp;positive&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;test.

The White House said that&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;had not spent enough time with Martin to be at risk and did not require more frequent testing.

Shortly before Martin's case, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, who regularly sees&nbsp;Biden, also tested&nbsp;positive&nbsp;for&nbsp;Covid-19.

Watch |&nbsp;Biden admin's course-correction over 'regime change in Russia' remark

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The White House's deputy spokeswoman said Sunday she has tested positive for Covid-19 following a trip to Europe with President Joe Biden that she only joined because the senior press secretary canceled after getting her own positive test.

The White House's deputy spokeswoman said Sunday she has tested positive for Covid-19 following a trip to Europe with President Joe Biden that she only joined because the senior press secretary canceled after getting her own positive test. The announcement by Principal Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was the latest in a string of Covid cases among people who have spent time with Biden or people around him. Jean-Pierre said she had a positive PCR test after returning in the early hours of Sunday to the United States with Biden from Brussels and Poland. But she said the president, who has been vaccinated and boosted, was not in danger. Also read | President Biden not seeking regime change in Russia, clarifies White House "This afternoon... I took a PCR test. That test came back positive. I last saw the president during a socially distanced meeting yesterday, and the president is not considered a close contact as defined by CDC guidance," she said in a statement. "I am sharing the news of my positive test today out of an abundance of transparency," said Jean-Pierre, who added that she is experiencing "mild symptoms" and has been fully vaccinated. Last Tuesday, on the eve of Biden's departure, Press Secretary Jen Psaki announced she had received a positive Covid test. This required Jean-Pierre to fill in for Psaki on the high-profile trip, which included a series of summits in Belgium and a visit with US troops and Ukrainian refugees in Poland. Also read | Wary of escalation, France calls for restraint after Biden's 'butcher' jibe Earlier this month, Biden attended a dinner in Washington where he met with Ireland's prime minister, Micheal Martin, who then abruptly left the gala after being informed of a positive Covid test. The White House said that Biden had not spent enough time with Martin to be at risk and did not require more frequent testing. Shortly before Martin's case, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, who regularly sees Biden, also tested positive for Covid-19. Watch | Biden admin's course-correction over 'regime change in Russia' remark

Another Biden spokeswoman tests positive for Covid

In the United States, millions of genetically modified mosquitoes may soon be released in Florida and California as the country's Environmental Protection Agency has approved Oxitec's pilot projects related to mosquitoes.

In the United States, millions of genetically modified mosquitoes may soon be released in Florida and California as the country's Environmental Protection Agency has approved Oxitec's pilot projects related to mosquitoes. The UK-based biotechnology company Oxitec has developed millions of genetically modified mosquitoes that seek to ward off their natural, disease-causing counterparts. The company is said to be the leading developer of biological pest control solutions. Grey Frandsen, who is the CEO of Oxitec, said in a statement: "Our team is immensely proud to have received yet another milestone approval from the EPA." "This expansion of our U.S. efforts reflects the strong partnerships we’ve developed with a large and diverse range of stakeholders at the local, state, and national levels," Frandsen added. ALSO READ | Study shows several bird species nesting and laying eggs almost a month early Oxitec informed that two pilot projects were approved, one with the Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District (Delta MVCD) in California and one with the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) in Florida. The latest approval is also an extension of the Experimental Use Permit (EUP) granted in 2020 by the EPA for a pilot project in the Florida Keys, which was successfully carried out in 2021. As stated by the company, safe, sustainable and targeted biological pest control technology does not harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. The method is proven to control the disease-transmitting Aedes aegypti mosquito, which has invaded communities in Florida, California and other US states. ALSO READ | Drinking coffee can protect heart instead of triggering ailments, help to live longer, says study As per the Oxitec, the aim is to reduce the transmission of harmful diseases, such as dengue, Zika, yellow fever and chikungunya. The data released by the company states that in California, since first being detected in 2013, this mosquito has rapidly spread to more than 20 counties throughout the state, increasing the risk. Alongside its in-depth scientific evaluation process was a 30-day period for public comments. The EPA reviewed and responded to each public comment before issuing its approval. After the EPA's approval, Oxitec will now submit permit applications to state regulators in California and Florida for their review.

US may release billions of genetically modified male mosquitoes. Here's why

Detained former&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;leader Aung San Suu Kyi has skipped three days of her trial in a junta court after Covid-19 was detected among her staff and she was placed in quarantine, a source with knowledge of the case said Monday.

The 76-year-old's civilian government was ousted in a coup last year that triggered mass protests, and she faces a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years.

Currently on trial for alleged corruption, breaching&nbsp;Myanmar's official secrets act and pressuring the election commission, Suu Kyi has not appeared in court since last Thursday, the legal source told AFP.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/different-variants-may-cause-different-long-covid-19-symptoms-says-study-466250">Different variants may cause different long COVID-19 symptoms, says study</a>

"Some people in her company have been infected by Covid-19... and so she's kept in quarantine, although she's not infected," the source said.&nbsp;

"We are worried because we haven't been able to see her."

Former president Win Myint -- charged alongside Suu Kyi -- appeared at the court on Monday via video conferencing, the source added.

Suu Kyi and her personal staff have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 since being taken into military custody, her lawyer told AFP last July.

She missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October, her lawyer said her health had suffered from her frequent appearances before the junta-run court.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-says-will-annihilate-coup-opponents-on-crackdown-anniversary-465854">&nbsp;Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary</a>

Journalists are barred from the proceedings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw, and her lawyers have been banned from speaking to the press.

Suu Kyi was previously sentenced to a total six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she remains under house arrest while she fights other charges.

Watch |&nbsp;Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?&nbsp;

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Detained former Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has skipped three days of her trial in a junta court after Covid-19 was detected among her staff and she was placed in quarantine, a source with knowledge of the case said Monday.

Detained former Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi has skipped three days of her trial in a junta court after Covid-19 was detected among her staff and she was placed in quarantine, a source with knowledge of the case said Monday. The 76-year-old's civilian government was ousted in a coup last year that triggered mass protests, and she faces a raft of charges that could see her jailed for more than 150 years. Currently on trial for alleged corruption, breaching Myanmar's official secrets act and pressuring the election commission, Suu Kyi has not appeared in court since last Thursday, the legal source told AFP. Also read | Different variants may cause different long COVID-19 symptoms, says study "Some people in her company have been infected by Covid-19... and so she's kept in quarantine, although she's not infected," the source said. "We are worried because we haven't been able to see her." Former president Win Myint -- charged alongside Suu Kyi -- appeared at the court on Monday via video conferencing, the source added. Suu Kyi and her personal staff have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 since being taken into military custody, her lawyer told AFP last July. She missed a hearing in September due to illness, and in October, her lawyer said her health had suffered from her frequent appearances before the junta-run court. Also read | Myanmar army says will 'annihilate' coup opponents on crackdown anniversary Journalists are barred from the proceedings in the military-built capital Naypyidaw, and her lawyers have been banned from speaking to the press. Suu Kyi was previously sentenced to a total six years in jail for incitement against the military, breaching Covid-19 rules and breaking a telecommunications law -- although she remains under house arrest while she fights other charges. Watch | Myanmar committed genocide against Rohingya, says US. But what is genocide?

Myanmar's Suu Kyi 'in quarantine' after staff tests COVID-19 positive

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;said Thursday they had assured Beijing's most senior diplomat about any&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;China&nbsp;thinks may "emerge from Afghan soil", ahead of a key meeting with their neighbours next week.

China&nbsp;shares only a sliver of a border with Afghanistan, but Beijing has long feared its conflict-plagued neighbour could become a staging point for Muslim Uyghur separatists from Xinjiang.

China's Foreign Minister&nbsp;Wang&nbsp;Yi arrived in Kabul Thursday on his first trip to Afghanistan since the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;seized power, meeting Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar and Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/no-amusement-taliban-dictate-different-days-for-men-and-women-to-visit-fun-parks-466242">&nbsp;'No amusement': Taliban dictate different days for men and women to visit fun parks</a>

Without specifically mentioning the Uyghurs, Baradar's office said in a statement that&nbsp;Wang&nbsp;had been assured over all&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;Beijing "thinks emerge from the soil of Afghanistan".

Since returning to power in August, the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;have repeatedly pledged not to allow Afghan soil to be used as a base for foreign terror groups.

Their harbouring of Osama bin Laden and other senior Al-Qaeda figures in the wake of the 9/11 attacks prompted the US-led invasion that ended their first stint in power.

Even before the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;seized control of the country in August, they forged ties with&nbsp;China&nbsp;as US-led foreign forces withdrew.

Beijing is hosting a meeting of Afghanistan's neighbours next week on how to assist the hardline Islamist government.

"The Islamic Emirate wants to expand ties further" with&nbsp;China, Baradar's statement said.

Wang&nbsp;and Muttaqi also spoke of expanding "economic and political ties" between the two countries, the foreign ministry said in a tweet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/post-bamiyan-taliban-looks-to-preserve-buddhist-ruins-to-attract-chinese-money-466092">'Post-Bamiyan' Taliban looks to preserve Buddhist ruins to attract Chinese money</a>

They also discussed commencing work in Afghanistan's mines sector.

Chinese mining groups are in talks with the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;on exploring Afghanistan's mining sector, media reports say.

As&nbsp;Wang&nbsp;visited, Russia's special envoy to Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, also arrived in Kabul for talks with&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;officials, the foreign ministry said.

Afghanistan has plunged into financial and humanitarian crises since the exit of US-led foreign forces.

The meeting of Afghanistan's neighbours next week will allow the&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;to present their own assessment of the latest situation in the country.

Media reports say Chinese and Pakistani officials are expected to discuss new economic projects in Afghanistan.

Maintaining stability after decades of war in Afghanistan is Beijing's main consideration as it seeks to secure its borders and strategic infrastructure investments in neighbouring Pakistan, home to the&nbsp;China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.&nbsp;

For Beijing, a stable and cooperative administration in Kabul would also pave the way for an expansion of its Belt and Road Initiative into Afghanistan and through the Central Asian republics, analysts say.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinese-fm-wang-yi-meets-nepali-president-other-key-leaders-465965">&nbsp;Chinese FM Wang Yi meets Nepali President Bidya Devi Bhandari, other key leaders</a>

The&nbsp;Taliban&nbsp;consider&nbsp;China&nbsp;a crucial source of investment and economic support, either directly or via Pakistan.

During the chaotic takeover of power by the hardline Islamists, Beijing kept its embassy open in Kabul even as it evacuated many citizens from the country.

Watch |&nbsp;Taliban reverses decision to allow girls to attend secondary schools in Afghanistan

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The Taliban said Thursday they had assured Beijing's most senior diplomat about any concerns China thinks may "emerge from Afghan soil", ahead of a key meeting with their neighbours next week.

The Taliban said Thursday they had assured Beijing's most senior diplomat about any concerns China thinks may "emerge from Afghan soil", ahead of a key meeting with their neighbours next week. China shares only a sliver of a border with Afghanistan, but Beijing has long feared its conflict-plagued neighbour could become a staging point for Muslim Uyghur separatists from Xinjiang. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Kabul Thursday on his first trip to Afghanistan since the Taliban seized power, meeting Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar and Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. Also read | 'No amusement': Taliban dictate different days for men and women to visit fun parks Without specifically mentioning the Uyghurs, Baradar's office said in a statement that Wang had been assured over all concerns Beijing "thinks emerge from the soil of Afghanistan". Since returning to power in August, the Taliban have repeatedly pledged not to allow Afghan soil to be used as a base for foreign terror groups. Their harbouring of Osama bin Laden and other senior Al-Qaeda figures in the wake of the 9/11 attacks prompted the US-led invasion that ended their first stint in power. Even before the Taliban seized control of the country in August, they forged ties with China as US-led foreign forces withdrew. Beijing is hosting a meeting of Afghanistan's neighbours next week on how to assist the hardline Islamist government. "The Islamic Emirate wants to expand ties further" with China, Baradar's statement said. Wang and Muttaqi also spoke of expanding "economic and political ties" between the two countries, the foreign ministry said in a tweet. Also read | 'Post-Bamiyan' Taliban looks to preserve Buddhist ruins to attract Chinese money They also discussed commencing work in Afghanistan's mines sector. Chinese mining groups are in talks with the Taliban on exploring Afghanistan's mining sector, media reports say. As Wang visited, Russia's special envoy to Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, also arrived in Kabul for talks with Taliban officials, the foreign ministry said. Afghanistan has plunged into financial and humanitarian crises since the exit of US-led foreign forces. The meeting of Afghanistan's neighbours next week will allow the Taliban to present their own assessment of the latest situation in the country. Media reports say Chinese and Pakistani officials are expected to discuss new economic projects in Afghanistan. Maintaining stability after decades of war in Afghanistan is Beijing's main consideration as it seeks to secure its borders and strategic infrastructure investments in neighbouring Pakistan, home to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. For Beijing, a stable and cooperative administration in Kabul would also pave the way for an expansion of its Belt and Road Initiative into Afghanistan and through the Central Asian republics, analysts say. Also read | Chinese FM Wang Yi meets Nepali President Bidya Devi Bhandari, other key leaders The Taliban consider China a crucial source of investment and economic support, either directly or via Pakistan. During the chaotic takeover of power by the hardline Islamists, Beijing kept its embassy open in Kabul even as it evacuated many citizens from the country. Watch | Taliban reverses decision to allow girls to attend secondary schools in Afghanistan

Taliban vow to address 'all concerns' of China as Wang visits

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa on Monday and held a discussion over the economic situation of Colombo as well as India's supportive response.

Jaishankar arrived in Colombo for a bilateral visit on Sunday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bharat-bandh-why-are-indias-trade-unions-and-banks-on-a-two-day-strike-466230">'Bharat Bandh': Why are India's trade unions and banks on a two-day strike?</a>

"Began the visit by meeting Finance Minister @RealBRajapaksa (Basil Rajapaksa). Discussed the economic situation and India's supportive response. We will continue to be guided by Neighbourhood First," Jaishankar said in a Tweet.

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Began the visit by meeting Finance Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/RealBRajapaksa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RealBRajapaksa</a>. 
 
Discussed the economic situation and India’s supportive response. We will continue to be guided by Neighbourhood First <a href="https://t.co/D6K7Wq1JZd">pic.twitter.com/D6K7Wq1JZd</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1508311396051656707?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The island nation is witnessing a severe economic and energy crisis triggered due to the shortage of foreign exchange.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday recommended a number of measures for macroeconomic stability in Sri Lanka and also to mitigate adverse impacts on the vulnerable and the poor.

The IMF noted that the country faces mounting challenges, including public debt that has risen to unsustainable levels, low foreign currency reserves, and persistently large financing needs in the coming years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-major-sri-lankan-newspapers-suspending-print-editions-as-surge-in-economic-crisis-465415">Two major Sri Lankan newspapers suspend print editions as economic crisis surges</a>

During his bilateral visit, Jaishankar will also attend the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) meeting.

Four Sri Lankan ministers received Indian External Affairs Minister at the airport on Sunday evening.The ministers, Gamini Lokuge, Minister of Energy,

Johnston Fernando, Minister of Highways, Prasanna Ranatunga, Ministry of Tourism and, D V Chanaka, State Minister of Aviation and Export Zones Development, received Jaishankar at the airport.

Jaishankar will be in Sri Lanka from March 28 to 30.

This follows the visits to India by Sri Lanka Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa in December 2021 earlier this month and that of Sri Lanka Foreign Minister professor G L Peiris in February 2022.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-a-result-of-the-economic-crisis-16-sri-lankan-tamils-arrive-in-india-465294">As a result of the economic crisis 16 Sri Lankan Tamils arrive in India</a>

According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the bilateral meetings and interactions which EAM will have in Sri Lanka highlight the priority that Sri Lanka occupies for India.While in Sri Lanka, EAM will also participate in the BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting on March 29 in Colombo.

Both Maldives and Sri Lanka are India's key maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean Region and occupy a special place in the Prime Minister's vision of 'SAGAR'&nbsp;and Neighbourhood First.

The EAM's visit is testimony to the importance that India attaches to its close and friendly relations with the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka's economic crisis deepens with forex reserves hitting rock bottom

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa on Monday and held a discussion over the economic situation of Colombo as well as India's supportive response.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Sri Lankan Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa on Monday and held a discussion over the economic situation of Colombo as well as India's supportive response. Jaishankar arrived in Colombo for a bilateral visit on Sunday. Also read | 'Bharat Bandh': Why are India's trade unions and banks on a two-day strike? "Began the visit by meeting Finance Minister @RealBRajapaksa (Basil Rajapaksa). Discussed the economic situation and India's supportive response. We will continue to be guided by Neighbourhood First," Jaishankar said in a Tweet. Began the visit by meeting Finance Minister @RealBRajapaksa. Discussed the economic situation and India’s supportive response. We will continue to be guided by Neighbourhood First pic.twitter.com/D6K7Wq1JZd — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) March 28, 2022 × The island nation is witnessing a severe economic and energy crisis triggered due to the shortage of foreign exchange. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday recommended a number of measures for macroeconomic stability in Sri Lanka and also to mitigate adverse impacts on the vulnerable and the poor. The IMF noted that the country faces mounting challenges, including public debt that has risen to unsustainable levels, low foreign currency reserves, and persistently large financing needs in the coming years. Also read | Two major Sri Lankan newspapers suspend print editions as economic crisis surges During his bilateral visit, Jaishankar will also attend the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) meeting. Four Sri Lankan ministers received Indian External Affairs Minister at the airport on Sunday evening.The ministers, Gamini Lokuge, Minister of Energy, Johnston Fernando, Minister of Highways, Prasanna Ranatunga, Ministry of Tourism and, D V Chanaka, State Minister of Aviation and Export Zones Development, received Jaishankar at the airport. Jaishankar will be in Sri Lanka from March 28 to 30. This follows the visits to India by Sri Lanka Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa in December 2021 earlier this month and that of Sri Lanka Foreign Minister professor G L Peiris in February 2022. Also read | As a result of the economic crisis 16 Sri Lankan Tamils arrive in India According to the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the bilateral meetings and interactions which EAM will have in Sri Lanka highlight the priority that Sri Lanka occupies for India.While in Sri Lanka, EAM will also participate in the BIMSTEC Ministerial Meeting on March 29 in Colombo. Both Maldives and Sri Lanka are India's key maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean Region and occupy a special place in the Prime Minister's vision of 'SAGAR' and Neighbourhood First. The EAM's visit is testimony to the importance that India attaches to its close and friendly relations with the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Watch | Sri Lanka's economic crisis deepens with forex reserves hitting rock bottom

EAM S Jaishankar meets Sri Lankan Finance Minister; discusses economic situation

US President Joe Biden's administration will include more taxes on the wealthiest Americans in its 2023 budget proposal, due to be released on Monday, US media reported Saturday.

The "Billionaire Minimum Income Tax" would require the 700 or so American households worth more than $100 million to pay at least 20 percent on their full income, the Washington Post and other US media reported, citing a&nbsp;White&nbsp;House document.

"This minimum tax would make sure that the wealthiest Americans no longer pay a tax rate lower than teachers and firefighters," said the document, cited by the Post.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-people-are-not-our-enemy-us-president-joe-biden-says-465823">Russian people, are not our enemy, US President Joe Biden says</a>

A study by the Biden administration this autumn found that 400 billionaire households paid an average of only 8.2 percent in taxes on their income between 2010 and 2018, a rate often well below that of many American households.

The tax would also target unrealized gains in the value of liquid assets, such as stocks, which are not taxed until they are sold.

The new measure, which requires congressional approval to be enacted, could raise up to $360 billion in new revenue over ten years, the document cited by the Post said.&nbsp;

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-for-tougher-un-security-council-sanctions-against-north-korea-465585">&nbsp;US calls for tougher UN Security Council sanctions against North Korea</a>

A longstanding goal of the political left, the plan could dramatically change the tax paid by US billionaires.&nbsp;

Tech titan Elon Musk would, for example, have to pay an additional $50 billion in taxes, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos some $35 billion more, according to calculations by University of California Berkeley economist Gabriel Zucman, cited by the Post.

Watch |&nbsp;Joe Biden delivers remarks from Warsaw, says Putin is strangling democracy &amp; World order

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US President Joe Biden's administration will include more taxes on the wealthiest Americans in its 2023 budget proposal, due to be released on Monday, US media reported Saturday.

US President Joe Biden's administration will include more taxes on the wealthiest Americans in its 2023 budget proposal, due to be released on Monday, US media reported Saturday. The "Billionaire Minimum Income Tax" would require the 700 or so American households worth more than $100 million to pay at least 20 percent on their full income, the Washington Post and other US media reported, citing a White House document. "This minimum tax would make sure that the wealthiest Americans no longer pay a tax rate lower than teachers and firefighters," said the document, cited by the Post. Also read | Russian people, are not our enemy, US President Joe Biden says A study by the Biden administration this autumn found that 400 billionaire households paid an average of only 8.2 percent in taxes on their income between 2010 and 2018, a rate often well below that of many American households. The tax would also target unrealized gains in the value of liquid assets, such as stocks, which are not taxed until they are sold. The new measure, which requires congressional approval to be enacted, could raise up to $360 billion in new revenue over ten years, the document cited by the Post said. Also read | US calls for tougher UN Security Council sanctions against North Korea A longstanding goal of the political left, the plan could dramatically change the tax paid by US billionaires. Tech titan Elon Musk would, for example, have to pay an additional $50 billion in taxes, and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos some $35 billion more, according to calculations by University of California Berkeley economist Gabriel Zucman, cited by the Post. Watch | Joe Biden delivers remarks from Warsaw, says Putin is strangling democracy & World order

White House to propose new minimum tax on billionaires: Sources

Hong Kong said on Sunday it is shortening the ban on airlines that are found to have carried three or more passengers who test positive for COVID-19 upon arrival, as the number of local cases continues to ease from its peak.

Starting on Friday, the ban on individual airline routes will be reduced to seven days, from 14 previously, as part of its ongoing "flight suspension mechanism", the government said in a statement.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/50-of-foreign-companies-in-hong-kong-plan-to-relocate-465296">&nbsp;50% of foreign companies in Hong Kong plan to relocate&nbsp;</a>

The change came after the government said last week a ban on flights from nine countries - Canada, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Britain, the United States, France, Australia and the Philippines - would be lifted on April 1.

If there is at least one positive test and at least one case of non-compliance with pre-departure testing on any single flight, the airline will also be suspended from flying the route for seven days.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/high-death-rate-in-hong-kong-shows-importance-of-vaccinating-the-elderly-464569">High death rate in Hong Kong shows importance of vaccinating the elderly</a>

Hong Kong reported 8,841 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, down from 10,405 on Friday, as its latest wave of infections continues to ease.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Hong Kong's Covid-19 outbreak triggers mass exodus

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Hong Kong said on Sunday it is shortening the ban on airlines that are found to have carried three or more passengers who test positive for COVID-19 upon arrival, as the number of local cases continues to ease from its peak.

Hong Kong said on Sunday it is shortening the ban on airlines that are found to have carried three or more passengers who test positive for COVID-19 upon arrival, as the number of local cases continues to ease from its peak. Starting on Friday, the ban on individual airline routes will be reduced to seven days, from 14 previously, as part of its ongoing "flight suspension mechanism", the government said in a statement. Also read | 50% of foreign companies in Hong Kong plan to relocate The change came after the government said last week a ban on flights from nine countries - Canada, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Britain, the United States, France, Australia and the Philippines - would be lifted on April 1. If there is at least one positive test and at least one case of non-compliance with pre-departure testing on any single flight, the airline will also be suspended from flying the route for seven days. Also read | High death rate in Hong Kong shows importance of vaccinating the elderly Hong Kong reported 8,841 new cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, down from 10,405 on Friday, as its latest wave of infections continues to ease. Watch | Gravitas: Hong Kong's Covid-19 outbreak triggers mass exodus

COVID-19: Hong Kong says to halve flight suspension rule to seven days

When Covid-19 ripped through&nbsp;India&nbsp;in 2020-21, several million people are thought to have died. Desperate efforts to stem the pandemic hurt the battle against another huge killer: tuberculosis.

India&nbsp;is the home to a quarter of the world's TB infections and an estimated half a million people died of the curable lung disease in 2020 in the South Asian nation -- a third of the global toll.

Because of the pandemic, global deaths from the "silent killer" rose in 2020 for the first time in more than a decade, reversing years of progress, the World Health Organization says.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-resumes-regular-international-flights-here-are-new-guidelines-465856">India resumes regular international flights: Here are new guidelines</a>

In&nbsp;India, the number of new cases detected in 2020 actually fell by a quarter to around 1.8 million due to Covid restrictions and as the pandemic diverted resources.

Nearly two-thirds of people with TB symptoms did not seek treatment, according to a 2019-21 nationwide government survey released on World TB Day on Thursday.

Ashna Ashesh, 29, diagnosed with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis four years ago, saw how patients, many isolated and jobless because of lockdowns, struggled for support.

"They were incredibly afraid... They were reaching out for any kind of information that could be offered about how to access tests and medication," the public health professional with the Survivors Against TB collective told AFP.

"The impact has been immense... Covid has set back the fight against TB quite significantly. A recovery plan for TB is critical, both in&nbsp;India&nbsp;and globally."

India&nbsp;now faces an uphill battle to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal of ending the spread of TB by 2025, five years earlier than the UN's target.

Experts and survivors are calling for intensive grassroots campaigns to find "missing" cases, more vaccine funding and support to combat malnutrition, a major trigger for TB.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/airport-operators-join-forces-to-study-sustainable-fuel-in-india-465746">Airport operators join forces to study sustainable fuel in India</a>

Kuldeep Singh Sachdeva from the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease said states need to increase services such as house-to-house visits and mass screenings.

"That's the only way now where you can eliminate TB," Sachdeva, who previously led the government's National Tuberculosis Elimination Program, told AFP.

&nbsp;Silver lining

Officially Covid has killed almost 520,000 Indians.

The pandemic -- which saw Covid replace TB as the world's deadliest infectious disease -- did however have one silver lining: increased mask-wearing.

Sachdeva estimates this might have cut TB transmission by 20 percent. Additional diagnostic machines&nbsp;procured for Covid could be redeployed for TB, he added.

Mumbai -- a megapolis of 20 million people and a TB hotspot -- has rolled out a programme with young survivors such as Seema Kunchikorve, who was diagnosed with TB five years ago at 20, to keep current patients on track with medications.

"The treatment has a lot of (side) effects which patients can't take," Kunchikorve told AFP during a TB awareness play staged at a school in&nbsp;India's biggest slum Dharavi.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-trains-specially-abled-kashmiri-youths-in-skiing-465732">&nbsp;Indian Army trains specially-abled Kashmiri youths in skiing</a>

Vijay Chavan, who treats patients with drug-resistant TB at a Doctors Without Borders (MSF) clinic in Mumbai, said the Covid battle had shown the way to fight the older pandemic.

At the clinic, which treats children as young as five, patients spend hours undergoing check-ups beside brightly coloured wallpapers featuring famous comic characters, before collecting a large tray of pills for their treatments.

"If there is a political will for TB, just like Covid, it definitely will give us good results," he told AFP.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why Wang Yi came to India

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-wang-yi-came-to-india-465562/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

When Covid-19 ripped through India in 2020-21, several million people are thought to have died. Desperate efforts to stem the pandemic hurt the battle against another huge killer: tuberculosis.

When Covid-19 ripped through India in 2020-21, several million people are thought to have died. Desperate efforts to stem the pandemic hurt the battle against another huge killer: tuberculosis. India is the home to a quarter of the world's TB infections and an estimated half a million people died of the curable lung disease in 2020 in the South Asian nation -- a third of the global toll. Because of the pandemic, global deaths from the "silent killer" rose in 2020 for the first time in more than a decade, reversing years of progress, the World Health Organization says. Also read | India resumes regular international flights: Here are new guidelines In India, the number of new cases detected in 2020 actually fell by a quarter to around 1.8 million due to Covid restrictions and as the pandemic diverted resources. Nearly two-thirds of people with TB symptoms did not seek treatment, according to a 2019-21 nationwide government survey released on World TB Day on Thursday. Ashna Ashesh, 29, diagnosed with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis four years ago, saw how patients, many isolated and jobless because of lockdowns, struggled for support. "They were incredibly afraid... They were reaching out for any kind of information that could be offered about how to access tests and medication," the public health professional with the Survivors Against TB collective told AFP. "The impact has been immense... Covid has set back the fight against TB quite significantly. A recovery plan for TB is critical, both in India and globally." India now faces an uphill battle to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal of ending the spread of TB by 2025, five years earlier than the UN's target. Experts and survivors are calling for intensive grassroots campaigns to find "missing" cases, more vaccine funding and support to combat malnutrition, a major trigger for TB. Also read | Airport operators join forces to study sustainable fuel in India Kuldeep Singh Sachdeva from the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease said states need to increase services such as house-to-house visits and mass screenings. "That's the only way now where you can eliminate TB," Sachdeva, who previously led the government's National Tuberculosis Elimination Program, told AFP. Silver lining Officially Covid has killed almost 520,000 Indians. The pandemic -- which saw Covid replace TB as the world's deadliest infectious disease -- did however have one silver lining: increased mask-wearing. Sachdeva estimates this might have cut TB transmission by 20 percent. Additional diagnostic machines procured for Covid could be redeployed for TB, he added. Mumbai -- a megapolis of 20 million people and a TB hotspot -- has rolled out a programme with young survivors such as Seema Kunchikorve, who was diagnosed with TB five years ago at 20, to keep current patients on track with medications. "The treatment has a lot of (side) effects which patients can't take," Kunchikorve told AFP during a TB awareness play staged at a school in India's biggest slum Dharavi. Also read | Indian Army trains specially-abled Kashmiri youths in skiing Vijay Chavan, who treats patients with drug-resistant TB at a Doctors Without Borders (MSF) clinic in Mumbai, said the Covid battle had shown the way to fight the older pandemic. At the clinic, which treats children as young as five, patients spend hours undergoing check-ups beside brightly coloured wallpapers featuring famous comic characters, before collecting a large tray of pills for their treatments. "If there is a political will for TB, just like Covid, it definitely will give us good results," he told AFP. Watch | Gravitas: Why Wang Yi came to India

After Covid, India tries to get on top of tuberculosis

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Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.