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India has registered a 45 per cent surge in infections in the last 24 hours. It has recorded 9200 new cases of Coronavirus. The Omicron tally has now risen to 781 and has spread to over 21 states of India.

India registers 45% surge in COVID-19 infections as tally of daily cases see uptick

A&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;iPhone factory in India at the centre of a mass food-poisoning incident will extend a week-long closure by an extra three days, a senior official for the state of Tamil Nadu told Reuters.

The factory, which employs some 17,000 people, had been due to resume some operations on Monday but is now expected to restart production with 1,000 workers on Thursday, the official said, adding that the state government had conducted inspections of workers' hostels.

Last week, protests erupted after more than 250 women who work at the plant and live in one of the hostels had to be treated for food poisoning. Some of the protestors were rounded up by the police but later released.

The incident has thrown a spotlight on living conditions for the workers - most of them women - who reside in hostels near the factory which is located in the southern city of Chennai.

The Taiwanese contract manufacturer for Apple Inc and other big tech names as well as 11 of its contractors including those who provide food and living facilities were summoned for a meeting, said the official. The official was not authorised to speak on the matter and declined to be identified.

The state government asked&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;to review services provided to the workers including power backup at the hostels, food and water, and the Directorate Of Industrial Safety And Health also recommended providing recreational facilities such as a TV, a library and indoor games, the official added.

According to a separate government source,&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;has told state bureaucrats it had "ramped up production too quickly" and would gradually ensure that workers' facilities were upgraded before they go back to full capacity.

Representatives for&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;and Apple were not immediately available for comment.

The gates of the factory, which is on the outskirts of the southern city of Chennai, were open on Monday morning and some vehicles were moving in and out but the area was mostly deserted.

The impact on Apple from the closure of the plant, which makes iPhone 12 models and has started trial production of the iPhone 13, is expected to be minimal, analysts have said. But the factory is strategic in the long term as Apple tries to cut its reliance on China's supply chain amid trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.

The disruption comes as Apple is dealing with pandemic-related supply chain bottlenecks that have hit production. In October, the company warned that the impact of these supply chain problems would worsen during the holiday quarter.

The unrest at&nbsp;Foxconn&nbsp;is the second such involving an Apple supplier factory in India in a year. In December 2020, thousands of contract workers at a factory owned by Wistron Corp destroyed equipment and vehicles over the alleged non-payment of wages, causing damages estimated at $60 million.

Cupertino, California-headquartered Apple has bet big on India since it began iPhone assembly in the country in 2017.&nbsp;Foxconn, Wistron and another supplier, Pegatron, have together committed roughly $900 million over five years to make iPhones in India.

A Foxconn iPhone factory in India at the centre of a mass food-poisoning incident will extend a week-long closure by an extra three days, a senior official for the state of Tamil Nadu told Reuters.

A Foxconn iPhone factory in India at the centre of a mass food-poisoning incident will extend a week-long closure by an extra three days, a senior official for the state of Tamil Nadu told Reuters. The factory, which employs some 17,000 people, had been due to resume some operations on Monday but is now expected to restart production with 1,000 workers on Thursday, the official said, adding that the state government had conducted inspections of workers' hostels. Last week, protests erupted after more than 250 women who work at the plant and live in one of the hostels had to be treated for food poisoning. Some of the protestors were rounded up by the police but later released. The incident has thrown a spotlight on living conditions for the workers - most of them women - who reside in hostels near the factory which is located in the southern city of Chennai. The Taiwanese contract manufacturer for Apple Inc and other big tech names as well as 11 of its contractors including those who provide food and living facilities were summoned for a meeting, said the official. The official was not authorised to speak on the matter and declined to be identified. The state government asked Foxconn to review services provided to the workers including power backup at the hostels, food and water, and the Directorate Of Industrial Safety And Health also recommended providing recreational facilities such as a TV, a library and indoor games, the official added. According to a separate government source, Foxconn has told state bureaucrats it had "ramped up production too quickly" and would gradually ensure that workers' facilities were upgraded before they go back to full capacity. Representatives for Foxconn and Apple were not immediately available for comment. The gates of the factory, which is on the outskirts of the southern city of Chennai, were open on Monday morning and some vehicles were moving in and out but the area was mostly deserted. The impact on Apple from the closure of the plant, which makes iPhone 12 models and has started trial production of the iPhone 13, is expected to be minimal, analysts have said. But the factory is strategic in the long term as Apple tries to cut its reliance on China's supply chain amid trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. The disruption comes as Apple is dealing with pandemic-related supply chain bottlenecks that have hit production. In October, the company warned that the impact of these supply chain problems would worsen during the holiday quarter. The unrest at Foxconn is the second such involving an Apple supplier factory in India in a year. In December 2020, thousands of contract workers at a factory owned by Wistron Corp destroyed equipment and vehicles over the alleged non-payment of wages, causing damages estimated at $60 million. Cupertino, California-headquartered Apple has bet big on India since it began iPhone assembly in the country in 2017. Foxconn, Wistron and another supplier, Pegatron, have together committed roughly $900 million over five years to make iPhones in India.

Foxconn's iPhone factory in India remains closed as workers suffer mass food poisoning

As the Omicron variant has rapidly reached nearly every corner of the Earth, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 25, announced that the nasal vaccination and the world's first DNA vaccine against COVID-19 will be available for inoculation soon.

"Nasal vaccine and the world's first DNA vaccine against COVID-19 will soon commence in India," Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated in a speech to the country.

PM Modi also reassured Indians that the world's first DNA vaccine against COVID-19 is still being studied and produced.&nbsp;

The Indian government approved emergency use authorisation for Zydus Cadila's DNA vaccine earlier this year, citing initial results from Phase III clinical trials that showed approximately 66 percent efficacy for symptomatic cases.

The world's first DNA vaccine against the COVID-19

The ZyCoV-D – the world's first plasmid DNA vaccine – was produced by Ahmedabad-based vaccine manufacturer Zydus Cadila and got Emergency Use Approval (EUA) from the Drugs Controller General of India in August earlier this year.&nbsp;

The DCGI has given its permission for the vaccination to be given to children aged 12 to 17.

What is a DNA-based vaccine, and how does it work?

In its most basic form, DNA stores the memories of all biological activities, without exception. It also contains hereditary or genetic information about how the body should react in the event of infection. 
 
The DNA-based vaccinations operate by transferring a genetically modified blueprint of viral genes into small DNA molecules for injection into persons being vaccinated, according to the Milken Institute in the United States.

The ZyCoV-D was created by inserting a fragment of virus DNA into the human body, which, once inside, causes the virus to manufacture a crucial component that the immune system can recognise and so encounter. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coronavirus-alpha-variant-has-learnt-how-to-evade-innate-immune-system-research-440242">Also read | Coronavirus' Alpha variant has learnt how to evade innate immune system: Research</a>

Painless vaccine delivery

Instead of using regular syringes, the world's first DNA vaccination will be administered using a needle-free applicator called "PharmaJet." The use of a needle-free applicator enables pain-free intradermal vaccine delivery, as well as a significant reduction in any major side effects.

Efficacy rate of the DNA vaccine

In clinical trials, the vaccination was proven to be 67 per cent effective against symptomatic COVID-19.

It demonstrates that DNA vaccinations work and can aid in the control of the pandemic.

At least a dozen DNA vaccines against COVID-19 are currently in clinical trials around the world, with at least as many more in the early phases of development. Vaccines based on DNA are also being developed for a variety of other disorders. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizers-pill-against-covid-can-be-dangerous-when-taken-with-other-medications-440230">Pfizer's pill against Covid can be dangerous when taken with other medications</a> 
 
Safety

ZyCoV-D was found to be safe, well tolerated and immunogenic in the Adaptive Phase I/II clinical trials.

According to a statement by India's Ministry of Science &amp; Technology, this vaccine had already exhibited robust immunogenicity and tolerability and safety profile in the adaptive Phase I/II clinical trials carried out earlier.&nbsp;

Both the Phase I/II and Phase III clinical trials have been monitored by an independent Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB). 
 
Price 
 
Zydus Cadila has obtained an order from the Government of India to supply one crore doses of ZyCoV-D at a cost of $3.53 each dose, with the needle-free applicator costing $1.24 per dose, excluding GST. 
 
According to the price breakdown, the Centre will be able to purchase a single dose of the vaccine for $5, which includes the cost of the jet applicator and GST, bringing the total cost of the 3-dose shot to $15. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

As the Omicron variant has rapidly reached nearly every corner of the Earth, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 25, announced that the nasal vaccination and the world's first DNA vaccine against COVID-19 will be available for inoculation soon.

As the Omicron variant has rapidly reached nearly every corner of the Earth, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 25, announced that the nasal vaccination and the world's first DNA vaccine against COVID-19 will be available for inoculation soon. "Nasal vaccine and the world's first DNA vaccine against COVID-19 will soon commence in India," Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated in a speech to the country. PM Modi also reassured Indians that the world's first DNA vaccine against COVID-19 is still being studied and produced. The Indian government approved emergency use authorisation for Zydus Cadila's DNA vaccine earlier this year, citing initial results from Phase III clinical trials that showed approximately 66 percent efficacy for symptomatic cases. The world's first DNA vaccine against the COVID-19 The ZyCoV-D – the world's first plasmid DNA vaccine – was produced by Ahmedabad-based vaccine manufacturer Zydus Cadila and got Emergency Use Approval (EUA) from the Drugs Controller General of India in August earlier this year. The DCGI has given its permission for the vaccination to be given to children aged 12 to 17. What is a DNA-based vaccine, and how does it work? In its most basic form, DNA stores the memories of all biological activities, without exception. It also contains hereditary or genetic information about how the body should react in the event of infection. The DNA-based vaccinations operate by transferring a genetically modified blueprint of viral genes into small DNA molecules for injection into persons being vaccinated, according to the Milken Institute in the United States. The ZyCoV-D was created by inserting a fragment of virus DNA into the human body, which, once inside, causes the virus to manufacture a crucial component that the immune system can recognise and so encounter. Also read | Coronavirus' Alpha variant has learnt how to evade innate immune system: Research Painless vaccine delivery Instead of using regular syringes, the world's first DNA vaccination will be administered using a needle-free applicator called "PharmaJet." The use of a needle-free applicator enables pain-free intradermal vaccine delivery, as well as a significant reduction in any major side effects. Efficacy rate of the DNA vaccine In clinical trials, the vaccination was proven to be 67 per cent effective against symptomatic COVID-19. It demonstrates that DNA vaccinations work and can aid in the control of the pandemic. At least a dozen DNA vaccines against COVID-19 are currently in clinical trials around the world, with at least as many more in the early phases of development. Vaccines based on DNA are also being developed for a variety of other disorders. Also read | Pfizer's pill against Covid can be dangerous when taken with other medications Safety ZyCoV-D was found to be safe, well tolerated and immunogenic in the Adaptive Phase I/II clinical trials. According to a statement by India's Ministry of Science & Technology, this vaccine had already exhibited robust immunogenicity and tolerability and safety profile in the adaptive Phase I/II clinical trials carried out earlier. Both the Phase I/II and Phase III clinical trials have been monitored by an independent Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB). Price Zydus Cadila has obtained an order from the Government of India to supply one crore doses of ZyCoV-D at a cost of $3.53 each dose, with the needle-free applicator costing $1.24 per dose, excluding GST. According to the price breakdown, the Centre will be able to purchase a single dose of the vaccine for $5, which includes the cost of the jet applicator and GST, bringing the total cost of the 3-dose shot to $15. (With inputs from agencies)

World's first DNA Covid vaccine from India: Cost, features, other details here

A day after a controversy broke out over the Central government refusing to renew the Missionaries of Charity's license to accept foreign donations, top officials of the organisation said work in its orphanages, hospices and shelters for the poor were "going on as usual."

Officials from the Mission, founded by Mother Teresa here in 1950, said that talks were on with auditors and experts to try and resolve the situation, indicating an appeal against the Centre's decision to cancel the license under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act would be made.&nbsp;

"Work in all our orphanages, shelters, homes are going on as usual," the official said, adding that "in India we have been sustaining all these years with love and support of people in this country. So we will continue to serve the poor, destitute, ailing, aged with the same gusto in the same way."&nbsp;

A large portion of the money spent in India comes from donations sourced locally, officials said while pleading ignorance of the exact amounts received as donation locally or through foreign donations.&nbsp;

The MoC headquartered in Kolkata has over 250 bank accounts in the country for utilising foreign funds, another official of the organisation said.&nbsp;

"We are in talks with experts and auditors to resolve the situation," the official said. MHA said in a statement on Monday that renewal of the FCRA license was refused on December 25, Christmas day, for not meeting eligibility conditions, indicating that there issues with its audit report.&nbsp;

The Ministry also said 'no request has been received from Missionaries of Charity for review of this refusal of renewal.'

The cancellation order came within weeks after a police complaint was registered against the director of a children's home run by the Missionaries of Charity in Gujarat for allegedly attempting to convert inmates. The late Mother Teresa who was who was canonised a Saint in September 2016, and the Missionaries of Charity which she founded, shot into prominence after she won the Ramon Magsasay Peace Prize in 1962 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.

The organisation today is spread over 139 countries and runs orphanages, homes for the dying and lepers besides looking after refugees, blind, disabled, aged, alcoholics, poor and homeless and victims of floods, epidemics and famine.

A day after a controversy broke out over the Central government refusing to renew the Missionaries of Charity's license to accept foreign donations, top officials of the organisation said work in its orphanages, hospices and shelters for the poor were "going on as usual.

A day after a controversy broke out over the Central government refusing to renew the Missionaries of Charity's license to accept foreign donations, top officials of the organisation said work in its orphanages, hospices and shelters for the poor were "going on as usual." Officials from the Mission, founded by Mother Teresa here in 1950, said that talks were on with auditors and experts to try and resolve the situation, indicating an appeal against the Centre's decision to cancel the license under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act would be made. "Work in all our orphanages, shelters, homes are going on as usual," the official said, adding that "in India we have been sustaining all these years with love and support of people in this country. So we will continue to serve the poor, destitute, ailing, aged with the same gusto in the same way." A large portion of the money spent in India comes from donations sourced locally, officials said while pleading ignorance of the exact amounts received as donation locally or through foreign donations. The MoC headquartered in Kolkata has over 250 bank accounts in the country for utilising foreign funds, another official of the organisation said. "We are in talks with experts and auditors to resolve the situation," the official said. MHA said in a statement on Monday that renewal of the FCRA license was refused on December 25, Christmas day, for not meeting eligibility conditions, indicating that there issues with its audit report. The Ministry also said 'no request has been received from Missionaries of Charity for review of this refusal of renewal.' The cancellation order came within weeks after a police complaint was registered against the director of a children's home run by the Missionaries of Charity in Gujarat for allegedly attempting to convert inmates. The late Mother Teresa who was who was canonised a Saint in September 2016, and the Missionaries of Charity which she founded, shot into prominence after she won the Ramon Magsasay Peace Prize in 1962 and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. The organisation today is spread over 139 countries and runs orphanages, homes for the dying and lepers besides looking after refugees, blind, disabled, aged, alcoholics, poor and homeless and victims of floods, epidemics and famine.

Missionaries of Charity says 'work as usual to continue', talking to resolve FCRA issue

Amid a rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the Indian capital New Delhi, the government has imposed restrictions on certain things as a precautionary step.&nbsp;

On Tuesday (December 28), New Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced the government's decision to implement level one of the Graded Action Plan.&nbsp;

He addressed the citizen in Hindi which is loosely translated in English as: "We had written in that (Graded Action Plan) if the positivity rate is more than 0.5 per cent for two continuous days, under such circumstances it would be the Yellow Level or level one and after that, we would shut a few things."

"So, the positivity rate has been more than 0.5 per cent for the last 2-to-3 days and that is why a decision to implement level one of the Graded Action Plan has been taken. Restrictions are being imposed on certain things," he added in the video posted on his official Twitter handle.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/for-precaution-dose-no-doctor-certificate-needed-for-60-plus-people-with-co-morbidity-in-india-440760">For precaution dose, no doctor certificate needed for 60-plus people with co-morbidity in India</a>

As per the new restrictions, a night curfew was imposed, on the other hand, metro trains, restaurants, bars were asked to operate at 50 per cent capacity.&nbsp;

It is important to note that the capital had earlier banned Christmas and other celebrations ahead of New Year amid threats of a possible surge in coronavirus cases fueled by the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the government has also planned to close cinema halls, spas, gyms, multiplexes, banquet halls, auditoriums and sports complexes under the guidelines of the Yellow alert of Graded Response Action Plan.&nbsp;

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दिल्ली में कोरोना संक्रमण की मौजूदा स्थिति पर महत्वपूर्ण प्रेस कॉन्फ़्रेंस | LIVE <a href="https://t.co/BFIs9ERcQi">https://t.co/BFIs9ERcQi</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1475732598114557954?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Action taken by Delhi Police

Delhi Police said that more than 4,00 FIRs were registered and 754 challans were issued for violations of Covid-appropriate behaviour during the first day of the night curfew imposed.&nbsp;

The curfew is imposed from 11 pm to 5 am and according to a data shared by the Delhi Police for Monday-Tuesday, 411 FIRs under section 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) and 754 challans were issued to those violating Covid guidelines.

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In view of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Omicron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Omicron</a> threat, Delhi Disaster Management Authority has issued <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YellowAlert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YellowAlert</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiPolice?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiPolice</a> urges you to follow <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid</a> Appropriate Behaviour. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StaySafeStayHealthy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StaySafeStayHealthy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiPoliceCares?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiPoliceCares</a><a href="https://twitter.com/CPDelhi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CPDelhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/4o8ozKEW3o">pic.twitter.com/4o8ozKEW3o</a>
— #DelhiPolice (@DelhiPolice) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiPolice/status/1475810178566029314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Amid a rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the Indian capital New Delhi, the government has imposed restrictions on certain things as a precautionary step. On Tuesday (December 28), New Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced the government's decision to implement level one of the Graded Action Plan.

Amid a rise in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the Indian capital New Delhi, the government has imposed restrictions on certain things as a precautionary step. On Tuesday (December 28), New Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced the government's decision to implement level one of the Graded Action Plan. He addressed the citizen in Hindi which is loosely translated in English as: "We had written in that (Graded Action Plan) if the positivity rate is more than 0.5 per cent for two continuous days, under such circumstances it would be the Yellow Level or level one and after that, we would shut a few things." "So, the positivity rate has been more than 0.5 per cent for the last 2-to-3 days and that is why a decision to implement level one of the Graded Action Plan has been taken. Restrictions are being imposed on certain things," he added in the video posted on his official Twitter handle. ALSO READ | For precaution dose, no doctor certificate needed for 60-plus people with co-morbidity in India As per the new restrictions, a night curfew was imposed, on the other hand, metro trains, restaurants, bars were asked to operate at 50 per cent capacity. It is important to note that the capital had earlier banned Christmas and other celebrations ahead of New Year amid threats of a possible surge in coronavirus cases fueled by the Omicron variant. Meanwhile, the government has also planned to close cinema halls, spas, gyms, multiplexes, banquet halls, auditoriums and sports complexes under the guidelines of the Yellow alert of Graded Response Action Plan. दिल्ली में कोरोना संक्रमण की मौजूदा स्थिति पर महत्वपूर्ण प्रेस कॉन्फ़्रेंस | LIVE https://t.co/BFIs9ERcQi — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) December 28, 2021 × Action taken by Delhi Police Delhi Police said that more than 4,00 FIRs were registered and 754 challans were issued for violations of Covid-appropriate behaviour during the first day of the night curfew imposed. The curfew is imposed from 11 pm to 5 am and according to a data shared by the Delhi Police for Monday-Tuesday, 411 FIRs under section 188 (disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant) and 754 challans were issued to those violating Covid guidelines. In view of #Omicron threat, Delhi Disaster Management Authority has issued #YellowAlert. #DelhiPolice urges you to follow #Covid Appropriate Behaviour. #StaySafeStayHealthy #DelhiPoliceCares@CPDelhi pic.twitter.com/4o8ozKEW3o — #DelhiPolice (@DelhiPolice) December 28, 2021 ×

New Delhi: Indian capital imposes 'Yellow Level' restrictions amid rise in coronavirus cases

India has reported 6,531 new Covid infections on Tuesday morning and 315 deaths, as per the data provided by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).<o:p></o:p>

Amid the fear of Omicron spread in the country, the tally for Omicron cases has increased to 653 on Tuesday morning, the health ministry said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-india-covid-omicron-vaccine-travel-updates-440325">Live India Covid | Omicron, vaccine, travel updates</a>

<o:p></o:p>

The total number of tests done in the past 24 hours are 10,35,495. There are 75,456 total active Covid cases in India now. Active cases currently account for less than one per cent of the total cases, as it is currently at 0.22 per cent, which is the lowest since March 2020.<o:p></o:p>

Recovery rate is highest since March 2020, which currently is 98.40 per cent. There have been 6,450 recoveries in the last 24 hours, with total recoveries increasing to 3,42,43,945.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-government-issues-new-guidelines-for-covid-19-vaccination-of-children-between-15-18-years-440551">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-government-issues-new-guidelines-for-covid-19-vaccination-of-children-between-15-18-years-440551/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Indian national capital city, New Delhi, reported 331 new Covid cases, one death, and 144 recoveries in the last 24 hours, taking the tally for active cases to 1,289. The city has also reported the highest number of Omicron cases in the country till now, i.e., 142. Keeping this in mind, authorities have reintroduced night curfew to curb the spread of Omicron variant of coronavirus.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Covid vaccination tally has increased by 7,287,547, taking the total number to 1,424,681,736.<o:p></o:p>

Tuesday morning also brought the news of BCCI President and former Indian cricket captain Saurav Ganguly also tested positive for COVID-19. He was admitted to hospital after testing positive for coronavirus, as per BCCI sources quoted by local media.<o:p></o:p>

India has reported 6,531 new Covid infections on Tuesday morning and 315 deaths, as per the data provided by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). Amid the fear of Omicron spread in the country, the tally for Omicron cases has increased to 653 on Tuesday morning, the health ministry said.

India has reported 6,531 new Covid infections on Tuesday morning and 315 deaths, as per the data provided by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). Amid the fear of Omicron spread in the country, the tally for Omicron cases has increased to 653 on Tuesday morning, the health ministry said. Live India Covid | Omicron, vaccine, travel updates The total number of tests done in the past 24 hours are 10,35,495. There are 75,456 total active Covid cases in India now. Active cases currently account for less than one per cent of the total cases, as it is currently at 0.22 per cent, which is the lowest since March 2020. Recovery rate is highest since March 2020, which currently is 98.40 per cent. There have been 6,450 recoveries in the last 24 hours, with total recoveries increasing to 3,42,43,945. WATCH | Indian national capital city, New Delhi, reported 331 new Covid cases, one death, and 144 recoveries in the last 24 hours, taking the tally for active cases to 1,289. The city has also reported the highest number of Omicron cases in the country till now, i.e., 142. Keeping this in mind, authorities have reintroduced night curfew to curb the spread of Omicron variant of coronavirus. Meanwhile, Covid vaccination tally has increased by 7,287,547, taking the total number to 1,424,681,736. Tuesday morning also brought the news of BCCI President and former Indian cricket captain Saurav Ganguly also tested positive for COVID-19. He was admitted to hospital after testing positive for coronavirus, as per BCCI sources quoted by local media.

India reports 6,531 new Covid cases; Saurav Ganguly tests positive

The ndian Health Ministry has issued a comprehensive guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination of children between 15-18 years and precaution dose to healthcare workers.

Indian government issues new guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination of children between 15-18 years

As the spread of new variant of coronavirus haunts many, the Indian government has told states and union territories on Tuesday that people in the age group of 60 years and above, who have co-morbidities, do not need to produce or submit any certificate from doctor at the time of taking precaution dose of COVID-19 vaccine. &nbsp;

It has also advised these people to consult a doctor before getting this dose. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/doctors-to-take-final-call-on-protest-after-rdas-meeting-440723" hreflang="en">Protesting doctors in India to take final call after association meeting</a>

These beneficiaries will become eligible for the precaution dose after the completion of nine months or 39 weeks from the date of administration of second dose as recorded in the Co-WIN system, India’s Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said. &nbsp;

Bhushan, in a letter to states and UTs, also said that the personnel, who are to be deployed in election duty in the poll-bound states, will also be included in the category of frontline workers. &nbsp;

Not just this, the CoWIN platform will also send reminder messages to all the people eligible for precaution dose, the health secretary added. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/while-west-struggles-to-control-omicron-surge-indias-covid-tally-tells-a-different-story-440603" hreflang="en">While West struggles to control Omicron surge, India's covid tally tells a different story</a>

It will also be reflected in the digital vaccination certificates. &nbsp;

Through video conference, the official also chaired a workshop with all states and UTs to review the vaccination process for various categories of people on Tuesday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As the spread of new variant of coronavirus haunts many, the Indian government has told states and union territories on Tuesday that people in the age group of 60 years and above, who have co-morbidities, do not need to produce or submit any certificate from doctor at the time of taking precaution dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

As the spread of new variant of coronavirus haunts many, the Indian government has told states and union territories on Tuesday that people in the age group of 60 years and above, who have co-morbidities, do not need to produce or submit any certificate from doctor at the time of taking precaution dose of COVID-19 vaccine. It has also advised these people to consult a doctor before getting this dose. Also Read: Protesting doctors in India to take final call after association meeting These beneficiaries will become eligible for the precaution dose after the completion of nine months or 39 weeks from the date of administration of second dose as recorded in the Co-WIN system, India’s Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said. Bhushan, in a letter to states and UTs, also said that the personnel, who are to be deployed in election duty in the poll-bound states, will also be included in the category of frontline workers. Not just this, the CoWIN platform will also send reminder messages to all the people eligible for precaution dose, the health secretary added. Also Read: While West struggles to control Omicron surge, India's covid tally tells a different story It will also be reflected in the digital vaccination certificates. Through video conference, the official also chaired a workshop with all states and UTs to review the vaccination process for various categories of people on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

For precaution dose, no doctor certificate needed for 60-plus people with co-morbidity in India

After meeting Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday over demands to expedite NEET-PG Counselling, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) said that they will take the final call on ongoing protest after consulting all RDAs (Resident Doctors' Associations).

The representatives of Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), FORDA and all RDAs are likely to hold a meeting at 8 p.m. on Tuesday to decide further course of action.

Dr Manish Nigam, FORDA President, said that the strike is still going on.

"We demand a written apology for police action. The further course of action will be decided in the meeting tonight," he added.

Earlier, Mandaviya urged protesting resident doctors to call off their strike in the public interest. According to a doctor who was present in the meeting, Mandaviya assured to submit all documents before the court on January 6 when the matter will come up for hearing. He said that the matter is sub-judice before the Supreme Court. However, he said he was hopeful that the NEET-PG counselling will start soon.

The doctors also demanded an apology from police for action against them during the protest on Monday. Mandaviya expressed regret saying it is an unfortunate incident.

Meanwhile, the ongoing doctors protest for the last 12 days has badly hit services in the capital city. Many other RDA organisations across several states have also joined the protest. The protesting doctors on Monday had called for total shutdown of medical services in the hospitals after the police action which has created a chaos like situation in hospitals.

After meeting Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday over demands to expedite NEET-PG Counselling, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) said that they will take the final call on ongoing protest after consulting all RDAs (Resident Doctors' Associations).

After meeting Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday over demands to expedite NEET-PG Counselling, the Federation of Resident Doctors Association (FORDA) said that they will take the final call on ongoing protest after consulting all RDAs (Resident Doctors' Associations). The representatives of Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), FORDA and all RDAs are likely to hold a meeting at 8 p.m. on Tuesday to decide further course of action. Dr Manish Nigam, FORDA President, said that the strike is still going on. "We demand a written apology for police action. The further course of action will be decided in the meeting tonight," he added. Earlier, Mandaviya urged protesting resident doctors to call off their strike in the public interest. According to a doctor who was present in the meeting, Mandaviya assured to submit all documents before the court on January 6 when the matter will come up for hearing. He said that the matter is sub-judice before the Supreme Court. However, he said he was hopeful that the NEET-PG counselling will start soon. The doctors also demanded an apology from police for action against them during the protest on Monday. Mandaviya expressed regret saying it is an unfortunate incident. Meanwhile, the ongoing doctors protest for the last 12 days has badly hit services in the capital city. Many other RDA organisations across several states have also joined the protest. The protesting doctors on Monday had called for total shutdown of medical services in the hospitals after the police action which has created a chaos like situation in hospitals.

Protesting doctors in India to take final call after association meeting

App-based rides, some clothes, food delivery cost more in India. The Indian government has decided to implement a dozen amendments to the Goods and Services Tax (GST). From 1 January, the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act will be amended, further strengthening the indirect tax regime.

Indians will pay more for clothes, app-based rides, food delivery in new year | GST | WION News

India recorded a total of 6,531 new Covid cases on Tuesday morning, with a recovery rate of 98.40 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020.<o:p></o:p>

On December 25 morning, India had reported 7,189 new Covid infections and 415 Omicron cases, out of which 115 had recovered or migrated.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-india-covid-omicron-vaccine-travel-updates-440325">LIVE Omicron Variant Updates: India approves 2 new Covid vaccines</a></o:p>

The day after Christmas, India reported nearly 6,987 new&nbsp;Covid infections and a total of 422 cases of the new variant of coronavirus. Then, on December 27, India detected 415 cases of Omicron variant of Covid-19, out of which 115 have recovered or migrated, Union health ministry’s data updated on Saturday.<o:p></o:p>

These new infection numbers may look bigger in the first glance but when compared to the data from the week before, the frenzy around it doesn’t add up. India has recorded nearly 46,000 total cases from December 20 to 26. However, this number has seen a decline from 49,000 that India observed in the week before December 20.<o:p></o:p>

If the total number of new Covid cases, Omicron infections and improving recovery rate tell us something, it is that there is a chance the new variant is being portrayed as a bigger threat than it really is and that is translating into panic.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-government-issues-new-guidelines-for-covid-19-vaccination-of-children-between-15-18-years-440551">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-government-issues-new-guidelines-for-covid-19-vaccination-of-children-between-15-18-years-440551/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The recovery rate of Covid patients in India has improved by 6,450 and currently stands at 98.40 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020. Even the number of active cases of coronavirus have seen a decline of at least 385 in India.<o:p></o:p>

In addition to a decline in Covid cases, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently announced that India will soon start administering ‘precautionary doses’ for people above the age of 60 and frontline workers. Young children, too, will now receive the Covid vaccines.<o:p></o:p>

While the western countries struggle to control the wide spread surge of COVID-19 due to the Omicron variant, India has been able to skip the wrath of the new variant till now due to the preparedness of the Government of India. <o:p></o:p>

India has also approved two more Covid vaccines and one anti-viral drug in a single day, helping health authorities speed up the vaccination programmes across the country.<o:p></o:p>

India recorded a total of 6,531 new Covid cases on Tuesday morning, with a recovery rate of 98.40 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020. On December 25 morning, India had reported 7,189 new Covid infections and 415 Omicron cases, out of which 115 had recovered or migrated.

India recorded a total of 6,531 new Covid cases on Tuesday morning, with a recovery rate of 98.40 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020. On December 25 morning, India had reported 7,189 new Covid infections and 415 Omicron cases, out of which 115 had recovered or migrated. LIVE Omicron Variant Updates: India approves 2 new Covid vaccines The day after Christmas, India reported nearly 6,987 new Covid infections and a total of 422 cases of the new variant of coronavirus. Then, on December 27, India detected 415 cases of Omicron variant of Covid-19, out of which 115 have recovered or migrated, Union health ministry’s data updated on Saturday. These new infection numbers may look bigger in the first glance but when compared to the data from the week before, the frenzy around it doesn’t add up. India has recorded nearly 46,000 total cases from December 20 to 26. However, this number has seen a decline from 49,000 that India observed in the week before December 20. If the total number of new Covid cases, Omicron infections and improving recovery rate tell us something, it is that there is a chance the new variant is being portrayed as a bigger threat than it really is and that is translating into panic. WATCH | The recovery rate of Covid patients in India has improved by 6,450 and currently stands at 98.40 per cent, which is the highest since March 2020. Even the number of active cases of coronavirus have seen a decline of at least 385 in India. In addition to a decline in Covid cases, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently announced that India will soon start administering ‘precautionary doses’ for people above the age of 60 and frontline workers. Young children, too, will now receive the Covid vaccines. While the western countries struggle to control the wide spread surge of COVID-19 due to the Omicron variant, India has been able to skip the wrath of the new variant till now due to the preparedness of the Government of India. India has also approved two more Covid vaccines and one anti-viral drug in a single day, helping health authorities speed up the vaccination programmes across the country.

While West struggles to control Omicron surge, India's covid tally tells a different story

In the fight against the covid 19 pandemic, the Indian government has cleared two more vaccines and one antiviral drug for emergency use. The two latest vaccines that have been given the green light are the serum institute of India's Covovax and biological ease jab Corbevax.

India approves 2 Covid vaccines, 1 Covid pill in single day

While addressing the 54th convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur on Tuesday (December 28), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country has emerged as the second biggest startup hub in the world.&nbsp;

IIT Kanpur, one of the premier institutes in India is located in the country's northern state, Uttar Pradesh. PM Modi said that IIT Kanpur's contribution in developing 5G technology has been recognised globally.&nbsp;

Praising the students, the Indian Prime Minister said that when India will celebrate its 100th year of independence, the contribution of all the students who are present today [at the ceremony] will be included.&nbsp;

"In this 75th year of independence, we have over 75 unicorns, over 50,000 start-ups. Of these, 10,000 have come only in the last 6 months. India has emerged to be the second biggest startup hub in the world, and this feat has been achieved majorly with the help of students from IITs," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/its-a-hat-trick-india-approves-2-new-covid-vaccines-and-1-antiviral-drug-in-a-day-440579">'It's a hat-trick!': India approves 2 new Covid vaccines and 1 antiviral drug in a day</a>

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आजादी के इस 75वें साल में हमारे पास 75 से अधिक unicorns हैं, 50,000 से अधिक स्टार्ट-अप हैं। 
 
इनमें से 10,000 तो केवल पिछले 6 महीनों में आए हैं। 
 
आज भारत दुनिया का दूसरा सबसे बड़ा स्टार्टअप हब बनकर उभरा है। 
 
कितने स्टार्टअप्स तो हमारी IITs के युवाओं ने ही शुरू किए हैं: PM
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1475721469606858757?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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During the ceremony, the prime minister launched blockchain-based digital degrees. Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and the Chief Minister of the state Yogi Adityanath were also present there as they&nbsp;attended the function as guests of honour.

The students were issued digital degrees through an in-house blockchain-driven technology developed at the institute under the National Blockchain Project.

These digital degrees can be verified globally and are unforgeable. IIT-K is hosting a physical convocation after a year as it was held virtually last year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-japan-to-establish-hotline-for-dispute-over-taiwan-and-south-china-sea-440630">China, Japan to establish hotline for dispute over Taiwan and South China Sea</a>

Highlighting the government's push for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', PM Modi said that if we are not self-reliant, then how will India succeed and scale ultimate heights? And this can be done only by the youth of this country.

"This century is completely technology-driven. Students have invested the most important years of their lives in learning about technology. And this will make it impossible for any other force to stop you from excelling," said the Prime Minister.

(With inputs from agencies)

While addressing the 54th convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur on Tuesday (December 28), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country has emerged as the second biggest startup hub in the world.

While addressing the 54th convocation ceremony of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur on Tuesday (December 28), Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the country has emerged as the second biggest startup hub in the world. IIT Kanpur, one of the premier institutes in India is located in the country's northern state, Uttar Pradesh. PM Modi said that IIT Kanpur's contribution in developing 5G technology has been recognised globally. Praising the students, the Indian Prime Minister said that when India will celebrate its 100th year of independence, the contribution of all the students who are present today [at the ceremony] will be included. "In this 75th year of independence, we have over 75 unicorns, over 50,000 start-ups. Of these, 10,000 have come only in the last 6 months. India has emerged to be the second biggest startup hub in the world, and this feat has been achieved majorly with the help of students from IITs," PM Modi said. ALSO READ | 'It's a hat-trick!': India approves 2 new Covid vaccines and 1 antiviral drug in a day आजादी के इस 75वें साल में हमारे पास 75 से अधिक unicorns हैं, 50,000 से अधिक स्टार्ट-अप हैं। इनमें से 10,000 तो केवल पिछले 6 महीनों में आए हैं। आज भारत दुनिया का दूसरा सबसे बड़ा स्टार्टअप हब बनकर उभरा है। कितने स्टार्टअप्स तो हमारी IITs के युवाओं ने ही शुरू किए हैं: PM — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 28, 2021 × During the ceremony, the prime minister launched blockchain-based digital degrees. Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and the Chief Minister of the state Yogi Adityanath were also present there as they attended the function as guests of honour. The students were issued digital degrees through an in-house blockchain-driven technology developed at the institute under the National Blockchain Project. These digital degrees can be verified globally and are unforgeable. IIT-K is hosting a physical convocation after a year as it was held virtually last year. ALSO READ | China, Japan to establish hotline for dispute over Taiwan and South China Sea Highlighting the government's push for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat', PM Modi said that if we are not self-reliant, then how will India succeed and scale ultimate heights? And this can be done only by the youth of this country. "This century is completely technology-driven. Students have invested the most important years of their lives in learning about technology. And this will make it impossible for any other force to stop you from excelling," said the Prime Minister. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Narendra Modi: India has emerged to be the second biggest startup hub in the world

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Tuesday that India has approved two new COVID-19 vaccines namely Covovax and Corbevax. In addition to this, an anti-viral drug, Molnupiravir, has also been approved for restricted use in an emergency situation.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

"Further strengthening the fight against Covid-19, CDSCO, health ministry has given 3 approvals in a single day for CORBEVAX vaccine, COVOVAX vaccine, anti-viral drug Molnupiravir for restricted use in an emergency situation," Mansukh Mandaviya reported through Twitter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/live-india-covid-omicron-vaccine-travel-updates-440325" hreflang="en">LIVE Omicron Variant Updates: India reports 6,358 cases; Omicron cases now 653</a>

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Congratulations India 🇮🇳 
 
Further strengthening the fight against COVID-19, CDSCO, <a href="https://twitter.com/MoHFW_INDIA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MoHFW_INDIA</a> has given 3 approvals in a single day for: 
 
- CORBEVAX vaccine 
- COVOVAX vaccine 
- Anti-viral drug Molnupiravir 
 
For restricted use in emergency situation. (1/5)
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansukhmandviya/status/1475699946544570372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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CORBEVAX is India’s first indigenously developed RBD protein sub-unit vaccine against the deadly coronavirus. This is being made by Hyderabad-based firm Biological-E.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

COVOVAX, manufactured by Pune-based firm Serum Institute of India (SII), is a nanoparticle vaccine against COVID-19.

Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug that is being developed by nearly 13 companies in India. This can be used to treat adult patients of Covid who, the doctors believe, have a heightened risk of "progression of the disease". The antiviral drug will not be used for Covid patients under the age of 18, for now, as per local media reports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-approves-2-more-covid-19-vaccines-and-an-anti-covid-pill-molnupiravir-440613">WATCH |</a>

<o:p></o:p>

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In addition to this, it is also believed that this antiviral drug will not be used for more than five consecutive days, as of now.<o:p></o:p>

With these new approvals, the number of approved Covid vaccines has increased to eight. Till now, Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik V, Moderna, Johnson and Johnson and ZyCoV-D had approvals India.<o:p></o:p>

This news comes a little after Indian Prime Minister made a surprise announcement on Christmas Day through a national TV telecast about Covid vaccination for children and 'precaution dose' for frontline workers and those above 60 years of age and with comorbidities.<o:p></o:p>

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Tuesday that India has approved two new COVID-19 vaccines namely Covovax and Corbevax. In addition to this, an anti-viral drug, Molnupiravir, has also been approved for restricted use in an emergency situation.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced on Tuesday that India has approved two new COVID-19 vaccines namely Covovax and Corbevax. In addition to this, an anti-viral drug, Molnupiravir, has also been approved for restricted use in an emergency situation. "Further strengthening the fight against Covid-19, CDSCO, health ministry has given 3 approvals in a single day for CORBEVAX vaccine, COVOVAX vaccine, anti-viral drug Molnupiravir for restricted use in an emergency situation," Mansukh Mandaviya reported through Twitter. Also read | LIVE Omicron Variant Updates: India reports 6,358 cases; Omicron cases now 653 Congratulations India 🇮🇳 Further strengthening the fight against COVID-19, CDSCO, @MoHFW_INDIA has given 3 approvals in a single day for: - CORBEVAX vaccine - COVOVAX vaccine - Anti-viral drug Molnupiravir For restricted use in emergency situation. (1/5) — Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) December 28, 2021 × CORBEVAX is India’s first indigenously developed RBD protein sub-unit vaccine against the deadly coronavirus. This is being made by Hyderabad-based firm Biological-E. COVOVAX, manufactured by Pune-based firm Serum Institute of India (SII), is a nanoparticle vaccine against COVID-19. Molnupiravir is an antiviral drug that is being developed by nearly 13 companies in India. This can be used to treat adult patients of Covid who, the doctors believe, have a heightened risk of "progression of the disease". The antiviral drug will not be used for Covid patients under the age of 18, for now, as per local media reports. WATCH | In addition to this, it is also believed that this antiviral drug will not be used for more than five consecutive days, as of now. With these new approvals, the number of approved Covid vaccines has increased to eight. Till now, Covishield, Covaxin, Sputnik V, Moderna, Johnson and Johnson and ZyCoV-D had approvals India. This news comes a little after Indian Prime Minister made a surprise announcement on Christmas Day through a national TV telecast about Covid vaccination for children and 'precaution dose' for frontline workers and those above 60 years of age and with comorbidities.

'It's a hat-trick!': India approves 2 new Covid vaccines and 1 antiviral drug in a day

In a significant move, India has given emergency use authorisation approval to two more COVID-19 vaccines Covovax and Corbevax and an anti-viral drug Molnupiravir.

India approves 2 more COVID-19 vaccines and an anti-covid pill Molnupiravir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has got a massive security update.

According to reports, the Indian prime minister has added the armoured Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard to his cavalcade of Range Rover Vogue and the Toyota Land Cruiser that served him over the past couple of years.

Modi was first spotted with the new car at Hyderabad House in Delhi while welcoming Russian President Vladimir Putin, who was on a two-day visit to India. The vehicle again made an appearance in the convoy of Modi’s rally recently.

Certified with VR10-level protection, the Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard offers the highest level of protection available on a production car.

As per reports, the car’s windows are coated with polycarbonate and can withstand hardened steel core bullets

It has received a 2010 Explosion Proof Vehicle (ERV) rating, which means that the sedan has the ability to protect the occupants from a 15kg TNT explosion from a distance of only 2 meters.

The interior of the window is coated with polycarbonate and the vehicle’s lower part is heavily armoured to protect the occupants from direct explosions.

The cabin also receives a separate air supply in case of a gas attack.

The car is also equipped with special run-flat tyres that will continue to function in case of damage or puncture to ensure a quick getaway.

The S650 Guard is powered by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 516bhp and a peak torque of approximately 900Nm. The maximum speed is limited to 160kmph.

The S650 Guard has all the conforms that are expected of the standard Maybach S-Class, including the plush interior with seat massagers, while the seats themselves have been repositioned for enhanced legroom.

Mercedes-Maybach launched the S600 Guard in India last year for Rs 10.5 crore and the S650 can cost more than Rs 12 crore.

However, the cost of the vehicle modified for the prime minister is unknown.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has got a massive security update. According to reports, the Indian prime minister has added the armoured Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard to his cavalcade of Range Rover Vogue and the Toyota Land Cruiser that served him over the past couple of years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has got a massive security update. According to reports, the Indian prime minister has added the armoured Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard to his cavalcade of Range Rover Vogue and the Toyota Land Cruiser that served him over the past couple of years. Modi was first spotted with the new car at Hyderabad House in Delhi while welcoming Russian President Vladimir Putin, who was on a two-day visit to India. The vehicle again made an appearance in the convoy of Modi’s rally recently. Certified with VR10-level protection, the Mercedes-Maybach S650 Guard offers the highest level of protection available on a production car. As per reports, the car’s windows are coated with polycarbonate and can withstand hardened steel core bullets It has received a 2010 Explosion Proof Vehicle (ERV) rating, which means that the sedan has the ability to protect the occupants from a 15kg TNT explosion from a distance of only 2 meters. The interior of the window is coated with polycarbonate and the vehicle’s lower part is heavily armoured to protect the occupants from direct explosions. The cabin also receives a separate air supply in case of a gas attack. The car is also equipped with special run-flat tyres that will continue to function in case of damage or puncture to ensure a quick getaway. The S650 Guard is powered by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo V12 engine that produces 516bhp and a peak torque of approximately 900Nm. The maximum speed is limited to 160kmph. The S650 Guard has all the conforms that are expected of the standard Maybach S-Class, including the plush interior with seat massagers, while the seats themselves have been repositioned for enhanced legroom. Mercedes-Maybach launched the S600 Guard in India last year for Rs 10.5 crore and the S650 can cost more than Rs 12 crore. However, the cost of the vehicle modified for the prime minister is unknown. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian PM Modi gets armoured Mercedes-Maybach that can survive bullets and blasts

Amid rise in&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;variant cases, the Indian states of Uttarakhand and Kerala on Monday imposed night curfew.

On Monday, Manipur reported the first Omicron case after a person returning from Tanzania tested positive for the new variant as three Omicron cases were detected in Rajashtan's Jaipur and Udaipur.&nbsp;

Goa also reported the first Omicron case. The Karnataka state government also imposed&nbsp;night curfew from 10 pm to 5 am&nbsp;from December 28 until January&nbsp;7.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-announces-precaution-dose-for-some-heres-all-you-need-to-know-about-it-440348">Also Read:&nbsp;As India announces 'precaution dose' for some, here's all you need to know about it</a>

In Mumbai, the virus surges continue as Maharashtra's capital reported 809 new virus cases along with three deaths. The number of active cases in the state stands at 4,765. The state legislative assembly officials informed at least 35 people had tested positive during the winter session.

India's capital recorded 331 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours along with one death taking the total number of fatalities in Delhi to 25,106.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's health minister informed that out of the 34 Omicron cases detected so far at least 16 patients are under treatment and 18 have been discharged. The state will begin vaccination of 15-18-year-olds from January 3, the state government said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worlds-first-dna-covid-vaccine-from-india-cost-features-other-details-here-440286">Also Read:&nbsp;World's first DNA Covid vaccine from India: Cost, features, other details here</a>

Amid the rise in cases, India's home ministry directed&nbsp;states to consider imposing need-based, local restrictions to control crowds during the festive season.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid rise in Omicron variant cases, the Indian states of Uttarakhand and Kerala on Monday imposed night curfew. On Monday, Manipur reported the first Omicron case after a person returning from Tanzania tested positive for the new variant as three Omicron cases were detected in Rajashtan's Jaipur and Udaipur.

Amid rise in Omicron variant cases, the Indian states of Uttarakhand and Kerala on Monday imposed night curfew. On Monday, Manipur reported the first Omicron case after a person returning from Tanzania tested positive for the new variant as three Omicron cases were detected in Rajashtan's Jaipur and Udaipur. Goa also reported the first Omicron case. The Karnataka state government also imposed night curfew from 10 pm to 5 am from December 28 until January 7. Also Read: As India announces 'precaution dose' for some, here's all you need to know about it In Mumbai, the virus surges continue as Maharashtra's capital reported 809 new virus cases along with three deaths. The number of active cases in the state stands at 4,765. The state legislative assembly officials informed at least 35 people had tested positive during the winter session. India's capital recorded 331 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours along with one death taking the total number of fatalities in Delhi to 25,106. Tamil Nadu's health minister informed that out of the 34 Omicron cases detected so far at least 16 patients are under treatment and 18 have been discharged. The state will begin vaccination of 15-18-year-olds from January 3, the state government said. Also Read: World's first DNA Covid vaccine from India: Cost, features, other details here Amid the rise in cases, India's home ministry directed states to consider imposing need-based, local restrictions to control crowds during the festive season. (With inputs from Agencies)

Goa, Manipur report first Omicron case; night curfew in Uttarakhand, Kerala & Karnataka

The year 2021 will go down in history for a lot of factors. This year, 21 years later a 21-year-old brought the Miss Universe crown back to India. On December 12th, Indian model Harnaaz Sandhu was declared Miss Universe at the 70th edition of the pageant. She spoke to Wion. Here are some snippets from the interview.

Harnaaz Sandhu speaks to Wion | Exclusive| Miss Universe

Indian businessman Piyush Jain was arrested on suspicion of tax evasion on the night of December 26 after government authorities searched his properties for more than 40 hours in what turned out to be possibly the largest cash seizure in recent history.

According to sources, a total of Rs 2.8 billion (approximately $38 million) in cash has been confiscated from Jain-linked sites, with more expected to emerge as the marathon searches enter their fourth day. The funds were allegedly related to a goods transporter's dispatch of products using false invoices and no e-way bills.

Officials from the Goods and Services Tax (GST) are conducting raids in Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.&nbsp; 
 
“Piyush Jain has accepted that the cash recovered from the residential premises is related to the sale of goods without payment of GST. In view of the overwhelming evidences available on record indicating large scale evasion of GST by Odochem Industries, Kannauj," the DGGI was quoted as saying by ANI.&nbsp;

A team of 50 tax officials, comprising units from Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat (Ahmedabad), were involved in search operations.

Sources privy to the probe said Jain was taken to a safe house and questioned for several hours. A set of questions were posed to him, but he was not able to satisfy the investigators.

Jain was arrested for evasion of tax and making multiple invoices in the name of fake firms.

The following are the specifics of the large sums of money, jewellery, and other valuables discovered from his properties:&nbsp;

Biggest recovery

"This is the biggest recovery in the history of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)," said Vivek Johri, the Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).

According to DGGI sources, the searches, which started on Friday, unearthed Rs 1.7 billion from Jain`s Anandnagar house in Kanpur and Rs 1.1 billion in unaccounted cash from his Kannauj house.

Ahmedabad recovered Rs 10 crore more cash from the factory and residence of perfume businessman Piyush Jain, who is the promotor of Odochem Industries in Kannauj district in Uttar Pradesh, official sources said.

Unaccounted sandalwood oil, perfumes worth crores have also been seized from Jain's factory, sources said. 
 
<img alt="cash" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="724882cf-c969-45be-b926-83ab47398a30" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_180.jpg" /> 
 
(Images of cash seized during the raid.)

Over 40 raids and more than 10 cash counting machines

The marathon raids and searches at Jain's properties have been ongoing for the past 40 hours and will continue for the next few days.

At work, there are over 10 cash counting machines. According to reports, the guy had his own cash counting machine.

25 kilogrammes of gold and 25 kilogrammes of silver

To investigate the truth of his claims, the investigating officers are engaged in breaking the safe and walls of his ancestral Chhipaiti house in Kannauj. Agencies have also recovered 250 kg of silver and 25 kg of gold from the Kannauj residence.

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Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) raid continues at the premises of businessman Piyush Jain in Kannauj 
 
Jain has been arrested by DGGI under section 67 of CGST Act, and he will be produced before a court today. <a href="https://t.co/dUX37ew8tz">pic.twitter.com/dUX37ew8tz</a>
— ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANINewsUP/status/1475350151380160513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Nine drums of 'sandal' oil&nbsp;

There were also nine drums of'sandal' oil discovered here, as well as bundles of Rs 2,000 notes recovered from cardboard boxes. A note counting machine was also discovered at the home of the businessman.

Meanwhile, Piyush's Kannauj home has been discovered to have a cellar. The investigating team is also concerned about the presence of further hidden lockers within Piyush Jain's home's walls. A team of architects and professionals has been dispatched from Lucknow to find them.

40 firms and 300 keys

Piyush Jain claimed to own around 40 companies. Two of them are rumoured to be located in the Middle East.

Around 300 keys were taken from four Jain-related homes. According to sources, locksmiths have also been called in because some locked doors cannot be unlocked.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian businessman Piyush Jain was arrested on suspicion of tax evasion on the night of December 26 after government authorities searched his properties for more than 40 hours in what turned out to be possibly the largest cash seizure in recent history.

Indian businessman Piyush Jain was arrested on suspicion of tax evasion on the night of December 26 after government authorities searched his properties for more than 40 hours in what turned out to be possibly the largest cash seizure in recent history. According to sources, a total of Rs 2.8 billion (approximately $38 million) in cash has been confiscated from Jain-linked sites, with more expected to emerge as the marathon searches enter their fourth day. The funds were allegedly related to a goods transporter's dispatch of products using false invoices and no e-way bills. Officials from the Goods and Services Tax (GST) are conducting raids in Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. “Piyush Jain has accepted that the cash recovered from the residential premises is related to the sale of goods without payment of GST. In view of the overwhelming evidences available on record indicating large scale evasion of GST by Odochem Industries, Kannauj," the DGGI was quoted as saying by ANI. A team of 50 tax officials, comprising units from Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat (Ahmedabad), were involved in search operations. Sources privy to the probe said Jain was taken to a safe house and questioned for several hours. A set of questions were posed to him, but he was not able to satisfy the investigators. Jain was arrested for evasion of tax and making multiple invoices in the name of fake firms. The following are the specifics of the large sums of money, jewellery, and other valuables discovered from his properties: Biggest recovery "This is the biggest recovery in the history of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)," said Vivek Johri, the Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC). According to DGGI sources, the searches, which started on Friday, unearthed Rs 1.7 billion from Jain`s Anandnagar house in Kanpur and Rs 1.1 billion in unaccounted cash from his Kannauj house. Ahmedabad recovered Rs 10 crore more cash from the factory and residence of perfume businessman Piyush Jain, who is the promotor of Odochem Industries in Kannauj district in Uttar Pradesh, official sources said. Unaccounted sandalwood oil, perfumes worth crores have also been seized from Jain's factory, sources said. (Images of cash seized during the raid.) Over 40 raids and more than 10 cash counting machines The marathon raids and searches at Jain's properties have been ongoing for the past 40 hours and will continue for the next few days. At work, there are over 10 cash counting machines. According to reports, the guy had his own cash counting machine. 25 kilogrammes of gold and 25 kilogrammes of silver To investigate the truth of his claims, the investigating officers are engaged in breaking the safe and walls of his ancestral Chhipaiti house in Kannauj. Agencies have also recovered 250 kg of silver and 25 kg of gold from the Kannauj residence. Directorate General of GST Intelligence (DGGI) raid continues at the premises of businessman Piyush Jain in Kannauj Jain has been arrested by DGGI under section 67 of CGST Act, and he will be produced before a court today. pic.twitter.com/dUX37ew8tz — ANI UP/Uttarakhand (@ANINewsUP) December 27, 2021 × Nine drums of 'sandal' oil There were also nine drums of'sandal' oil discovered here, as well as bundles of Rs 2,000 notes recovered from cardboard boxes. A note counting machine was also discovered at the home of the businessman. Meanwhile, Piyush's Kannauj home has been discovered to have a cellar. The investigating team is also concerned about the presence of further hidden lockers within Piyush Jain's home's walls. A team of architects and professionals has been dispatched from Lucknow to find them. 40 firms and 300 keys Piyush Jain claimed to own around 40 companies. Two of them are rumoured to be located in the Middle East. Around 300 keys were taken from four Jain-related homes. According to sources, locksmiths have also been called in because some locked doors cannot be unlocked. (With inputs from agencies)

Tax raids on Indian perfumer underway: Rs 2.8 billion, 25 kg gold and 250 kg silver recovered so far

Desmond Tutu, South Africa's anti-apartheid icon, died on December 26.&nbsp;Tutu dedicated his life to voicing his concerns over matters pertaining to justice and several other issues. Not just for various international communities, he was also a very important friend&nbsp;for India.&nbsp;

In October 2006, Tutu was awarded Gandhi peace prize for his contributions to social and political transformation through the Gandhian values of dialogue and tolerance. The prestigious award was launched by the Indian government in 1995 on the occasion of the Mahatma's 125th birth anniversary.&nbsp;

The then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh described Tutu as a follower of Mahatma Gandhi's vision that "South Africa can boast of proudly".

Singh, in his address, said, "I have great pleasure in announcing that in recognition of his invaluable contribution towards social and political transformation through dialogue and tolerance, truly Gandhian values, the government of India has decided to award the 2005 Gandhi Peace Prize to him."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-pay-tribute-to-desmond-tutu-anti-apartheid-champion-of-south-africa-440185">Also read |&nbsp;Here is a look at the life of South Africa's anti-apartheid icon Desmond Tutu</a>

In February 2012, Tutu visited India for five days. In one of his interviews, he spoke about the treatment of Dalits in India.&nbsp;

Expressing his views, he said that people should be interrogating other parts of Indian society and answer as to why are they allowing this to continue if you are an egalitarian society?&nbsp;

He said that he thinks that Indian society needs to be challenged about the Dalits as it ends up affecting humanity. During his 2015 visit, he met Dalai Lama in Dharamshala.&nbsp;

Tutu also expressed his concern on the issue of child marriage in Bihar during an interview with Shekhar Gupta on NDTV 24×7’s Walk the Talk in 2012. Recollecting his experience, he said, "We went to this village, where we met about 20-30 young people, both boys and girls. It was fantastic, how enthusiastic they were about opposing this practice of child marriage."

He further said that child marriage is something that holds back communities. You can forget about six of the eight millennium development goals unless you stop child marriages. You can forget about improving child mortality, maternal health. You can’t do anything about universalising primary education because these girls drop out."

After his demise, Indian PM Narendra Modi hailed Tutu as 'a guiding light for countless people globally'&nbsp;

"Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu was a guiding light for countless people globally. His emphasis on human dignity and equality will be forever remembered. I am deeply saddened by his demise, and extend my heartfelt condolences to all his admirers. May his soul rest in peace, he tweeted.

Several other world leaders paid tributes to Tutu, whose passing is being described as the fall of a giant.&nbsp;

Former US President Barack Obama, in his statement, described Tutu as "a mentor, a friend, and a moral compass for me and so many others."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-pay-tribute-to-desmond-tutu-anti-apartheid-champion-of-south-africa-440185">Also read |&nbsp;World leaders pay tribute to Desmond Tutu, anti-apartheid champion of South Africa</a>

"Michelle and I will miss him dearly," he said.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa tweeted his tribute to Tutu. "The passing of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu is another chapter of bereavement in our nation’s farewell to a generation of outstanding South Africans who have bequeathed us a liberated South Africa," he tweeted.

Dalai Lama also released a statement offering condolences on the passing of Desmond Tutu.&nbsp;

Deemed as South Africa's moral compass, he was considered as the reason for peace in South Africa.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Desmond Tutu, South Africa's anti-apartheid icon, died on December 26. Tutu dedicated his life to voicing his concerns over matters pertaining to justice and several other issues.

Desmond Tutu, South Africa's anti-apartheid icon, died on December 26. Tutu dedicated his life to voicing his concerns over matters pertaining to justice and several other issues. Not just for various international communities, he was also a very important friend for India. In October 2006, Tutu was awarded Gandhi peace prize for his contributions to social and political transformation through the Gandhian values of dialogue and tolerance. The prestigious award was launched by the Indian government in 1995 on the occasion of the Mahatma's 125th birth anniversary. The then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh described Tutu as a follower of Mahatma Gandhi's vision that "South Africa can boast of proudly". Singh, in his address, said, "I have great pleasure in announcing that in recognition of his invaluable contribution towards social and political transformation through dialogue and tolerance, truly Gandhian values, the government of India has decided to award the 2005 Gandhi Peace Prize to him." Also read | Here is a look at the life of South Africa's anti-apartheid icon Desmond Tutu In February 2012, Tutu visited India for five days. In one of his interviews, he spoke about the treatment of Dalits in India. Expressing his views, he said that people should be interrogating other parts of Indian society and answer as to why are they allowing this to continue if you are an egalitarian society? He said that he thinks that Indian society needs to be challenged about the Dalits as it ends up affecting humanity. During his 2015 visit, he met Dalai Lama in Dharamshala. Tutu also expressed his concern on the issue of child marriage in Bihar during an interview with Shekhar Gupta on NDTV 24×7’s Walk the Talk in 2012. Recollecting his experience, he said, "We went to this village, where we met about 20-30 young people, both boys and girls. It was fantastic, how enthusiastic they were about opposing this practice of child marriage." He further said that child marriage is something that holds back communities. You can forget about six of the eight millennium development goals unless you stop child marriages. You can forget about improving child mortality, maternal health. You can’t do anything about universalising primary education because these girls drop out." After his demise, Indian PM Narendra Modi hailed Tutu as 'a guiding light for countless people globally' "Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu was a guiding light for countless people globally. His emphasis on human dignity and equality will be forever remembered. I am deeply saddened by his demise, and extend my heartfelt condolences to all his admirers. May his soul rest in peace, he tweeted. Several other world leaders paid tributes to Tutu, whose passing is being described as the fall of a giant. Former US President Barack Obama, in his statement, described Tutu as "a mentor, a friend, and a moral compass for me and so many others." Also read | World leaders pay tribute to Desmond Tutu, anti-apartheid champion of South Africa "Michelle and I will miss him dearly," he said. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa tweeted his tribute to Tutu. "The passing of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu is another chapter of bereavement in our nation’s farewell to a generation of outstanding South Africans who have bequeathed us a liberated South Africa," he tweeted. Dalai Lama also released a statement offering condolences on the passing of Desmond Tutu. Deemed as South Africa's moral compass, he was considered as the reason for peace in South Africa. (With inputs from agencies)

Desmond Tutu was a friend of India: Here are some lesser known facts

The national capital on Monday reported 331 new cases of COVID-19, which is the highest single-day spike since the last six months.On June 6, the capital city reported 331 COVID-19 cases. Moreover, the positivity rate in the city moved up to 0.68 per cent which is the highest since the last six months.&nbsp;

On June 2, the positivity rate was 0.78 per cent. The total cases in Delhi increased to 14,43,683 with a cumulative positivity rate of 4.45 per cent. Active cases are 1,289 in the city. The total discharges from this virus stood at 14,17,288 including 144 fresh discharges.&nbsp;

However, the city reported one new fatality from this virus thereby increasing the death toll to 25106. Moreover, the case fatality rate is at 1.74 per cent. Further, 32,116 beneficiaries were vaccinated in the last 24 hours. With this, the cumulative COVID-19 vaccinations administered in the city are 2,55,89,731.&nbsp;

Moreover, to prevent the spread of the virus, there are as many as 310 total Containment Zones as on date.As Delhi continues to witness a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases, a night curfew has been imposed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led government in the national capital from Monday.The curfew will be imposed from 11 pm to 5 am

The national capital on Monday reported 331 new cases of COVID-19, which is the highest single-day spike since the last six months.On June 6, the capital city reported 331 COVID-19 cases.

The national capital on Monday reported 331 new cases of COVID-19, which is the highest single-day spike since the last six months.On June 6, the capital city reported 331 COVID-19 cases. Moreover, the positivity rate in the city moved up to 0.68 per cent which is the highest since the last six months. On June 2, the positivity rate was 0.78 per cent. The total cases in Delhi increased to 14,43,683 with a cumulative positivity rate of 4.45 per cent. Active cases are 1,289 in the city. The total discharges from this virus stood at 14,17,288 including 144 fresh discharges. However, the city reported one new fatality from this virus thereby increasing the death toll to 25106. Moreover, the case fatality rate is at 1.74 per cent. Further, 32,116 beneficiaries were vaccinated in the last 24 hours. With this, the cumulative COVID-19 vaccinations administered in the city are 2,55,89,731. Moreover, to prevent the spread of the virus, there are as many as 310 total Containment Zones as on date.As Delhi continues to witness a rise in the number of COVID-19 cases, a night curfew has been imposed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal-led government in the national capital from Monday.The curfew will be imposed from 11 pm to 5 am

Delhi reports 331 new COVID-19 cases, highest single day spike in last 6 months

The tourism industry in Kashmir Valley is finally back on track. Tourist arrivals have broken the&nbsp;record of the past ten years. Around 6.5 lakh tourists have visited Kashmir Valley this year with&nbsp;December witnessing the maximum arrivals. All the hotels in the hill stations of Gulmarg and Pahalgam are completely&nbsp;packed for the New Year.&nbsp;

According to the tourist department records, 6,40,000&nbsp;tourists have arrived in the Kashmir Valley this year. The month of December saw the maximum number of tourists arriving in Kashmir Valley at 1.18 lakhs in just 25 days. The data also said that 1.27 lakh tourists visited in the month of November this year. While witnessing the autumn season in the month of&nbsp;October, 93,000&nbsp;tourists came down to Kashmir.&nbsp;

''This year the arrival of tourists has crossed the 6-lakh mark, we expect it to be more in the coming days. This is the result of the work done by the department and stakeholders during post-Covid&nbsp;because of the vigorous marketing campaign and vaccination drive among the tourism stakeholders due to which we have&nbsp;seen&nbsp;results in terms of the footfall. 97 stakeholders are fully vaccinated. We went to tourism markets across the country to give them a message that we are ready and now we are seeing the results,&nbsp;'' said Ahsan Ul Haq, deputy director, tourism department.&nbsp;

<img alt="Snowfall in J&amp;K" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="836a1bc8-998b-4cad-b777-b21d43b93028" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TT121.jpeg" />

The tourism department has also added some new lesser-known destinations this year for tourists to explore. Around 75 such destinations have been added to the list of must-visit places in Kashmir Valley. And it has seen a great response from the people visiting.&nbsp;

''The department took a very historic decision this year, an initiative of opening up and promoting some 75 lesser-known destinations and there has been a certain demand from tourists to visit these places. This year Gurez has seen a tremendous rush of tourists, we are trying to keep Sonamarg open for the winters, Pahalgam will also be hosting new year celebrations. We are also working more on adventure and heritage like promotion of skiing and trekking which has attracted many tourists,'' said Ahsan Ul Haq.&nbsp;

The government of Jammu and Kashmir will now focus on adventure and heritage tourism to boost the future tourism industry in the Union Territory. They will soon start the winter sports festival in destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam.&nbsp;

The tourism industry in Kashmir Valley is finally back on track. Tourist arrivals have broken the record of the past ten years. Around 6.5 lakh tourists have visited Kashmir Valley this year with December witnessing the maximum arrivals.

The tourism industry in Kashmir Valley is finally back on track. Tourist arrivals have broken the record of the past ten years. Around 6.5 lakh tourists have visited Kashmir Valley this year with December witnessing the maximum arrivals. All the hotels in the hill stations of Gulmarg and Pahalgam are completely packed for the New Year. According to the tourist department records, 6,40,000 tourists have arrived in the Kashmir Valley this year. The month of December saw the maximum number of tourists arriving in Kashmir Valley at 1.18 lakhs in just 25 days. The data also said that 1.27 lakh tourists visited in the month of November this year. While witnessing the autumn season in the month of October, 93,000 tourists came down to Kashmir. ''This year the arrival of tourists has crossed the 6-lakh mark, we expect it to be more in the coming days. This is the result of the work done by the department and stakeholders during post-Covid because of the vigorous marketing campaign and vaccination drive among the tourism stakeholders due to which we have seen results in terms of the footfall. 97 stakeholders are fully vaccinated. We went to tourism markets across the country to give them a message that we are ready and now we are seeing the results, '' said Ahsan Ul Haq, deputy director, tourism department. The tourism department has also added some new lesser-known destinations this year for tourists to explore. Around 75 such destinations have been added to the list of must-visit places in Kashmir Valley. And it has seen a great response from the people visiting. ''The department took a very historic decision this year, an initiative of opening up and promoting some 75 lesser-known destinations and there has been a certain demand from tourists to visit these places. This year Gurez has seen a tremendous rush of tourists, we are trying to keep Sonamarg open for the winters, Pahalgam will also be hosting new year celebrations. We are also working more on adventure and heritage like promotion of skiing and trekking which has attracted many tourists,'' said Ahsan Ul Haq. The government of Jammu and Kashmir will now focus on adventure and heritage tourism to boost the future tourism industry in the Union Territory. They will soon start the winter sports festival in destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam.

Kashmir gets record tourists in December

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced a 'precaution dose' for citizens of and above the age of 60. The announcement was made in a surprise televised address to the nation. <o:p></o:p>

PM Modi announced that considering the wide spread of the Omicron variant all over the world, India will start administering ‘precautionary doses’ for people above the age of 60 and frontline workers.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-variant-in-india-live-422-cases-reported-till-now-440325">Omicron variant in India Live: 422 cases reported till now</a></o:p>

Who is eligible?<o:p></o:p>

All Indian citizens of and above the age of 60 are eligible for the COVID-19 ‘precautionary doses’. Those eligible would also need a ‘comorbidities certificate’ before taking the shot, clarified Dr RS Sharma, chief executive officer (CEO) at National Health Authority (NHA).<o:p></o:p>

In addition to this age group, healthcare and frontline workers are also eligible for this precautionary shot.<o:p></o:p>

When will the vaccination programme start?<o:p></o:p>

The vaccine programme for all eligible people will tentatively start from January 10 of next year.

Have a look&nbsp;| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pictures-amid-omicron-fear-indian-streets-were-seen-packed-with-crowd-on-christmas-440078">Amid Omicron fear, Indian streets were seen packed with crowd on Christmas</a>

What is the process?

The process for getting this 'precaution dose' will be largely similar to the one followed for the vaccination programme for people of and above the age of 45, and suffered from specified co-morbidities.

<o:p></o:p>

What are the 'comorbidities' mentioned?<o:p></o:p>

As per medical terms, a comorbidity is the presence of a serious health condition (or multiple conditions) that are co-occurring with primary health conditions. The government has mentioned 20 such comorbidities, out of which few are cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stem cell transplant, kidney disease or on dialysis, cirrhosis, cancer, sickle cell disease, and current prolonged use of steroids or immunosuppressant drugs.<o:p></o:p>

Eligible citizens can upload copy of their comorbidity certificates on the Co-WIN 2.0 platform after getting it signed by any medical practitioner. People will also be asked to carry a hard copy of the certificate to the vaccination centres.<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p>

What is the required gap between the ‘precaution dose’ and the second Covid vaccine?<o:p></o:p>

The gap between the second Covid shot and the ‘precaution dose’ has not yet been announced by the government. However, experts believe the gap might be near nine to twelve months. The immunisation division and the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI)&nbsp;are discussing the matter for now and a final decision will soon be announced.<o:p></o:p>

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced a 'precaution dose' for citizens of and above the age of 60. The announcement was made in a surprise televised address to the nation.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently announced a 'precaution dose' for citizens of and above the age of 60. The announcement was made in a surprise televised address to the nation. PM Modi announced that considering the wide spread of the Omicron variant all over the world, India will start administering ‘precautionary doses’ for people above the age of 60 and frontline workers. Also read | Omicron variant in India Live: 422 cases reported till now Who is eligible? All Indian citizens of and above the age of 60 are eligible for the COVID-19 ‘precautionary doses’. Those eligible would also need a ‘comorbidities certificate’ before taking the shot, clarified Dr RS Sharma, chief executive officer (CEO) at National Health Authority (NHA). In addition to this age group, healthcare and frontline workers are also eligible for this precautionary shot. When will the vaccination programme start? The vaccine programme for all eligible people will tentatively start from January 10 of next year. Have a look | Amid Omicron fear, Indian streets were seen packed with crowd on Christmas What is the process? The process for getting this 'precaution dose' will be largely similar to the one followed for the vaccination programme for people of and above the age of 45, and suffered from specified co-morbidities. What are the 'comorbidities' mentioned? As per medical terms, a comorbidity is the presence of a serious health condition (or multiple conditions) that are co-occurring with primary health conditions. The government has mentioned 20 such comorbidities, out of which few are cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stem cell transplant, kidney disease or on dialysis, cirrhosis, cancer, sickle cell disease, and current prolonged use of steroids or immunosuppressant drugs. Eligible citizens can upload copy of their comorbidity certificates on the Co-WIN 2.0 platform after getting it signed by any medical practitioner. People will also be asked to carry a hard copy of the certificate to the vaccination centres. What is the required gap between the ‘precaution dose’ and the second Covid vaccine? The gap between the second Covid shot and the ‘precaution dose’ has not yet been announced by the government. However, experts believe the gap might be near nine to twelve months. The immunisation division and the National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) are discussing the matter for now and a final decision will soon be announced.

As India announces 'precaution dose' for some, here's all you need to know about it

Regarding the Dish TV and Yes Bank issue, the Promoter Group Company of Dish TV has filed an application before India's Bombay High Court in the share transfer matter.

Regarding the Dish TV and Yes Bank issue, the Promoter Group Company of Dish TV has filed an application before India's Bombay High Court in the share transfer matter. The company urged the HC to not allow the transfer of shares till the completion of the hearing. In its application, the company has appealed to Bombay HC to stop any attempt to exercise control over Dish TV. The application has been filed by JSGG Infra Developers LLP which is the promoter company of Dish TV. Plea to stay share transfer till the hearing is ongoing. The company in its application has appealed that the share transfer of Dish TV must be stopped till the hearing is going on. Complaint filed against Yes Bank before SEBI Prior to the filing of this application, Dish TV has also lodged a complaint against Yes Bank before SEBI. The company has written a letter to SEBI and said that Yes Bank had not announced open offer which is a violation of acquisition rules. Dish TV has said that Yes Bank is trying to take control over the board of Dish TV by proposing to hold shareholder EGM to make changes in the Board. However, it has not given any open offer with regards to this, till now. Appeal seeking investigation against Yes Bank and IDBI trusteeship In the application filed before the Bombay HC, Ministry of Finance, Yes Bank and Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) have been made parties to the case. Apart from them, exchanges, Catalyst Trusteeship, and Dish TV have also been made parties. Dish TV has informed the exchanges about the High Court case An investigation has been sought against Catalyst Trusteeship and Yes Bank. Apart from this, an investigation has also been sought against IDBI Trusteeship. In its application, the promoter company has said an attempt is being made by Yes Bank to take control over Dish TV and must be stopped.

Dish TV promoter company files plea before Bombay HC to halt share transfer till hearing is going on

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (December 25) announced that the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination for children aged 15-18 years will start from January 3. From the threat of the Omicron variant to the vaccination process, the Prime Minister touched upon a range of issues.&nbsp;

Amid speculations over another wave of COVID-19 which is fuelled by the emergence of a new variant Omicron, PM Modi urged the citizens to not panic. He also asked everyone to follow Covid measures, such as wearing face masks and washing hands occasionally, etc.&nbsp;

During his address to the nation, PM Modi also said that from the point of view of precaution, the Indian government has decided that the 'precaution dose' of vaccine will also be started for the healthcare and frontline workers. PM Modi further informed that the process will start on January 10, 2022.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-capital-registers-249-new-covid-cases-witnesses-biggest-single-day-spike-since-june-13-439956">Indian capital registers 249 new Covid cases, witnesses biggest single-day spike since June 13</a>

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My address to the nation. <a href="https://t.co/dBQKvHXPtv">https://t.co/dBQKvHXPtv</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1474775804336697345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Talking about the vaccination programme in India, PM Modi said that India started giving the vaccine to its citizens on January 16 this year.&nbsp;

He added that it is the collective effort and collective will of all the citizens of the country that India has crossed the unprecedented and very difficult target of 141 crore vaccine doses.&nbsp;

The Prime Minister informed that today, more than 61 per cent of India's adult population has received both doses of the vaccine. And about 90 per cent of the adult population has received a single dose of the vaccine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-kanpur-study-tells-when-third-covid-19-wave-in-india-may-peak-439713">IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak</a>

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इसलिए Precaution की दृष्टि से सरकार ने निर्णय लिया है कि हेल्थकेयर और फ्रंटलाइन वर्कर्स को वैक्सीन की Precaution Dose भी प्रारंभ की जाएगी। 
 
इसकी शुरुआत 2022 में, 10 जनवरी, सोमवार के दिन से की जाएगी: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1474778968297402369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi said that the fight against the Covid pandemic shows that following all the guidelines at the individual level is a great weapon apart from taking the vaccines.&nbsp;&nbsp;

PM Modi also said that citizens above 60 years of age with co-morbidities will also have the option of a precautionary dose of the vaccine on the advice of their doctor, which will also be available from January 10.&nbsp;

Watch PM Modi's address:

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As per the Union Health Ministry, India has reported 7,189 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours.

Meanwhile, the nationwide case tally of the Omicron variant of coronavirus has reached 415.

Amid the Omicron scare and surge in cases in various parts of the country, the Union Health Ministry on Saturday said that multi-disciplinary Central teams would be deployed in ten identified states.

"A decision has been taken to deploy multi-disciplinary Central teams to 10 identified States some of which are either reporting an increasing number of Omicron and COVID-19 cases or slow vaccination pace," says Union Health Ministry in an official statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (December 25) announced that the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination for children aged 15-18 years will start from January 3.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (December 25) announced that the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination for children aged 15-18 years will start from January 3. From the threat of the Omicron variant to the vaccination process, the Prime Minister touched upon a range of issues. Amid speculations over another wave of COVID-19 which is fuelled by the emergence of a new variant Omicron, PM Modi urged the citizens to not panic. He also asked everyone to follow Covid measures, such as wearing face masks and washing hands occasionally, etc. During his address to the nation, PM Modi also said that from the point of view of precaution, the Indian government has decided that the 'precaution dose' of vaccine will also be started for the healthcare and frontline workers. PM Modi further informed that the process will start on January 10, 2022. ALSO READ | Indian capital registers 249 new Covid cases, witnesses biggest single-day spike since June 13 My address to the nation. https://t.co/dBQKvHXPtv — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 25, 2021 × Talking about the vaccination programme in India, PM Modi said that India started giving the vaccine to its citizens on January 16 this year. He added that it is the collective effort and collective will of all the citizens of the country that India has crossed the unprecedented and very difficult target of 141 crore vaccine doses. The Prime Minister informed that today, more than 61 per cent of India's adult population has received both doses of the vaccine. And about 90 per cent of the adult population has received a single dose of the vaccine. ALSO READ | IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak इसलिए Precaution की दृष्टि से सरकार ने निर्णय लिया है कि हेल्थकेयर और फ्रंटलाइन वर्कर्स को वैक्सीन की Precaution Dose भी प्रारंभ की जाएगी। इसकी शुरुआत 2022 में, 10 जनवरी, सोमवार के दिन से की जाएगी: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) December 25, 2021 × PM Modi said that the fight against the Covid pandemic shows that following all the guidelines at the individual level is a great weapon apart from taking the vaccines. PM Modi also said that citizens above 60 years of age with co-morbidities will also have the option of a precautionary dose of the vaccine on the advice of their doctor, which will also be available from January 10. Watch PM Modi's address: × As per the Union Health Ministry, India has reported 7,189 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, the nationwide case tally of the Omicron variant of coronavirus has reached 415. Amid the Omicron scare and surge in cases in various parts of the country, the Union Health Ministry on Saturday said that multi-disciplinary Central teams would be deployed in ten identified states. "A decision has been taken to deploy multi-disciplinary Central teams to 10 identified States some of which are either reporting an increasing number of Omicron and COVID-19 cases or slow vaccination pace," says Union Health Ministry in an official statement. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: PM Narendra Modi announces jabs for 15-18 years age group, precautionary dose for frontline workers

With a visit to the Dubai Expo and the signing of the India-UAE free trade agreement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in United Arab Emirates (UAE) on January 6.

PM Modi will be visiting the "India Pavillion" at the Dubai Expo. It is a massive four-floor&nbsp;pavilion which showcases India's culture, Yoga, Ayurveda and space programme.

The pavilion was inaugurated by India's trade minister Piyush Goyal on October 1. It has been visited by many foreign leaders including by Cyprus foreign minister and the King of Sweden. The pavilion also has a model of Ram temple and the BAPS Hindu temple that is being built in Abu Dhabi.

The other key focus of the visit will be the signing of the India-UAE free trade agreement. Earlier this month speaking at an event, trade minister Goyal said that the FTA is an "outstanding achievement for India. It will open lot of doors for lot of sectors...it will be the fastest FTA India has ever entered into. A full FTA".

Talks for the FTA was launched in September. December first week saw the third&nbsp;round of the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Delhi. Trade between the two&nbsp;countries has&nbsp;been robust. UAE is the second-largest export destination of India after US&nbsp;with an amount of over $30 billion for the year 2018-19.

For UAE, India was the second-largest trading partner during 2018 with US$ 36 billion (non-oil trade). UAE has committed $100 billion for investment and infrastructure creation in India.

India and UAE have "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership"&nbsp;and have seen increased engagement at every level. &nbsp;

PM Modi had visited the West Asian country in 2015, 2018 and 2019. UAE has conferred the highest civilian award "the Order of Zayed"&nbsp;on the PM. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, (MBZ) Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces&nbsp;had visited India in February 2016. MBZ visited India again in January, 2017 as the chief guest at India’s Republic day celebrations

The country's diaspora forms a deep connect with India. UAE hosts one of the largest populations of Indians outside of India. Indian expatriate community is approximately&nbsp;3.3 million which is the largest ethnic community in UAE constituting roughly about 30 per cent of the country’s population. Among the Indian states, Kerala is the most represented followed by Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. &nbsp;Indians from the northern states also form a significant portion of the UAE's&nbsp;population.

PM Modi will not be going to Kuwait&nbsp;as was being reported earlier. The last high-level visit from India to the country under the current Modi government was by external affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar in June. During the visit, EAM called on the Prime Minister of Kuwait and held a meeting with foreign minister of Kuwait. The last prime ministerial visit from India to Kuwait was by PM Indira Gandhi in 1981 and work is on for the visit of PM Modi to the country soon.

The visit of PM Modi to UAE will be his first foreign visit in 2022. More visits are planned next year, including to Denmark, Germany, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and others but the COVID-19 situation globally will weigh on how the plan goes forward.

2021 saw PM going to Bangladesh, US, Italy and United Kingdom for a bilateral visit and summits like Quad, G20 and the climate change summit.

With a visit to the Dubai Expo and the signing of the India-UAE free trade agreement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in United Arab Emirates (UAE) on January 6.

With a visit to the Dubai Expo and the signing of the India-UAE free trade agreement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in United Arab Emirates (UAE) on January 6. PM Modi will be visiting the "India Pavillion" at the Dubai Expo. It is a massive four-floor pavilion which showcases India's culture, Yoga, Ayurveda and space programme. The pavilion was inaugurated by India's trade minister Piyush Goyal on October 1. It has been visited by many foreign leaders including by Cyprus foreign minister and the King of Sweden. The pavilion also has a model of Ram temple and the BAPS Hindu temple that is being built in Abu Dhabi. The other key focus of the visit will be the signing of the India-UAE free trade agreement. Earlier this month speaking at an event, trade minister Goyal said that the FTA is an "outstanding achievement for India. It will open lot of doors for lot of sectors...it will be the fastest FTA India has ever entered into. A full FTA". Talks for the FTA was launched in September. December first week saw the third round of the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Delhi. Trade between the two countries has been robust. UAE is the second-largest export destination of India after US with an amount of over $30 billion for the year 2018-19. For UAE, India was the second-largest trading partner during 2018 with US$ 36 billion (non-oil trade). UAE has committed $100 billion for investment and infrastructure creation in India. India and UAE have "Comprehensive Strategic Partnership" and have seen increased engagement at every level. PM Modi had visited the West Asian country in 2015, 2018 and 2019. UAE has conferred the highest civilian award "the Order of Zayed" on the PM. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, (MBZ) Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces had visited India in February 2016. MBZ visited India again in January, 2017 as the chief guest at India’s Republic day celebrations The country's diaspora forms a deep connect with India. UAE hosts one of the largest populations of Indians outside of India. Indian expatriate community is approximately 3.3 million which is the largest ethnic community in UAE constituting roughly about 30 per cent of the country’s population. Among the Indian states, Kerala is the most represented followed by Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. Indians from the northern states also form a significant portion of the UAE's population. PM Modi will not be going to Kuwait as was being reported earlier. The last high-level visit from India to the country under the current Modi government was by external affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar in June. During the visit, EAM called on the Prime Minister of Kuwait and held a meeting with foreign minister of Kuwait. The last prime ministerial visit from India to Kuwait was by PM Indira Gandhi in 1981 and work is on for the visit of PM Modi to the country soon. The visit of PM Modi to UAE will be his first foreign visit in 2022. More visits are planned next year, including to Denmark, Germany, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and others but the COVID-19 situation globally will weigh on how the plan goes forward. 2021 saw PM going to Bangladesh, US, Italy and United Kingdom for a bilateral visit and summits like Quad, G20 and the climate change summit.

PM Modi to be in UAE on January 6; no visit to Kuwait

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