Virat Kohli turns 38: 5 records that define his cricketing legacy

US midterms: Did Trump lose young voters, women and minorities? Here's how Americans voted

‘Dialled wrong number in season of dharna, go protest’: CJI’s quip on plea seeking rotation of SC-ST reserved seats

Who is Abdul El-Sayed’s wife Sarah Jukaku and what is her Indian connection?

Florida shooting: Two dead, including suspect, after gunfire at Citibank's Tampa-area complex

First handshake? Radio signal with all hallmarks of alien technology detected in China

Trump's 'best guy' Pete Hegseth on the chopping block? Why Republicans are now turning against him after midterms disaster

Houthis put a price on peace with Saudi: $51 billion and recognition as Yemen's rulers - Report

Ueno Bank crisis: Why are millions protesting as Paraguay’s president faces impeachment?

‘Iran handed Trump political defeat after strategic ones,’ says security chief Mohsen Rezaei

Ashwin shares reasons for Bhuvneshwar's struggle in NZ T20Is, says his 'chapter is maybe closed'

US Midterms 2026: Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan race, becomes first Muslim American to be elected to US Senate

Watch: Ilhan Omar breaks into a dance after securing fifth-term victory amid long-running Trump feud

Dirty war ahead? Trump has options of renewed strikes on Iran or letting it rot, but officials are divided after US midterms rout

US Midterms 2026: Pooja Sethi defeats bigotry, makes history as first Hindu, Indian-American woman elected to Texas Legislature

US midterms: What went wrong for Trump? | Gravitas

‘You can call me Senator’: From Texas To Maine, watch Democrats celebrate historic 2026 midterm wins

'I am more Indian than Arab': Abdul El-Sayed on his Indian-origin wife

Saudi Arabia rolls over $3 billion financing to Pakistan as $10 billion US backstop fades

Keran Heritage Centre to give new impetus to border tourism in North Kashmir

"That run-out by Rohit changed the momentum": Gill reflects on India's 5-wicket win in 1st ODI vs NZ

Chandigarh couple at centre of fresh US sanctions over helping Iran evade oil sanctions

Kashmir Valley likely to receive fresh spell of snowfall today; dry weather forecast till November 9

Mahadev app co-founder Ravi Uppal arrested in Dubai days after kingpin Sourabh Chandrakar’s extradition

'Habibi, there's a delicious irony': What the word Abdul El-Sayed used on JD Vance actually means | US Midterms 2026

Doomsday warning? Why governments are warning people to stockpile emergency supplies for 72 hours

Ramayana: Part 1 movie review: Yash’s powerhouse performance and jaw-dropping VFX fuel Nitesh Tiwari's epic

Nithya Raman wins LA mayoral race, becomes city's first Asian-American mayor

After Microsoft, Google expands voluntary exit programme to employees in 5 countries amid AI spending

Ramayana Part 1 X reviews: Netizens hail Ranbir Kapoor-Yash's mythological epic, call it a 'monumental cinematic masterpiece'

Israel's Ra'am party backs Gadi Eisenkot to lead next government after meeting with Herzog

Indian Army marks Battle of Shalateng Day with veterans’ rally, educational outreach at Sharifabad

From Texas to South Carolina: How Democrats stormed Republican strongholds to redraw America's political map in US midterms 2026

The Indian rupee slumped 27 paise to 73.17 against the US dollar in opening trade on Wednesday tracking weak domestic equities and strong American currency.

At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened lower at 73.13 against the dollar, and lost further ground and touched 73.17, registering a fall of 27 paise over its previous close. On Tuesday, the rupee had settled at 72.90 against the US dollar.

"The course ahead for the currency could remain uneven amid uncertainties around the development of the pandemic situation and the economic recovery," Reliance Securities said in a research note.

Most Asian currencies have started flat to weaker against the US dollar this morning and could weigh on the local unit, the note added.

Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, rose 0.08 per cent to 89.90. Global oil benchmark Brent crude futures rose 0.24 per cent to USD 70.42 per barrel. On the domestic equity market front, BSE Sensex was trading 354.99 points or 0.68 per cent lower at 51,579.89, while the broader NSE Nifty fell 83.90 points or 0.54 per cent to 15,490.95.

Foreign institutional investors were net sellers in the capital market on Tuesday as they offloaded shares worth Rs 449.86 crore, as per exchange data.

Meanwhile, India reported 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday.

The Indian rupee slumped 27 paise to 73.17 against the US dollar in opening trade on Wednesday tracking weak domestic equities and strong American currency. At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened lower at 73.

The Indian rupee slumped 27 paise to 73.17 against the US dollar in opening trade on Wednesday tracking weak domestic equities and strong American currency. At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened lower at 73.13 against the dollar, and lost further ground and touched 73.17, registering a fall of 27 paise over its previous close. On Tuesday, the rupee had settled at 72.90 against the US dollar. "The course ahead for the currency could remain uneven amid uncertainties around the development of the pandemic situation and the economic recovery," Reliance Securities said in a research note. Most Asian currencies have started flat to weaker against the US dollar this morning and could weigh on the local unit, the note added. Meanwhile, the dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, rose 0.08 per cent to 89.90. Global oil benchmark Brent crude futures rose 0.24 per cent to USD 70.42 per barrel. On the domestic equity market front, BSE Sensex was trading 354.99 points or 0.68 per cent lower at 51,579.89, while the broader NSE Nifty fell 83.90 points or 0.54 per cent to 15,490.95. Foreign institutional investors were net sellers in the capital market on Tuesday as they offloaded shares worth Rs 449.86 crore, as per exchange data. Meanwhile, India reported 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday.

Rupee falls 27 paise to 73.17 against US dollar in early trade

India added 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections, taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday.

The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths. The active cases were recorded below 20,00,000&nbsp;for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also, 20,19,773 tests were conducted on Tuesday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 35,00,57,330, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.57 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for nine consecutive days, the ministry said.

The weekly positivity rate has declined to 8.21 per cent. The active cases have reduced to 17,93,645 comprising 6.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.48 per cent. A net decline of 1,01,875 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for the 20th consecutive day. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,61,79,085, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.18 per cent, the data stated.

The 3,207 new fatalities include 854 from Maharashtra, 490 from Tamil Nadu, 464 from Karnataka, 194 from Kerala, 175 from Uttar Pradesh, 137 from West Bengal and 104 from Andhra Pradesh.

A total of 3,35,102 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 96,198 from Maharashtra, 29,554 from Karnataka, 24,722 from Tamil Nadu, 24,299 from Delhi, 20,672 from Uttar Pradesh, 15,678 from West Bengal, 14,649 from Punjab and 13,077 from Chhattisgarh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

(With inputs from agencies)

India added 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections, taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.

India added 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections, taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday. The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths. The active cases were recorded below 20,00,000 for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed. Also, 20,19,773 tests were conducted on Tuesday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 35,00,57,330, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.57 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for nine consecutive days, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has declined to 8.21 per cent. The active cases have reduced to 17,93,645 comprising 6.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.48 per cent. A net decline of 1,01,875 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for the 20th consecutive day. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,61,79,085, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.18 per cent, the data stated. The 3,207 new fatalities include 854 from Maharashtra, 490 from Tamil Nadu, 464 from Karnataka, 194 from Kerala, 175 from Uttar Pradesh, 137 from West Bengal and 104 from Andhra Pradesh. A total of 3,35,102 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 96,198 from Maharashtra, 29,554 from Karnataka, 24,722 from Tamil Nadu, 24,299 from Delhi, 20,672 from Uttar Pradesh, 15,678 from West Bengal, 14,649 from Punjab and 13,077 from Chhattisgarh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India logs 1,32,788 fresh cases, 3,207 new fatalities

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines.

The decision by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) comes in the backdrop of Pfizer and Cipla putting forth similar demands during negotiations to supply imported vaccines to India.

These exemptions have been made in light of the huge vaccination requirements in India in the wake of the recent surge of COVID-19 cases and the need for increased availability of imported vaccines to meet national requirements, according to DCGI.

"It has been decided that for approval of COVID-19 vaccines in India for restricted use in an emergency situation which is already approved for restricted use by US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA, PMDA Japan or which are listed in WHO Emergency Use Listing and which are well-established vaccines from the standpoint that millions of individuals have already been vaccinated with the said vaccines, the requirement of conducting post-approval bridging clinical trials and of testing every batch of vaccine by CDL, Kasauli can be exempted, if the vaccine batch/lot has been certified and released by National Control Laboratory of the country of origin," it said.

However, scrutiny of their summary lot protocol and certificate of analysis of batch or lot shall be undertaken by CDL, Kasauli for release as per standard procedures and requirement of assessment on the first 100 beneficiaries for seven days for safety outcomes before the vaccine is rolled out for further immunization programme, the DCGI said in a notice issued on June 1.

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines.

India's apex drug regulator has waived the requirement of testing every batch of foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines by the Central Drugs Laboratory, Kasauli and post-launch bridging trials for such firms, a move that will bolster the availability of vaccines. The decision by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) comes in the backdrop of Pfizer and Cipla putting forth similar demands during negotiations to supply imported vaccines to India. These exemptions have been made in light of the huge vaccination requirements in India in the wake of the recent surge of COVID-19 cases and the need for increased availability of imported vaccines to meet national requirements, according to DCGI. "It has been decided that for approval of COVID-19 vaccines in India for restricted use in an emergency situation which is already approved for restricted use by US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA, PMDA Japan or which are listed in WHO Emergency Use Listing and which are well-established vaccines from the standpoint that millions of individuals have already been vaccinated with the said vaccines, the requirement of conducting post-approval bridging clinical trials and of testing every batch of vaccine by CDL, Kasauli can be exempted, if the vaccine batch/lot has been certified and released by National Control Laboratory of the country of origin," it said. However, scrutiny of their summary lot protocol and certificate of analysis of batch or lot shall be undertaken by CDL, Kasauli for release as per standard procedures and requirement of assessment on the first 100 beneficiaries for seven days for safety outcomes before the vaccine is rolled out for further immunization programme, the DCGI said in a notice issued on June 1.

Indian drugs regulator DCGI eases norms for clearing foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic has been tough on everybody and especially for the medical professionals who have been helping patients every day. Many medical experts have exposed themselves to the deadly virus and that has put their lives in extreme danger.

Indian Medical Association (IMA) has revealed that nearly 594 doctors have lost their lives to this pandemic during the second wave while serving others.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-vaccination-tips-to-follow-before-and-after-taking-the-jab-388927" hreflang="en">COVID-19 vaccination: Tips to follow before and after taking the jab</a>

Out of these, 107 doctors belonged to the capital New Delhi, which was one of the worst affected areas in the country.

After Delhi, Bihar lost the most number of doctors, i.e. 96, followed by 67 in Uttar Pradesh and 43 in Rajasthan. New Delhi, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh together&nbsp;account for 45 per cent of doctor deaths in the country’s second wave.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mixing-vaccines-has-not-become-the-protocol-india-health-ministry-388790" hreflang="en">Mixing vaccines has not become the protocol: India health ministry</a>

In total, the country has lost more than 1,300 doctors since the pandemic hit in the early months of 2020.

Some doctors have also lost their lives or have been critically injured after being attacked by family members or mobs in the hospitals or medical clinics while caring for patients and saving the lives of those infected by the coronavirus. The IMA has also urged the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, to bring in stricter laws against healthcare violence.

"There are many incidents of healthcare violence taking place across the country. Doctors and healthcare staff is finding it difficult to work under the stress of violence. Healthcare violence has become an alarming phenomenon across the country. The real size of the problem is largely unknown and recent information shows that the current knowledge is the tip of the iceberg," the letter read.

"India needs a comprehensive, uniform and effective law against the healthcare violence. We request you to kindly approve an effective and strong act against the healthcare violence," it added.

The coronavirus pandemic has been tough on everybody and especially for the medical professionals who have been helping patients every day. Many medical experts have exposed themselves to the deadly virus and that has put their lives in extreme danger.

The coronavirus pandemic has been tough on everybody and especially for the medical professionals who have been helping patients every day. Many medical experts have exposed themselves to the deadly virus and that has put their lives in extreme danger. Indian Medical Association (IMA) has revealed that nearly 594 doctors have lost their lives to this pandemic during the second wave while serving others. Also read | COVID-19 vaccination: Tips to follow before and after taking the jab Out of these, 107 doctors belonged to the capital New Delhi, which was one of the worst affected areas in the country. After Delhi, Bihar lost the most number of doctors, i.e. 96, followed by 67 in Uttar Pradesh and 43 in Rajasthan. New Delhi, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh together account for 45 per cent of doctor deaths in the country’s second wave. Also read | Mixing vaccines has not become the protocol: India health ministry In total, the country has lost more than 1,300 doctors since the pandemic hit in the early months of 2020. Some doctors have also lost their lives or have been critically injured after being attacked by family members or mobs in the hospitals or medical clinics while caring for patients and saving the lives of those infected by the coronavirus. The IMA has also urged the Union Home Minister, Amit Shah, to bring in stricter laws against healthcare violence. "There are many incidents of healthcare violence taking place across the country. Doctors and healthcare staff is finding it difficult to work under the stress of violence. Healthcare violence has become an alarming phenomenon across the country. The real size of the problem is largely unknown and recent information shows that the current knowledge is the tip of the iceberg," the letter read. "India needs a comprehensive, uniform and effective law against the healthcare violence. We request you to kindly approve an effective and strong act against the healthcare violence," it added.

India has lost 594 doctors in second wave of COVID-19, says medical body IMA

The government on Tuesday decided to cancel the CBSE Class 12 board exams amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic across the country with Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserting that the decision has been taken in the interest of students and the anxiety among students, parents and teachers must be put to an end.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Modi in which it was decided that the CBSE will take steps to compile the results of Class 12 students as per a well-defined objective criteria in a time-bound manner.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Government of India has decided to cancel the Class XII CBSE Board Exams. After extensive consultations, we have taken a decision that is student-friendly, one that safeguards the health as well as future of our youth. <a href="https://t.co/vzl6ahY1O2">https://t.co/vzl6ahY1O2</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1399729887020126212?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Government of India has decided to cancel the Class XII CBSE Board Exams. After extensive consultations, we have taken a decision that is student-friendly, one that safeguards the health as well as future of our youth," the prime minister tweeted after the meeting.

While the alternative assessment criteria for the exams has not been finalised by the board yet, officials said, it is expected to be on similar lines as announced for Class 10 which took into account the performance of a student in various tests and exams through the year.

It was also decided in the meeting that in case some students desire to take the exams, such an option would be provided to them by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), as and when the situation becomes conducive.

This is the first time that the CBSE has completely cancelled the board exam conducted by it. Last year, exams were midway when a nationwide lockdown was announced in view of the COVID-19 outbreak and the remaining exams were cancelled later.

With the decision to cancel the exams coming amid high COVID-19 cases in several states and continuing health-related apprehensions about the future, Modi said the health and safety of students are of utmost importance, and there would be no compromise on this aspect.

Anxiety among students, parents and teachers must be put to an end, and students should not be forced to appear for exams in such a stressful situation, a government statement quoted the prime minister as saying.

PM Modi further asserted that all stakeholders need to show sensitivity for students as well as their parents and teachers.

In the review meeting, officials gave a detailed presentation on the wide and extensive consultation held so far and views received from all stakeholders, including by state governments.

"In view of the uncertain conditions due to COVID-19 and the feedback obtained from various stakeholders, it was decided that Class XII board exams would not be held this year," the statement said.

Modi said at the meeting that COVID-19 has affected the academic calendar and the issue of board examinations has been causing immense anxiety among students, parents and teachers, which must be put to an end.

He said the COVID-19 situation is dynamic across the country, and that the number of cases is coming down with some states managing the situation through effective micro-containment, while some states have still opted for a lockdown.

Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' tweeted, "I wish all the students very best in their careers. I would like to reiterate safety and career of students is of paramount importance for Modi government".

Nishank, was earlier in the day hospitalised at AIIMS due to post-Covid complications.

Students, parents and teachers are naturally worried about the health of students in such a situation, he noted, asserting that students should not be forced to appear for exams in such a stressful situation.

Amid continuing demands for cancellation of exams by a large section of students and parents, the ministry had called a high-level meeting last Sunday to deliberate on the issue which was also attended by state education ministers and education secretaries.

The CBSE had proposed two options -- conducting regular exams for only major subjects at notified centres or holding shorter-duration exams at the school where a student is enrolled.

The proposed timeline for conducting the exams was between July 15 to August 26 and declaring the results in September. States were asked to submit detailed suggestions by May 25.

The majority of states opted for the second option which included conducting 90 minutes exams for major subjects at students' home schools. Few states also insisted on vaccinating students before going ahead with the exams.

A group of students had also approached the Supreme Court seeking cancellation of the exams. In a hearing on Monday, the government had told the apex court that

The CBSE had on April 14 announced the cancellation of Class 10 exams and postponement of Class 12 exams in view of the surge in coronavirus cases.

According to the evaluation criteria announced for class 10 students, while 20 marks for each subject will be for internal assessment as every year, 80 marks will be calculated on basis of the student's performance in various tests or exams throughout the year.&nbsp;

The government on Tuesday decided to cancel the CBSE Class 12 board exams amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic across the country with Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserting that the decision has been taken in the interest of students and the anxiety among students, parents and teachers must be put to an end.

The government on Tuesday decided to cancel the CBSE Class 12 board exams amid the continuing COVID-19 pandemic across the country with Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserting that the decision has been taken in the interest of students and the anxiety among students, parents and teachers must be put to an end. The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by Modi in which it was decided that the CBSE will take steps to compile the results of Class 12 students as per a well-defined objective criteria in a time-bound manner. Government of India has decided to cancel the Class XII CBSE Board Exams. After extensive consultations, we have taken a decision that is student-friendly, one that safeguards the health as well as future of our youth. https://t.co/vzl6ahY1O2 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 1, 2021 × "Government of India has decided to cancel the Class XII CBSE Board Exams. After extensive consultations, we have taken a decision that is student-friendly, one that safeguards the health as well as future of our youth," the prime minister tweeted after the meeting. While the alternative assessment criteria for the exams has not been finalised by the board yet, officials said, it is expected to be on similar lines as announced for Class 10 which took into account the performance of a student in various tests and exams through the year. It was also decided in the meeting that in case some students desire to take the exams, such an option would be provided to them by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), as and when the situation becomes conducive. This is the first time that the CBSE has completely cancelled the board exam conducted by it. Last year, exams were midway when a nationwide lockdown was announced in view of the COVID-19 outbreak and the remaining exams were cancelled later. With the decision to cancel the exams coming amid high COVID-19 cases in several states and continuing health-related apprehensions about the future, Modi said the health and safety of students are of utmost importance, and there would be no compromise on this aspect. Anxiety among students, parents and teachers must be put to an end, and students should not be forced to appear for exams in such a stressful situation, a government statement quoted the prime minister as saying. PM Modi further asserted that all stakeholders need to show sensitivity for students as well as their parents and teachers. In the review meeting, officials gave a detailed presentation on the wide and extensive consultation held so far and views received from all stakeholders, including by state governments. "In view of the uncertain conditions due to COVID-19 and the feedback obtained from various stakeholders, it was decided that Class XII board exams would not be held this year," the statement said. Modi said at the meeting that COVID-19 has affected the academic calendar and the issue of board examinations has been causing immense anxiety among students, parents and teachers, which must be put to an end. He said the COVID-19 situation is dynamic across the country, and that the number of cases is coming down with some states managing the situation through effective micro-containment, while some states have still opted for a lockdown. Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' tweeted, "I wish all the students very best in their careers. I would like to reiterate safety and career of students is of paramount importance for Modi government". Nishank, was earlier in the day hospitalised at AIIMS due to post-Covid complications. Students, parents and teachers are naturally worried about the health of students in such a situation, he noted, asserting that students should not be forced to appear for exams in such a stressful situation. Amid continuing demands for cancellation of exams by a large section of students and parents, the ministry had called a high-level meeting last Sunday to deliberate on the issue which was also attended by state education ministers and education secretaries. The CBSE had proposed two options -- conducting regular exams for only major subjects at notified centres or holding shorter-duration exams at the school where a student is enrolled. The proposed timeline for conducting the exams was between July 15 to August 26 and declaring the results in September. States were asked to submit detailed suggestions by May 25. The majority of states opted for the second option which included conducting 90 minutes exams for major subjects at students' home schools. Few states also insisted on vaccinating students before going ahead with the exams. A group of students had also approached the Supreme Court seeking cancellation of the exams. In a hearing on Monday, the government had told the apex court that The CBSE had on April 14 announced the cancellation of Class 10 exams and postponement of Class 12 exams in view of the surge in coronavirus cases. According to the evaluation criteria announced for class 10 students, while 20 marks for each subject will be for internal assessment as every year, 80 marks will be calculated on basis of the student's performance in various tests or exams throughout the year.

Government cancels CBSE Class 12 board exams amid pandemic

People all over the world are still learning how effective vaccinations are at preventing the deadly virus that causes COVID-19 from spreading to others, even if you don't have symptoms.&nbsp;

Early evidence suggests that vaccinations can help prevent COVID-19 from spreading among people who have no symptoms.&nbsp;

Vaccines are effective and safe. You may experience side effects as a result of the vaccine, but these are common and will pass in a few days.

Here are some of the tips from health experts about what to do before, during and after getting vaccinated for COVID-19:&nbsp;

Which one is the best vaccine among all 3 available in India?

Covisheild, Covaxin and the recently added Sputnik V&nbsp;are the vaccines available to Indians. All three are effective in both avoiding infection and preventing the disease from progressing to a severe stage. They avoid fatality in the long run for the elderly and those with comorbidities.&nbsp;

Who should not get the Covid vaccine?

According to the UNICEF, at present, people with the following health conditions should not receive a COVID-19 vaccine to avoid any possible adverse effects:

If you have a history of severe allergic reactions to any ingredients of a COVID-19 vaccine.

If you are currently sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (although you can get vaccinated once you have recovered and your doctor has approved). 
 
Before getting vaccinated, here are some tips to keep in mind

1: Register yourself for the jab on the Co-WIN portal and Aarogya Setu app

2: The vaccine should not be taken on an empty stomach. As you prepare for your immunisation, eat healthily.

3: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

4: Alcohol use should be avoided because it can dehydrate you.

5: To feel your best on the day of your vaccination, get a good night's sleep.&nbsp;

Valuable tips that will help you after vaccination

Stay for monitoring:&nbsp;

Stay seated at the health centre for 15-30 minutes after your vaccination. Doctors will keep an eye on you for any immediate reactions. If you feel dizzy, nauseated, vomiting, or have an allergic response, please report it to the health workers.&nbsp;

Common side effects&nbsp;

As your body develops immunological defence, expect some side effects. These may go away in 1-2 days.&nbsp;

These side effects are:

Arm soreness at the injection site 
Mild fever 
Fatigue 
Headaches 
Muscle or joint aches&nbsp; 
Chills 
Diarrhoea 
Sleeplessness 
 
Which drug should be taken to minimise the adverse effects of this vaccine?

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website, in case of minor adverse effects such as injection site pain, tenderness, malaise, pyrexia, etc., paracetamol may be used to alleviate the symptoms.

People all over the world are still learning how effective vaccinations are at preventing the deadly virus that causes COVID-19 from spreading to others, even if you don't have symptoms.

People all over the world are still learning how effective vaccinations are at preventing the deadly virus that causes COVID-19 from spreading to others, even if you don't have symptoms. Early evidence suggests that vaccinations can help prevent COVID-19 from spreading among people who have no symptoms. Vaccines are effective and safe. You may experience side effects as a result of the vaccine, but these are common and will pass in a few days. Here are some of the tips from health experts about what to do before, during and after getting vaccinated for COVID-19: Which one is the best vaccine among all 3 available in India? Covisheild, Covaxin and the recently added Sputnik V are the vaccines available to Indians. All three are effective in both avoiding infection and preventing the disease from progressing to a severe stage. They avoid fatality in the long run for the elderly and those with comorbidities. Who should not get the Covid vaccine? According to the UNICEF, at present, people with the following health conditions should not receive a COVID-19 vaccine to avoid any possible adverse effects: If you have a history of severe allergic reactions to any ingredients of a COVID-19 vaccine. If you are currently sick or experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (although you can get vaccinated once you have recovered and your doctor has approved). Before getting vaccinated, here are some tips to keep in mind 1: Register yourself for the jab on the Co-WIN portal and Aarogya Setu app 2: The vaccine should not be taken on an empty stomach. As you prepare for your immunisation, eat healthily. 3: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. 4: Alcohol use should be avoided because it can dehydrate you. 5: To feel your best on the day of your vaccination, get a good night's sleep. Valuable tips that will help you after vaccination Stay for monitoring: Stay seated at the health centre for 15-30 minutes after your vaccination. Doctors will keep an eye on you for any immediate reactions. If you feel dizzy, nauseated, vomiting, or have an allergic response, please report it to the health workers. Common side effects As your body develops immunological defence, expect some side effects. These may go away in 1-2 days. These side effects are: Arm soreness at the injection site Mild fever Fatigue Headaches Muscle or joint aches Chills Diarrhoea Sleeplessness Which drug should be taken to minimise the adverse effects of this vaccine? According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website, in case of minor adverse effects such as injection site pain, tenderness, malaise, pyrexia, etc., paracetamol may be used to alleviate the symptoms.

COVID-19 vaccination: Tips to follow before and after taking the jab

Global airlines association IATA has urged governments to make data-driven decisions to give freedom to travel for those tested and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a>. 
 
It has called upon governments to manage the risks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> when reopening borders to international travel. 
 
According to IATA, strategies with&nbsp;quarantine measures can enable international travel to restart with&nbsp;low risk of the introduction of COVID-19 to the travel destination.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/iata-set-to-rollout-covid-19-passport-to-support-safe-reopening-of-borders-345099">IATA set to rollout 'COVID-19 passport' to support 'safe reopening of borders'</a>

"Data can and should drive policies on restarting global travel that manages COVID-19 risks to protect populations, revive livelihoods and boost economies," its Director-General Willie Walsh said. 
 
"We call on the G7 governments meeting later this month to agree on the use of data to safely plan and coordinate the return of the freedom to travel which is so important to people, livelihoods and businesses." 
 
As per IATA, the challenge is the potential of barriers to travel for unvaccinated people which would create an unacceptable exclusion.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/air-travellers-gaining-confidence-time-to-plan-for-restart-iata-369438">Air travellers gaining confidence, time to plan for restart: IATA</a> 
 
"Data from the UK NHS regarding international travellers arriving in the UK (with no reference to vaccination status) shows that the vast majority of travellers pose no risk for the introduction of COVID-19 cases after arrival." 
 
Furthermore, IATA teamed up with Airbus and Boeing to demonstrate potential methodologies to manage the risks of COVID-19 to keep populations safe while restarting global connectivity. 
 
Both Airbus and Boeing have developed data-driven risk-management models to understand the impact of various options.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/give-us-priority-covid-19-vaccination-foreign-bound-students-to-tamil-nadu-govt-388954">Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt</a>&nbsp; 
 
In the Airbus model, more than 50 variables were considered focusing on risks across the whole journey. 
 
"The Airbus model, designed to support government stakeholders to reopen air travel, demonstrates that the risk of virus transmission and translocation can be significantly reduced by adopting data-driven screening and protection measures." 
 
Besides, Boeing modelled the efficacy of testing strategies.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-second-wave-rendered-10-million-indians-jobless-97-households-incomes-declined-report-388779">Covid second wave rendered 10 million Indians jobless; 97% households' incomes declined: Report</a> 
 
"Boeing modelling and analysis shows screening protocols offer an alternative to mandatory quarantines for many travel scenarios." 
 
"The model evaluates the effectiveness of passenger screenings and quarantines in countries around the world. It accounts for various factors including COVID-19 prevalence rates between origin and destination countries, the efficacy of PCR and rapid antigen tests, and the disease timeline (how the disease progresses) for passengers travelling with COVID-19," the IATA said.

Global airlines association IATA has urged governments to make data-driven decisions to give freedom to travel for those tested and vaccinated. It has called upon governments to manage the risks of COVID-19 when reopening borders to international travel.

Global airlines association IATA has urged governments to make data-driven decisions to give freedom to travel for those tested and vaccinated. It has called upon governments to manage the risks of COVID-19 when reopening borders to international travel. According to IATA, strategies with quarantine measures can enable international travel to restart with low risk of the introduction of COVID-19 to the travel destination. Also Read | IATA set to rollout 'COVID-19 passport' to support 'safe reopening of borders' "Data can and should drive policies on restarting global travel that manages COVID-19 risks to protect populations, revive livelihoods and boost economies," its Director-General Willie Walsh said. "We call on the G7 governments meeting later this month to agree on the use of data to safely plan and coordinate the return of the freedom to travel which is so important to people, livelihoods and businesses." As per IATA, the challenge is the potential of barriers to travel for unvaccinated people which would create an unacceptable exclusion. Also Read | Air travellers gaining confidence, time to plan for restart: IATA "Data from the UK NHS regarding international travellers arriving in the UK (with no reference to vaccination status) shows that the vast majority of travellers pose no risk for the introduction of COVID-19 cases after arrival." Furthermore, IATA teamed up with Airbus and Boeing to demonstrate potential methodologies to manage the risks of COVID-19 to keep populations safe while restarting global connectivity. Both Airbus and Boeing have developed data-driven risk-management models to understand the impact of various options. Also Read | Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt In the Airbus model, more than 50 variables were considered focusing on risks across the whole journey. "The Airbus model, designed to support government stakeholders to reopen air travel, demonstrates that the risk of virus transmission and translocation can be significantly reduced by adopting data-driven screening and protection measures." Besides, Boeing modelled the efficacy of testing strategies. Also Read | Covid second wave rendered 10 million Indians jobless; 97% households' incomes declined: Report "Boeing modelling and analysis shows screening protocols offer an alternative to mandatory quarantines for many travel scenarios." "The model evaluates the effectiveness of passenger screenings and quarantines in countries around the world. It accounts for various factors including COVID-19 prevalence rates between origin and destination countries, the efficacy of PCR and rapid antigen tests, and the disease timeline (how the disease progresses) for passengers travelling with COVID-19," the IATA said.

Allow freedom to travel for tested, vaccinated persons: IATA

India has achieved a significant milestone as the cumulative <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> vaccination coverage has crossed the 220 million (22 crore) mark, according to the 7 pm provisional report, the Union Health Ministry said on Wednesday.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-50-million-pfizer-vaccines-ready-to-be-delivered-to-india-talks-ongoing-for-partial-indemnity-388951">Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity'</a>

The ministry said 11,37,597 beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years received their first dose and 19,523 beneficiaries of the same age group received their second dose of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">Covid vaccine</a> on Wednesday. Cumulatively, 2,25,40,803 persons across 37 states and UTs have received their first dose and 59,052 have received their second dose since the start of phase three of the vaccination drive.

Bihar, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal have administered the first dose of the vaccine to more than 10 lakh beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years, the ministry said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-less-effective-astrazeneca-even-worse-against-variant-first-detected-in-india-study-388279">Pfizer less effective, AstraZeneca even worse against variant first detected in India: Study</a>

The total of 22,08,62,449 beneficiaries includes 99,11,519 healthcare workers (HCWs), who have taken the first dose, and 68,14,165 HCWs, who have taken the second dose, 1,58,39,812 frontline workers (FLWs) who have received the first dose, 85,76,750 FLWs who have taken the second dose and 2,25,40,803 and 59,052 individuals in the 18-44 years age group who have received the first and second dose, respectively.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-drugs-regulator-dcgi-eases-norms-for-clearing-foreign-made-covid-19-vaccines-388931">Indian drugs regulator DCGI eases norms for clearing foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines</a>

Besides, 6,78,25,793 and 1,09,67,786 beneficiaries aged 45 to 60 years old have been administered the first and second dose respectively, while 5,93,85,071 and 1,89,41,698 beneficiaries above 60 years have received the first and second dose.

As on day 138 of the vaccination drive (June 2), a total of 22,45,112 vaccine doses were given.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mixing-vaccines-has-not-become-the-protocol-india-health-ministry-388790">Mixing vaccines has not become the protocol: India health ministry</a>

The ministry said 20,28,867 beneficiaries were given the first dose and 2,16,245 beneficiaries received the second dose of the vaccine, according to the provisional report till 7 pm.

Final reports would be completed for the day by late Wednesday night.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/give-us-priority-covid-19-vaccination-foreign-bound-students-to-tamil-nadu-govt-388954">Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt</a>&nbsp;

The vaccination exercise, as a tool to protect the most vulnerable population groups in the country from COVID-19, continues to be regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry underlined.&nbsp;

India has achieved a significant milestone as the cumulative COVID-19 vaccination coverage has crossed the 220 million (22 crore) mark, according to the 7 pm provisional report, the Union Health Ministry said on Wednesday.

India has achieved a significant milestone as the cumulative COVID-19 vaccination coverage has crossed the 220 million (22 crore) mark, according to the 7 pm provisional report, the Union Health Ministry said on Wednesday. Also Read | Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity' The ministry said 11,37,597 beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years received their first dose and 19,523 beneficiaries of the same age group received their second dose of the Covid vaccine on Wednesday. Cumulatively, 2,25,40,803 persons across 37 states and UTs have received their first dose and 59,052 have received their second dose since the start of phase three of the vaccination drive. Bihar, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal have administered the first dose of the vaccine to more than 10 lakh beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years, the ministry said. Also Read | Pfizer less effective, AstraZeneca even worse against variant first detected in India: Study The total of 22,08,62,449 beneficiaries includes 99,11,519 healthcare workers (HCWs), who have taken the first dose, and 68,14,165 HCWs, who have taken the second dose, 1,58,39,812 frontline workers (FLWs) who have received the first dose, 85,76,750 FLWs who have taken the second dose and 2,25,40,803 and 59,052 individuals in the 18-44 years age group who have received the first and second dose, respectively. Also Read | Indian drugs regulator DCGI eases norms for clearing foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines Besides, 6,78,25,793 and 1,09,67,786 beneficiaries aged 45 to 60 years old have been administered the first and second dose respectively, while 5,93,85,071 and 1,89,41,698 beneficiaries above 60 years have received the first and second dose. As on day 138 of the vaccination drive (June 2), a total of 22,45,112 vaccine doses were given. Also Read | Mixing vaccines has not become the protocol: India health ministry The ministry said 20,28,867 beneficiaries were given the first dose and 2,16,245 beneficiaries received the second dose of the vaccine, according to the provisional report till 7 pm. Final reports would be completed for the day by late Wednesday night. Also Read | Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt The vaccination exercise, as a tool to protect the most vulnerable population groups in the country from COVID-19, continues to be regularly reviewed and monitored at the highest level, the ministry underlined.

Cumulative COVID-19 vaccination coverage crosses 22 crore-mark: Govt

Drugs Controller General of India recently did away with specific trials of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> vaccines to improve the pace of vaccinations in the country and to invite more players to the country.

This waiver will be applicable for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a> that have already been approved for restricted use by the US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA, PMDA Japan or listed for "Emergency Use" by the World Health Organization.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-50-million-pfizer-vaccines-ready-to-be-delivered-to-india-talks-ongoing-for-partial-indemnity-388951">Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity'</a>

For the vaccines that are well established from the standpoint that millions have already been vaccinated with the said vaccines, the requirement for conduction post-approval bridging clinical trials and&nbsp;testing of every batch of the vaccine by the Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) in&nbsp;Kasauli can be exempted&nbsp;if the vaccine batch/lot has been certified and released by the National Control Laboratory of the country of origin.

While this move is likely to clear the way for foreign vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna for the country’s urgent requirement, pharma company Pfizer wants more. The company is demanding indemnity and according to reports, the Indian government just might grant it.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-govt-pfizer-at-loggerheads-over-covid-19-vaccine-indemnity-demand-386752/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But what exactly is ‘Indemnity’?

Indemnity is a legal exemption from future lawsuits over their vaccines. It basically means that if the vaccine maker is sued in India, it will be the government's problem, and not the company's.

India has not given such indemnity to any vaccine producer, why should Pfizer be the first?

Pfizer and Moderna are among the best shots on the international market. Both vaccines work on the same technology. They are more than 90 per cent effective. Together, they have been approved by more than 40 countries. India wants them too. Countries like the US and Britain have already signed such indemnity clauses.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pfizer-and-moderna-dont-want-to-deal-with-indian-states-for-vaccines-387168">Pfizer and Moderna don't want to deal with Indian states for vaccines</a>

Can the Government of India grant indemnity to Pfizer?

To date, no vaccine maker in India has this immunity. Granting such immunity to one company may solicit similar demands from other pharma companies. But according to reports, Pfizer has indemnity in all the countries it has exported its vaccines. So the government can extend indemnity on the lines of what other importer countries did.

As per Niti Ayog member VK Paul, "They have requested indemnity to all the nations, including the country of origin. We are examining this request and will take a decision in the larger interest of people and on merit. This is under discussion and there is no decision as of now,".

Will the company have&nbsp;indemnity in severe cases?

As of now, a "complete waiver" won't be given on the Pfizer vaccine by India. As per sources,&nbsp;"reactions to the vaccine are indemnified" but the "reaction amounting to death or serious ailment like paralysis can't be given waiver and will carry liability".

The final decision on the matter is yet to be taken.

A Pfizer spokesperson on Wednesday said that the company continues to remain engaged with the Indian government towards making its coronavirus vaccine available for use in the government immunisation programme, adding that "as these discussions are ongoing, we are unable to share any additional details at this time,".

(With inputs from agencies)

Drugs Controller General of India recently did away with specific trials of COVID-19 vaccines to improve the pace of vaccinations in the country and to invite more players to the country.

Drugs Controller General of India recently did away with specific trials of COVID-19 vaccines to improve the pace of vaccinations in the country and to invite more players to the country. This waiver will be applicable for vaccines that have already been approved for restricted use by the US FDA, EMA, UK MHRA, PMDA Japan or listed for "Emergency Use" by the World Health Organization. Also Read | Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity' For the vaccines that are well established from the standpoint that millions have already been vaccinated with the said vaccines, the requirement for conduction post-approval bridging clinical trials and testing of every batch of the vaccine by the Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) in Kasauli can be exempted if the vaccine batch/lot has been certified and released by the National Control Laboratory of the country of origin. While this move is likely to clear the way for foreign vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna for the country’s urgent requirement, pharma company Pfizer wants more. The company is demanding indemnity and according to reports, the Indian government just might grant it. But what exactly is ‘Indemnity’? Indemnity is a legal exemption from future lawsuits over their vaccines. It basically means that if the vaccine maker is sued in India, it will be the government's problem, and not the company's. India has not given such indemnity to any vaccine producer, why should Pfizer be the first? Pfizer and Moderna are among the best shots on the international market. Both vaccines work on the same technology. They are more than 90 per cent effective. Together, they have been approved by more than 40 countries. India wants them too. Countries like the US and Britain have already signed such indemnity clauses. Also Read | Pfizer and Moderna don't want to deal with Indian states for vaccines Can the Government of India grant indemnity to Pfizer? To date, no vaccine maker in India has this immunity. Granting such immunity to one company may solicit similar demands from other pharma companies. But according to reports, Pfizer has indemnity in all the countries it has exported its vaccines. So the government can extend indemnity on the lines of what other importer countries did. As per Niti Ayog member VK Paul, "They have requested indemnity to all the nations, including the country of origin. We are examining this request and will take a decision in the larger interest of people and on merit. This is under discussion and there is no decision as of now,". Will the company have indemnity in severe cases? As of now, a "complete waiver" won't be given on the Pfizer vaccine by India. As per sources, "reactions to the vaccine are indemnified" but the "reaction amounting to death or serious ailment like paralysis can't be given waiver and will carry liability". The final decision on the matter is yet to be taken. A Pfizer spokesperson on Wednesday said that the company continues to remain engaged with the Indian government towards making its coronavirus vaccine available for use in the government immunisation programme, adding that "as these discussions are ongoing, we are unable to share any additional details at this time,". (With inputs from agencies)

Explainer: Inside Pfizer's demands for vaccine 'indemnity' and Indian government's next move

Breaking her silence for the first time in days, Priti Choksi, wife of Mehul Choksi involved in the mega PNB scam has questioned the disappearance of Barbara Jarabica and slammed&nbsp;the authorities of Antigua and Dominica for their handling of the case.&nbsp;

Barbara is the mysterious woman whose name cropped up in the case and is alleged to be the female accomplice who had a role in Choksi's movement from Antigua to Dominica.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Priti said, "picture that is run of this person called Barbara is not even correct picture. Where is she, no one knows. If a crime occurred, and she saw it why has she not said anything. No one knows", adding, "she is not traceable".

When asked&nbsp;who was she, Mrs Choksi&nbsp;explained, "She claims to be someone who&nbsp;works on house renovation and she would come down to Antigua two&nbsp;or three times - she came in August, in April and now in May" and added that "she has never met her".&nbsp;

Mehul Choksi remains in Dominica even as his case is in&nbsp;court. He had disappeared from Antigua and Barbuda, a country whose citizenship he had taken after fleeing India only to be discovered in Dominica.&nbsp;

Mrs Choksi confirmed that she has spoken to her husband and he is "traumatised, has a lot of wounds, and has been mentally torched", highlighting that "if the law is followed, he would be sent back to his country which is Antigua and Barbuda".

Antiguan PM&nbsp;Gaston Browne has said several times that he would like Mehul Choksi to be sent back to India and his citizenship is not a settled matter.

Choksi wife, reacting to PM's comments said she was&nbsp;"deeply anguished by his comments" while&nbsp;pointing out that, "at the same time Mr Gaston Browne has said that do not let him come back to Antigua because he will be protected by the constitution and laws of Antigua", explaining, "why would he be protected by the constitution and laws if he was not a citizen of Antigua".

She even slammed Dominica authorities saying, "if my husband was found in Dominica and he has said and I believe police have corroborated that he was kidnapped, where is that kidnapping case filed by Dominica's police. Kidnapping is an international crime. but where is that case? Where is that boat, and the crew and why is their GPS turned off, even today".

The issue has become a political hot potato in the Caribbean with opposition in both Antigua and Dominica slamming their governments over handling the issue.

Choksi's movement from Antigua to Dominica has come under the spotlight as lawyers claim he was abducted while local authorities in Antigua say he went on his own accord.&nbsp;

Mrs Choksi said: "There was no reason for him to leave Antigua and&nbsp;Barbuda. He has two&nbsp;cases to answer here and both those cases are in court and there are stays on both of them..even if he loses the case he has the option to go to the Supreme Court of the&nbsp;Caribbean and the privy council."

"But there is no thought on him losing, that is how strong his case is. What would the reason be for him to leave a place where he is safe?"

Breaking her silence for the first time in days, Priti Choksi, wife of Mehul Choksi involved in the mega PNB scam has questioned the disappearance of Barbara Jarabica and slammed the authorities of Antigua and Dominica for their handling of the case.

Breaking her silence for the first time in days, Priti Choksi, wife of Mehul Choksi involved in the mega PNB scam has questioned the disappearance of Barbara Jarabica and slammed the authorities of Antigua and Dominica for their handling of the case. Barbara is the mysterious woman whose name cropped up in the case and is alleged to be the female accomplice who had a role in Choksi's movement from Antigua to Dominica. Speaking to WION, Priti said, "picture that is run of this person called Barbara is not even correct picture. Where is she, no one knows. If a crime occurred, and she saw it why has she not said anything. No one knows", adding, "she is not traceable". When asked who was she, Mrs Choksi explained, "She claims to be someone who works on house renovation and she would come down to Antigua two or three times - she came in August, in April and now in May" and added that "she has never met her". Mehul Choksi remains in Dominica even as his case is in court. He had disappeared from Antigua and Barbuda, a country whose citizenship he had taken after fleeing India only to be discovered in Dominica. Mrs Choksi confirmed that she has spoken to her husband and he is "traumatised, has a lot of wounds, and has been mentally torched", highlighting that "if the law is followed, he would be sent back to his country which is Antigua and Barbuda". Antiguan PM Gaston Browne has said several times that he would like Mehul Choksi to be sent back to India and his citizenship is not a settled matter. Choksi wife, reacting to PM's comments said she was "deeply anguished by his comments" while pointing out that, "at the same time Mr Gaston Browne has said that do not let him come back to Antigua because he will be protected by the constitution and laws of Antigua", explaining, "why would he be protected by the constitution and laws if he was not a citizen of Antigua". She even slammed Dominica authorities saying, "if my husband was found in Dominica and he has said and I believe police have corroborated that he was kidnapped, where is that kidnapping case filed by Dominica's police. Kidnapping is an international crime. but where is that case? Where is that boat, and the crew and why is their GPS turned off, even today". The issue has become a political hot potato in the Caribbean with opposition in both Antigua and Dominica slamming their governments over handling the issue. Choksi's movement from Antigua to Dominica has come under the spotlight as lawyers claim he was abducted while local authorities in Antigua say he went on his own accord. Mrs Choksi said: "There was no reason for him to leave Antigua and Barbuda. He has two cases to answer here and both those cases are in court and there are stays on both of them..even if he loses the case he has the option to go to the Supreme Court of the Caribbean and the privy council." "But there is no thought on him losing, that is how strong his case is. What would the reason be for him to leave a place where he is safe?"

Where is Barbara Jarabica, asks Priti Choksi, wife of Mehul Choksi

While Covid has wreaked havoc across the world, it has also pushed innovators to come up with new technology. One such case is in Srinagar's Buchpora area, where two engineers Sajid and Jehangir have come up with a low-cost ventilator.&nbsp;

This ventilator will not only provide oxygen supply to a Covid-positive patient but will also help in monitoring the ECG, temperature and saturation via remote access.&nbsp;

“If we talk about Covid that started 13-14 months ago, the scarcity of the ventilators was the first thing that got highlighted all across the world. As far as medical research is concerned proper ventilation is the only way to save the covid critical patients. This research striked [sic]&nbsp;our minds and we took an initiative to design a low cost ventilator that will give 10-12 inhalations&nbsp;per minute to patients. It will also keep surveillance&nbsp;of patients by monitoring&nbsp;the ECG and temperature",&nbsp;said&nbsp;Jehangir Ahmad,&nbsp; the innovator behind the tech.

The main purpose of making this ventilator is making it&nbsp;cost efficient so that everyone can afford it. And now the innovators are asking the government for help in developing these ventilators so that they can reach the market and be sold to the needy.&nbsp;

''The model for us is a multipurpose ventilator -&nbsp;low cost, economical and portable ventilator. Besides giving air to patients, it can also monitor all the live conditions of the patient whether it is ECG, oxygen saturation, temperature which a doctor can remotely access via a mobile phone from a remote location. We have used an open source app like Blink to visualise all the parameters. When it comes to the market it will be&nbsp;around 10-15,000&nbsp;in Indian currency. We need support from the government so that this product can come to the market",&nbsp;said&nbsp;Sajid Noor.

Both Sajid and Jehangir were awarded by the National Institute of Technology&nbsp;for the innovation of this ventilator in the ''Covid Open innovation challenge'' held in Srinagar. And now they hope that the government will help in its mass production.

While Covid has wreaked havoc across the world, it has also pushed innovators to come up with new technology. One such case is in Srinagar's Buchpora area, where two engineers Sajid and Jehangir have come up with a low-cost ventilator.

While Covid has wreaked havoc across the world, it has also pushed innovators to come up with new technology. One such case is in Srinagar's Buchpora area, where two engineers Sajid and Jehangir have come up with a low-cost ventilator. This ventilator will not only provide oxygen supply to a Covid-positive patient but will also help in monitoring the ECG, temperature and saturation via remote access. “If we talk about Covid that started 13-14 months ago, the scarcity of the ventilators was the first thing that got highlighted all across the world. As far as medical research is concerned proper ventilation is the only way to save the covid critical patients. This research striked [sic] our minds and we took an initiative to design a low cost ventilator that will give 10-12 inhalations per minute to patients. It will also keep surveillance of patients by monitoring the ECG and temperature", said Jehangir Ahmad, the innovator behind the tech. The main purpose of making this ventilator is making it cost efficient so that everyone can afford it. And now the innovators are asking the government for help in developing these ventilators so that they can reach the market and be sold to the needy. ''The model for us is a multipurpose ventilator - low cost, economical and portable ventilator. Besides giving air to patients, it can also monitor all the live conditions of the patient whether it is ECG, oxygen saturation, temperature which a doctor can remotely access via a mobile phone from a remote location. We have used an open source app like Blink to visualise all the parameters. When it comes to the market it will be around 10-15,000 in Indian currency. We need support from the government so that this product can come to the market", said Sajid Noor. Both Sajid and Jehangir were awarded by the National Institute of Technology for the innovation of this ventilator in the ''Covid Open innovation challenge'' held in Srinagar. And now they hope that the government will help in its mass production.

Innovators from Kashmir urge government to help produce their low-cost ventilator

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday announced the cancellation of CBSE Class 12 board examinations. The crucial decision was made after the PM chaired a review meeting regarding the Class 12 Board exams of CBSE.

India: CBSE Class 12 board exams cancelled amid COVID-19

Nearly&nbsp;50-60 million doses of Pfizer's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> are ready to be delivered to India even as talks continue for a "partial indemnity" on the impact of the vaccine with New Delhi. &nbsp;

As of now, a "complete waiver" won't be given on the Pfizer vaccine by India. As per sources,&nbsp;"reactions to the vaccine are indemnified" but the "reaction amounting to death or serious ailment like paralysis can't be given waiver and will carry liability".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-vaccination-tips-to-follow-before-and-after-taking-the-jab-388927" hreflang="en">COVID-19 vaccination: Tips to follow before and after taking the jab</a>

However, the talks are ongoing on priority, and are expected to conclude by the end of this month.&nbsp;

Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine is an mRNA vaccine that instructs the cells to generate the spike protein found on the surface of the novel <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>. This, in turn, generates an immune response. mRNA vaccines do not contain any virus particles — weakened or dead parts of a virus. Like other vaccines, Pfizer can also&nbsp;cause&nbsp;allergic reactions such as breathing difficulty, fast heartbeat, dizziness, and weakness.

ALso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-drugs-regulator-dcgi-eases-norms-for-clearing-foreign-made-covid-19-vaccines-388931" hreflang="en">Indian drugs regulator DCGI eases norms for clearing foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines</a>

The other key question with the Pfizer vaccine is logistics, considering it requires cold temperature. For that, logistics control infrastructure is needed to create a temperature-controlled vaccine. The developed countries, today, have excess supply and don't need reserves of this vaccine, leading to&nbsp;spare capacity for India.&nbsp;

These important issues were also discussed during India's External Affairs Minister Dr&nbsp;S Jaishankar's US visit. The visit, from May 24-28, focused on Covid-related cooperations between India and the US.

Nearly 50-60 million doses of Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine are ready to be delivered to India even as talks continue for a "partial indemnity" on the impact of the vaccine with New Delhi.

Nearly 50-60 million doses of Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine are ready to be delivered to India even as talks continue for a "partial indemnity" on the impact of the vaccine with New Delhi. As of now, a "complete waiver" won't be given on the Pfizer vaccine by India. As per sources, "reactions to the vaccine are indemnified" but the "reaction amounting to death or serious ailment like paralysis can't be given waiver and will carry liability". Also read | COVID-19 vaccination: Tips to follow before and after taking the jab However, the talks are ongoing on priority, and are expected to conclude by the end of this month. Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine is an mRNA vaccine that instructs the cells to generate the spike protein found on the surface of the novel coronavirus. This, in turn, generates an immune response. mRNA vaccines do not contain any virus particles — weakened or dead parts of a virus. Like other vaccines, Pfizer can also cause allergic reactions such as breathing difficulty, fast heartbeat, dizziness, and weakness. ALso read | Indian drugs regulator DCGI eases norms for clearing foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines The other key question with the Pfizer vaccine is logistics, considering it requires cold temperature. For that, logistics control infrastructure is needed to create a temperature-controlled vaccine. The developed countries, today, have excess supply and don't need reserves of this vaccine, leading to spare capacity for India. These important issues were also discussed during India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar's US visit. The visit, from May 24-28, focused on Covid-related cooperations between India and the US.

Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity'

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks. Those who were due to fly abroad by end of June or July had taken their jabs in May.&nbsp;

They did so right after the Indian government opened vaccination for the 18-44 age group from May 1st.&nbsp;

But, owing to the new timelines for the second dose, the students are afraid that they may be forced to further delay their journey, as their wait for full vaccination and certification is now 2-3 months.

Canada-bound students are the most affected by this decision and elaborated their woes to WION.

They were originally due to fly out in late April or early May, ahead of the summer intake of Canadian universities.

But, their plans hit a roadblock owing to Canada’s ban on direct flights from India starting 22nd April. With India’s COVID-19 second wave having continued throughout April and May, this flight ban was further extended until June 22nd. In the case of American and European Universities, the intake of students starts in August or September.

Given the new 12-16 week interval in place, students who took their jab in May would have to wait at least until August to get their second jab, the vaccination certificate and then board their flights. This brings with it, its own set of challenges for some of the already anguished students who are taking online classes at home, despite having paid hefty fees.

“Even if we manage to convince the Public health centre to give us the second jab in 45 days, the official certificate of having taken it would be available only after the 12-16 week period. This would delay our travel plans even further” says Karan Thakkar, who is headed for Ontario.

According to the recommendations for persons entering Canada, not vaccinated and partially vaccinated persons will have to undergo a quarantine period.&nbsp;

“Once we reach Canada without getting vaccinated or with only a single shot, we’d have to shell out nearly 2000 Canadian Dollars (about Rs1.2 lakhs) for quarantine facilities. There are also doubts over whether the unvaccinated and single-shot persons will be allowed to enter” said Sajith Ahamed who is to pursue his Post graduation.

Raama Sreenivasan, a student who tweeted out the students’ emergency request for priority vaccination to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Council of ministers says there was no response as yet. “When I checked for a solution with the Cowin helpline, they directed me to the District immunization officer. But the district officer says that they can act only under instructions from the State Government” he said.

Students that spoke to WION think that the Tamil Nadu Government too must implement a strategy to provide priority jabs to students travelling abroad. They feel that since Kerala, Mumbai, Karnataka, Gujarat and Telangana have taken decisions in this regard and there is a precedent, the Tamil Nadu Government must explore this option immediately. 
 
Another issue is that Covaxin, the indigenous vaccine of Bharat Biotech has not been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), it has also been approved for international travel only in a handful of countries. The foreign travel options of those who have taken Covaxin also raises questions.&nbsp;

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks.

Indian students bound for foreign countries to pursue higher education are left in a dilemma. This comes after the 45-day time interval between two vaccine shots in India has been increased to 12-16 weeks. Those who were due to fly abroad by end of June or July had taken their jabs in May. They did so right after the Indian government opened vaccination for the 18-44 age group from May 1st. But, owing to the new timelines for the second dose, the students are afraid that they may be forced to further delay their journey, as their wait for full vaccination and certification is now 2-3 months. Canada-bound students are the most affected by this decision and elaborated their woes to WION. They were originally due to fly out in late April or early May, ahead of the summer intake of Canadian universities. But, their plans hit a roadblock owing to Canada’s ban on direct flights from India starting 22nd April. With India’s COVID-19 second wave having continued throughout April and May, this flight ban was further extended until June 22nd. In the case of American and European Universities, the intake of students starts in August or September. Given the new 12-16 week interval in place, students who took their jab in May would have to wait at least until August to get their second jab, the vaccination certificate and then board their flights. This brings with it, its own set of challenges for some of the already anguished students who are taking online classes at home, despite having paid hefty fees. “Even if we manage to convince the Public health centre to give us the second jab in 45 days, the official certificate of having taken it would be available only after the 12-16 week period. This would delay our travel plans even further” says Karan Thakkar, who is headed for Ontario. According to the recommendations for persons entering Canada, not vaccinated and partially vaccinated persons will have to undergo a quarantine period. “Once we reach Canada without getting vaccinated or with only a single shot, we’d have to shell out nearly 2000 Canadian Dollars (about Rs1.2 lakhs) for quarantine facilities. There are also doubts over whether the unvaccinated and single-shot persons will be allowed to enter” said Sajith Ahamed who is to pursue his Post graduation. Raama Sreenivasan, a student who tweeted out the students’ emergency request for priority vaccination to the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Council of ministers says there was no response as yet. “When I checked for a solution with the Cowin helpline, they directed me to the District immunization officer. But the district officer says that they can act only under instructions from the State Government” he said. Students that spoke to WION think that the Tamil Nadu Government too must implement a strategy to provide priority jabs to students travelling abroad. They feel that since Kerala, Mumbai, Karnataka, Gujarat and Telangana have taken decisions in this regard and there is a precedent, the Tamil Nadu Government must explore this option immediately. Another issue is that Covaxin, the indigenous vaccine of Bharat Biotech has not been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), it has also been approved for international travel only in a handful of countries. The foreign travel options of those who have taken Covaxin also raises questions.

Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt 

A miffed Palestine has raised its concern with India's abstention at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution that called for a probe into violence in Gaza. The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe.&nbsp;

The matter was raised by Palestinian foreign minister Dr&nbsp;Riad Malki with India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in a letter.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-foreign-minister-visits-egypt-to-discuss-permanent-ceasefire-with-gaza-388408">Israel's foreign minister visits Egypt to discuss 'permanent ceasefire' with Gaza</a>

In this letter, seen by WION, he expressed "concern" over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session.

"The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point,&nbsp;(both) crucial and long over due on the path to accountability, justice and peace," he said. "Your abstention stifles the important work of human rights council at advancing human rights for all peoples, including those of the Palestinian people."

<img alt="Image preview" src="https://attachments.office.net/owa/deeksha.teri%40zeemedia.esselgroup.com/service.svc/s/GetReferenceAttachment?attachmentId=AAMkADBlZTczNGM4LTFiZjEtNGU0NS04YTE5LTQ4NDZiNGY2M2Q1OABGAAAAAADcWATawUaRR6Skb9%2BRyc6fBwAgkzA%2F9fsnR7SQF8jtBsEOAAAAAAEMAAAgkzA%2F9fsnR7SQF8jtBsEOAAEKQAlwAAABEgAQAOlqJOhBlY5AioFOb9O8LFE%3D&amp;location=https%3A%2F%2Fzeemedia-my.sharepoint.com%2F%3Ai%3A%2Fg%2Fpersonal%2Fsiddhant_sibbal_zeemedia_esselgroup_com%2FEX8zaQccp41OrilD5HKYn8YBcKaCSsco6PdWB6H5OgO00w&amp;isImagePreview=True&amp;permissionLevel=3&amp;token=eyJhbGciOiJSUzI1NiIsImtpZCI6IjMwODE3OUNFNUY0QjUyRTc4QjJEQjg5NjZCQUY0RUNDMzcyN0FFRUUiLCJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJ4NXQiOiJNSUY1emw5TFV1ZUxMYmlXYTY5T3pEY25ydTQifQ.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.SzizfD1Kht1NNUSpNL18wjHwBSE3AS1tjnE_xqw3tcp5yKpnXhFVaOOfbTM8taeSMNf9RTnWGRogySJ62A0aaYiHIvbvH6O85VOVOTcVzPQw3W_ev6EEoUXCfFexprhKorz80ob_rUpk1NuAHDwO7-X1k8KCpBiw3eonqBoGgkjbATX4BqSY9u7WP5vNpz1wAYugqed_FENHNkYywQiB_XP64oNf16hzK-_jKln3nYHuvAZRiRG-JVds_8ti9kZkLff4x6uZalQyS_Pg3j0MoUhXWXc1F5awP3QEcIPhzatdYV_J4Q6tLohUmoPeZS9QH4KP7zJ80MB5euzOOWXFkw&amp;X-OWA-CANARY=sa5H2cTkWUaiNhZGs8LcylBUcwWoJdkYbuAYK7F2Xl_wVLdI037_zMCrxd72zhfhiv08h6Em7Ok.&amp;owa=outlook.office365.com&amp;scriptVer=20210524004.15" />

The resolution "ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor and nine against at the 47 members strong Geneva-headquartered UN body.

Malki highlighted that "the resolution is not an aberration to the human rights council. It is a by-product of extensive multilateral consultations. It is the consolidation of years and thorough investigations into and reporting on Israel's grave violations by states, UN experts, human rights treaty bodies and international organizations, without accountability measures".

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-should-go-back-to-europe-us-irans-quds-force-commander-388271" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-should-go-back-to-europe-us-irans-quds-force-commander-388271&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjot9HzmPHwAhVzmeYKHWNxCPQQFjACegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3bIOrE3nkvetE4-nhNXZKX" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israelis-should-go-back-to-europe-us-irans-quds-force-commander-388271" target="_blank">Israelis should 'go back' to Europe, US: Iran's Quds Force</a>

India had welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas at UNHRC, which was announced last month after 11 days of violent clashes from both sides. The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and the possible eviction of Palestinians in the Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighborhood. During the clashes, over 200 Palestinians died in Gaza and 10&nbsp;Israelis.

The FM pointed out in the letter to EAM that the "root causes of the injustice that befell the Palestinian people, the decade long dispossession, displacement, colonization, oppression of the Palestinian people and the denial and violation of their every human rights by Israel, the occupying power, must be prioritized".

He also added that if the same is not dealt with on priority "the situation will not only remain volatile but will continue deteriorating with far-reaching and grave repercussions".

The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the May 30 — three days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo and Ukraine.

A miffed Palestine has raised its concern with India's abstention at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution that called for a probe into violence in Gaza.

A miffed Palestine has raised its concern with India's abstention at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) resolution that called for a probe into violence in Gaza. The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. The matter was raised by Palestinian foreign minister Dr Riad Malki with India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar in a letter. Also read | Israel's foreign minister visits Egypt to discuss 'permanent ceasefire' with Gaza In this letter, seen by WION, he expressed "concern" over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point, (both) crucial and long over due on the path to accountability, justice and peace," he said. "Your abstention stifles the important work of human rights council at advancing human rights for all peoples, including those of the Palestinian people." The resolution "ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor and nine against at the 47 members strong Geneva-headquartered UN body. Malki highlighted that "the resolution is not an aberration to the human rights council. It is a by-product of extensive multilateral consultations. It is the consolidation of years and thorough investigations into and reporting on Israel's grave violations by states, UN experts, human rights treaty bodies and international organizations, without accountability measures". Also read | Israelis should 'go back' to Europe, US: Iran's Quds Force India had welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas at UNHRC, which was announced last month after 11 days of violent clashes from both sides. The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and the possible eviction of Palestinians in the Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighborhood. During the clashes, over 200 Palestinians died in Gaza and 10 Israelis. The FM pointed out in the letter to EAM that the "root causes of the injustice that befell the Palestinian people, the decade long dispossession, displacement, colonization, oppression of the Palestinian people and the denial and violation of their every human rights by Israel, the occupying power, must be prioritized". He also added that if the same is not dealt with on priority "the situation will not only remain volatile but will continue deteriorating with far-reaching and grave repercussions". The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the May 30 — three days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo and Ukraine.

Palestine miffed with India's abstention at UNHRC vote; FM Riad writes to EAM

Vietnam's envoy to India Pham Sanh Chau has said that his country is waiting for World Health Organization (WHO) to give approval to the Indian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> Covaxin, even as they are sourcing more vaccines globally.

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Pham Sanh Chau said, "Covaxin is not yet approved by WHO for emergency use, that is why we are waiting for this approval by WHO and then we will intensify the discussion".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-50-million-pfizer-vaccines-ready-to-be-delivered-to-india-talks-ongoing-for-partial-indemnity-388951" hreflang="en">Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity'</a>

Covaxin is an Indian vaccine made by Bharat Biotech, headquartered in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad. Bharat Biotech submitted its application to the WHO for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) on April 19 and a pre-submission meeting will happen later this month.

Chau, himself, has been recently got Covaxin jab at Delhi's Dr Ram Manohar Lohia hospital.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/spreads-through-air-vietnam-reports-new-variant-of-coronavirus-388243" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/spreads-through-air-vietnam-reports-new-variant-of-coronavirus-388243&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwibud7W1vjwAhXjILcAHaImD4MQFjACegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw14bcGnXoshT20jfqSvPX_Q" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spreads-through-air-vietnam-reports-new-variant-of-coronavirus-388243" target="_blank">'Spreads through air': Vietnam reports new&nbsp;variant&nbsp;of coronavirus</a>

Vietnam also sent assistance to India amid the second wave of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic in the country. The first batch of aid consisted 109 ventilators and 50 oxygen cylinders. The next batch had&nbsp;100 ventilators, 275 concentrators, 1300 oxygen cylinders, and 50,000 masks.

WION: How is Vietnam assisting India when it comes to the coronavirus crisis in the country? 
Pham Sanh Chau: I think one of the most salient features of the relief that Vietnam provided to India is that most of the relief comes from people, from individuals and organisations which are not state agencies. So, there is a big campaign at the national level of collecting relief to provide to Indian friends. From children to the elderly, to the religious people, everyone is trying to contribute small things in order to support India. So, this is the solidarity, sentiment and love that Vietnamese people give to Indian friends at this difficult moment.&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;Vietnam has recently reported a new hybrid variant&nbsp;found in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kappa-delta-who-releases-greek-nomenclature-for-covid-variants-including-ones-found-in-india-388657">UK (Alpha) and India (delta)</a>. How is the country dealing with the pandemic? 
Pham Sanh Chau: We have just been hit by the fourth wave as it has been identified since April 27. This has increased the cases&nbsp;from 1600 to more than 6000. It means over the past one month, the number of infections has doubled the total infection that Vietnam has incurred over the past one and half years. This mutant is spreading very fast. So, we are still analysing the sources of that and are waiting for the final certification of health authorities.

WION: What kind of global cooperation is underway when it comes to Vietnam, especially on vaccines? 
Pham Sanh Chau: Like other Asian countries,&nbsp;Vietnam badly needs vaccines. Recently, we placed an&nbsp;order recently with Pfizer and are in the process of negotiating with Moderna. We have also signed an agreement with AstraZeneca. Vietnam also has the opportunity to purchase Covaxin, but it is not yet approved by WHO for emergency use. We&nbsp;are waiting for this approval by WHO and then we will intensify the discussion and drafting of the contract for the purchase of this Covaxin for Vietnamese people.

Vietnam's envoy to India Pham Sanh Chau has said that his country is waiting for World Health Organization (WHO) to give approval to the Indian coronavirus vaccine Covaxin, even as they are sourcing more vaccines globally.

Vietnam's envoy to India Pham Sanh Chau has said that his country is waiting for World Health Organization (WHO) to give approval to the Indian coronavirus vaccine Covaxin, even as they are sourcing more vaccines globally. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Pham Sanh Chau said, "Covaxin is not yet approved by WHO for emergency use, that is why we are waiting for this approval by WHO and then we will intensify the discussion". Also read | Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity' Covaxin is an Indian vaccine made by Bharat Biotech, headquartered in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad. Bharat Biotech submitted its application to the WHO for Emergency Use Listing (EUL) on April 19 and a pre-submission meeting will happen later this month. Chau, himself, has been recently got Covaxin jab at Delhi's Dr Ram Manohar Lohia hospital. Also read | 'Spreads through air': Vietnam reports new variant of coronavirus Vietnam also sent assistance to India amid the second wave of coronavirus pandemic in the country. The first batch of aid consisted 109 ventilators and 50 oxygen cylinders. The next batch had 100 ventilators, 275 concentrators, 1300 oxygen cylinders, and 50,000 masks. WION: How is Vietnam assisting India when it comes to the coronavirus crisis in the country? Pham Sanh Chau: I think one of the most salient features of the relief that Vietnam provided to India is that most of the relief comes from people, from individuals and organisations which are not state agencies. So, there is a big campaign at the national level of collecting relief to provide to Indian friends. From children to the elderly, to the religious people, everyone is trying to contribute small things in order to support India. So, this is the solidarity, sentiment and love that Vietnamese people give to Indian friends at this difficult moment. WION: Vietnam has recently reported a new hybrid variant found in the UK (Alpha) and India (delta). How is the country dealing with the pandemic? Pham Sanh Chau: We have just been hit by the fourth wave as it has been identified since April 27. This has increased the cases from 1600 to more than 6000. It means over the past one month, the number of infections has doubled the total infection that Vietnam has incurred over the past one and half years. This mutant is spreading very fast. So, we are still analysing the sources of that and are waiting for the final certification of health authorities. WION: What kind of global cooperation is underway when it comes to Vietnam, especially on vaccines? Pham Sanh Chau: Like other Asian countries, Vietnam badly needs vaccines. Recently, we placed an order recently with Pfizer and are in the process of negotiating with Moderna. We have also signed an agreement with AstraZeneca. Vietnam also has the opportunity to purchase Covaxin, but it is not yet approved by WHO for emergency use. We are waiting for this approval by WHO and then we will intensify the discussion and drafting of the contract for the purchase of this Covaxin for Vietnamese people.

Waiting for Covaxin's approval by WHO, says Vietnam envoy to WION

The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths. The active cases were recorded below 20 lakh for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed.

India logs 1.32 lakh fresh Covid-19 cases

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said only B.1.617.2, one of the three strains of the B.1.617 COVID-19 variant first detected in India, is a 'variant of concern' now and noted that lower rates of transmission have been observed for the other two lineages.

The B.1.617 variant was first detected in India and was divided in three lineages - B.1.617.1, B.1.617.2 and B.1.617.3. In the COVID-19 Weekly Epidemiological Update published on Tuesday, WHO said available findings for lineages B.1.617.1 and B.1.617.2 were initially used to designate B.1.617 a global Variant of Concern (VOC) on May 11 this year.

"Since then, it has become evident that greater public health risks are currently associated with B.1.617.2, while lower rates of transmission of other lineages have been observed," WHO said.

The UN health agency said that in order to reflect this updated information, B.1.617 has been 'delineated'. 'B.1.617.2 remains a VOC and labelled variant Delta' we continue to observe significantly increased transmissibility and a growing number of countries reporting outbreaks associated with this variant.

Further studies into the impact of this variant remain a high priority for WHO.&nbsp;The Delta variant has now been reported in 62 countries around the world as of June 1, the update said.

It added that the B.1.617.1 strain has been reclassified to a Variant of Interest (VOI) and labelled variant 'Kappa'. While Kappa is also demonstrating increased transmissibility (in specified locations), 'global prevalence appears to be declining. This variant will continue to be monitored and reassessed regularly'.

The B.1.617.3 lineage is 'no longer classified as either a VOI or VOC' relatively few reports of this variant have been submitted to date.&nbsp;

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said only B.1.617.2, one of the three strains of the B.1.617 COVID-19 variant first detected in India, is a 'variant of concern' now and noted that lower rates of transmission have been observed for the other two lineages.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said only B.1.617.2, one of the three strains of the B.1.617 COVID-19 variant first detected in India, is a 'variant of concern' now and noted that lower rates of transmission have been observed for the other two lineages. The B.1.617 variant was first detected in India and was divided in three lineages - B.1.617.1, B.1.617.2 and B.1.617.3. In the COVID-19 Weekly Epidemiological Update published on Tuesday, WHO said available findings for lineages B.1.617.1 and B.1.617.2 were initially used to designate B.1.617 a global Variant of Concern (VOC) on May 11 this year. "Since then, it has become evident that greater public health risks are currently associated with B.1.617.2, while lower rates of transmission of other lineages have been observed," WHO said. The UN health agency said that in order to reflect this updated information, B.1.617 has been 'delineated'. 'B.1.617.2 remains a VOC and labelled variant Delta' we continue to observe significantly increased transmissibility and a growing number of countries reporting outbreaks associated with this variant. Further studies into the impact of this variant remain a high priority for WHO. The Delta variant has now been reported in 62 countries around the world as of June 1, the update said. It added that the B.1.617.1 strain has been reclassified to a Variant of Interest (VOI) and labelled variant 'Kappa'. While Kappa is also demonstrating increased transmissibility (in specified locations), 'global prevalence appears to be declining. This variant will continue to be monitored and reassessed regularly'. The B.1.617.3 lineage is 'no longer classified as either a VOI or VOC' relatively few reports of this variant have been submitted to date.

Only one of three strains of B.1.617 variant now a 'variant of concern': WHO

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Tuesday that only one strain of the COVID-19 Delta variant first detected in India is now considered of concern, while two other strains had been downgraded.

WHO says only one strain of Delta variant is now of concern

India’s apex drug regulator has announced that foreign vaccines like Pfizer and Moderna will no longer have to clear India-specific trials. The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has done away with such requirements in order to speed up vaccine imports.

DCGI relaxes norms for clearing foreign vaccines, no local trials for Pfizer and Moderna

India reported 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday.

The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths.

The active cases were recorded below 2 million for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also, 20,19,773 tests were conducted on Tuesday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 35,00,57,330, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.57 per cent.

It has been less than 10 per cent for nine consecutive days, the ministry said.

The weekly positivity rate has declined to 8.21 per cent.

The active cases have reduced to 17,93,645 comprising 6.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.48 per cent.

A net decline of 1,01,875 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in 24 hours.

Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for 20th consecutive days.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,61,79,085, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.18 per cent, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2 million mark on August 7, 3 million on August 23, 4 million on September 5 and 5 million on September 16.

It went past 6 million on September 28, 7 million on October 11, crossed 8 million on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

India crossed the grim milestone of 20 million on May 4.

India reported 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.

India reported 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday. The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths. The active cases were recorded below 2 million for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed. Also, 20,19,773 tests were conducted on Tuesday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 35,00,57,330, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.57 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for nine consecutive days, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has declined to 8.21 per cent. The active cases have reduced to 17,93,645 comprising 6.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.48 per cent. A net decline of 1,01,875 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in 24 hours. Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for 20th consecutive days. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,61,79,085, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.18 per cent, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2 million mark on August 7, 3 million on August 23, 4 million on September 5 and 5 million on September 16. It went past 6 million on September 28, 7 million on October 11, crossed 8 million on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of 20 million on May 4.

India records over 1,32,788 fresh COVID-19 cases, 3,207 fatalities in the last 24 hours

In a bid to encourage Covid vaccination, the district administration here has ordered that government employees will not receive their salaries unless they are vaccinated, an official said here on Wednesday.

Chief Development Officer, Charchit Gaur said that District Magistrate Chandra Vijay Singh has issued an oral order of "no vaccination, no salary".

As per the order, if an employee does not take the Covid vaccine, the department will initiate action and stop their salary for the month of May, Gaur said.

District treasury officer and other departmental heads have been given directions to implement the order and were asked to make a list and ensure vaccination, he said.

The CDO said that the employees are trying to get themselves vaccinated in fear that their salary might be stopped.

In a bid to encourage Covid vaccination, the district administration here has ordered that government employees will not receive their salaries unless they are vaccinated, an official said here on Wednesday.

In a bid to encourage Covid vaccination, the district administration here has ordered that government employees will not receive their salaries unless they are vaccinated, an official said here on Wednesday. Chief Development Officer, Charchit Gaur said that District Magistrate Chandra Vijay Singh has issued an oral order of "no vaccination, no salary". As per the order, if an employee does not take the Covid vaccine, the department will initiate action and stop their salary for the month of May, Gaur said. District treasury officer and other departmental heads have been given directions to implement the order and were asked to make a list and ensure vaccination, he said. The CDO said that the employees are trying to get themselves vaccinated in fear that their salary might be stopped.

'No vaccination, no salary' for government employees in this Indian state

India recorded a single-day rise of 1,27,510 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 51 days, taking the country's infection tally to 2,81,75,044, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday.

India's active caseload further declined and is below 2 million&nbsp;after 43 days. The active caseload further declined to 18,95,520 as active cases decreased by 1,30,572 in the last 24 hours

The daily positivity rate also declined to 6.62 per cent, remaining below the 10 per cent-mark for the seventh consecutive days, while the weekly positivity rate dropped to 8.64 per cent.

The death toll due to the virus climbed to 3,31,895 with 2,795 fatalities being recorded in a span of 24 hours.

Meanwhile, recoveries continue to outnumber the daily new cases for the 19th successive days, as India witnessed 2,55,287 recoveries in the last 24 hours, the ministry said.

The recovery tally of India has reached 2,59,47,629 and the recovery rate stands at 92.09 per cent.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 34,67,92,257 samples tested up to May 31 of which 19,25,374 samples were tested yesterday.

The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 21,60,46,638 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

India recorded a single-day rise of 1,27,510 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 51 days, taking the country's infection tally to 2,81,75,044, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday.

India recorded a single-day rise of 1,27,510 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest in 51 days, taking the country's infection tally to 2,81,75,044, according to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday. India's active caseload further declined and is below 2 million after 43 days. The active caseload further declined to 18,95,520 as active cases decreased by 1,30,572 in the last 24 hours The daily positivity rate also declined to 6.62 per cent, remaining below the 10 per cent-mark for the seventh consecutive days, while the weekly positivity rate dropped to 8.64 per cent. The death toll due to the virus climbed to 3,31,895 with 2,795 fatalities being recorded in a span of 24 hours. Meanwhile, recoveries continue to outnumber the daily new cases for the 19th successive days, as India witnessed 2,55,287 recoveries in the last 24 hours, the ministry said. The recovery tally of India has reached 2,59,47,629 and the recovery rate stands at 92.09 per cent. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 34,67,92,257 samples tested up to May 31 of which 19,25,374 samples were tested yesterday. The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 21,60,46,638 vaccine doses have been administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.

India's active COVID-19 caseload below 2 million mark, 1,27,510 new cases reported

Lennox Linton, the leader of opposition in Dominica, has slammed the government of Prime Minister&nbsp;Roosevelt Skerrit for not being 'forthcoming’ on the issue of Mehul Choksi, raising questions over his presence in the country. &nbsp;

Speaking to WION exclusively from Dominica, Linton said, "The only reason the government is keeping it under wraps and not wanting that people should know about it is because the government is embarrassed by the action it took to facilitate this transaction."&nbsp;

He explained, "The government clearly knew that Choksi was coming to Dominica. And the fact that he arrived without any passport raises several questions."&nbsp;

Choksi, who is involved in the mega PNB scam, was found in Dominica last week after mysteriously disappearing in Antigua. Since then, he has been in the custody of local authorities with a court case due on Wednesday over what is being described by the government as his 'illegal' entry into the country. &nbsp;

Linton highlighted, "We are not saying Mehul Choksi doesn't have to face the music or the courts for what he has done because these are serious charges. We have to be careful as in Dominica, there are issues with economic citizenship and many bandits enter the country in its name. "

In a strong statement, the opposition leader also questioned how operators of a vessel that came on Dominica on May 23, made a false declaration that it came on May 25 and did not mention Choksi.&nbsp;

Lennox Linton, the leader of opposition in Dominica, has slammed the government of Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit for not being 'forthcoming’ on the issue of Mehul Choksi, raising questions over his presence in the country.

Lennox Linton, the leader of opposition in Dominica, has slammed the government of Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit for not being 'forthcoming’ on the issue of Mehul Choksi, raising questions over his presence in the country. Speaking to WION exclusively from Dominica, Linton said, "The only reason the government is keeping it under wraps and not wanting that people should know about it is because the government is embarrassed by the action it took to facilitate this transaction." He explained, "The government clearly knew that Choksi was coming to Dominica. And the fact that he arrived without any passport raises several questions." Choksi, who is involved in the mega PNB scam, was found in Dominica last week after mysteriously disappearing in Antigua. Since then, he has been in the custody of local authorities with a court case due on Wednesday over what is being described by the government as his 'illegal' entry into the country. Linton highlighted, "We are not saying Mehul Choksi doesn't have to face the music or the courts for what he has done because these are serious charges. We have to be careful as in Dominica, there are issues with economic citizenship and many bandits enter the country in its name. " In a strong statement, the opposition leader also questioned how operators of a vessel that came on Dominica on May 23, made a false declaration that it came on May 25 and did not mention Choksi.

Opposition leader Lennox Linton says govt knew Choksi was coming to Dominica

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov&nbsp;said that the S-400 contract is on track and&nbsp;the&nbsp;first batch of the air defence system will reach India by end of this year.&nbsp;Speaking to reporters after the BRICS foreign ministers'&nbsp;virtual&nbsp;meet, he said, "We see no changes regarding that and the Indian authorities confirm their adherence to this agreement".

India had signed the contract for the deal during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit on October 5, 2018. Russia is currently training Indian military specialists for the system. The concern is that India may attract&nbsp;American sanctions under the&nbsp;Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) law over the transaction of the system.

The FM also extended his country's support to India amid the Covid pandemic. He said, "Today we sent a new batch of Sputnik V&nbsp;vaccines, in addition to the steps to support India in the situation they found themselves into because of the Covid pandemic."

Amid the pandemic, Moscow sent humanitarian assistance to India. The last such assistance arrived on May 25&nbsp;with 9 tonnes or 225,000 packs of anti-COVID-19 medication. Both sides are collaborating on Covid vaccines as well, with India slated&nbsp;to produce the Russian vaccine Sputnik V.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that the S-400 contract is on track and the first batch of the air defence system will reach India by end of this year.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that the S-400 contract is on track and the first batch of the air defence system will reach India by end of this year. Speaking to reporters after the BRICS foreign ministers' virtual meet, he said, "We see no changes regarding that and the Indian authorities confirm their adherence to this agreement". India had signed the contract for the deal during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit on October 5, 2018. Russia is currently training Indian military specialists for the system. The concern is that India may attract American sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) law over the transaction of the system. The FM also extended his country's support to India amid the Covid pandemic. He said, "Today we sent a new batch of Sputnik V vaccines, in addition to the steps to support India in the situation they found themselves into because of the Covid pandemic." Amid the pandemic, Moscow sent humanitarian assistance to India. The last such assistance arrived on May 25 with 9 tonnes or 225,000 packs of anti-COVID-19 medication. Both sides are collaborating on Covid vaccines as well, with India slated to produce the Russian vaccine Sputnik V.

S-400 delivery on track; supporting India amid Covid, says Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov

In a significant step forward, the BRICS grouping comprising of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa have backed the India-South Africa joint proposal for COVID-19 vaccine waiver&nbsp;at the World&nbsp;Trade Organisation(WTO).

The grouping decided to back the proposal at the BRICS foreign ministers virtual meet which was held under the chairmanship of India.

The joint statement after the meet said that the ministers "reaffirmed the need to use all relevant measures during the pandemic" which included "supporting ongoing consideration in WTO on a COVID-19 vaccine Intellectual Property Rights waiver" and "use of flexibilities of the TRIPS agreement and the Doha Declaration on TRIPS Agreement and Public Health".

BRICS is one of the first global multilateral groupings to come in the support of the proposal. The US earlier this year had extended its support to it leading to other countries in the West, including the European Union(EU) dropping its hesitation on the proposal.

The proposal once accepted means large scale production of vaccines at a time when the world is facing serious storages amid the pandemic which is now in its second year.&nbsp;

The BRICS also called for urgent reforms of&nbsp;global bodies such as the United Nations and in a first released "BRICS Joint Ministerial Statement on Strengthening and Reforming of the Multilateral System".&nbsp;

The joint statement said that they were "recommitted to instil new life in the discussions on the reform of the UN Security Council and continue the work to revitalise the General Assembly".

BRICS has two&nbsp;permanent members of the UNSC - China and Russia.&nbsp;While calls have been growing for urgent reforms at the top at the UN body, progress has been slow.

BRICS has agreed on six&nbsp;principles as guides amid growing calls for multilateral institutions.

The principles call for "more meaningful participation of developing and least developed countries, especially Africa, in global decision-making processes" and make it "better attuned to contemporary realities."&nbsp;

The statement not only focuses on reforms at the UN but also the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank (WB), World Trade Organization (WTO), World Health Organization (WHO).

The meet also discussed Afghanistan and Myanmar. The FMs called for an immediate, permanent, and comprehensive ceasefire in Afghanistan, while on Myanmar it voiced support to the recent ASEAN initiative and the implementation of its five-point consensus.

India as the chair of the grouping will hold the summit later this year. So far 50 events have taken place under its chairmanship. It&nbsp;is the third&nbsp;time India is holding the BRICS chairmanship&nbsp;after 2012 and 2016.

In a significant step forward, the BRICS grouping comprising of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa have backed the India-South Africa joint proposal for COVID-19 vaccine waiver at the World Trade Organisation(WTO).

In a significant step forward, the BRICS grouping comprising of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa have backed the India-South Africa joint proposal for COVID-19 vaccine waiver at the World Trade Organisation(WTO). The grouping decided to back the proposal at the BRICS foreign ministers virtual meet which was held under the chairmanship of India. The joint statement after the meet said that the ministers "reaffirmed the need to use all relevant measures during the pandemic" which included "supporting ongoing consideration in WTO on a COVID-19 vaccine Intellectual Property Rights waiver" and "use of flexibilities of the TRIPS agreement and the Doha Declaration on TRIPS Agreement and Public Health". BRICS is one of the first global multilateral groupings to come in the support of the proposal. The US earlier this year had extended its support to it leading to other countries in the West, including the European Union(EU) dropping its hesitation on the proposal. The proposal once accepted means large scale production of vaccines at a time when the world is facing serious storages amid the pandemic which is now in its second year. The BRICS also called for urgent reforms of global bodies such as the United Nations and in a first released "BRICS Joint Ministerial Statement on Strengthening and Reforming of the Multilateral System". The joint statement said that they were "recommitted to instil new life in the discussions on the reform of the UN Security Council and continue the work to revitalise the General Assembly". BRICS has two permanent members of the UNSC - China and Russia. While calls have been growing for urgent reforms at the top at the UN body, progress has been slow. BRICS has agreed on six principles as guides amid growing calls for multilateral institutions. The principles call for "more meaningful participation of developing and least developed countries, especially Africa, in global decision-making processes" and make it "better attuned to contemporary realities." The statement not only focuses on reforms at the UN but also the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank (WB), World Trade Organization (WTO), World Health Organization (WHO). The meet also discussed Afghanistan and Myanmar. The FMs called for an immediate, permanent, and comprehensive ceasefire in Afghanistan, while on Myanmar it voiced support to the recent ASEAN initiative and the implementation of its five-point consensus. India as the chair of the grouping will hold the summit later this year. So far 50 events have taken place under its chairmanship. It is the third time India is holding the BRICS chairmanship after 2012 and 2016.

BRICS foreign ministers back India-South Africa vaccine waiver proposal

india-news

India, News on India, stories on India, articles on India, India stories at Wion, India news, India latest news

india news

Rupee falls 27 paise to 73.17 against US dollar in early trade

COVID-19: India logs 1,32,788 fresh cases, 3,207 new fatalities

Indian drugs regulator DCGI eases norms for clearing foreign-made COVID-19 vaccines

India has lost 594 doctors in second wave of COVID-19, says medical body IMA

Government cancels CBSE Class 12 board exams amid pandemic

COVID-19 vaccination: Tips to follow before and after taking the jab

Allow freedom to travel for tested, vaccinated persons: IATA

Cumulative COVID-19 vaccination coverage crosses 22 crore-mark: Govt

Explainer: Inside Pfizer's demands for vaccine 'indemnity' and Indian government's next move

Where is Barbara Jarabica, asks Priti Choksi, wife of Mehul Choksi

Innovators from Kashmir urge government to help produce their low-cost ventilator

India: CBSE Class 12 board exams cancelled amid COVID-19

Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity'

Over 50 million Pfizer vaccines ready to be delivered to India; talks ongoing for 'partial indemnity'

Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt

Palestine miffed with India's abstention at UNHRC vote; FM Riad writes to EAM

Waiting for Covaxin's approval by WHO, says Vietnam envoy to WION

India logs 1.32 lakh fresh Covid-19 cases

Only one of three strains of B.1.617 variant now a 'variant of concern': WHO

WHO says only one strain of Delta variant is now of concern

DCGI relaxes norms for clearing foreign vaccines, no local trials for Pfizer and Moderna

India records over 1,32,788 fresh COVID-19 cases, 3,207 fatalities in the last 24 hours

'No vaccination, no salary' for government employees in this Indian state

India's active COVID-19 caseload below 2 million mark, 1,27,510 new cases reported