Fairfax may tap IDBI bank’s excess capital to help fund ₹52,878 crore buyout

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

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

NASA invites people to fly their names to Saturn's moon, Titan, aboard Dragonfly

"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

US Midterms: After Senate, House win, can Democrats force Trump to stop Iran war? Answer may surprise you

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

More than 1.65 lakh new cases of Corona have been reported in the last 24 hours in India. Watch this report of Zee News to know more.

Coronavirus Update: India witnesses slight dip in COVID cases

Today (30 May) PM Modi has addressed nation through 'Mann Ki Baat'. He talked about how country has worked together as Team India in the last seven years and also highlighted how the country fought the biggest of challenges that came in its way.

India: PM Modi led BJP Govt completes 7 Years in power today

PM Modi on Friday undertook an aerial survey of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rising-temperatures-in-indian-ocean-increasing-intensity-of-cyclones-say-scientists-387791">cyclone</a>-hit Odisha and West Bengal.

The Indian prime minister reviewed the situation in Bhadrak and Baleswar districts in Odisha including Purba Medinipur in West Bengal after cyclone Yass caused large scale destruction.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/cyclone-yaas-kills-at-least-5-people-indian-navy-teams-undertake-relief-operations-387757/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Indian prime minister&nbsp;was accompanied by Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The Prime Ministers Office(PMO) said that the Centre will send an inter-ministerial team to visit the states to assess the extent of the damage.

PM Modi announced Rs 2 lakh payment to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the seriously injured.

Meanwhile, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said she has asked for Rs 20,000 core and&nbsp;Rs 10,000 crore respectively for Digha and Sundarban's development.&nbsp;

The West Bengal chief minister conducted an aerial survey of cyclone-hit areas in North 24 Parganas district and said that a field survey will also be conducted. CM &nbsp;Banerjee is also set to conduct an ariel survey of South 24 Parganas and Digha.

Several areas in Purba Medinipur, South and North 24 Parganas districts were hit hard due to the cyclone.&nbsp;

CM Mamata Banerjee announced that the state chief secretary had submitted a report to the Prime Minister on the destruction caused due to cyclone Yaas

Cyclone Yaas ravaged parts of India's east&nbsp;coast this week killing at least four people with several lakhs evacuated in West Bengal, Odisha and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2-dead-5000-more-evacuated-as-cyclone-triggered-rain-pummels-jharkhand-387873">Jharkhand </a>as heavy rainfall was reported at several places in all three states.

(With Agencies input)

PM Modi on Friday undertook an aerial survey of cyclone-hit Odisha and West Bengal. The Indian prime minister reviewed the situation in Bhadrak and Baleswar districts in Odisha including Purba Medinipur in West Bengal after cyclone Yass caused large scale destruction.

PM Modi on Friday undertook an aerial survey of cyclone-hit Odisha and West Bengal. The Indian prime minister reviewed the situation in Bhadrak and Baleswar districts in Odisha including Purba Medinipur in West Bengal after cyclone Yass caused large scale destruction. Watch: The Indian prime minister was accompanied by Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The Prime Ministers Office(PMO) said that the Centre will send an inter-ministerial team to visit the states to assess the extent of the damage. PM Modi announced Rs 2 lakh payment to the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the seriously injured. Meanwhile, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee said she has asked for Rs 20,000 core and Rs 10,000 crore respectively for Digha and Sundarban's development. The West Bengal chief minister conducted an aerial survey of cyclone-hit areas in North 24 Parganas district and said that a field survey will also be conducted. CM Banerjee is also set to conduct an ariel survey of South 24 Parganas and Digha. Several areas in Purba Medinipur, South and North 24 Parganas districts were hit hard due to the cyclone. CM Mamata Banerjee announced that the state chief secretary had submitted a report to the Prime Minister on the destruction caused due to cyclone Yaas Cyclone Yaas ravaged parts of India's east coast this week killing at least four people with several lakhs evacuated in West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand as heavy rainfall was reported at several places in all three states. (With Agencies input)

PM Modi undertakes aerial survey of cyclone-hit Odisha, West Bengal

In a clear and unambiguous message to China, Army Chief Gen MM Naravane on Friday said there can be no de-escalation without complete disengagement at all friction points in eastern Ladakh, and that the Indian Army is prepared for all contingencies in the region.

In an exclusive interview to PTI, Gen Naravane said India is dealing with China in a "firm" and "non-escalatory" manner to ensure the sanctity of its claims in eastern Ladakh, and that it was even open to initiating confidence-building measures.

It has been more than a year since the military standoff between the two sides erupted in eastern Ladakh on May 5, 2020 during which there were fatalities on both sides for the first time in 45 years. They have made limited progress in achieving disengagement at the Pangong lake area while negotiations for similar steps at other friction points remained deadlocked.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-china-india-disengagement-at-ladakh-an-unfinished-agenda-377107">Opinion | China-India disengagement at Ladakh: An unfinished agenda</a>

Gen Naravane asserted that the Indian Army is currently holding onto all important areas in the high-altitude region and it has adequate personnel in the form of "reserves" to respond to any contingencies.

"We are very clear that no de-escalation can take place before disengagement at all friction points. India and China have signed a number of border agreements which have been unilaterally breached by the People's Liberation Army(PLA)," he said.

"Though we want peace and tranquillity at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and are open to initiating confidence-building measures, we remain prepared for all contingencies."

He also said the situation along the northern border is under control and that the coming rounds of military talks with China will focus on restoring the status quo ante of April 2020.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-china-lac-standoff-both-sides-discuss-further-disengagement-in-ladakh-376711">India-China LAC Standoff: Both sides discuss further disengagement in Ladakh</a>

"Indian Army is very clear that no loss of territory or unilateral change in status quo will be permitted. We are dealing with the Chinese in a firm and non-escalatory way, ensuring the sanctity of our claims in eastern Ladakh," he added.

To a question on when a resolution to the standoff can be expected in areas like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in eastern Ladakh, the Army Chief said it was difficult to predict the timeline.

"The Indian Army maintains all protocols and agreements between the two countries while the PLA escalated the situation by utilisation of unorthodox weapons and amassing a large number of troops," he said, in a reference to the Galwan Valley clashes last June.

"Troops are currently holding all important areas and we have adequate troops in the form of 'reserves' to react to any contingencies," the Army Chief added.

India-China ties came under severe strain following the deadly clashes at the Galwan valley following which both sides rushed in thousands of additional troops as well as battle tanks and other large weapons to the region.

"The trust levels are bound to be low when a major standoff takes place between two countries leading to casualties on both sides. However, it is always our endeavour that this trust deficit should not hinder the negotiation process," Gen Naravane said.

"As two professional armies, it is imperative that we resolve the situation and make progress to restore trust at the earliest."

Asked about the possibility of any escalation of tension in the region, Gen Naravane said there has been no infringement by the Chinese side following the agreement on the disengagement in the Pangong lake area and that chances of any untoward incident is low.

He also said the strength of troops on both sides at present are more or less what it was last year and that the Indian Army was aware of what is happening in the region, adding "you cannot be complacent".

The Chief of Army Staff said the training areas of the PLA located in depth areas at a distance of around 1,000 km from the LAC are also being looked at. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the LAC in the sensitive sector.

Gen Naravane said the process for the next round of military talks was underway. At the same time, he added, "we should not expect result from every round of talks."

Asked about China building villages near the LAC in the Arunachal Pradesh sector as well along its border with Bhutan, Gen Naravane said it is possibly part of a plan to have more population in the areas along with infrastructure development.

"They (China) are building the villages on their side. Additional infrastructure is also being developed to cater to the increasing population," he said.

He said India has also been developing infrastructure along the LAC that included habitat, water supply and electrification. 
Nine months after the military standoff at multiple friction points, both sides completed the withdrawal of troops and weapons from the North and South banks of the Pangong lake in February as part of an agreement reached following a series of military and diplomatic talks.

The two sides have held 11 rounds of military talks with an aim to ensure disengagement and de-escalation at the friction points. Both the militaries are now engaged in talks to extend the disengagement process to the remaining friction points.

There was no visible forward movement in disengagement of troops at the remaining friction points as the Chinese side did not show flexibility in their approach at the last round of talks on April 9. The Chinese military is currently conducting a drill at its training areas near the Ladakh region.

In a clear and unambiguous message to China, Army Chief Gen MM Naravane on Friday said there can be no de-escalation without complete disengagement at all friction points in eastern Ladakh, and that the Indian Army is prepared for all contingencies in the region.

In a clear and unambiguous message to China, Army Chief Gen MM Naravane on Friday said there can be no de-escalation without complete disengagement at all friction points in eastern Ladakh, and that the Indian Army is prepared for all contingencies in the region. In an exclusive interview to PTI, Gen Naravane said India is dealing with China in a "firm" and "non-escalatory" manner to ensure the sanctity of its claims in eastern Ladakh, and that it was even open to initiating confidence-building measures. It has been more than a year since the military standoff between the two sides erupted in eastern Ladakh on May 5, 2020 during which there were fatalities on both sides for the first time in 45 years. They have made limited progress in achieving disengagement at the Pangong lake area while negotiations for similar steps at other friction points remained deadlocked. Also Read | Opinion | China-India disengagement at Ladakh: An unfinished agenda Gen Naravane asserted that the Indian Army is currently holding onto all important areas in the high-altitude region and it has adequate personnel in the form of "reserves" to respond to any contingencies. "We are very clear that no de-escalation can take place before disengagement at all friction points. India and China have signed a number of border agreements which have been unilaterally breached by the People's Liberation Army(PLA)," he said. "Though we want peace and tranquillity at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and are open to initiating confidence-building measures, we remain prepared for all contingencies." He also said the situation along the northern border is under control and that the coming rounds of military talks with China will focus on restoring the status quo ante of April 2020. Also Read | India-China LAC Standoff: Both sides discuss further disengagement in Ladakh "Indian Army is very clear that no loss of territory or unilateral change in status quo will be permitted. We are dealing with the Chinese in a firm and non-escalatory way, ensuring the sanctity of our claims in eastern Ladakh," he added. To a question on when a resolution to the standoff can be expected in areas like Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang in eastern Ladakh, the Army Chief said it was difficult to predict the timeline. "The Indian Army maintains all protocols and agreements between the two countries while the PLA escalated the situation by utilisation of unorthodox weapons and amassing a large number of troops," he said, in a reference to the Galwan Valley clashes last June. "Troops are currently holding all important areas and we have adequate troops in the form of 'reserves' to react to any contingencies," the Army Chief added. India-China ties came under severe strain following the deadly clashes at the Galwan valley following which both sides rushed in thousands of additional troops as well as battle tanks and other large weapons to the region. "The trust levels are bound to be low when a major standoff takes place between two countries leading to casualties on both sides. However, it is always our endeavour that this trust deficit should not hinder the negotiation process," Gen Naravane said. "As two professional armies, it is imperative that we resolve the situation and make progress to restore trust at the earliest." Asked about the possibility of any escalation of tension in the region, Gen Naravane said there has been no infringement by the Chinese side following the agreement on the disengagement in the Pangong lake area and that chances of any untoward incident is low. He also said the strength of troops on both sides at present are more or less what it was last year and that the Indian Army was aware of what is happening in the region, adding "you cannot be complacent". The Chief of Army Staff said the training areas of the PLA located in depth areas at a distance of around 1,000 km from the LAC are also being looked at. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the LAC in the sensitive sector. Gen Naravane said the process for the next round of military talks was underway. At the same time, he added, "we should not expect result from every round of talks." Asked about China building villages near the LAC in the Arunachal Pradesh sector as well along its border with Bhutan, Gen Naravane said it is possibly part of a plan to have more population in the areas along with infrastructure development. "They (China) are building the villages on their side. Additional infrastructure is also being developed to cater to the increasing population," he said. He said India has also been developing infrastructure along the LAC that included habitat, water supply and electrification. Nine months after the military standoff at multiple friction points, both sides completed the withdrawal of troops and weapons from the North and South banks of the Pangong lake in February as part of an agreement reached following a series of military and diplomatic talks. The two sides have held 11 rounds of military talks with an aim to ensure disengagement and de-escalation at the friction points. Both the militaries are now engaged in talks to extend the disengagement process to the remaining friction points. There was no visible forward movement in disengagement of troops at the remaining friction points as the Chinese side did not show flexibility in their approach at the last round of talks on April 9. The Chinese military is currently conducting a drill at its training areas near the Ladakh region.

We are dealing with China in firm and non-escalatory way: Indian Army chief

Kerala Government on Sunday extended the lockdown restrictions till June 9 in all its districts.

"Special intensified stringent restrictions enforced in the district of Malappuram will cease to exist from 00:00 of May 30. Thereafter the lockdown restrictions shall be uniform in all districts of the state," according to an official order.&nbsp;

However, the state government allowed industrial establishments and production centres (including cash, coir and mining) to function with minimum staff not exceeding 50 per cent of staff strength.&nbsp;

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan took to Twitter saying, "Lockdown extended for all of Kerala till 9 June, with certain relaxations. All industries can function with minimal staff, not to exceed 50 per cent strength.&nbsp;

Banks will continue on Mon, Wed, Fri. Time extended till 5 pm. Triple lockdown in Malappuram will stand repealed from 30 May."According to Union Health Ministry Kerala has 2,38,210 active COVID-19 cases. The total number of recoveries has reached 22,24,405 and fatalities have mounted to 8,257.

Kerala Government on Sunday extended the lockdown restrictions till June 9 in all its districts. "Special intensified stringent restrictions enforced in the district of Malappuram will cease to exist from 00:00 of May 30.

Kerala Government on Sunday extended the lockdown restrictions till June 9 in all its districts. "Special intensified stringent restrictions enforced in the district of Malappuram will cease to exist from 00:00 of May 30. Thereafter the lockdown restrictions shall be uniform in all districts of the state," according to an official order. However, the state government allowed industrial establishments and production centres (including cash, coir and mining) to function with minimum staff not exceeding 50 per cent of staff strength. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan took to Twitter saying, "Lockdown extended for all of Kerala till 9 June, with certain relaxations. All industries can function with minimal staff, not to exceed 50 per cent strength. Banks will continue on Mon, Wed, Fri. Time extended till 5 pm. Triple lockdown in Malappuram will stand repealed from 30 May."According to Union Health Ministry Kerala has 2,38,210 active COVID-19 cases. The total number of recoveries has reached 22,24,405 and fatalities have mounted to 8,257.

Kerala extends COVID-19 lockdown till June 9

The first batch of three ISO tanks containing 60 tonnes of liquid oxygen headed for India will leave Saudi Arabia on Sunday, May 30. The tanks are expected to arrive in Mumbai on June 6, after plans to depart from Dammam on May 30.

This is the first of many batches set to arrive in India from Saudi Arabia, sources told WION. 100 ISO tanks will arrive in India in different batches to assist with oxygen shortages reported in hospitals amid a recent surge in Covid cases.

Many countries have extended aid to India after an explosive surge in cases first reported in the end of April. In the beginning of May, Saudi Arabia assured India of medical oxygen supplies.

On May 7, Indian Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud. It was during this time that the kingdom first assured India of supplying ISO containers over the next six months.

In the first half of May, the country reported record 400,000+ cases on a single day. Since then, the number of daily cases has&nbsp;come down tremendously - showing a downward trend.&nbsp;

On May 29, over 170,000 new cases were reported in 24 hours, marking the lowest spike since April 13.

Experts believe that the second-wave of Covid is now easing in the country. Delhi government announced plans to slowly unlock the city as cases dipped to pre-March levels.

The first batch of three ISO tanks containing 60 tonnes of liquid oxygen headed for India will leave Saudi Arabia on Sunday, May 30. The tanks are expected to arrive in Mumbai on June 6, after plans to depart from Dammam on May 30.

The first batch of three ISO tanks containing 60 tonnes of liquid oxygen headed for India will leave Saudi Arabia on Sunday, May 30. The tanks are expected to arrive in Mumbai on June 6, after plans to depart from Dammam on May 30. This is the first of many batches set to arrive in India from Saudi Arabia, sources told WION. 100 ISO tanks will arrive in India in different batches to assist with oxygen shortages reported in hospitals amid a recent surge in Covid cases. Many countries have extended aid to India after an explosive surge in cases first reported in the end of April. In the beginning of May, Saudi Arabia assured India of medical oxygen supplies. On May 7, Indian Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud. It was during this time that the kingdom first assured India of supplying ISO containers over the next six months. In the first half of May, the country reported record 400,000+ cases on a single day. Since then, the number of daily cases has come down tremendously - showing a downward trend. On May 29, over 170,000 new cases were reported in 24 hours, marking the lowest spike since April 13. Experts believe that the second-wave of Covid is now easing in the country. Delhi government announced plans to slowly unlock the city as cases dipped to pre-March levels.

First batch of ISO oxygen tanks from Saudi Arabia to leave for India on May 30

The Delhi government has extended the COVID curfew for another week till 5 am of June 7 while allowing operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises.

"The DDMA extended the curfew on the movement of individuals except for essential activities in Delhi till 5 am on June 7 (Monday) or further orders whichever is earlier. Operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises in approved industrial areas and construction activities within their worksites shall be allowed outside the containment zones during the curfew period," reads the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) order.&nbsp;

On Friday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had announced that the national capital will begin to unlock from Monday and said that construction activities and factories will be reopened from May 31.

"In the meeting chaired by the Lieutenant Governor with Delhi Disaster Management Authority over unlocking process, it has been decided that construction activities and factories will be reopened from Monday keeping the daily wage workers in mind," he said.

Kejriwal urged people to follow the COVID-appropriate behaviour and stated that Delhi may have to opt for lockdown if there is an increase in the COVID cases again.The national capital has been under a lockdown since April 19 in view of a surge in COVID-19 cases in the second wave of the pandemic.

Delhi recorded 956 fresh COVID cases and 122 deaths on Saturday, according to the health department of the union territory. The daily new case numbers on Saturday have been the lowest over the last two month

The Delhi government has extended the COVID curfew for another week till 5 am of June 7 while allowing operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises.

The Delhi government has extended the COVID curfew for another week till 5 am of June 7 while allowing operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises. "The DDMA extended the curfew on the movement of individuals except for essential activities in Delhi till 5 am on June 7 (Monday) or further orders whichever is earlier. Operations of manufacturing/production units within closed premises in approved industrial areas and construction activities within their worksites shall be allowed outside the containment zones during the curfew period," reads the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) order. On Friday, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had announced that the national capital will begin to unlock from Monday and said that construction activities and factories will be reopened from May 31. "In the meeting chaired by the Lieutenant Governor with Delhi Disaster Management Authority over unlocking process, it has been decided that construction activities and factories will be reopened from Monday keeping the daily wage workers in mind," he said. Kejriwal urged people to follow the COVID-appropriate behaviour and stated that Delhi may have to opt for lockdown if there is an increase in the COVID cases again.The national capital has been under a lockdown since April 19 in view of a surge in COVID-19 cases in the second wave of the pandemic. Delhi recorded 956 fresh COVID cases and 122 deaths on Saturday, according to the health department of the union territory. The daily new case numbers on Saturday have been the lowest over the last two month

Delhi extends COVID curbs till June 7

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced that all children who have been rendered orphan due to COVID-19 will be supported under the 'PM-CARES for Children’ scheme.

India: Support for kids who lost parents

India on Saturday reported 173,790 fresh Covid-19 cases while 3,617 patients succumbed to the coronavirus in the last 24 hours, the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry said. 
 
This is for the third time since April 13 that India has recorded less than 200,000 cases of Covid. On May 25, India has recorded 196,000&nbsp;lakh cases of Covid, and 186,364 cases on May 28. 
 
The fatalities have also remained below 4,000 for three consecutive days. 
 
India`s overall tally of Covid-19 cases now stands at 2,77,29,247 with 22,28,724 active cases, and 3,22,512 deaths, so far. 
 
According to the Health Ministry, a total of 284,601 people have been discharged in the last 24 hours, with 2,51,78,011 being cured from Covid till date. 
 
The Health Ministry said that a total of 20,89,02,445 people have been vaccinated so far in the country, including 30,62,747 who were administered vaccines in the last 24 hours. 
 
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, 34,11,19,909 samples have been tested up to May 28 for Covid-19. Of these 20,80,048 samples were tested on Friday. 
 
In the last 18 days, India has recorded over 68,000 deaths. On May 24, India crossed a grim milestone of three-lakh deaths due to the coronavirus infections, thus becoming world`s third country after the US and Brazil to cross three-lakh deaths. 
 
India registered record deaths due to Covid exactly a week back with 4,529 deaths,&nbsp;the highest number of fatalities from Covid infection in any country since the coronavirus outbreak was reported in China`s Wuhan in December 2019. 
 
It surpassed 4,468 deaths in the US on January 12, and earlier 4,211 in Brazil on April 6. 
 
After battling a brutal second wave for weeks, fresh Covid cases came down below the three lakh-mark for the first time on May 17 after touching record high of 414,188 on May 7.

India on Saturday reported 173,790 fresh Covid-19 cases while 3,617 patients succumbed to the coronavirus in the last 24 hours, the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry said.

India on Saturday reported 173,790 fresh Covid-19 cases while 3,617 patients succumbed to the coronavirus in the last 24 hours, the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry said. This is for the third time since April 13 that India has recorded less than 200,000 cases of Covid. On May 25, India has recorded 196,000 lakh cases of Covid, and 186,364 cases on May 28. The fatalities have also remained below 4,000 for three consecutive days. India`s overall tally of Covid-19 cases now stands at 2,77,29,247 with 22,28,724 active cases, and 3,22,512 deaths, so far. According to the Health Ministry, a total of 284,601 people have been discharged in the last 24 hours, with 2,51,78,011 being cured from Covid till date. The Health Ministry said that a total of 20,89,02,445 people have been vaccinated so far in the country, including 30,62,747 who were administered vaccines in the last 24 hours. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, 34,11,19,909 samples have been tested up to May 28 for Covid-19. Of these 20,80,048 samples were tested on Friday. In the last 18 days, India has recorded over 68,000 deaths. On May 24, India crossed a grim milestone of three-lakh deaths due to the coronavirus infections, thus becoming world`s third country after the US and Brazil to cross three-lakh deaths. India registered record deaths due to Covid exactly a week back with 4,529 deaths, the highest number of fatalities from Covid infection in any country since the coronavirus outbreak was reported in China`s Wuhan in December 2019. It surpassed 4,468 deaths in the US on January 12, and earlier 4,211 in Brazil on April 6. After battling a brutal second wave for weeks, fresh Covid cases came down below the three lakh-mark for the first time on May 17 after touching record high of 414,188 on May 7.

With 173,790 fresh Covid cases, India reports lowest spike since April 13

India and the US on Friday vowed to support each other amid Covid crisis in the second physical meet between Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and US Secretary of state&nbsp;Antony Blinken.&nbsp;Both the foreign minister had met earlier this year in London on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign minister meeting.&nbsp;

Jaishankar, standing alongside the US Secretary of State said, "our relations have grown strong over the years and I am very confident that it will continue to do so", thanking the US for the "strong support and solidarity at the moment of great difficulty for us".&nbsp;

Amid the second wave of Covid crisis, US sent assistance which included 20,000 courses of remdesivir, 1,500 oxygen cylinders, 550 mobile oxygen concentrators, over 2.5 million N95 masks and a&nbsp;large-scale deployable oxygen concentration system.&nbsp;Responding to this, Blinken said, "We know, we remember in the earlier days of Covid&nbsp;India was there for the US, something we will never forget, and now we want to make sure that we are there for India"

Last year, India had sent HCQ to US. Both sides have been engaging with each over dealing with&nbsp;the crisis, especially under the Quad grouping of US, India, Australia, and Japan. After the first virtual summit that took place earlier this year, it was decided that more Covid vaccines will be manufactured under the Quad Covid Vaccine initiative.&nbsp;

Calling EAM, friend and colleague, US Secretary of state said, "US and India are working together on so many of the most important challenges of our time, one those are having a profound impact on the lives of our citizens".&nbsp;He highlighted how both countries are "united" in "confronting covid" &amp; the "challenge posed by climate change" even as they have "partnered directly through the quad, other institutions like the UN" and "partnership between US and India is vital, it is strong and increasingly productive".

EAM Jaishankar is on a week-long visit to US, during which he held talks with the US defense secretary and USTR in Washington and will meet&nbsp;UN Secretary-General&nbsp;Antonio Guterres in New York.&nbsp;

India and the US on Friday vowed to support each other amid Covid crisis in the second physical meet between Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and US Secretary of state Antony Blinken.

India and the US on Friday vowed to support each other amid Covid crisis in the second physical meet between Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and US Secretary of state Antony Blinken. Both the foreign minister had met earlier this year in London on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign minister meeting. Jaishankar, standing alongside the US Secretary of State said, "our relations have grown strong over the years and I am very confident that it will continue to do so", thanking the US for the "strong support and solidarity at the moment of great difficulty for us". Amid the second wave of Covid crisis, US sent assistance which included 20,000 courses of remdesivir, 1,500 oxygen cylinders, 550 mobile oxygen concentrators, over 2.5 million N95 masks and a large-scale deployable oxygen concentration system. Responding to this, Blinken said, "We know, we remember in the earlier days of Covid India was there for the US, something we will never forget, and now we want to make sure that we are there for India" Last year, India had sent HCQ to US. Both sides have been engaging with each over dealing with the crisis, especially under the Quad grouping of US, India, Australia, and Japan. After the first virtual summit that took place earlier this year, it was decided that more Covid vaccines will be manufactured under the Quad Covid Vaccine initiative. Calling EAM, friend and colleague, US Secretary of state said, "US and India are working together on so many of the most important challenges of our time, one those are having a profound impact on the lives of our citizens". He highlighted how both countries are "united" in "confronting covid" & the "challenge posed by climate change" even as they have "partnered directly through the quad, other institutions like the UN" and "partnership between US and India is vital, it is strong and increasingly productive". EAM Jaishankar is on a week-long visit to US, during which he held talks with the US defense secretary and USTR in Washington and will meet UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in New York.

Blinken says US and India united in tackling COVID-19

India has expressed its 'strong opposition' to the comments made by United Nations General Assembly President Volkan Bozkir on Kashmir during his visit to Pakistan. Dismissing his 'unwarranted references' on Jammu and Kashmir, the ministry of external affairs in a strongly worded statement called the comments 'unacceptable'.&nbsp;

The statement said, "when an incumbent President of the UN General Assembly makes misleading and prejudiced remarks, he does a great disservice to the office he occupies", adding, his "behaviour is truly regrettable and surely diminishes his standing on the global platform." India also dismissed equating of Palestine and J&amp;K saying that there is no ‘basis for comparison to other global situations'. &nbsp;

During his Pakistan visit, the UNGA President equated Palestine with Jammu and Kashmir issue, and said it's the 'duty of Pakistan to bring this to UN Platform more strongly'. Volkan Bozkır is a Turkish diplomat and politician and the first Turkish national to hold the post of President of the United Nations General Assembly. The term of the presidency of UNGA is for a one year, and he or she is expected to remain impartial.&nbsp;

The comments will be seen as a violation of the code of ethics mentioned in Annex XI (a) for the President of the General Assembly as enshrined under resolution 70/305 of 13 September 2016. The Annex, para 2 says, "The President shall perform his or her duties and responsibilities in an impartial and equitable manner and in full honesty and good faith".&nbsp;

Also, the same code, Para 3 states that President 'shall avoid any action' that 'might result in or create the appearance of' giving 'unwarranted preferential treatment to any State..', in this case, is Pakistan. &nbsp;

Para 5 points out, "President shall avoid any situation involving a conflict between his or her own personal or private interest and the interests of the Presidency or the United Nations". His comments are perceived to be shadowed by the Turkish foreign policy, which has taken the Pakistani position on Jammu and Kashmir irking India. &nbsp;

India has expressed its 'strong opposition' to the comments made by United Nations General Assembly President Volkan Bozkir on Kashmir during his visit to Pakistan.

India has expressed its 'strong opposition' to the comments made by United Nations General Assembly President Volkan Bozkir on Kashmir during his visit to Pakistan. Dismissing his 'unwarranted references' on Jammu and Kashmir, the ministry of external affairs in a strongly worded statement called the comments 'unacceptable'. The statement said, "when an incumbent President of the UN General Assembly makes misleading and prejudiced remarks, he does a great disservice to the office he occupies", adding, his "behaviour is truly regrettable and surely diminishes his standing on the global platform." India also dismissed equating of Palestine and J&K saying that there is no ‘basis for comparison to other global situations'. During his Pakistan visit, the UNGA President equated Palestine with Jammu and Kashmir issue, and said it's the 'duty of Pakistan to bring this to UN Platform more strongly'. Volkan Bozkır is a Turkish diplomat and politician and the first Turkish national to hold the post of President of the United Nations General Assembly. The term of the presidency of UNGA is for a one year, and he or she is expected to remain impartial. The comments will be seen as a violation of the code of ethics mentioned in Annex XI (a) for the President of the General Assembly as enshrined under resolution 70/305 of 13 September 2016. The Annex, para 2 says, "The President shall perform his or her duties and responsibilities in an impartial and equitable manner and in full honesty and good faith". Also, the same code, Para 3 states that President 'shall avoid any action' that 'might result in or create the appearance of' giving 'unwarranted preferential treatment to any State..', in this case, is Pakistan. Para 5 points out, "President shall avoid any situation involving a conflict between his or her own personal or private interest and the interests of the Presidency or the United Nations". His comments are perceived to be shadowed by the Turkish foreign policy, which has taken the Pakistani position on Jammu and Kashmir irking India.

India slams UNGA prez Bozkir's Kashmir remarks; Says comments 'unacceptable' 

India and the US vowed to support each other amid the Covid crisis in the second physical meet between Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar and US Secretary of state Antony Blinken.

Jaishankar meets Blinken: India-US vows to fight COVID-19 together

Among the 198 cadets passing out of the Indian Army Officer’s Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai was Nitika Kaul, wife of Late Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal, who was killed in action&nbsp;in February 2019, fighting against terrorists in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. At the time of her husband’s demise, the couple were barely ten months into their marriage.&nbsp;

About six months after her husband made the supreme sacrifice for the country, Nitika opted to join the Indian Army under the Short Service Commission. While the Indian Army relaxes the age criteria for the war widows (Veer Naris) that want to join the service, the training and selection process is as tough as usual.&nbsp;

Niikta had undergone the 11-month gruelling, multi-disciplinary training regimen from June 2020 at the OTA in Chennai, which is the only academy in the Indian Army to train women officers. Of the 198 cadets that passed out of the academy, 167 were gentleman cadets, 31 were women cadets. Five gentlemen cadets and seven women cadets from the mountain Kingdom of Bhutan also had undergone the 11-month course at the academy, along with their Indian counterparts. This is in line with India’s foreign policy of ensuring peaceful development of friendly, neighbouring countries by providing financial, infrastructural, military and medical aid.&nbsp;

The passing out parade at the Parameswaran Drill Square was reviewed by Lieutenant General YK Joshi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command. However, owing to the COVID-19 protocols in place, there was a significant addition and a conspicuous absence at the parade this year - all cadets wore Indian Army-monogrammed masks and their proud parents watched the ceremony live on TV and YouTube from their homes.&nbsp;

During the Pipping, which is the final ceremony on parade day, officers take the oath in the name of the Constitution of India in the presence of Indian tricolour and consecrated by religious teachers of all faiths. This is followed by officers donning the&nbsp;coveted stars of a lieutenant.&nbsp;

After the ceremony, Lt. Nitika Kaul recalled how her journey has been marvellous and that she had learnt a lot in life, over the bygone 11 months. She thanked her mother and mother-in-law and several others for having put their faith in her and being a part of her journey.&nbsp;

“I feel that I’m travelling the same journey that he did. I believe he’s always going to be part of my life, even today he’s somewhere around looking at me and I can feel that he’s just holding me and saying you just did it. I Love you Vibhu” she fondly recalled&nbsp;her Late husband Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal.&nbsp;

“Everyone please have faith in yourself, there’s absolutely nothing that can stop you from achieving what you have aimed for” is her message for all the women out there.&nbsp;

During 2018-2019, Maj Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal’s unit 55 Rashtriya Rifles&nbsp;was deployed in Pulwama district in J&amp;K and&nbsp;engaged in operations against the militants on a regular basis. Following the suicide bombing attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama on February 14, 2019, the security forces were maintaining a state of high alert, and subsequently, a massive operation was launched to nab the perpetrators of the attack.&nbsp;

On February 17, 2019&nbsp;the security forces received credible information from the intelligence sources about the presence of terrorists in Pinglan village of Pulwama district. Based on the intelligence inputs 55 RR along with the Special Operation Group of J &amp; K Police launched a search and destroy operation.&nbsp;

In a fierce 20-hour long gunfight, a number of hardcore terrorists were eliminated by the Indian security forces, whereas eleven security personnel were injured. Four soldiers including Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal succumbed to their injuries. He was was given the gallantry award, "Shaurya Chakra" for his exceptional courage, devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice.

Among the 198 cadets passing out of the Indian Army Officer’s Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai was Nitika Kaul, wife of Late Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal, who was killed in action in February 2019, fighting against terrorists in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir.

Among the 198 cadets passing out of the Indian Army Officer’s Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai was Nitika Kaul, wife of Late Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal, who was killed in action in February 2019, fighting against terrorists in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir. At the time of her husband’s demise, the couple were barely ten months into their marriage. About six months after her husband made the supreme sacrifice for the country, Nitika opted to join the Indian Army under the Short Service Commission. While the Indian Army relaxes the age criteria for the war widows (Veer Naris) that want to join the service, the training and selection process is as tough as usual. Niikta had undergone the 11-month gruelling, multi-disciplinary training regimen from June 2020 at the OTA in Chennai, which is the only academy in the Indian Army to train women officers. Of the 198 cadets that passed out of the academy, 167 were gentleman cadets, 31 were women cadets. Five gentlemen cadets and seven women cadets from the mountain Kingdom of Bhutan also had undergone the 11-month course at the academy, along with their Indian counterparts. This is in line with India’s foreign policy of ensuring peaceful development of friendly, neighbouring countries by providing financial, infrastructural, military and medical aid. The passing out parade at the Parameswaran Drill Square was reviewed by Lieutenant General YK Joshi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command. However, owing to the COVID-19 protocols in place, there was a significant addition and a conspicuous absence at the parade this year - all cadets wore Indian Army-monogrammed masks and their proud parents watched the ceremony live on TV and YouTube from their homes. During the Pipping, which is the final ceremony on parade day, officers take the oath in the name of the Constitution of India in the presence of Indian tricolour and consecrated by religious teachers of all faiths. This is followed by officers donning the coveted stars of a lieutenant. After the ceremony, Lt. Nitika Kaul recalled how her journey has been marvellous and that she had learnt a lot in life, over the bygone 11 months. She thanked her mother and mother-in-law and several others for having put their faith in her and being a part of her journey. “I feel that I’m travelling the same journey that he did. I believe he’s always going to be part of my life, even today he’s somewhere around looking at me and I can feel that he’s just holding me and saying you just did it. I Love you Vibhu” she fondly recalled her Late husband Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal. “Everyone please have faith in yourself, there’s absolutely nothing that can stop you from achieving what you have aimed for” is her message for all the women out there. During 2018-2019, Maj Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal’s unit 55 Rashtriya Rifles was deployed in Pulwama district in J&K and engaged in operations against the militants on a regular basis. Following the suicide bombing attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama on February 14, 2019, the security forces were maintaining a state of high alert, and subsequently, a massive operation was launched to nab the perpetrators of the attack. On February 17, 2019 the security forces received credible information from the intelligence sources about the presence of terrorists in Pinglan village of Pulwama district. Based on the intelligence inputs 55 RR along with the Special Operation Group of J & K Police launched a search and destroy operation. In a fierce 20-hour long gunfight, a number of hardcore terrorists were eliminated by the Indian security forces, whereas eleven security personnel were injured. Four soldiers including Major Vibhuti Shankar Dhoundiyal succumbed to their injuries. He was was given the gallantry award, "Shaurya Chakra" for his exceptional courage, devotion to duty, and supreme sacrifice.

'Nothing can stop you from achieving', says wife of late Major who joined Indian Army

A day after the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne said that Mehul Choksi could be sent back to India in the next 48 hours, a Dominican court on Friday put a stay on the repatriation of the fugitive businessman.

A day after the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne said that Mehul Choksi could be sent back to India in the next 48 hours, a Dominican court on Friday put a stay on the repatriation of the fugitive businessman. The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court has ordered the chief of police to not remove him from the country. Also read: Mehul Choksi could be in India in 48 hours, says Antigua and Barbuda PM The order was delivered by the court after Mehul Choksi's legal team in Dominica filed a habeas corpus petition and pointed out that he was denied legal rights and was not permitted to meet his lawyers initially. A writ of habeas corpus (which literally means to "produce the body") is an order by the Court requiring that public authorities deliver a detained or jailed person to the court and show a legitimate reason for that person's detention. Presently, Mehul Choksi is in the custody of Dominica Police and being probed for the charges that have been made against him. Watch: As per the statement made by Dominica police, the diamantaire will be only repatriated to Antigua, not India. The 62-year-old businessman has also been allowed full legal support. The case related to his repatriation will be heard once again today at 9 am local time. Choksi is wanted by Indian authorities in the $2 billion Punjab National Bank fraud case and had fled to the country in 2018, with India seeking to extradite him. He has been residing in Antigua and Barbuda since 2018 after he escaped from India. He had gone missing on Sunday under mysterious circumstances. On Wednesday, he was taken into custody by authorities of Dominica where he was captured when ‘trying to flee’.

PNB scam: Dominican court stays Mehul Choksi's repatriation to India

As India's vaccination drive kicks into high gear, catch the ground report from our correspondent Johan Castell as he visits one of India's largest vaccination centres and receives his first dose of the Covishield Coronavirus vaccine in New Delhi. Get to know what to expect and what the process looks like for those getting the jab.

Getting vaccinated for Coronavirus in India

Indian authorities Friday announced a tentative&nbsp;easing&nbsp;of the&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;in the capital New&nbsp;Delhi&nbsp;as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> infections fall in major cities after weeks of restrictions.

Rural areas of the country are now seeing the brunt of a surge in cases that has overwhelmed the health care system and killed at least 160,000 people since the start of March.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/record-1761-deaths-in-a-day-in-india-lockdown-in-delhi-378740">Record 1,761 deaths in a day in India; Lockdown in Delhi</a>

Arvind Kejriwal,&nbsp;Delhi's chief minister, said that from Monday construction work and factories can resume, "keeping the poorest section of our society, the labourers and daily wage workers, in mind".&nbsp;

"We are starting the process of reopening&nbsp;very, very&nbsp;slowly. We will reassess it after a week based on experts and people's opinions," he said.

Daily infections reported across <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news">India</a> have more than halved from more than 400,000 earlier this month, according to official statistics.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lowest-in-44-days-india-reports-186-lakh-fresh-covid-19-cases-387960">Lowest in 44 days: India reports 1.86 lakh fresh COVID-19 cases</a>

Deaths per day have also fallen but by much less, with 3,660 reported on Friday in the previous 24 hours. This is widely seen as a major underestimate.

Delhi&nbsp;reported Friday about 1,100 new infections, down from about 25,000 daily cases when the&nbsp;lockdown&nbsp;was announced six weeks earlier.

Even as he announced reopening from Monday, Kejriwal urged the people of&nbsp;Delhi&nbsp;to "not step out of your homes unnecessarily".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-open-delhi-phase-wise-from-may-31-kejriwal-388002">Will open Delhi phase-wise from May 31: Kejriwal</a>

"This is a&nbsp;very&nbsp;sensitive time and we have to function with full responsibility so that we can together save our&nbsp;Delhi&nbsp;and our country," he said.

The devastating surge was blamed on new virus variants and the government has allowed most of the activities&nbsp;to return to normal including mass religious and political gatherings.

Coronavirus patients died in droves outside hospitals or at home because of a lack of beds, medical oxygen and drugs, prompting a flood of desperate pleas on social media.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/black-fungus-drug-amphotericin-b-to-be-priced-at-rs-1200-for-each-vial-in-india-387750">Black fungus drug Amphotericin B to be priced at Rs 1200 for each vial in India</a>

Since mid-April thousands of COVID-19 patients have also contracted the often deadly and usually&nbsp;very&nbsp;rare infection mucormycosis or "black fungus".

Many other parts of India including the states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are now also considering&nbsp;easing&nbsp;restrictions on activity.

India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination</a> programme meanwhile is making only&nbsp;slow&nbsp;progress due to shortages, confusion and squabbling between the central government and state authorities.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/thinking-of-mixing-and-matching-vaccine-doses-on-trial-basis-government-adviser-387854">Thinking of mixing and matching vaccine doses on trial basis: Government adviser</a>

So far about 160 million people, equivalent to only 12.5 per cent of the Indian population, have received one dose, and 45 million, or 3.4 per cent, two shots.

India's information and broadcasting minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the vaccination process would be completed by the end of the year.

"Last week, the health ministry gave details in their press conference. They said that about 216 crore (2.16 billion) vaccine doses will be available by December. 108 crore (1.08 billion) people will be vaccinated," the minister said.

"They (the health ministry) also shared a breakdown of vaccines that will be available -- both locally manufactured and those that will come from outside," Javadekar added.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lockdown-in-delhi-extended-by-a-week-amid-covid-19-spike-380079">Lockdown in Delhi extended by a week amid COVID-19 spike</a>

The crisis has put Prime Minister Narendra Modi under severe pressure, with critics accusing his government of being more focused on deflecting criticism than the pandemic.

"I would request him (Modi) to stop worrying about his image and start worrying about the problem in front of him," Rahul Gandhi from the main opposition Congress party said Friday.

"Which is now killing people and will probably end up killing millions of people."

Indian authorities Friday announced a tentative easing of the lockdown in the capital New Delhi as coronavirus infections fall in major cities after weeks of restrictions.

Indian authorities Friday announced a tentative easing of the lockdown in the capital New Delhi as coronavirus infections fall in major cities after weeks of restrictions. Rural areas of the country are now seeing the brunt of a surge in cases that has overwhelmed the health care system and killed at least 160,000 people since the start of March. Also Read | Record 1,761 deaths in a day in India; Lockdown in Delhi Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi's chief minister, said that from Monday construction work and factories can resume, "keeping the poorest section of our society, the labourers and daily wage workers, in mind". "We are starting the process of reopening very, very slowly. We will reassess it after a week based on experts and people's opinions," he said. Daily infections reported across India have more than halved from more than 400,000 earlier this month, according to official statistics. Also Read | Lowest in 44 days: India reports 1.86 lakh fresh COVID-19 cases Deaths per day have also fallen but by much less, with 3,660 reported on Friday in the previous 24 hours. This is widely seen as a major underestimate. Delhi reported Friday about 1,100 new infections, down from about 25,000 daily cases when the lockdown was announced six weeks earlier. Even as he announced reopening from Monday, Kejriwal urged the people of Delhi to "not step out of your homes unnecessarily". Also Read | Will open Delhi phase-wise from May 31: Kejriwal "This is a very sensitive time and we have to function with full responsibility so that we can together save our Delhi and our country," he said. The devastating surge was blamed on new virus variants and the government has allowed most of the activities to return to normal including mass religious and political gatherings. Coronavirus patients died in droves outside hospitals or at home because of a lack of beds, medical oxygen and drugs, prompting a flood of desperate pleas on social media. Also Read | Black fungus drug Amphotericin B to be priced at Rs 1200 for each vial in India Since mid-April thousands of COVID-19 patients have also contracted the often deadly and usually very rare infection mucormycosis or "black fungus". Many other parts of India including the states of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are now also considering easing restrictions on activity. India's vaccination programme meanwhile is making only slow progress due to shortages, confusion and squabbling between the central government and state authorities. Also Read | Thinking of mixing and matching vaccine doses on trial basis: Government adviser So far about 160 million people, equivalent to only 12.5 per cent of the Indian population, have received one dose, and 45 million, or 3.4 per cent, two shots. India's information and broadcasting minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday said the vaccination process would be completed by the end of the year. "Last week, the health ministry gave details in their press conference. They said that about 216 crore (2.16 billion) vaccine doses will be available by December. 108 crore (1.08 billion) people will be vaccinated," the minister said. "They (the health ministry) also shared a breakdown of vaccines that will be available -- both locally manufactured and those that will come from outside," Javadekar added. Also Read | Lockdown in Delhi extended by a week amid COVID-19 spike The crisis has put Prime Minister Narendra Modi under severe pressure, with critics accusing his government of being more focused on deflecting criticism than the pandemic. "I would request him (Modi) to stop worrying about his image and start worrying about the problem in front of him," Rahul Gandhi from the main opposition Congress party said Friday. "Which is now killing people and will probably end up killing millions of people."

Delhi announces 'very, very slow' easing of lockdown

Indian Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said that all Indians will be vaccinated against the novel Coronavirus by December 2021. This after Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that only 3 percent of the country’s population is vaccinated against COVID-19.

Prakash Javadekar: All Indians will be vaccinated against COVID-19 by December 2021

A US court on Thursday sentenced an Indian national to three years in federal prison in connection with a telemarketing fraud scheme.

Himanshu Asri (34) of Delhi had previously admitted to being a key participant in a wide-ranging telemarketing fraud scheme that targeted and defrauded US residents, primarily senior citizens, the Department of Justice said.

The 36 months in federal prison will be followed by three years of federal supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Richard B Myrus announced.

Asri faces deportation proceedings upon completion of his term of incarceration.

In his guilty plea last December, Asri admitted that for at least the five years that preceded his arrest in early 2020, he ran a call centre in India that engaged in Tech Fraud, a scheme to extract money from computer users by deceiving them into believing that their computers were subject to attacks.

As part of the scheme, Asri had pop-up advertisements appear on computer users'' screens. The ads falsely asserted that malware was detected on those computers and urged that a telephone number be called for assistance, federal prosecutors alleged.

Those who called spoke to operators at Asri's call centre and other call centres based in India. The operators reiterated the lie that malware was detected on the callers'' computers and offered them fictitious computer protection services for an exorbitant price, according to court papers.

"Those who fell prey to this scam paid on an average $482 and sometimes, over $1,000 and did not receive any actual computer protection service or assistance," it said.

According to the Department of Justice, from the call data obtained for three months, it was estimated that over five years, Asri's scheme led approximately 6,500 people to view the deceptive pop-up ads and encounter call centre operators who made the Tech Fraud pitch.

"It is estimated that 1,950 of those people fell prey to Tech Fraud. Asri and his co-conspirators defrauded that group of at least $940,995.74. Had all of the attempts to defraud been successful, the victims would have lost an estimated total of $3,133,000," it said.

A US court on Thursday sentenced an Indian national to three years in federal prison in connection with a telemarketing fraud scheme. Himanshu Asri (34) of Delhi had previously admitted to being a key participant in a wide-ranging telemarketing fraud scheme that targeted and defrauded US residents, primarily senior citizens, the Department of Justice said.

A US court on Thursday sentenced an Indian national to three years in federal prison in connection with a telemarketing fraud scheme. Himanshu Asri (34) of Delhi had previously admitted to being a key participant in a wide-ranging telemarketing fraud scheme that targeted and defrauded US residents, primarily senior citizens, the Department of Justice said. The 36 months in federal prison will be followed by three years of federal supervised release, Acting United States Attorney Richard B Myrus announced. Asri faces deportation proceedings upon completion of his term of incarceration. In his guilty plea last December, Asri admitted that for at least the five years that preceded his arrest in early 2020, he ran a call centre in India that engaged in Tech Fraud, a scheme to extract money from computer users by deceiving them into believing that their computers were subject to attacks. As part of the scheme, Asri had pop-up advertisements appear on computer users'' screens. The ads falsely asserted that malware was detected on those computers and urged that a telephone number be called for assistance, federal prosecutors alleged. Those who called spoke to operators at Asri's call centre and other call centres based in India. The operators reiterated the lie that malware was detected on the callers'' computers and offered them fictitious computer protection services for an exorbitant price, according to court papers. "Those who fell prey to this scam paid on an average $482 and sometimes, over $1,000 and did not receive any actual computer protection service or assistance," it said. According to the Department of Justice, from the call data obtained for three months, it was estimated that over five years, Asri's scheme led approximately 6,500 people to view the deceptive pop-up ads and encounter call centre operators who made the Tech Fraud pitch. "It is estimated that 1,950 of those people fell prey to Tech Fraud. Asri and his co-conspirators defrauded that group of at least $940,995.74. Had all of the attempts to defraud been successful, the victims would have lost an estimated total of $3,133,000," it said.

Telemarketing fraud scheme: Indian sentenced to 3 years in jail in US

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>-induced suspension of scheduled international passenger flights has been extended till June 30, aviation regulator DGCA said on Friday.

"However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-india-extends-ban-on-international-passenger-flights-till-april-14-288738">Coronavirus: India extends ban on international passenger flights till April 14</a>

Scheduled international passenger services have been suspended in India since March 23, 2020, due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus pandemic</a>. But special international flights have been operating under the Vande Bharat Mission since May 2020, and under bilateral "air bubble" arrangements with select countries since July 2020.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-establishes-air-bubbles-with-us-france-international-flights-from-july-17-313898">India establishes 'air bubbles' with US, France; international flights from July 17</a>

India has formed air bubble pacts with around 27 countries including the US, the UAE, Kenya, Bhutan and France. Under an air bubble pact between two countries, special international flights can be operated by their airlines between their territories.

The DGCA's Friday circular also said that the suspension does not affect international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by it.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-announces-graded-relaxation-on-international-travel-337089">Indian government announces graded relaxation on international travel</a>

The decision to extend the suspension on scheduled international passenger flights comes as India battles a second wave of coronavirus, even though daily cases have seen a steady decline over the past several days.

The coronavirus-induced suspension of scheduled international passenger flights has been extended till June 30, aviation regulator DGCA said on Friday. "However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation added.

The coronavirus-induced suspension of scheduled international passenger flights has been extended till June 30, aviation regulator DGCA said on Friday. "However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation added. Also Read | Coronavirus: India extends ban on international passenger flights till April 14 Scheduled international passenger services have been suspended in India since March 23, 2020, due to the coronavirus pandemic. But special international flights have been operating under the Vande Bharat Mission since May 2020, and under bilateral "air bubble" arrangements with select countries since July 2020. Also Read | India establishes 'air bubbles' with US, France; international flights from July 17 India has formed air bubble pacts with around 27 countries including the US, the UAE, Kenya, Bhutan and France. Under an air bubble pact between two countries, special international flights can be operated by their airlines between their territories. The DGCA's Friday circular also said that the suspension does not affect international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by it. Also Read | Indian government announces graded relaxation on international travel The decision to extend the suspension on scheduled international passenger flights comes as India battles a second wave of coronavirus, even though daily cases have seen a steady decline over the past several days.

International flights suspension extended till June 30: Indian aviation body

It was a bumper produce year for strawberry growers in Jammu and Kashmir. The crop saw about a 20% increase but it did not turn out to be a cause for cheer for the farmers because they have have nowhere to sell due to market closure amid Coronavirus pandemic.

Despite bumper produce, strawberry farmers in Kashmir stare at huge losses

Turkey has sent two&nbsp;planeloads of assistance to India to deal with the COVID-19 crisis,&nbsp;with each box having a message of Rumi written on - "there is hope after despair; there are many suns after darkness”.&nbsp;

The assistance, which arrived in Delhi on two&nbsp;Turkish A400 Military cargo planes, the biggest in the country, brought with it 50 MT of medical supplies. It included five&nbsp;oxygen generators, 680 oxygen cylinders, 50 ventilators, and 50,000 doses of anti-viral medicine.&nbsp;

The Turkish embassy in Delhi in a statement highlighted the historic role by India's father of the nation "Mahatma Gandhi who collected funds to support Turkey’s Liberation War between 1919-1923" and "and Dr&nbsp;Mukhtar Ahmad Ansari who led the medical mission to Ottoman Empire and set up field hospitals to treat wounded Ottoman soldiers during the Balkan Wars in 1912" as Ankara extends supports to New Delhi amid the devastating second wave of covid crisis.&nbsp;

This is one of Turkey's biggest assistance to any country in the world to deal with the&nbsp; crisis, and was offered by the Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu to India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during telephonic talks on 26th April.&nbsp;

In fact, the delivery of assistance was directly overseen by Ibrahim Kalin, special adviser to the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Kalin, ahead of the assistance being sent to India, spoke to his counterpart, National Security Advisor&nbsp;Ajit Doval.

Kalin, an influential official in the Turkish political system, said in a tweet,"We are proud to stand with the people of India in these trying times."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Turkey supports communities across the world in their fight against the Coronavirus pandemic. 
 
We are proud to stand with the people of India in these trying times.
— Ibrahim Kalin (@ikalin1) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikalin1/status/1397656561791770624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 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>

The two&nbsp;high-level conversations come even as earlier this year, foreign ministers of both countries met physically in Dushanbe on the sidelines of the Heart of Asia ministerial.

This was the first such physical meet between foreign ministers of two countries in over one and half years and seen as an "icebreaking" moment.&nbsp;

And here is when Rumi's message on assistance won't be lost on many even as assistance provides a window to strengthen ties which in the last few years were not in the best of shape.&nbsp;

While Rumi's quote directly focuses on the Covid crisis India is facing, but in the backdrop of recent engagements, the political messaging and intent is clear--to have good ties.&nbsp;

Both countries are members of the G20 and two&nbsp;important emerging economies, but with the mention of Kashmir by Turkish leadership, seen at the behest of Pakistan, a shadow was cast on ties.

The rapprochement comes even as FM Mevlut Cavusoglu has been reaching out to countries around the world, in what is seen as a reset of foreign policy.&nbsp;

Turkey's FM will be visiting Greece in June amid strained ties between both of them due to several reasons from common maritime boundaries to Cyprus. Later, he will go to Belgium. He has already reached out to Saudi Arabia and UAE.&nbsp;And in likelihood, a course correction with India is on the anvil with Rumi as a subtle diplomatic message.&nbsp;

Turkey has sent two planeloads of assistance to India to deal with the COVID-19 crisis, with each box having a message of Rumi written on - "there is hope after despair; there are many suns after darkness”.

Turkey has sent two planeloads of assistance to India to deal with the COVID-19 crisis, with each box having a message of Rumi written on - "there is hope after despair; there are many suns after darkness”. The assistance, which arrived in Delhi on two Turkish A400 Military cargo planes, the biggest in the country, brought with it 50 MT of medical supplies. It included five oxygen generators, 680 oxygen cylinders, 50 ventilators, and 50,000 doses of anti-viral medicine. The Turkish embassy in Delhi in a statement highlighted the historic role by India's father of the nation "Mahatma Gandhi who collected funds to support Turkey’s Liberation War between 1919-1923" and "and Dr Mukhtar Ahmad Ansari who led the medical mission to Ottoman Empire and set up field hospitals to treat wounded Ottoman soldiers during the Balkan Wars in 1912" as Ankara extends supports to New Delhi amid the devastating second wave of covid crisis. This is one of Turkey's biggest assistance to any country in the world to deal with the crisis, and was offered by the Turkish foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu to India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during telephonic talks on 26th April. In fact, the delivery of assistance was directly overseen by Ibrahim Kalin, special adviser to the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Kalin, ahead of the assistance being sent to India, spoke to his counterpart, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Kalin, an influential official in the Turkish political system, said in a tweet,"We are proud to stand with the people of India in these trying times." Turkey supports communities across the world in their fight against the Coronavirus pandemic. We are proud to stand with the people of India in these trying times. — Ibrahim Kalin (@ikalin1) May 26, 2021 × The two high-level conversations come even as earlier this year, foreign ministers of both countries met physically in Dushanbe on the sidelines of the Heart of Asia ministerial. This was the first such physical meet between foreign ministers of two countries in over one and half years and seen as an "icebreaking" moment. And here is when Rumi's message on assistance won't be lost on many even as assistance provides a window to strengthen ties which in the last few years were not in the best of shape. While Rumi's quote directly focuses on the Covid crisis India is facing, but in the backdrop of recent engagements, the political messaging and intent is clear--to have good ties. Both countries are members of the G20 and two important emerging economies, but with the mention of Kashmir by Turkish leadership, seen at the behest of Pakistan, a shadow was cast on ties. The rapprochement comes even as FM Mevlut Cavusoglu has been reaching out to countries around the world, in what is seen as a reset of foreign policy. Turkey's FM will be visiting Greece in June amid strained ties between both of them due to several reasons from common maritime boundaries to Cyprus. Later, he will go to Belgium. He has already reached out to Saudi Arabia and UAE. And in likelihood, a course correction with India is on the anvil with Rumi as a subtle diplomatic message.

With Rumi's message and political intent of good ties, Turkey sends anti-Covid assistance to India

At a time when India is reeling from the effects of the second wave of the COVID-19 epidemic, Mucormycosis, commonly known as 'black fungus', has become a cause of concern for people across the country. As of May 25, more than 11,700 black fungus cases were reported in India.

Black Fungus becomes major concern after COVID-19 pandemic in India

There are stories that are inspiring even in this difficult time. Two nurses from the Kashmir Valley are setting new standards of dedication to their work. One such story is of Shagufta Khan, Shagufta has managed to deliver more than 100 children in a hospital, caring for COVID positive mothers.

J&K: One nurse deliver 100 babies of COVID-19 patients, while another vaccinates 6,000 people

Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments. The Lakes and Waterways Development Authority(LAWDA) has been trying its best to save the lake.

In the last three months, LAWDA has done more than 170 demolitions of illegal structures around the lake. People have been taking advantage of the lockdown and many such encroachments are being reported.

Now, to stop these illegal encroachments, the LAWDA has started installing CCTV cameras all around the lake.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-govt-threatens-hindu-advocacy-body-for-exposing-pakistan-armys-genocide-in-bangladesh-387944">Imran govt threatens Hindu body for exposing Pak’s genocide in Bangladesh</a>

''We have started the process of placing CCTV cameras around Dal Lake. Five cameras have been placed while 15 more are being placed at different locations. We will try to cover the whole lake in a phased manner. The camera's will be of high quality so that number plate recognition is also possible, and if people are seen carrying the construction material, we would get to know through the footage.'' says Dr Bashir Ahmad Bhat, VC LAWDA.

The authorities say reporting of events is a bit slow during the lockdown and some people are taking advantage of lockdown by constructing these illegal structures. Thousands of FIRs have also been registered against people for these encroachments. Many vehicles carrying construction material were also seized.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-in-india-one-nurse-delivers-100-babies-of-patients-while-another-vaccinates-6000-people-387770" hreflang="en">Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people</a>

''In 2020, LAWDA had done more than 463 demolitions around the lake and in the last five years, we have registered 1000 FIRs against people who encroached on the lake and 124 vehicles were seized too,'' Bhat said.

Pollution is one more problem that the LAWDA is facing. While they are able to take out the plastic waste from people living on the lake, they have been&nbsp;time and again requesting people to be responsible and not throw plastic waste into the lake.

''There is a lot of sewage waste that comes out of the lake. Around 1 to 1.5 quintals of plastic is taken out on a daily basis from the people who live on the lake. We are daily taking out plastic waste which people throw while enjoying the beauty of the lake, although throwing waste into the lake has reduced to a lot of extent,'' he reported.

LAWDA has also established control rooms to monitor and supervise the de-weeding of the lake too.

Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments.

Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments. The Lakes and Waterways Development Authority(LAWDA) has been trying its best to save the lake. In the last three months, LAWDA has done more than 170 demolitions of illegal structures around the lake. People have been taking advantage of the lockdown and many such encroachments are being reported. Now, to stop these illegal encroachments, the LAWDA has started installing CCTV cameras all around the lake. Also read | Imran govt threatens Hindu body for exposing Pak’s genocide in Bangladesh ''We have started the process of placing CCTV cameras around Dal Lake. Five cameras have been placed while 15 more are being placed at different locations. We will try to cover the whole lake in a phased manner. The camera's will be of high quality so that number plate recognition is also possible, and if people are seen carrying the construction material, we would get to know through the footage.'' says Dr Bashir Ahmad Bhat, VC LAWDA. The authorities say reporting of events is a bit slow during the lockdown and some people are taking advantage of lockdown by constructing these illegal structures. Thousands of FIRs have also been registered against people for these encroachments. Many vehicles carrying construction material were also seized. Also read | Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people ''In 2020, LAWDA had done more than 463 demolitions around the lake and in the last five years, we have registered 1000 FIRs against people who encroached on the lake and 124 vehicles were seized too,'' Bhat said. Pollution is one more problem that the LAWDA is facing. While they are able to take out the plastic waste from people living on the lake, they have been time and again requesting people to be responsible and not throw plastic waste into the lake. ''There is a lot of sewage waste that comes out of the lake. Around 1 to 1.5 quintals of plastic is taken out on a daily basis from the people who live on the lake. We are daily taking out plastic waste which people throw while enjoying the beauty of the lake, although throwing waste into the lake has reduced to a lot of extent,'' he reported. LAWDA has also established control rooms to monitor and supervise the de-weeding of the lake too.

India: 170 illegal structures demolished, CCTV camera installed to save Dal Lake

The government defended India's vaccine procurement policy by issuing a separate document denying the recent criticism. It cleared that the India is in talks with Pfizer and is considering seeking compensation for any adverse effects when its vaccine is implemented in India.

Indian govt 'under fire' for COVID vaccination policy, Centre debunk the myths

The government on Thursday termed a Twitter statement as "baseless and false", accusing the police of intimidating and endangering freedom of expression on the issue of 'manipulation media' tag.

India hit out at Twitter saying, "Twitter can't dictate the legal policy framework"

india-news

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

india news

Coronavirus Update: India witnesses slight dip in COVID cases

India: PM Modi led BJP Govt completes 7 Years in power today

PM Modi undertakes aerial survey of cyclone-hit Odisha, West Bengal

We are dealing with China in firm and non-escalatory way: Indian Army chief

Kerala extends COVID-19 lockdown till June 9

First batch of ISO oxygen tanks from Saudi Arabia to leave for India on May 30

Delhi extends COVID curbs till June 7

India: Support for kids who lost parents

With 173,790 fresh Covid cases, India reports lowest spike since April 13

Blinken says US and India united in tackling COVID-19

India slams UNGA prez Bozkir's Kashmir remarks; Says comments 'unacceptable'

Jaishankar meets Blinken: India-US vows to fight COVID-19 together

'Nothing can stop you from achieving', says wife of late Major who joined Indian Army

'Nothing can stop you from achieving', says wife of late Major who joined Indian Army

PNB scam: Dominican court stays Mehul Choksi's repatriation to India

Getting vaccinated for Coronavirus in India

Delhi announces 'very, very slow' easing of lockdown

Prakash Javadekar: All Indians will be vaccinated against COVID-19 by December 2021

Telemarketing fraud scheme: Indian sentenced to 3 years in jail in US

International flights suspension extended till June 30: Indian aviation body

Despite bumper produce, strawberry farmers in Kashmir stare at huge losses

With Rumi's message and political intent of good ties, Turkey sends anti-Covid assistance to India

Black Fungus becomes major concern after COVID-19 pandemic in India

J&K: One nurse deliver 100 babies of COVID-19 patients, while another vaccinates 6,000 people