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In an effort to boost the vaccination program, India has decided to phase out local trials for "well-established" foreign coronavirus vaccines. India had promised to accelerate imports last month, but a dispute over local tests and a dispute over indemnification stalled discussions with Pfizer.

India scrap local trials for "well-established" imported COVID-19 vaccine

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday. The capital has been under strict lockdown since April 20. 
 
After a meeting with Delhi Lt. Governor Anil Baijal, who is also Chairman of DDMA, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the time has come when the process of lifting lockdown needs to be initiated. He asserted that the people of Delhi have suffered a lot during this Covid pandemic, and also due to a month-long lockdown. 
 
He stated those who are working as a labourer and daily wage earner have lost their livelihood and it has been decided that these two activities will be opened from Monday (May 31). 
 
"During the meeting, it has decided that the situation of COVID-19 is under control as daily cases and positivity rate have reduced, now we have to focus on economic activities as well. Many poor families have lost their livelihood due to lockdown and therefore, it has been decided that - two activities - construction work and factories in Delhi will start functioning from Monday." Kejriwal said. 
 
A senior official told IANS that operations of manufacturing, production units in approved industrial areas, activities where the workers are employed within Delhi will be allowed to function. 
 
Addressing a digital press conference on Friday, Kejriwal also said that, taking in consideration the number of Covid cases, the process of unlocking will be increased further. 
 
"Every week, we will continue the process of opening slowly based on the suggestions of the public and on the basis of the views of the experts. If matters start growing again, we have to stop this process. Everyone needs to take precaution. Lockdown is imposed under compulsion... we do not want to impose," he added. 
 
Meanwhile, he also appealed to the citizen of Delhi that "not to leave the house unless there is a need. We all have to behave responsibly".

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday.

Claiming that the deadly second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic is under control in the national capital, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) on Friday decided to start the process of lifting lockdown from Monday. The capital has been under strict lockdown since April 20. After a meeting with Delhi Lt. Governor Anil Baijal, who is also Chairman of DDMA, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the time has come when the process of lifting lockdown needs to be initiated. He asserted that the people of Delhi have suffered a lot during this Covid pandemic, and also due to a month-long lockdown. He stated those who are working as a labourer and daily wage earner have lost their livelihood and it has been decided that these two activities will be opened from Monday (May 31). "During the meeting, it has decided that the situation of COVID-19 is under control as daily cases and positivity rate have reduced, now we have to focus on economic activities as well. Many poor families have lost their livelihood due to lockdown and therefore, it has been decided that - two activities - construction work and factories in Delhi will start functioning from Monday." Kejriwal said. A senior official told IANS that operations of manufacturing, production units in approved industrial areas, activities where the workers are employed within Delhi will be allowed to function. Addressing a digital press conference on Friday, Kejriwal also said that, taking in consideration the number of Covid cases, the process of unlocking will be increased further. "Every week, we will continue the process of opening slowly based on the suggestions of the public and on the basis of the views of the experts. If matters start growing again, we have to stop this process. Everyone needs to take precaution. Lockdown is imposed under compulsion... we do not want to impose," he added. Meanwhile, he also appealed to the citizen of Delhi that "not to leave the house unless there is a need. We all have to behave responsibly".

Will open Delhi phase-wise from May 31: Kejriwal

India is witnessing a decrease in the second wave of COVID-19 as the single-day rise in coronavirus cases has fallen to the lowest in the last 44 days.

According to the Union Health Ministry data, the recoveries from this deadly virus has continued to outnumber daily cases for the 15th consecutive day.

The active caseload in the country has reduced to 23,43,152, with a net decline of 76,755 cases in the last 24 hours.

The recovery tally of India has reached 2,48,93,410 and the recovery rate stands at 90.34 per cent. India recorded 3,660 COVID-related deaths in the last 24 hours. The death toll has now mounted to 3,18,895.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 20,70,508 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours in the country and cumulatively 33,90,39,861 tests have been done so far.

The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 20.57 crore vaccine doses were administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India is witnessing a decrease in the second wave of COVID-19 as the single-day rise in coronavirus cases has fallen to the lowest in the last 44 days. According to the Union Health Ministry data, the recoveries from this deadly virus has continued to outnumber daily cases for the 15th consecutive day.

India is witnessing a decrease in the second wave of COVID-19 as the single-day rise in coronavirus cases has fallen to the lowest in the last 44 days. According to the Union Health Ministry data, the recoveries from this deadly virus has continued to outnumber daily cases for the 15th consecutive day. The active caseload in the country has reduced to 23,43,152, with a net decline of 76,755 cases in the last 24 hours. The recovery tally of India has reached 2,48,93,410 and the recovery rate stands at 90.34 per cent. India recorded 3,660 COVID-related deaths in the last 24 hours. The death toll has now mounted to 3,18,895. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, a total of 20,70,508 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours in the country and cumulatively 33,90,39,861 tests have been done so far. The Union Health Ministry has informed that nearly 20.57 crore vaccine doses were administered so far under the nationwide vaccination drive. (With inputs from agencies)

Lowest in 44 days: India reports 1.86 lakh fresh COVID-19 cases

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-exclusive-have-informed-india-on-information-shared-with-interpol-says-antigua-barbudas-pm-on-choksi-387348">Mehul Choksi </a>, who has been missing for the last few days, has been found in the Caribbean country of Dominica.&nbsp;

The fugitive is wanted by Indian authorities in the Rs 14,000 crore&nbsp;($2 billion) PNB fraud case. He had fled to Antigua in 2018 and was reportedly missing for the last few days.&nbsp;

The Dominican authorities have confirmed his presence in the country and said&nbsp;he is in custody.

Choksi's lawyer Vijay Aggarwal, speaking to WION, said, "the family is happy and relieved that finally the whereabouts of Mehul Choksi is&nbsp;known. And efforts are being made to speak to him so that one can get a clearer picture on how he was taken to Dominica."

Dominica is near Antigua and Barbuda. Choksi is expected to be sent back to Antigua soon.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, WION had spoken to Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne who had said: "I want to make it clear to the people of India, and the entire world, Mehul Choksi is not welcome&nbsp;here in Antigua and Barbuda, we want him out of the country&nbsp;and sooner&nbsp;he leaves the better."

After his mysterious disappearance, the local authorities in Antigua had issued&nbsp;a missing person's report with Interpol.

There is already a Red Corner Notice against Choksi&nbsp;which means if he crosses the border, immigration authorities of any country can apprehend him.

Mehul Choksi , who has been missing for the last few days, has been found in the Caribbean country of Dominica. The fugitive is wanted by Indian authorities in the Rs 14,000 crore ($2 billion) PNB fraud case.

Mehul Choksi , who has been missing for the last few days, has been found in the Caribbean country of Dominica. The fugitive is wanted by Indian authorities in the Rs 14,000 crore ($2 billion) PNB fraud case. He had fled to Antigua in 2018 and was reportedly missing for the last few days. The Dominican authorities have confirmed his presence in the country and said he is in custody. Choksi's lawyer Vijay Aggarwal, speaking to WION, said, "the family is happy and relieved that finally the whereabouts of Mehul Choksi is known. And efforts are being made to speak to him so that one can get a clearer picture on how he was taken to Dominica." Dominica is near Antigua and Barbuda. Choksi is expected to be sent back to Antigua soon. On Tuesday, WION had spoken to Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne who had said: "I want to make it clear to the people of India, and the entire world, Mehul Choksi is not welcome here in Antigua and Barbuda, we want him out of the country and sooner he leaves the better." After his mysterious disappearance, the local authorities in Antigua had issued a missing person's report with Interpol. There is already a Red Corner Notice against Choksi which means if he crosses the border, immigration authorities of any country can apprehend him.

Missing fugitive Mehul Choksi found in Dominica

Hyderabad, May 27 (IANS) India will produce 259 crore doses of various Covid-19 vaccines by the end of 2021, Union Minister of State for Home G. Kishan Reddy said on Thursday.
 
He claimed that the Centre is making all efforts to ramp up vaccine production in the country and exuded confidence that by December the monthly production of Covid vaccines will go up to 59 crore doses. 
The minister told reporters after visiting government-run ENT Hospital here that 16 companies will manufacture the vaccines in the country. 
"Three companies have already started production while some more will start manufacturing by August-September," he said. 
He said Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin formula has been shared with five companies which will manufacture the vaccine to meet the demand. 
While Dr Reddy`s Laboratories will manufacture Sputnik V under a pilot, a total of seven companies in India will be manufacturing the Russian vaccine. 
He said Biological E will soon start production of Johnson & Johnson`s vaccine in the country. "If Johnson & Johnson vaccine comes, one dose will be enough. Other vaccines will be available in two doses while Zydus Cadila`s vaccine will have three doses," he said. 
Reddy revealed that the Centre has made arrangements for production of 8.80 crore vaccines in May. This number will go up to 10 crore in June, 17 crore in July, 19 crore in August and 42 crore in September. 
"The production will be ramped up further to 46 crore in October and 56 crore in November. By December the monthly production of vaccines will be 59 crore," he said. 
The minister said the government would ensure vaccination of as many people as possible by the end of this year. 
Kishan Reddy, who visited ENT Hospital designated as nodal hospital for treatment of Mucormycosis also known as black fungus, said the government was also taking steps to overcome shortage of Liposomal Amphotericin B injection for treatment of black fungus. 
He said central and state governments were making efforts on war footing to increase the production of the drug. There are 11 pharma companies in India which produce Liposomal Amphotericin B. 
He assured that if necessary the government would extend help to the companies and provide raw materials to ramp up production. 
Reddy said the government was also taking steps to import the drug from various countries. Two lakh injections will be imported in the first week of June. He hoped that this would help overcome the shortage. 
He claimed that from the current available stocks, the Centre was making allocations to states based on their requirement and the number of cases of black fungus. He pointed out that Telangana was provided 5,690 vials of the injection. 
Reddy said hospitals used to get one case of black fungus in six months and pharma companies had decreased the production of the drug. He pointed out that black fungus was being reported among diabetic who had post-Covid complications. 
The ENT Hospital has 120-150 beds but in view of the increase in number of cases, the officials are making efforts to increase this number to 250. 
--IANS 
ms/in

Hyderabad, May 27 (IANS) India will produce 259 crore doses of various Covid-19 vaccines by the end of 2021, Union Minister of State for Home G. Kishan Reddy said on Thursday.

Hyderabad, May 27 (IANS) India will produce 259 crore doses of various Covid-19 vaccines by the end of 2021, Union Minister of State for Home G. Kishan Reddy said on Thursday. He claimed that the Centre is making all efforts to ramp up vaccine production in the country and exuded confidence that by December the monthly production of Covid vaccines will go up to 59 crore doses. The minister told reporters after visiting government-run ENT Hospital here that 16 companies will manufacture the vaccines in the country. "Three companies have already started production while some more will start manufacturing by August-September," he said. He said Bharat Biotech`s Covaxin formula has been shared with five companies which will manufacture the vaccine to meet the demand. While Dr Reddy`s Laboratories will manufacture Sputnik V under a pilot, a total of seven companies in India will be manufacturing the Russian vaccine. He said Biological E will soon start production of Johnson & Johnson`s vaccine in the country. "If Johnson & Johnson vaccine comes, one dose will be enough. Other vaccines will be available in two doses while Zydus Cadila`s vaccine will have three doses," he said. Reddy revealed that the Centre has made arrangements for production of 8.80 crore vaccines in May. This number will go up to 10 crore in June, 17 crore in July, 19 crore in August and 42 crore in September. "The production will be ramped up further to 46 crore in October and 56 crore in November. By December the monthly production of vaccines will be 59 crore," he said. The minister said the government would ensure vaccination of as many people as possible by the end of this year. Kishan Reddy, who visited ENT Hospital designated as nodal hospital for treatment of Mucormycosis also known as black fungus, said the government was also taking steps to overcome shortage of Liposomal Amphotericin B injection for treatment of black fungus. He said central and state governments were making efforts on war footing to increase the production of the drug. There are 11 pharma companies in India which produce Liposomal Amphotericin B. He assured that if necessary the government would extend help to the companies and provide raw materials to ramp up production. Reddy said the government was also taking steps to import the drug from various countries. Two lakh injections will be imported in the first week of June. He hoped that this would help overcome the shortage. He claimed that from the current available stocks, the Centre was making allocations to states based on their requirement and the number of cases of black fungus. He pointed out that Telangana was provided 5,690 vials of the injection. Reddy said hospitals used to get one case of black fungus in six months and pharma companies had decreased the production of the drug. He pointed out that black fungus was being reported among diabetic who had post-Covid complications. The ENT Hospital has 120-150 beds but in view of the increase in number of cases, the officials are making efforts to increase this number to 250. --IANS ms/in

India to produce 259cr Covid vax doses by year-end

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne has said that Mehul Choksi could be sent back to India in the next 48 hours from Dominica where he was found. The fugitive Indian diamantaire, who had gone missing from Antigua, was taken into custody by authorities of Dominica where he was captured while trying to flee.

Speaking exclusively and extensively to WION's&nbsp; Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, PM Browne said, "Assuming no legal impediments, I believe within the next 48 hours Choksi could be perhaps in a private jet, you know, repatriated to India." 
 
Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-antigua-pm-says-mehul-choksi-could-be-deported-to-india-within-next-48-hrs-387654/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Browne pointed out that he has spoken to Dominica's PM Roosevelt Skerrit over the development and requested him "not to have Choksi return to Antigua where he has legal and constitutional protections" and "send him back directly to India."

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.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: If you can give us the facts, where he is, in which part of Dominica?

Gaston Browne: Choksi was found in Dominica. He is presently detained and Antigua's government has been coordinating efforts with Dominican and Indian governments to ensure that Mr Choksi is deported directly from Dominica back to India.

We have specially requested PM Roosevelt Skerrit and law enforcement in Dominica&nbsp;not to have Mr Choksi return to Antigua where he has legal and constitutional protections, but instead to coordinate efforts and cooperate with the Indian government, Indian law enforcement, [and] have Mr Choksi repatriated directly to India. And the govt of Dominica is cooperating.

Sidhant Sibal: That means he can be directly sent to India?

Gaston Browne: Absolutely. He made a monumental error because he recognised that my government and my administration were gung ho about revoking his citizenship and having him extradited. So it would appear that he may have sought to travel to a neighbouring island with the hope he could have gone unnoticed.

We had put Interpol missing personnel notice. And he was captured in Dominica but he doesn't have the constitutional and legal protection that he enjoys as a citizen in Antigua and Barbuda. So Mr Choksi literally outdid himself.

Sidhant Sibal: Can&nbsp;you give me any timeframe by when he can be sent to India?

Gaston Browne: Presumably, assuming there are no legal impediments and the Government of India can get law enforcement to travel to Dominica within the next 48 hours, I believe that they should be in a strong position to have him repatriated.

Sidhant Sibal: Perhaps, by end of the week?

Gaston Browne: Exactly, assuming no legal impediments, I believe within the next 48 hours Choksi could be perhaps in a private jet, you know, repatriated to India.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: How did he leave the country?

Gaston Browne: We don't have the details yet, but we believe that he would have&nbsp;left the island undetected by boat. But law enforcement acted very quickly and was able to put out an Interpol green notice and in these small islands, it's not difficult to identify strangers.

So, he made a monumental error there, and obviously, he would not enjoy the legal and constitutional protection here as a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda.

Assuming he is not a citizen of Dominica, and there is no evidence he is, then the Dominican govt can make him persona non grata and deport him directly back to India. So this is an interesting development and I think this could be a breakthrough for the Indian government and we are trying to ensure that Choksi is brought to justice.

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversation you had with your Indian counterpart? Have you informed the Indian high commissioner?

Gaston Browne: Yes I have, and I have spoken to PM Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica as well and asked for his cooperation. The most significant issue at this time is for him not to be repatriated to Antigua because he is an Antiguan citizen.

And I presume Choksi's lawyers would want to have him repatriated to Antigua and Barbuda so that he continues to enjoy legal and constitutional protections. So we have asked the Dominican government to collaborate with the Indian government and have him repatriated directly to India.

That information has been communicated to the Indian high commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda who is stationed in Guyana, spoken directly. And we now expect both governments, Indian and Dominican governments, collaborate in having Choksi repatriated.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: When did you find out Mehul Choksi is in a different country?

Gaston Browne: Earlier today, but we had to verify that it was the correct person. Having verified that it was Mr Choksi himself, that is when we started to make the phone call to make sure that he doesn't get away, that we don't inadvertently put him on a plane and have him sent back to Antigua, that would have been a travesty.

We insisted that he should not be sent back here and that we would not accept him, although we have to accept him because he is a citizen. Certainly do not send him back to Antigua, send him back to his country of birth. Send him back directly to India.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What has been the response of the Indian side?

Gaston Browne: I sense that they are very happy and they recognise to the government of Antigua and Barbuda did not provide a safe harbour for Choksi. He felt uncomfortable that he tried to abscond and skip the island and got to another Island.

Unfortunately, he has been identified as a fugitive, he is now been held and it means, Choksi will have to face the courts in India. I am sure government officials have been happy with the development.

Sidhant Sibal: And what has been the thought process of Dominica's government?

Gaston Browne: They are cooperating fully, in fact, PM Skerrit and I are very close allies and we collaborate on many issues and it was not a difficult proposition to convince him that he needed to cooperate with Antiguan and Indian governments. This is demonstrative of Antiguan government commitments to ensure that Choksi is brought to justice.

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne has said that Mehul Choksi could be sent back to India in the next 48 hours from Dominica where he was found.

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Gaston Browne has said that Mehul Choksi could be sent back to India in the next 48 hours from Dominica where he was found. The fugitive Indian diamantaire, who had gone missing from Antigua, was taken into custody by authorities of Dominica where he was captured while trying to flee. Speaking exclusively and extensively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, PM Browne said, "Assuming no legal impediments, I believe within the next 48 hours Choksi could be perhaps in a private jet, you know, repatriated to India." Watch: Browne pointed out that he has spoken to Dominica's PM Roosevelt Skerrit over the development and requested him "not to have Choksi return to Antigua where he has legal and constitutional protections" and "send him back directly to India." 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. Sidhant Sibal: If you can give us the facts, where he is, in which part of Dominica? Gaston Browne: Choksi was found in Dominica. He is presently detained and Antigua's government has been coordinating efforts with Dominican and Indian governments to ensure that Mr Choksi is deported directly from Dominica back to India. We have specially requested PM Roosevelt Skerrit and law enforcement in Dominica not to have Mr Choksi return to Antigua where he has legal and constitutional protections, but instead to coordinate efforts and cooperate with the Indian government, Indian law enforcement, [and] have Mr Choksi repatriated directly to India. And the govt of Dominica is cooperating. Sidhant Sibal: That means he can be directly sent to India? Gaston Browne: Absolutely. He made a monumental error because he recognised that my government and my administration were gung ho about revoking his citizenship and having him extradited. So it would appear that he may have sought to travel to a neighbouring island with the hope he could have gone unnoticed. We had put Interpol missing personnel notice. And he was captured in Dominica but he doesn't have the constitutional and legal protection that he enjoys as a citizen in Antigua and Barbuda. So Mr Choksi literally outdid himself. Sidhant Sibal: Can you give me any timeframe by when he can be sent to India? Gaston Browne: Presumably, assuming there are no legal impediments and the Government of India can get law enforcement to travel to Dominica within the next 48 hours, I believe that they should be in a strong position to have him repatriated. Sidhant Sibal: Perhaps, by end of the week? Gaston Browne: Exactly, assuming no legal impediments, I believe within the next 48 hours Choksi could be perhaps in a private jet, you know, repatriated to India. Sidhant Sibal: How did he leave the country? Gaston Browne: We don't have the details yet, but we believe that he would have left the island undetected by boat. But law enforcement acted very quickly and was able to put out an Interpol green notice and in these small islands, it's not difficult to identify strangers. So, he made a monumental error there, and obviously, he would not enjoy the legal and constitutional protection here as a citizen of Antigua and Barbuda. Assuming he is not a citizen of Dominica, and there is no evidence he is, then the Dominican govt can make him persona non grata and deport him directly back to India. So this is an interesting development and I think this could be a breakthrough for the Indian government and we are trying to ensure that Choksi is brought to justice. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversation you had with your Indian counterpart? Have you informed the Indian high commissioner? Gaston Browne: Yes I have, and I have spoken to PM Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica as well and asked for his cooperation. The most significant issue at this time is for him not to be repatriated to Antigua because he is an Antiguan citizen. And I presume Choksi's lawyers would want to have him repatriated to Antigua and Barbuda so that he continues to enjoy legal and constitutional protections. So we have asked the Dominican government to collaborate with the Indian government and have him repatriated directly to India. That information has been communicated to the Indian high commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda who is stationed in Guyana, spoken directly. And we now expect both governments, Indian and Dominican governments, collaborate in having Choksi repatriated. Sidhant Sibal: When did you find out Mehul Choksi is in a different country? Gaston Browne: Earlier today, but we had to verify that it was the correct person. Having verified that it was Mr Choksi himself, that is when we started to make the phone call to make sure that he doesn't get away, that we don't inadvertently put him on a plane and have him sent back to Antigua, that would have been a travesty. We insisted that he should not be sent back here and that we would not accept him, although we have to accept him because he is a citizen. Certainly do not send him back to Antigua, send him back to his country of birth. Send him back directly to India. Sidhant Sibal: What has been the response of the Indian side? Gaston Browne: I sense that they are very happy and they recognise to the government of Antigua and Barbuda did not provide a safe harbour for Choksi. He felt uncomfortable that he tried to abscond and skip the island and got to another Island. Unfortunately, he has been identified as a fugitive, he is now been held and it means, Choksi will have to face the courts in India. I am sure government officials have been happy with the development. Sidhant Sibal: And what has been the thought process of Dominica's government? Gaston Browne: They are cooperating fully, in fact, PM Skerrit and I are very close allies and we collaborate on many issues and it was not a difficult proposition to convince him that he needed to cooperate with Antiguan and Indian governments. This is demonstrative of Antiguan government commitments to ensure that Choksi is brought to justice.

Watch: Mehul Choksi could be in India in 48 hours, says Antigua and Barbuda PM

Seven teams of the Indian Navy have remained at the forefront of relief activities that are being conducted in West Bengal after cyclone Yaas hit the state's coastal areas on the morning of May 26, the defence ministry said on Thursday.

"The seven teams comprising two diving and five flood relief teams (FRT) have remained at the forefront of relief activities," the ministry's statement noted.

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Cyclone Yaas pounded parts of India's eastern coast on Wednesday, killing at least four people and forcing more than 21 lakh people to be evacuated to safe shelters in West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand.

The relief control centre at Indian naval ship Netaji Subhas, in coordination with the West Bengal government, have concentrated their relief and rescue operations in Digha and Fraserganj, the two highly inundated low-lying coastal areas since the landfall of cyclone Yaas on May 26 morning.

<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 Navy's team at Fraserganj was deployed on Wednesday morning to Narayanpur village, about 30km away, for rescue and relief operations despite heavy rains and inclement weather, the defence ministry said.

The Navy's team at Digha operated in villages in the vicinity of Digha and undertook road clearing operations and distributed aid to the needy, it mentioned.&nbsp;

Seven teams of the Indian Navy have remained at the forefront of relief activities that are being conducted in West Bengal after cyclone Yaas hit the state's coastal areas on the morning of May 26, the defence ministry said on Thursday.

Seven teams of the Indian Navy have remained at the forefront of relief activities that are being conducted in West Bengal after cyclone Yaas hit the state's coastal areas on the morning of May 26, the defence ministry said on Thursday. "The seven teams comprising two diving and five flood relief teams (FRT) have remained at the forefront of relief activities," the ministry's statement noted. Also Read | Rising temperatures in Indian Ocean increasing intensity of cyclones, say scientists Cyclone Yaas pounded parts of India's eastern coast on Wednesday, killing at least four people and forcing more than 21 lakh people to be evacuated to safe shelters in West Bengal, Odisha and Jharkhand. The relief control centre at Indian naval ship Netaji Subhas, in coordination with the West Bengal government, have concentrated their relief and rescue operations in Digha and Fraserganj, the two highly inundated low-lying coastal areas since the landfall of cyclone Yaas on May 26 morning. The Indian Navy's team at Fraserganj was deployed on Wednesday morning to Narayanpur village, about 30km away, for rescue and relief operations despite heavy rains and inclement weather, the defence ministry said. The Navy's team at Digha operated in villages in the vicinity of Digha and undertook road clearing operations and distributed aid to the needy, it mentioned.

Cyclone Yaas: Indian Navy's 7 teams have remained at forefront of relief activities in West Bengal

The Central Government Thursday issued guidelines for vaccination near home, making it easier for the elderly and the differently-abled to get inoculated against coronavirus close to the places of their residence.

In the 'Near to Home <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID Vaccination</a> Centres (NHCVC)' guidelines, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news">Indian</a> Health Ministry said individuals above 60 with no vaccination or just the first dose, and those below 60 but having a disability due to physical or medical conditions will be eligible for vaccination at such centres.

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>

The ministry said the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> (NEGVAC) has recommended the proposal by a Technical Expert Committee of the Union Ministry on the guidelines for NHCVC for elderly and differently-abled citizens.

These recommendations have also been accepted by the Union Ministry of Health.

"The NHCVC for elderly and differently-abled citizens would follow a community-based, flexible and people-centric approach, bringing the COVID Vaccination centres nearer to homes," the ministry said.

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">Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people</a>

The Technical Expert Committee's recommendations are aimed at ensuring vaccination of senior citizens and differently-abled population having limited mobility due to their physical condition, the ministry said.

It said the recommendations are in response to the need to increase access by bringing vaccination services closer to the community while maintaining all necessary precautions and safety measures in accordance with the operational guidelines and advisories issued from time to time.

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>

According to the guidelines, which has been communicated to all the states and UTs by the health ministry, a community-based approach has to be followed where sessions can be conducted at non-health facility-based settings nearer to home, e.g. In a community centre, RWA centre/office, panchayat ghar, school buildings, old age homes etc.

Based on&nbsp;the cohort of the eligible population, District Task Force (DTF)/Urban Task Force (UTF) will decide the location of NHCVC to maximize the reach of services to the target population, reduce vaccine wastage along with causing minimal impact on the existing health services, the guidelines state.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/transparency-reliability-and-swiftness-indian-government-dispels-myths-about-vaccines-387742">'Transparency, reliability and swiftness': Indian government dispels myths about vaccines</a>

According to the guidelines, the NHCVC will be linked to an existing CVC for vaccination purpose; the CVC in charge will be responsible to provide the vaccine, logistics and human resources.

The site for NHCVC will be pre-identified in collaboration with community groups and RWAs.

Such sites could be at Panchayat Bhawan, Sub-Health Centres and Health and Wellness Centres with the availability of adequate space, community halls; RWA premises, polling booths, schools etc, the ministry said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-may-cause-long-term-lung-damage-study-387739">COVID-19 may cause long-term lung damage: Study</a>

These sites should have a vaccination room and a waiting area with appropriate access for the target group, for example, a ramp for wheelchair access and an observation room to ensure waiting for 30 minutes post-vaccination as per MoHFW operational guidelines, the statement said.

Once identified and verified for meeting CVC criteria, all such sites will be registered on the CoWIN portal as NHCVC. 
Each team at NHCVC will comprise five members -- team leader (necessarily a doctor), vaccinator, vaccination officer 1 for Co-WIN registration and/or verification of beneficiary, and vaccination officer-2 and 3 for crowd control, assistance to vaccinator, ensuring 30 minutes observation of beneficiaries following vaccination and any other support.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-vaccine-highly-effective-on-covid-19-variant-found-in-india-suitable-for-12-yrs-and-above-pfizer-to-govt-387625">Our vaccine highly effective on COVID-19 variant found in India, suitable for 12 yrs and above: Pfizer to Govt</a>

In a scenario where there is a group of target beneficiaries under one roof like Old Age Home etc., the NHCVC can be organised at that site as per the operational guidelines.

The guidelines also include details regarding registration and appointment of beneficiaries, either in advance, on-site or Facilitated Cohort Registration process on Co-WIN, line listing of beneficiaries, identification of NHCVC Site and linkage with existing CVC, facilitate the travel of elderly and persons with special needs to session site wherever needed, making the vaccination centre friendly to the elderly and persons with special needs.

The Union Health Ministry has advised all states and UTs to direct the concerned officials to take note of these recommendations and ensure prompt necessary action for their detailed planning and effective implementation under the ongoing vaccination drive.&nbsp;

The Central Government Thursday issued guidelines for vaccination near home, making it easier for the elderly and the differently-abled to get inoculated against coronavirus close to the places of their residence.

The Central Government Thursday issued guidelines for vaccination near home, making it easier for the elderly and the differently-abled to get inoculated against coronavirus close to the places of their residence. In the 'Near to Home COVID Vaccination Centres (NHCVC)' guidelines, the Indian Health Ministry said individuals above 60 with no vaccination or just the first dose, and those below 60 but having a disability due to physical or medical conditions will be eligible for vaccination at such centres. Also Read | Thinking of mixing and matching vaccine doses on trial basis: Government adviser The ministry said the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC) has recommended the proposal by a Technical Expert Committee of the Union Ministry on the guidelines for NHCVC for elderly and differently-abled citizens. These recommendations have also been accepted by the Union Ministry of Health. "The NHCVC for elderly and differently-abled citizens would follow a community-based, flexible and people-centric approach, bringing the COVID Vaccination centres nearer to homes," the ministry said. Also Read | Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people The Technical Expert Committee's recommendations are aimed at ensuring vaccination of senior citizens and differently-abled population having limited mobility due to their physical condition, the ministry said. It said the recommendations are in response to the need to increase access by bringing vaccination services closer to the community while maintaining all necessary precautions and safety measures in accordance with the operational guidelines and advisories issued from time to time. Also Read | Black fungus drug Amphotericin B to be priced at Rs 1200 for each vial in India According to the guidelines, which has been communicated to all the states and UTs by the health ministry, a community-based approach has to be followed where sessions can be conducted at non-health facility-based settings nearer to home, e.g. In a community centre, RWA centre/office, panchayat ghar, school buildings, old age homes etc. Based on the cohort of the eligible population, District Task Force (DTF)/Urban Task Force (UTF) will decide the location of NHCVC to maximize the reach of services to the target population, reduce vaccine wastage along with causing minimal impact on the existing health services, the guidelines state. Also Read | 'Transparency, reliability and swiftness': Indian government dispels myths about vaccines According to the guidelines, the NHCVC will be linked to an existing CVC for vaccination purpose; the CVC in charge will be responsible to provide the vaccine, logistics and human resources. The site for NHCVC will be pre-identified in collaboration with community groups and RWAs. Such sites could be at Panchayat Bhawan, Sub-Health Centres and Health and Wellness Centres with the availability of adequate space, community halls; RWA premises, polling booths, schools etc, the ministry said. Also Read | COVID-19 may cause long-term lung damage: Study These sites should have a vaccination room and a waiting area with appropriate access for the target group, for example, a ramp for wheelchair access and an observation room to ensure waiting for 30 minutes post-vaccination as per MoHFW operational guidelines, the statement said. Once identified and verified for meeting CVC criteria, all such sites will be registered on the CoWIN portal as NHCVC. Each team at NHCVC will comprise five members -- team leader (necessarily a doctor), vaccinator, vaccination officer 1 for Co-WIN registration and/or verification of beneficiary, and vaccination officer-2 and 3 for crowd control, assistance to vaccinator, ensuring 30 minutes observation of beneficiaries following vaccination and any other support. Also Read | Our vaccine highly effective on COVID-19 variant found in India, suitable for 12 yrs and above: Pfizer to Govt In a scenario where there is a group of target beneficiaries under one roof like Old Age Home etc., the NHCVC can be organised at that site as per the operational guidelines. The guidelines also include details regarding registration and appointment of beneficiaries, either in advance, on-site or Facilitated Cohort Registration process on Co-WIN, line listing of beneficiaries, identification of NHCVC Site and linkage with existing CVC, facilitate the travel of elderly and persons with special needs to session site wherever needed, making the vaccination centre friendly to the elderly and persons with special needs. The Union Health Ministry has advised all states and UTs to direct the concerned officials to take note of these recommendations and ensure prompt necessary action for their detailed planning and effective implementation under the ongoing vaccination drive.

Government issues guidelines on vaccinating elderly, differently-abled near home

Two people died in Jharkhand's capital Ranchi as their house collapsed amid incessant rainfall under the impact of cyclone 'Yaas', which had rampaged through the state after causing extensive damage in West Bengal and Odisha, a top official said on Thursday.

A major bridge on river Kanchi that connects Bundu with Tamar near Ranchi also collapsed following torrential rain, he said. At least 5,000 more people were evacuated from low- lying areas near rivers flowing above the danger mark in East Sighbhum, in addition to the 15,000 who were shifted to safer shelters, he said.

Close to eight lakh people have been affected by the cyclone and copius rain triggered by it, officials said. "Two persons have lost their lives in house collapse due to excessive rain in Ranchi, while a major bridge in Tamar has collapsed," Disaster Management Secretary Amitabh Kaushal told PTI.

Earlier, one person was killed due to lightning in Bokaro. Kaushal said rescue operations are still underway in several areas of Subarnrekha and Kharkhai in East Singhbhum. Cyclone 'Yaas', packing winds of up to 130-145 kmph, whiplashed the country's eastern coasts on Wednesday, before losing its force to an extent as it hollered on its destructive path to Jharkhand.

"At least eight lakh people have been affected by the calamity in Simdega, East and West Singhbhum and Saraikela- Kharsawan districts. Eight teams of NDRF are involved in the rescue and relief efforts," he said.

East Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner Suraj Kumar said trees fell like nine pins in many areas, and strong winds snapped cables, causing power disruption.

"Many of the low-lying regions are completely submerged, and we are also forcefully evacuating people from areas with heavy water-logging. We have imposed complete lockdown with some relaxations for emergency cases and essential services," Kumar said, adding, a flood cell has been created to oversee the situation. R K Jenamani, a senior scientist of IMD, said the cyclone, which has now weakened into a depression, is hovering over south Jharkhand, 75 km west of Jamshedpur.

"We have issued alerts for extremely heavy rainfall in certain places. In the last 24 hours, Chaibasa witnessed 207.8 mm rain, Mandar near Ranchi 182.2 mm, and the capital city 151 mm," he said. As many as 500 teams constituted by the state government are carrying out relief operations across Jharkhand, the officials said.

Director-General of Police Neeraj Sinha said satellite phones have been provided to officers working in remote Naxal-hit areas so that communication is not hampered. Chief Minister Hemant Soren has asked officials to be on their toes to deal with any eventuality. "District administrations and NDRF teams are on high vigil. People should stay indoors," he said.

Health department officials said the COVID-19 vaccination drive has been suspended till Thursday in parts of the state in the wake of the downpour.

Forest, drinking water and sanitation, and electricity departments have also been asked to ensure that its services are not disrupted. 'Yaas' is the second cyclonic storm to hit the country within a week after 'Tauktae' tore into its western coast, causing death and destruction.

Two people died in Jharkhand's capital Ranchi as their house collapsed amid incessant rainfall under the impact of cyclone 'Yaas', which had rampaged through the state after causing extensive damage in West Bengal and Odisha, a top official said on Thursday.

Two people died in Jharkhand's capital Ranchi as their house collapsed amid incessant rainfall under the impact of cyclone 'Yaas', which had rampaged through the state after causing extensive damage in West Bengal and Odisha, a top official said on Thursday. A major bridge on river Kanchi that connects Bundu with Tamar near Ranchi also collapsed following torrential rain, he said. At least 5,000 more people were evacuated from low- lying areas near rivers flowing above the danger mark in East Sighbhum, in addition to the 15,000 who were shifted to safer shelters, he said. Close to eight lakh people have been affected by the cyclone and copius rain triggered by it, officials said. "Two persons have lost their lives in house collapse due to excessive rain in Ranchi, while a major bridge in Tamar has collapsed," Disaster Management Secretary Amitabh Kaushal told PTI. Earlier, one person was killed due to lightning in Bokaro. Kaushal said rescue operations are still underway in several areas of Subarnrekha and Kharkhai in East Singhbhum. Cyclone 'Yaas', packing winds of up to 130-145 kmph, whiplashed the country's eastern coasts on Wednesday, before losing its force to an extent as it hollered on its destructive path to Jharkhand. "At least eight lakh people have been affected by the calamity in Simdega, East and West Singhbhum and Saraikela- Kharsawan districts. Eight teams of NDRF are involved in the rescue and relief efforts," he said. East Singhbhum Deputy Commissioner Suraj Kumar said trees fell like nine pins in many areas, and strong winds snapped cables, causing power disruption. "Many of the low-lying regions are completely submerged, and we are also forcefully evacuating people from areas with heavy water-logging. We have imposed complete lockdown with some relaxations for emergency cases and essential services," Kumar said, adding, a flood cell has been created to oversee the situation. R K Jenamani, a senior scientist of IMD, said the cyclone, which has now weakened into a depression, is hovering over south Jharkhand, 75 km west of Jamshedpur. "We have issued alerts for extremely heavy rainfall in certain places. In the last 24 hours, Chaibasa witnessed 207.8 mm rain, Mandar near Ranchi 182.2 mm, and the capital city 151 mm," he said. As many as 500 teams constituted by the state government are carrying out relief operations across Jharkhand, the officials said. Director-General of Police Neeraj Sinha said satellite phones have been provided to officers working in remote Naxal-hit areas so that communication is not hampered. Chief Minister Hemant Soren has asked officials to be on their toes to deal with any eventuality. "District administrations and NDRF teams are on high vigil. People should stay indoors," he said. Health department officials said the COVID-19 vaccination drive has been suspended till Thursday in parts of the state in the wake of the downpour. Forest, drinking water and sanitation, and electricity departments have also been asked to ensure that its services are not disrupted. 'Yaas' is the second cyclonic storm to hit the country within a week after 'Tauktae' tore into its western coast, causing death and destruction.

2 dead, 5,000 more evacuated as cyclone-triggered rain pummels Jharkhand

The government is examining Pfizer's request for indemnity and will take a decision in the larger interest of people and on merit, NITI Aayog Member (Health) V K Paul said on Thursday.

At a press conference, Paul said, "Yes we are engaged with Pfizer and they have indicated the availability of a certain amount of vaccine in the coming months, possibly starting in July."

"We are looking at what their expectations are from the government and they are looking at what our expectations are from them. That's the process in which this will move. Because they will have to come to India and apply for licensure in India, that's one path and there are imperatives of cold chain and supply.

"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," Paul said.

Seeking a fast-track approval for its COVID-19 vaccine, US major Pfizer has told Indian authorities that its jab has shown "high effectiveness" against the SARS-CoV-2 variant prevalent in India and on people of Indian ethnicity or nationality, besides it is suitable for everyone aged 12 years or above and can be stored for a month at 2-8 degrees, sources said on Wednesday.

Pfizer, which is ready to offer 5 crore doses to India between July and October this year and has sought certain relaxations including indemnification, has held a series of interactions with the Indian government authorities recently including one this week, during which it shared the most recent data points regarding efficacy trials and approvals for its vaccine in various countries and by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Another source privy to the discussions said that following recent meetings between the Indian government and Pfizer's Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla, they have agreed to jointly work on three key issues to accelerate approval for the company's COVID-19 vaccine in India, namely procurement through a central government pathway; indemnity and liability; and the regulatory requirement for post-approval bridging studies.

While India has administered over 20 crore doses so far since the launch of its vaccination drive in mid-January, it is still a long way to reach the vaccination for the entire population, more so in the backdrop of many states having flagged shortage of vaccines and the gap between supply and requirement widening amid the deadly second wave.

India is currently using mainly two 'Made in India' jabs -- Covishield manufactured by the Serum Institute and Covaxin of Bharat Biotech -- and Russian-made Sputnik V at a smaller scale to inoculate its population, all of which are approved only for those aged 18 years and above.

In its latest communication to the government, Pfizer has also thanked Government of India to have agreed to its request for procurement through a central government pathway and to discuss "the indemnity and liability protection".

"The timely alignment and execution of the draft heads of terms will enable Pfizer to reserve the allocation of doses and pave the pathway for executing the distribution and supply agreement," the company told the government while seeking fast-tracking of the regulatory pathway to help it supply "Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine as expeditiously as possible to India".

Pfizer has said India should "rely on the 44 authorizations, including WHO approval, facilitate a EUA (Emergency Use Authorisation)/Restricted Use pathway for the Pfizer vaccine in India, and not seek a local PSA (Post Approval Commitment) study."

The company is, however, open to considering safety surveillance of the first 100 subjects after understanding the process to be followed. "Recent data points confirm the high effectiveness of BNT612b2 2-dose regimen against SARS-CoV-2 variants, and among individuals of Indian ethnicity," Pfizer has said.

The government is examining Pfizer's request for indemnity and will take a decision in the larger interest of people and on merit, NITI Aayog Member (Health) V K Paul said on Thursday.

The government is examining Pfizer's request for indemnity and will take a decision in the larger interest of people and on merit, NITI Aayog Member (Health) V K Paul said on Thursday. At a press conference, Paul said, "Yes we are engaged with Pfizer and they have indicated the availability of a certain amount of vaccine in the coming months, possibly starting in July." "We are looking at what their expectations are from the government and they are looking at what our expectations are from them. That's the process in which this will move. Because they will have to come to India and apply for licensure in India, that's one path and there are imperatives of cold chain and supply. "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," Paul said. Seeking a fast-track approval for its COVID-19 vaccine, US major Pfizer has told Indian authorities that its jab has shown "high effectiveness" against the SARS-CoV-2 variant prevalent in India and on people of Indian ethnicity or nationality, besides it is suitable for everyone aged 12 years or above and can be stored for a month at 2-8 degrees, sources said on Wednesday. Pfizer, which is ready to offer 5 crore doses to India between July and October this year and has sought certain relaxations including indemnification, has held a series of interactions with the Indian government authorities recently including one this week, during which it shared the most recent data points regarding efficacy trials and approvals for its vaccine in various countries and by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Another source privy to the discussions said that following recent meetings between the Indian government and Pfizer's Chairman and CEO Albert Bourla, they have agreed to jointly work on three key issues to accelerate approval for the company's COVID-19 vaccine in India, namely procurement through a central government pathway; indemnity and liability; and the regulatory requirement for post-approval bridging studies. While India has administered over 20 crore doses so far since the launch of its vaccination drive in mid-January, it is still a long way to reach the vaccination for the entire population, more so in the backdrop of many states having flagged shortage of vaccines and the gap between supply and requirement widening amid the deadly second wave. India is currently using mainly two 'Made in India' jabs -- Covishield manufactured by the Serum Institute and Covaxin of Bharat Biotech -- and Russian-made Sputnik V at a smaller scale to inoculate its population, all of which are approved only for those aged 18 years and above. In its latest communication to the government, Pfizer has also thanked Government of India to have agreed to its request for procurement through a central government pathway and to discuss "the indemnity and liability protection". "The timely alignment and execution of the draft heads of terms will enable Pfizer to reserve the allocation of doses and pave the pathway for executing the distribution and supply agreement," the company told the government while seeking fast-tracking of the regulatory pathway to help it supply "Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine as expeditiously as possible to India". Pfizer has said India should "rely on the 44 authorizations, including WHO approval, facilitate a EUA (Emergency Use Authorisation)/Restricted Use pathway for the Pfizer vaccine in India, and not seek a local PSA (Post Approval Commitment) study." The company is, however, open to considering safety surveillance of the first 100 subjects after understanding the process to be followed. "Recent data points confirm the high effectiveness of BNT612b2 2-dose regimen against SARS-CoV-2 variants, and among individuals of Indian ethnicity," Pfizer has said.

Central government examining Pfizer's request for indemnity, will take decision on merit: VK Paul

US President Joe Biden is expected to nominate Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, a trusted political ally, as America's next ambassador to India, according to media reports.

Biden is expected to announce the names of political ambassadors, including for India, as soon as next week, according to a report in Axios.

President Biden, a Democrat, is also expected to announce Nicholas Burns as the ambassador to China and Rahm Emanuel and Tom Nides as ambassadors to Japan and Israel respectively, the report in the American news website said on Wednesday.

Garcetti, 50, who served as the co-chair of Biden's presidential campaign, was initially considered for the Cabinet.

Garcetti is the 42nd Mayor of Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the United States, after New York City.

The important position of the US envoy to India has been lying vacant since January 20.

In the absence of a full-time ambassador, Daniel Smith, the director of the Foreign Service Institute, who recently served as acting Secretary of State and Acting Deputy Secretary of State, has been sent to New Delhi to serve as Charge d'Affaires, ad interim.

However, the White House declined to comment on the nomination of Burns or Garcetti, saying no one is final until they're announced," an AP news report said.

According to the Axios report, the White House is still finishing the vetting process for potential ambassadors, including Garcetti, following which, Biden is expected to formally send more than a dozen names to the Senate to begin the confirmation process for his first batch of political ambassadors, which also include appointments for France, Italy and Canada.

The president began reviewing names of potential ambassadors in March, and officials are putting a premium on diversity in assembling the first batch that he'll send to the Senate, the report said.

US President Joe Biden is expected to nominate Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, a trusted political ally, as America's next ambassador to India, according to media reports.

US President Joe Biden is expected to nominate Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, a trusted political ally, as America's next ambassador to India, according to media reports. Biden is expected to announce the names of political ambassadors, including for India, as soon as next week, according to a report in Axios. President Biden, a Democrat, is also expected to announce Nicholas Burns as the ambassador to China and Rahm Emanuel and Tom Nides as ambassadors to Japan and Israel respectively, the report in the American news website said on Wednesday. Garcetti, 50, who served as the co-chair of Biden's presidential campaign, was initially considered for the Cabinet. Garcetti is the 42nd Mayor of Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the United States, after New York City. The important position of the US envoy to India has been lying vacant since January 20. In the absence of a full-time ambassador, Daniel Smith, the director of the Foreign Service Institute, who recently served as acting Secretary of State and Acting Deputy Secretary of State, has been sent to New Delhi to serve as Charge d'Affaires, ad interim. However, the White House declined to comment on the nomination of Burns or Garcetti, saying no one is final until they're announced," an AP news report said. According to the Axios report, the White House is still finishing the vetting process for potential ambassadors, including Garcetti, following which, Biden is expected to formally send more than a dozen names to the Senate to begin the confirmation process for his first batch of political ambassadors, which also include appointments for France, Italy and Canada. The president began reviewing names of potential ambassadors in March, and officials are putting a premium on diversity in assembling the first batch that he'll send to the Senate, the report said.

Biden expected to nominate Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as US ambassador to India: Reports

The government on Thursday slammed as "baseless and false" a statement by Twitter that had alleged intimidation by police over the 'manipulated media' tags issue and threat to freedom of expression, with IT Ministry terming the company's stance as an attempt to dictate terms to the world's largest democracy.

The ministry asserted that representatives of social media companies, including Twitter, "are and will always remain safe in India", and that there is "no threat to their personal safety and security".

In a hard-hitting statement, the ministry said India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries.

"Protecting free speech in India is not the prerogative of only a private, for-profit, foreign entity like Twitter, but it is the commitment of the world's largest democracy and its robust institutions," it said.

Twitter's statement is an attempt to "dictate its terms" to the world's largest democracy, the ministry said, adding that through its actions and deliberate defiance, the company is seeking to undermine India's legal system.

Twitter refuses to comply with the very regulations in the Intermediary Guidelines on the basis of which it is claiming a safe harbour protection from any criminal liability in India, the ministry contended.

It questioned Twitter on why it did not set up a robust mechanism of its own in India, and said the company's officials in India routinely claimed that they have no authority and that "they and the people of India need to escalate everything to Twitter headquarter in USA".

The purported commitment of Twitter to its Indian user base thus not only sounds hollow but completely self serving, the ministry said.

Despite having a large user base in India and earning significant revenue from its operations here, Twitter is "most reluctant" to appoint India-based grievance redressal officer and mechanism, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom its own users can complain when they are subjected to offesive tweets, the ministry argued.

The government said it respects the right of people to ask questions and also criticise on these social media platforms, including Twitter. The government equally respects the right of privacy, it said.

"The only instance of scuttling free speech on Twitter is Twitter itself and its opaque policies, as a result of which people's accounts are suspended and tweets deleted arbitrarily without recourse," the ministry pointed out.

It asked Twitter to "stop beating around the bush" and comply with laws of the land.

"Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what India's legal policy framework should be," the ministry said.

The government said although Twitter claimed that it is committed to people of India, that commitment has been "most invisible in recent times".

Flagging some instances, it said Twitter chose to show the geo-locations of certain locations in Union&nbsp; 
Territory of Ladakh as part of China, and took several days to rectify "this blatant disrespect to India's sensitivity and territorial integrity".

The ministry also called out Twitter for delay in taking action on its order to block provocative content that could impact public law and order, even though the company had been quick to act on similar instance during violence at US Capitol Hill.

The ministry said that Twitter's "lack of responsibility" had led to rampant proliferation of fake and harmful content against India and Indians.

"Twitter Inc., a USA based private company, in its communique says that it seeks 'constructive dialogue', 'collaborative approach' from the Government of a sovereign democratic republic to 'safeguard interests of the public'. It is time that Twitter disabuses itself of this grandiosity and comply with laws of India," it said. 
Earlier on Thursday, Twitter had called the recent visit by Delhi Police to its offices a form of "intimidation" and said it was concerned about its employees and the potential threat to freedom of expression.

Twitter had marked tweets by ruling BJP leaders on the alleged strategy document of Opposition to target the government over COVID as containing 'manipulated media', which prompted the police to visit its offices late on Monday. Opposition Congress has disputed the document, calling it fake.

In its first official statement after the Delhi Police visited the company's offices in Delhi and in Gurugram to serve notice to its country managing director as part of its investigation into the 'manipulated media' tag, Twitter said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression.

"Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve," Twitter said in the statement.

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT rules," Twitter had said.

The government on Thursday slammed as "baseless and false" a statement by Twitter that had alleged intimidation by police over the 'manipulated media' tags issue and threat to freedom of expression, with IT Ministry terming the company's stance as an attempt to dictate terms to the world's largest democracy.

The government on Thursday slammed as "baseless and false" a statement by Twitter that had alleged intimidation by police over the 'manipulated media' tags issue and threat to freedom of expression, with IT Ministry terming the company's stance as an attempt to dictate terms to the world's largest democracy. The ministry asserted that representatives of social media companies, including Twitter, "are and will always remain safe in India", and that there is "no threat to their personal safety and security". In a hard-hitting statement, the ministry said India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries. "Protecting free speech in India is not the prerogative of only a private, for-profit, foreign entity like Twitter, but it is the commitment of the world's largest democracy and its robust institutions," it said. Twitter's statement is an attempt to "dictate its terms" to the world's largest democracy, the ministry said, adding that through its actions and deliberate defiance, the company is seeking to undermine India's legal system. Twitter refuses to comply with the very regulations in the Intermediary Guidelines on the basis of which it is claiming a safe harbour protection from any criminal liability in India, the ministry contended. It questioned Twitter on why it did not set up a robust mechanism of its own in India, and said the company's officials in India routinely claimed that they have no authority and that "they and the people of India need to escalate everything to Twitter headquarter in USA". The purported commitment of Twitter to its Indian user base thus not only sounds hollow but completely self serving, the ministry said. Despite having a large user base in India and earning significant revenue from its operations here, Twitter is "most reluctant" to appoint India-based grievance redressal officer and mechanism, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom its own users can complain when they are subjected to offesive tweets, the ministry argued. The government said it respects the right of people to ask questions and also criticise on these social media platforms, including Twitter. The government equally respects the right of privacy, it said. "The only instance of scuttling free speech on Twitter is Twitter itself and its opaque policies, as a result of which people's accounts are suspended and tweets deleted arbitrarily without recourse," the ministry pointed out. It asked Twitter to "stop beating around the bush" and comply with laws of the land. "Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what India's legal policy framework should be," the ministry said. The government said although Twitter claimed that it is committed to people of India, that commitment has been "most invisible in recent times". Flagging some instances, it said Twitter chose to show the geo-locations of certain locations in Union Territory of Ladakh as part of China, and took several days to rectify "this blatant disrespect to India's sensitivity and territorial integrity". The ministry also called out Twitter for delay in taking action on its order to block provocative content that could impact public law and order, even though the company had been quick to act on similar instance during violence at US Capitol Hill. The ministry said that Twitter's "lack of responsibility" had led to rampant proliferation of fake and harmful content against India and Indians. "Twitter Inc., a USA based private company, in its communique says that it seeks 'constructive dialogue', 'collaborative approach' from the Government of a sovereign democratic republic to 'safeguard interests of the public'. It is time that Twitter disabuses itself of this grandiosity and comply with laws of India," it said. Earlier on Thursday, Twitter had called the recent visit by Delhi Police to its offices a form of "intimidation" and said it was concerned about its employees and the potential threat to freedom of expression. Twitter had marked tweets by ruling BJP leaders on the alleged strategy document of Opposition to target the government over COVID as containing 'manipulated media', which prompted the police to visit its offices late on Monday. Opposition Congress has disputed the document, calling it fake. In its first official statement after the Delhi Police visited the company's offices in Delhi and in Gurugram to serve notice to its country managing director as part of its investigation into the 'manipulated media' tag, Twitter said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression. "Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve," Twitter said in the statement. "We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT rules," Twitter had said.

India slams Twitter's concerns over threat to free speech

Maharashtra-based Genetic Life Sciences on Thursday began manufacturing Amphotericin B Emulsion injections, used for treating mucormycosis or black fungus.&nbsp;

Cases of mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, a serious infection, have been found in COVID-19 patients in various states.

Mucormycosis, commonly called black fungus, is a&nbsp;rare infection affecting those suffering from coronavirus in India.

The fungus that invades the brain is being increasingly seen in vulnerable patients in India as the health system continues to struggle amid the pandemic.

According to the Union Minister's office, the Amphotericin B Emulsion injections manufactured by the Genetic Life Sciences are priced at Rs 1,200 each.

"With efforts of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Genetic Life Sciences, Wardha has manufactured Amphotericin B Emulsion injections for treating Mucormycosis. It was being produced by only one company so far," Gadkari's office tweeted in Hindi.

"The distribution of the vials will commence from Monday at Rs 1,200 each, Currently, the vials are being sold at Rs 7,000," the tweet further read.

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With efforts of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Genetic Life Sciences, Wardha has manufactured Amphotericin B Emulsion injections for treating Mucormycosis. It was being produced by only one company so far. Distribution to begin from Monday at Rs 1200 each: Office of the Union Min <a href="https://t.co/4qw4nkZCMZ">pic.twitter.com/4qw4nkZCMZ</a>
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Eleven states and Union Terroritories that declared mucormycosis as an epidemic (under Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897) in the country reported an acute shortage of Amphotericin-B that is an anti-fungal drug used to treat the ubiquitous fungus.

Delhi, Bihar, Haryana, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Telangana notified mucormycosis as an epidemic.

The Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers Sadananda Gowda on Wednesday said that additional 29,250 vials of Amphotericin B, were allocated to states and Union Territories, based on number of patients under treatment.

Earlier, additional 19,420 vials of Amphotericin-B were allocated on May 24 and 23,680 vials of the drug were supplied across the country on May 21, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers informed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra-based Genetic Life Sciences on Thursday began manufacturing Amphotericin B Emulsion injections, used for treating mucormycosis or black fungus. Cases of mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, a serious infection, have been found in COVID-19 patients in various states.

Maharashtra-based Genetic Life Sciences on Thursday began manufacturing Amphotericin B Emulsion injections, used for treating mucormycosis or black fungus. Cases of mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, a serious infection, have been found in COVID-19 patients in various states. Mucormycosis, commonly called black fungus, is a rare infection affecting those suffering from coronavirus in India. The fungus that invades the brain is being increasingly seen in vulnerable patients in India as the health system continues to struggle amid the pandemic. According to the Union Minister's office, the Amphotericin B Emulsion injections manufactured by the Genetic Life Sciences are priced at Rs 1,200 each. "With efforts of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Genetic Life Sciences, Wardha has manufactured Amphotericin B Emulsion injections for treating Mucormycosis. It was being produced by only one company so far," Gadkari's office tweeted in Hindi. "The distribution of the vials will commence from Monday at Rs 1,200 each, Currently, the vials are being sold at Rs 7,000," the tweet further read. With efforts of Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Genetic Life Sciences, Wardha has manufactured Amphotericin B Emulsion injections for treating Mucormycosis. It was being produced by only one company so far. Distribution to begin from Monday at Rs 1200 each: Office of the Union Min pic.twitter.com/4qw4nkZCMZ — ANI (@ANI) May 27, 2021 × Eleven states and Union Terroritories that declared mucormycosis as an epidemic (under Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897) in the country reported an acute shortage of Amphotericin-B that is an anti-fungal drug used to treat the ubiquitous fungus. Delhi, Bihar, Haryana, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Telangana notified mucormycosis as an epidemic. The Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers Sadananda Gowda on Wednesday said that additional 29,250 vials of Amphotericin B, were allocated to states and Union Territories, based on number of patients under treatment. Earlier, additional 19,420 vials of Amphotericin-B were allocated on May 24 and 23,680 vials of the drug were supplied across the country on May 21, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers informed. (With inputs from agencies)

Black fungus drug Amphotericin B to be priced at Rs 1200 for each vial in India

As India continues to battle the pandemic, the government said it is engaged with Pfizer and examining the indemnity request against liability to all the nations.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-india-may-get-single-dose-moderna-covid-19-vaccine-by-2022-387516/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We are engaged with Pfizer as they have indicated the availability of a certain volume of vaccines in the coming months, possibly in July. They have requested indemnity against liability to all the nations. We are examining this request," VK Paul, Niti Ayog member said.

The US vaccine giant had earlier informed the Indian government that its doses were suitable for children above 12 and that it can be stored at 2-8 degrees temperature for over a month.

Dr VK Paul said that, "We are thinking to mix and match (vaccine doses)&nbsp;on a trial basis." However, Dr Paul cautioned that according to the COVID-19 guidelines a person should stick to the same dose of vaccine as the first one.

Paul added that the second wave was on the "downswing" while asserting that restrictions should be opened systematically. The health ministry said that 24 states had reported a decline in active cases since last week with recoveries overtaking the number of recorded cases.

The health ministry informed that the recovery rates have increased from 85.6 per cent to 90 per cent currently.

India reported over 2,11,200 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours along with 3,847 deaths, according to the health ministry. The total death toll due to the virus in the country has now risen to 3,15,235 with over 27 million cases.

The virus has disrupted activity in several states in India with Karnataka on Thursday reporting over 24,000 cases in the last 24 hours, including 476 deaths.

(With Agency inputs)

As India continues to battle the pandemic, the government said it is engaged with Pfizer and examining the indemnity request against liability to all the nations.

As India continues to battle the pandemic, the government said it is engaged with Pfizer and examining the indemnity request against liability to all the nations. Watch: "We are engaged with Pfizer as they have indicated the availability of a certain volume of vaccines in the coming months, possibly in July. They have requested indemnity against liability to all the nations. We are examining this request," VK Paul, Niti Ayog member said. The US vaccine giant had earlier informed the Indian government that its doses were suitable for children above 12 and that it can be stored at 2-8 degrees temperature for over a month. Dr VK Paul said that, "We are thinking to mix and match (vaccine doses) on a trial basis." However, Dr Paul cautioned that according to the COVID-19 guidelines a person should stick to the same dose of vaccine as the first one. Paul added that the second wave was on the "downswing" while asserting that restrictions should be opened systematically. The health ministry said that 24 states had reported a decline in active cases since last week with recoveries overtaking the number of recorded cases. The health ministry informed that the recovery rates have increased from 85.6 per cent to 90 per cent currently. India reported over 2,11,200 COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours along with 3,847 deaths, according to the health ministry. The total death toll due to the virus in the country has now risen to 3,15,235 with over 27 million cases. The virus has disrupted activity in several states in India with Karnataka on Thursday reporting over 24,000 cases in the last 24 hours, including 476 deaths. (With Agency inputs)

Thinking of mixing and matching vaccine doses on trial basis: Government adviser

India has hit back at Twitter saying Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush and comply with the laws of the land. It said Twitter is just a social media platform and has no locus in dictating what India's legal policy framework should be.

Twitter needs to stop beating around the bush, comply with law of land: India

Delhi Police on Thursday termed Twitter's statements in the 'toolkit' case "mendacious" and said that the statements from the social media giant were "designed to impede a lawful inquiry".

An official statement issued by Delhi Police PRO Chinmoy Biswal said, "Prima facie, these statements are not only mendacious but designed to impede a lawful inquiry by a private enterprise. Twitter Inc. Has taken upon itself, in the garb of terms of service, to adjudicate the truth or otherwise of documents in public space."

As per Delhi Police, Twitter was purporting to be both investigating authority and adjudicating authority, but has no legal sanction to be either.

The only legal entity to investigate is the police and to adjudicate is the courts, the statement said,

The Delhi Police said that it has registered a preliminary inquiry in the 'toolkit' case at the instance of a complaint filed by the representative of the Indian National Congress.

"Hence, the efforts by Twitter Inc. That portray that this as an FIR filed at the behest of the Government of India is wholly and completely incorrect," it stated.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatsapp-goes-to-court-over-indian-governments-new-it-rules-387479">WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules</a>

The statement further said that Twitter was seeking to gain "dubious sympathy" &nbsp;when they themselves not only refuse to comply with the law of the land but also claim to be in possession of material evidence but refuse to share it with the legal authority.

(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Police on Thursday termed Twitter's statements in the 'toolkit' case "mendacious" and said that the statements from the social media giant were "designed to impede a lawful inquiry".

Delhi Police on Thursday termed Twitter's statements in the 'toolkit' case "mendacious" and said that the statements from the social media giant were "designed to impede a lawful inquiry". An official statement issued by Delhi Police PRO Chinmoy Biswal said, "Prima facie, these statements are not only mendacious but designed to impede a lawful inquiry by a private enterprise. Twitter Inc. Has taken upon itself, in the garb of terms of service, to adjudicate the truth or otherwise of documents in public space." As per Delhi Police, Twitter was purporting to be both investigating authority and adjudicating authority, but has no legal sanction to be either. The only legal entity to investigate is the police and to adjudicate is the courts, the statement said, The Delhi Police said that it has registered a preliminary inquiry in the 'toolkit' case at the instance of a complaint filed by the representative of the Indian National Congress. "Hence, the efforts by Twitter Inc. That portray that this as an FIR filed at the behest of the Government of India is wholly and completely incorrect," it stated. Also Read | WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules The statement further said that Twitter was seeking to gain "dubious sympathy" when they themselves not only refuse to comply with the law of the land but also claim to be in possession of material evidence but refuse to share it with the legal authority. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Police calls Twitter's statement 'mendacious', issues strongly-worded letter

India welcomed Israel-Hamas ceasefire at a special session on Palestine at&nbsp;the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The ceasefire was announced earlier this month after 11 days of violence from both sides.

The India statement said that (we) "welcome the diplomatic efforts of the international community and regional countries that have resulted in bringing ceasefire between Israel and armed groups in Gaza."

Significantly, India did not directly refer to Hamas in its statement but mentioned them as "armed groups".&nbsp;

Egypt played an important role to establish ceasefire and was the main channel of communication between Hamas and the West and Israel in bringing about the present situation. &nbsp;

The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and over possibility of eviction of Palestinians in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods. Over 200 Palestinian died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing and violence.

The statement called for "all parties to show extreme restraint, desist from actions that aggravate tensions and refrain from any further attempts to unilaterally change the existing status-quo, including in East Jerusalem and its neighbourhoods."

India lost a national in Israel's Ashkelon in the firing from Gaza by Hamas. Soumya Santhosh, an Indian caregiver in Israel, died in the rocket attack and is survived by a 9-year-old son and her husband. In a warm gesture, Israeli diplomats were present at the airport when her mortal remains arrived and visited her house in Kerala to pay homage as well.

At the UNHRC statement, India expressed its "concern" over violence in Jerusalem and "indiscriminate rocket firings" from Gaza targetting the civilian population in Israel and "retaliatory air strikes into Gaza" &nbsp;that has caused "immense suffering".

New Delhi called for "dialogue" as it "remains the only viable option that can effectively address the issues confronting the region and its people", underscoring the "need for immediate resumption of dialogue between Israel and Palestine".

India had made the statement at the United Nations Security Council as well on the issue. The Israel-Palestine issue was also discussed at the top UN body, of which India is a non-permanent member for a two-year term period.

India welcomed Israel-Hamas ceasefire at a special session on Palestine at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The ceasefire was announced earlier this month after 11 days of violence from both sides.

India welcomed Israel-Hamas ceasefire at a special session on Palestine at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). The ceasefire was announced earlier this month after 11 days of violence from both sides. The India statement said that (we) "welcome the diplomatic efforts of the international community and regional countries that have resulted in bringing ceasefire between Israel and armed groups in Gaza." Significantly, India did not directly refer to Hamas in its statement but mentioned them as "armed groups". Egypt played an important role to establish ceasefire and was the main channel of communication between Hamas and the West and Israel in bringing about the present situation. The situation escalated after violence in Jerusalem and over possibility of eviction of Palestinians in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighbourhoods. Over 200 Palestinian died in Gaza and 10 Israelis died in the rocket firing and violence. The statement called for "all parties to show extreme restraint, desist from actions that aggravate tensions and refrain from any further attempts to unilaterally change the existing status-quo, including in East Jerusalem and its neighbourhoods." India lost a national in Israel's Ashkelon in the firing from Gaza by Hamas. Soumya Santhosh, an Indian caregiver in Israel, died in the rocket attack and is survived by a 9-year-old son and her husband. In a warm gesture, Israeli diplomats were present at the airport when her mortal remains arrived and visited her house in Kerala to pay homage as well. At the UNHRC statement, India expressed its "concern" over violence in Jerusalem and "indiscriminate rocket firings" from Gaza targetting the civilian population in Israel and "retaliatory air strikes into Gaza" that has caused "immense suffering". New Delhi called for "dialogue" as it "remains the only viable option that can effectively address the issues confronting the region and its people", underscoring the "need for immediate resumption of dialogue between Israel and Palestine". India had made the statement at the United Nations Security Council as well on the issue. The Israel-Palestine issue was also discussed at the top UN body, of which India is a non-permanent member for a two-year term period.

At UNHRC, India welcomes Israel-Hamas ceasefire

The world is facing the worst pandemic ever in history. Stories of miseries, despair and hopelessness are surrounding everyone.

However,&nbsp;there are stories that are inspiring even during these difficult times. Two nurses from Kashmir valley are setting a new bar of dedication towards their work.&nbsp;

One such story is of Shagufta Khan, a&nbsp;nurse based in Srinagar and working in the Jawahar Lal Nehru Hospital. Shagufta has managed to help deliver over 100 babies in a hospital caring for covid positive mothers. She has been working in the Covid ward of neonatology since the pandemic started. Not only is she helping mothers, but she is also taking care of these newborns.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/young-artists-reviving-kashmir-music-industry-386556" hreflang="en">Young artists reviving Kashmir music industry</a>

&nbsp;

"In the beginning, it was difficult for all of us,&nbsp;and even health workers were scared. None of us knew what and how we should be tackling it. But then we understood the challenge before us and delivered on our duties. The most difficult thing was to counsel shattered expecting mothers rather than their treatment. Once such patients know they are Covid positive they become very depressed and it is challenging to bring them out of it,'' shared Shagufta Ara.

She is thankful for the support she has received from her family and says&nbsp;that is one of the reasons she has been able to help people non stop and care for the covid patients.

''My family supported me in this, otherwise, it wouldn’t be possible. They helped and understood the challenge. My mother-in-law and father-in-law have acted as huge pillars of support,'' she said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/group-of-volunteers-helps-transgender-community-in-kashmir-with-food-kits-amid-covid-387082" hreflang="en">Group of volunteers helps transgender community in Kashmir with food kits amid Covid</a>

Another health worker who works 50 kms away from Srinagar in Pulwama district of Kashmir is Tabasum Ara. She has vaccinated more than 6,000 people in her district — which is a record in itself.

Due to the efforts of&nbsp;health workers such as Tabasum, Pulwama has been able to vaccinate 80 per cent of people above 45.&nbsp;

"I have been working nonstop and vaccinating people. Thankfully, we are very close to achieving all our targets and we will carry on," said Tabasum. "There are so many rumours about vaccines. Some have been saying it makes people infertile while others say they can die. I have been trying to convince the people to not pay heed to any such rumors and get themselves vaccinated."

While these health workers are working tirelessly to help patients overcome this pandemic, they are becoming inspirations for not only other nurses but people across the board.

The world is facing the worst pandemic ever in history. Stories of miseries, despair and hopelessness are surrounding everyone. However, there are stories that are inspiring even during these difficult times.

The world is facing the worst pandemic ever in history. Stories of miseries, despair and hopelessness are surrounding everyone. However, there are stories that are inspiring even during these difficult times. Two nurses from Kashmir valley are setting a new bar of dedication towards their work. One such story is of Shagufta Khan, a nurse based in Srinagar and working in the Jawahar Lal Nehru Hospital. Shagufta has managed to help deliver over 100 babies in a hospital caring for covid positive mothers. She has been working in the Covid ward of neonatology since the pandemic started. Not only is she helping mothers, but she is also taking care of these newborns. Also read | Young artists reviving Kashmir music industry "In the beginning, it was difficult for all of us, and even health workers were scared. None of us knew what and how we should be tackling it. But then we understood the challenge before us and delivered on our duties. The most difficult thing was to counsel shattered expecting mothers rather than their treatment. Once such patients know they are Covid positive they become very depressed and it is challenging to bring them out of it,'' shared Shagufta Ara. She is thankful for the support she has received from her family and says that is one of the reasons she has been able to help people non stop and care for the covid patients. ''My family supported me in this, otherwise, it wouldn’t be possible. They helped and understood the challenge. My mother-in-law and father-in-law have acted as huge pillars of support,'' she said. Also read | Group of volunteers helps transgender community in Kashmir with food kits amid Covid Another health worker who works 50 kms away from Srinagar in Pulwama district of Kashmir is Tabasum Ara. She has vaccinated more than 6,000 people in her district — which is a record in itself. Due to the efforts of health workers such as Tabasum, Pulwama has been able to vaccinate 80 per cent of people above 45. "I have been working nonstop and vaccinating people. Thankfully, we are very close to achieving all our targets and we will carry on," said Tabasum. "There are so many rumours about vaccines. Some have been saying it makes people infertile while others say they can die. I have been trying to convince the people to not pay heed to any such rumors and get themselves vaccinated." While these health workers are working tirelessly to help patients overcome this pandemic, they are becoming inspirations for not only other nurses but people across the board.

Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people

More than three lakh homes were devastated and one crore people were affected as sea water and rivers swollen and embankments broke off along the Bengal coast, shortly after the cyclone Yaas hit Odisha at 9.30 am on Wednesday.

Cyclone Yaas kills at least 5 people, Indian Navy teams undertake relief operations

Twitter said on Thursday that it was concerned about the safety of its employees in India when Delhi Police personnel visited their offices in South Delhi and Gurugram to "serve notice" in connection with the investigation into the controversial 'toolkit' case.

Twitter responds to new digital rules in India, says concerned about safety of Indian employees

Facebook-owned instant messaging application WhatsApp on Wednesday challenged the Indian government in the Delhi High Court over the traceability clause in the new IT Rule 2021. The Center said that it cannot be denied in cases of mob lynching and riots, same WhatsApp messages are circulated and recirculated.

Indian Govt amidst legal battle over privacy says, "WhatsApp users in India will not be affected"

Scientists have identified persistent damage in the lungs of COVID-19 patients at least three months after they were discharged from the hospital, and for some patients even longer.

This damage was not detected by routine CT scans and clinical tests, and the patients would consequently normally be told their lungs are normal, according to the researchers at the universities of Sheffield and Oxford in the UK.

The study, published in the journal Radiology, also shows that patients not hospitalised with COVID-19 but who experience long-term breathlessness may have similar damage in their lungs.

However, the researchers said a larger study is needed to confirm this.

They noted that hyperpolarised xenon MRI (XeMRI) scans had found abnormalities in the lungs of some COVID-19 patients more than three months -- and in some cases, nine months -- after leaving the hospital when other clinical measurements were normal.

"The findings of the study are very interesting,” said Professor Jim Wild from the University of Sheffield.

The 129Xe MRI is pinpointing the parts of the lung where the physiology of oxygen uptake is impaired due to long-standing effects of COVID-19 on the lungs, even though they often look normal on CT scans.

"Many COVID-19 patients are still experiencing breathlessness several months after being discharged from hospital, despite their CT scans indicating that their lungs are functioning normally," said Professor Fergus Gleeson, the study's principal investigator at Oxford.

"Our follow-up scans using hyperpolarised xenon MRI have found that abnormalities not normally visible on regular scans are indeed present, and these abnormalities are preventing oxygen getting into the bloodstream as it should in all parts of the lungs," Gleeson said.

The study has now begun testing patients who were not hospitalised with COVID-19 but who have been attending long COVID clinics.

"Although we are currently only talking about early findings, the XeMRI scans of non-hospitalised patients who are breathless -- and 70 per cent of our local patients with Long COVID do experience breathlessness --may have similar abnormalities in their lungs," Gleeson explained.

"We need a larger study to identify how common this is and how long it will take to get better," he added.

Scientists have identified persistent damage in the lungs of COVID-19 patients at least three months after they were discharged from the hospital, and for some patients even longer.

Scientists have identified persistent damage in the lungs of COVID-19 patients at least three months after they were discharged from the hospital, and for some patients even longer. This damage was not detected by routine CT scans and clinical tests, and the patients would consequently normally be told their lungs are normal, according to the researchers at the universities of Sheffield and Oxford in the UK. The study, published in the journal Radiology, also shows that patients not hospitalised with COVID-19 but who experience long-term breathlessness may have similar damage in their lungs. However, the researchers said a larger study is needed to confirm this. They noted that hyperpolarised xenon MRI (XeMRI) scans had found abnormalities in the lungs of some COVID-19 patients more than three months -- and in some cases, nine months -- after leaving the hospital when other clinical measurements were normal. "The findings of the study are very interesting,” said Professor Jim Wild from the University of Sheffield. The 129Xe MRI is pinpointing the parts of the lung where the physiology of oxygen uptake is impaired due to long-standing effects of COVID-19 on the lungs, even though they often look normal on CT scans. "Many COVID-19 patients are still experiencing breathlessness several months after being discharged from hospital, despite their CT scans indicating that their lungs are functioning normally," said Professor Fergus Gleeson, the study's principal investigator at Oxford. "Our follow-up scans using hyperpolarised xenon MRI have found that abnormalities not normally visible on regular scans are indeed present, and these abnormalities are preventing oxygen getting into the bloodstream as it should in all parts of the lungs," Gleeson said. The study has now begun testing patients who were not hospitalised with COVID-19 but who have been attending long COVID clinics. "Although we are currently only talking about early findings, the XeMRI scans of non-hospitalised patients who are breathless -- and 70 per cent of our local patients with Long COVID do experience breathlessness --may have similar abnormalities in their lungs," Gleeson explained. "We need a larger study to identify how common this is and how long it will take to get better," he added.

COVID-19 may cause long-term lung damage: Study

A 36-year-old Indian-origin Sikh man was among eight people killed in the horrific rail yard shooting in San Jose in the US state of California, according to media reports on Thursday.

Taptejdeep Singh, born in India and raised in Union City, California, has left behind his wife, three-year-old son, one-year-old daughter, and a grieving Sikh community in the San Francisco Bay Area, which described him as a "helpful and caring" man, The Mercury News reported.

Co-workers at the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) hailed Singh as a hero, saying he left the safety of an office room, where some colleagues were hiding, to help others escape the line of fire.

Samuel Cassidy, 57, a maintenance worker of the VTA, San Jose, on Wednesday gunned down eight of his co-workers and critically injured another in one of the deadliest shootings in California state this year.

As police arrived at the scene, the killer died of a self-inflicted gunshot.

Mr Singh was a light rail operator at the VTA for nine years now. He worked at a separate building from where most of the other victims were found, giving the impression that Cassidy had selected his victims. Mr Singh was fatally shot in the stairwell of a VTA building, the report said.

Mr Singh's brother-in-law, P.J. Bath, another light rail operator at the VTA, confirmed that the shooter and Singh were in different buildings initially but said nothing on the victims being pre-decided by the killer.

"He just happened to be in the way, I guess. He was always helpful to everyone and caring," Mr Bath said.

"We are in very deep grief," Mr Singh's uncle Sakhwant Dhillon told the San Jose-based newspaper.

"He told people, "be careful, hide." He was running around the building to save others' lives. He was a good person. He helped everybody," Mr Dhillon said.

Mr Singh's brother Bagga Singh said he was told that his brother had saved a lady when he "rushed down the stairway," where he was eventually shot.

Mr Singh may be considered a hero, but "he should have saved his life, too. We lost a good person," Mr Bagga said.

Emotional scenes were seen at the Red Cross Center in the city where families of the victims gathered after the incident was reported. Mr Singh's family, including his father, hugged and cried.

The other victims of the shooting were identified as Paul Delacruz Megia (42), Adrian Balleza (29), Jose Dejesus Hernandez (35), Timothy Michael Romo (49), Michael Joseph Rudometkin (40), Abdolvahab Alaghmandan (63), and Lars Kepler Lane (63).

The motive behind the shooting is not yet clear. Minutes after the incident, a fire was reported at Cassidy's home, about 13 kilometres from the VTA office.

The fire was extinguished in an hour-long operation. Police said a separate investigation is going on in the fire.

A 36-year-old Indian-origin Sikh man was among eight people killed in the horrific rail yard shooting in San Jose in the US state of California, according to media reports on Thursday.

A 36-year-old Indian-origin Sikh man was among eight people killed in the horrific rail yard shooting in San Jose in the US state of California, according to media reports on Thursday. Taptejdeep Singh, born in India and raised in Union City, California, has left behind his wife, three-year-old son, one-year-old daughter, and a grieving Sikh community in the San Francisco Bay Area, which described him as a "helpful and caring" man, The Mercury News reported. Co-workers at the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) hailed Singh as a hero, saying he left the safety of an office room, where some colleagues were hiding, to help others escape the line of fire. Samuel Cassidy, 57, a maintenance worker of the VTA, San Jose, on Wednesday gunned down eight of his co-workers and critically injured another in one of the deadliest shootings in California state this year. As police arrived at the scene, the killer died of a self-inflicted gunshot. Mr Singh was a light rail operator at the VTA for nine years now. He worked at a separate building from where most of the other victims were found, giving the impression that Cassidy had selected his victims. Mr Singh was fatally shot in the stairwell of a VTA building, the report said. Mr Singh's brother-in-law, P.J. Bath, another light rail operator at the VTA, confirmed that the shooter and Singh were in different buildings initially but said nothing on the victims being pre-decided by the killer. "He just happened to be in the way, I guess. He was always helpful to everyone and caring," Mr Bath said. "We are in very deep grief," Mr Singh's uncle Sakhwant Dhillon told the San Jose-based newspaper. "He told people, "be careful, hide." He was running around the building to save others' lives. He was a good person. He helped everybody," Mr Dhillon said. Mr Singh's brother Bagga Singh said he was told that his brother had saved a lady when he "rushed down the stairway," where he was eventually shot. Mr Singh may be considered a hero, but "he should have saved his life, too. We lost a good person," Mr Bagga said. Emotional scenes were seen at the Red Cross Center in the city where families of the victims gathered after the incident was reported. Mr Singh's family, including his father, hugged and cried. The other victims of the shooting were identified as Paul Delacruz Megia (42), Adrian Balleza (29), Jose Dejesus Hernandez (35), Timothy Michael Romo (49), Michael Joseph Rudometkin (40), Abdolvahab Alaghmandan (63), and Lars Kepler Lane (63). The motive behind the shooting is not yet clear. Minutes after the incident, a fire was reported at Cassidy's home, about 13 kilometres from the VTA office. The fire was extinguished in an hour-long operation. Police said a separate investigation is going on in the fire.

Indian-origin Sikh man among 8 killed in US rail yard shooting: Report

While social distancing and wearing face masks can protect us from the deadly coronavirus, vaccines act as a permanent shield against this virus.&nbsp;As the Government of India is busy arranging vaccines for everyone, some myths, based on distorted statements and blatant lies, have been spreading like wildfire.

Some people believe the central government&nbsp;has failed to procure enough vaccines from western countries. However, the government said it has been in successful discussions with all the major international vaccine manufacturers (such as Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson &amp; Johnson) since mid-2020, when companies started producing the vaccines.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modernas-single-dose-vaccine-in-india-likely-next-year-pfizer-ready-with-50-mn-doses-for-2021-387438" hreflang="en">Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021</a>

"We need to understand that buying vaccines internationally is not similar to buying 'off the shelf' items," explained Dr Vinod Paul, Member (Health) in NITI&nbsp;Aayog and Chair of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC).

"Vaccines are in limited supply globally, and companies have their own priorities, game-plans and compulsions in allocating finite stocks. They also give preference to countries of their origin just as our own vaccine makers have done unhesitatingly for us," Paul explained.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-in-india-delhi-to-get-sputnik-v-vaccine-quantity-to-be-decided-says-chief-minister-kejriwal-387501" hreflang="en">Covid in India: Delhi to get Sputnik V vaccine, quantity to be decided, says Chief Minister Kejriwal</a>

The government said it has also successfully accelerated the approval and import process of Russia’s Sputnik vaccine and has been in continuous discussions with Pfizer to arrange the vaccines as soon as possible.

India has also proactively eased the entry and approval process for the vaccines which have been approved by US FDA, EMA, UK's MHRA and Japan's PMDA, and WHO's Emergency Use Listing to ensure smooth import of vaccines into the country, the government said in a release.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-vaccine-highly-effective-on-covid-19-variant-found-in-india-suitable-for-12-yrs-and-above-pfizer-to-govt-387625" hreflang="en">Our vaccine highly effective on COVID-19 variant found in India, suitable for 12 yrs and above: Pfizer to Govt</a>

New Delhi has also lent full support to domestic vaccine manufacturers such as Bharat Biotech, which will soon be increasing its production plants from one to four. Authorities are also in contact with the Serum Institute of India to increase its production of the Covishield vaccine from 6.5 crore doses per month to 11.0 crore doses per month.&nbsp;

Talking about the vaccine distribution to states, Paul assured that the vaccine procured by the Centre is being supplied to regions with complete knowledge of the state governments.

"In the non-GoI channel, states are getting 25% of the doses and private hospitals are getting 25% doses. However the hiccups and issues faced by the people in the administration of these 25% doses by the states leave a lot to be desired," Paul said.

He also addressed the issue of compulsory licensing and stressed on the importance of active partnership rather than personal profits.

"Tech transfer is the key and that remains in the hands of the company that has carried out R&amp;D," he said. "Infact, we have gone one step ahead of Compulsory Licensing and are ensuring active partnership between Bharat Biotech &amp; 3 other entities to enhance production of Covaxin."

He also revealed that trials of vaccines for children will soon start in India.

However, the government will not start vaccination for children unless there are assured results of safety of specific guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), Paul said.

While social distancing and wearing face masks can protect us from the deadly coronavirus, vaccines act as a permanent shield against this virus. As the Government of India is busy arranging vaccines for everyone, some myths, based on distorted statements and blatant lies, have been spreading like wildfire.

While social distancing and wearing face masks can protect us from the deadly coronavirus, vaccines act as a permanent shield against this virus. As the Government of India is busy arranging vaccines for everyone, some myths, based on distorted statements and blatant lies, have been spreading like wildfire. Some people believe the central government has failed to procure enough vaccines from western countries. However, the government said it has been in successful discussions with all the major international vaccine manufacturers (such as Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson) since mid-2020, when companies started producing the vaccines. Also read | Moderna's single-dose vaccine in India likely next year; Pfizer ready with 50 mn doses for 2021 "We need to understand that buying vaccines internationally is not similar to buying 'off the shelf' items," explained Dr Vinod Paul, Member (Health) in NITI Aayog and Chair of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC). "Vaccines are in limited supply globally, and companies have their own priorities, game-plans and compulsions in allocating finite stocks. They also give preference to countries of their origin just as our own vaccine makers have done unhesitatingly for us," Paul explained. Also read | Covid in India: Delhi to get Sputnik V vaccine, quantity to be decided, says Chief Minister Kejriwal The government said it has also successfully accelerated the approval and import process of Russia’s Sputnik vaccine and has been in continuous discussions with Pfizer to arrange the vaccines as soon as possible. India has also proactively eased the entry and approval process for the vaccines which have been approved by US FDA, EMA, UK's MHRA and Japan's PMDA, and WHO's Emergency Use Listing to ensure smooth import of vaccines into the country, the government said in a release. Also read | Our vaccine highly effective on COVID-19 variant found in India, suitable for 12 yrs and above: Pfizer to Govt New Delhi has also lent full support to domestic vaccine manufacturers such as Bharat Biotech, which will soon be increasing its production plants from one to four. Authorities are also in contact with the Serum Institute of India to increase its production of the Covishield vaccine from 6.5 crore doses per month to 11.0 crore doses per month. Talking about the vaccine distribution to states, Paul assured that the vaccine procured by the Centre is being supplied to regions with complete knowledge of the state governments. "In the non-GoI channel, states are getting 25% of the doses and private hospitals are getting 25% doses. However the hiccups and issues faced by the people in the administration of these 25% doses by the states leave a lot to be desired," Paul said. He also addressed the issue of compulsory licensing and stressed on the importance of active partnership rather than personal profits. "Tech transfer is the key and that remains in the hands of the company that has carried out R&D," he said. "Infact, we have gone one step ahead of Compulsory Licensing and are ensuring active partnership between Bharat Biotech & 3 other entities to enhance production of Covaxin." He also revealed that trials of vaccines for children will soon start in India. However, the government will not start vaccination for children unless there are assured results of safety of specific guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), Paul said.

'Transparency, reliability and swiftness': Indian government dispels myths about vaccines

By Neha Arora and Sachin Ravikumar NEW DELHI (Reuters) -India on Thursday scrapped local trials for "well-established" foreign coronavirus vaccines to fast-track imports as it battles a devastating second wave of the pandemic that has killed tens of thousands of people. India recorded its highest COVID-19 death toll since the pandemic began last year in May, accounting for just over a third of the overall total. India has been inoculating its people with the AstraZeneca vaccine produced locally at the Serum Institute, Covaxin made by local firm Bharat Biotech, and has begun rolling out Russia`s Sputnik V. But supplies are far short of the millions of doses the world`s second-most populous country needs. The government said it was in talks with Pfizer for "earliest possible" imports of its shots and that it had also had discussions with Johnson & Johnson and Moderna. Last month, India pledged to fast-track approvals for foreign vaccines but its insistence on local trials was a key reason for stalled discussions with Pfizer. "The provision has now been further amended to waive the trial requirement altogether for the well-established vaccines manufactured in other countries," the government said in a statement. None of drugmakers has sent in applications for approval with India`s drugs regulator, it said. "We reiterate our request to all international vaccine makers to come and make in India – for India and for the world." Just about 3% of the country`s 1.3 billion people have been fully vaccinated, the lowest rate among the 10 countries with the most COVID-19 cases. Officials have said that 98% of the population remains susceptible to infection. The country reported 211,298 new infections on Thursday, still the world`s highest daily rise, but nearly half the daily infections it recorded earlier this month. The overall case load is now at 27.37 million, while deaths stand at 315,235, according to health ministry data. But experts believe that figure grossly underestimates the actual toll as only people who have tested positive are counted, whereas many victims were never tested. Desperate Indian states are launching global tenders or seeking expressions of interest from firms including Pfizer and Moderna, but vaccine makers said they would only talk with the federal government. The government said supplies were tight. "The fact that global tenders have not given any results only reaffirms what we have been telling the states from day one: that vaccines are in short supply in the world and it is not easy to procure them at short notice," it said. (Reporting by Neha Arora in New Delhi, Sachin Ravikumar and Anuron Kumar Mitra in Bengaluru; Editing by Sanjeev Miglani and Nick Macfie)

By Neha Arora and Sachin Ravikumar NEW DELHI (Reuters) -India on Thursday scrapped local trials for "well-established" foreign coronavirus vaccines to fast-track imports as it battles a devastating second wave of the pandemic that has killed tens of thousands of people.

By Neha Arora and Sachin Ravikumar NEW DELHI (Reuters) -India on Thursday scrapped local trials for "well-established" foreign coronavirus vaccines to fast-track imports as it battles a devastating second wave of the pandemic that has killed tens of thousands of people. India recorded its highest COVID-19 death toll since the pandemic began last year in May, accounting for just over a third of the overall total. India has been inoculating its people with the AstraZeneca vaccine produced locally at the Serum Institute, Covaxin made by local firm Bharat Biotech, and has begun rolling out Russia`s Sputnik V. But supplies are far short of the millions of doses the world`s second-most populous country needs. The government said it was in talks with Pfizer for "earliest possible" imports of its shots and that it had also had discussions with Johnson & Johnson and Moderna. Last month, India pledged to fast-track approvals for foreign vaccines but its insistence on local trials was a key reason for stalled discussions with Pfizer. "The provision has now been further amended to waive the trial requirement altogether for the well-established vaccines manufactured in other countries," the government said in a statement. None of drugmakers has sent in applications for approval with India`s drugs regulator, it said. "We reiterate our request to all international vaccine makers to come and make in India – for India and for the world." Just about 3% of the country`s 1.3 billion people have been fully vaccinated, the lowest rate among the 10 countries with the most COVID-19 cases. Officials have said that 98% of the population remains susceptible to infection. The country reported 211,298 new infections on Thursday, still the world`s highest daily rise, but nearly half the daily infections it recorded earlier this month. The overall case load is now at 27.37 million, while deaths stand at 315,235, according to health ministry data. But experts believe that figure grossly underestimates the actual toll as only people who have tested positive are counted, whereas many victims were never tested. Desperate Indian states are launching global tenders or seeking expressions of interest from firms including Pfizer and Moderna, but vaccine makers said they would only talk with the federal government. The government said supplies were tight. "The fact that global tenders have not given any results only reaffirms what we have been telling the states from day one: that vaccines are in short supply in the world and it is not easy to procure them at short notice," it said. (Reporting by Neha Arora in New Delhi, Sachin Ravikumar and Anuron Kumar Mitra in Bengaluru; Editing by Sanjeev Miglani and Nick Macfie)

India scraps local trials for COVID shots to fast-track imports as it battles second wave

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy.

At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers.

The remark comes after Sekar Babu had won against BJP Youth Wing State president Vinoj P Selvam in North Chennai’s Harbour Constituency, which has a large share of communities from Gujarat, Rajasthan, who have resided in the area for many generations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadus-ongoing-lockdown-extended-until-may-31-new-guidelines-inside-386726" hreflang="en">Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside</a>

Starting off his speech by lauding the food donation as the highest form of charity, the minister assured that DMK&nbsp;would take part in the charitable events of the community and support them, despite them not having voted for the 'Dravidian party'.&nbsp;

"I have been living in this region for almost 40 years. Today, the situation has changed a lot and many North Indian friends have seen economic progress, and this is because of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu. The BJP is not the cause for your well-being, increased standard of living or economic development, it is the Dravidian parties," Babu said, adding that, despite all this, the North Indian Community has always been voting for the BJP out of some fascination.&nbsp;

Interestingly,&nbsp;DMK and AIADMK have been in power in Tamil Nadu since 1967, following the defeat of the then Congress government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-liquid-oxygen-to-o2-concentrators-heres-how-isro-is-aiding-indias-covid-19-battle-384558" hreflang="en">From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle</a>

"Our DMK Member of Parliament Dayanidhi Maran asks why do we have to work for them (North Indians) when they don’t vote for us, to which I say, even they belong to this land. The MLAs and Chief Minister are common representatives, irrespective of whether some people voted for them or not. It is in that spirit that we are working for you," he added.&nbsp;

He further goes on to say that the North Indian Community vote bank did not cast their votes for DMK in Assembly and Parliamentary polls that took place in years 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2021. He claims that the DMK hardly got any votes in the region where North Indians lived in large numbers, despite the party having worked for the community.&nbsp;

In the 2021 Assembly polls, he said that in the areas where North Indians lived, DMK secured only 50 votes, whereas the BJP secured 300-350 votes. "Whenever we meet you, you say that you voted for us. But these are not ballot paper times, EVM data clearly points out which area voted for whom. You did not vote for the MLA and MP who worked for you, but how much ever you reject us, we won’t reject you. DMK is there to work for you," Babu boasted.&nbsp;

Reacting to the DMK Minister’s comments, the BJP has said that such comments are blatant threats against BJP voters. The statement also condemned the manner in which DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran raised questions (as quoted by Sekar Babu) about serving people who didn’t vote for the DMK.

"Dayanidhi Maran must clarify whether he had spoken that way, it is the height of atrocity that a Member of Parliament has said something so narrow-minded and divisive," read the statement from BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy.&nbsp;"It is highly condemnable that Ministers who take an oath by the Constitution and represent all the people chose to refer to a section of their constituency as North Indians. By pointing out the voters choice of preferring the BJP, is like questioning the voters’ democratic right and a blatant threat from those in power."

The BJP also demanded an apology from Minister Sekar Babu and requested Chief Minister MK Stalin to condemn the minister’s remarks.&nbsp;

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy. At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers.

The comments made by Tamil Nadu’s Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Board Minister, PK Sekar Babu have sparked controversy. At the inauguration event of the Mahavir International Chennai Metro Foodbank, the minister made a political speech that the DMK would work for the Hindi-speakers (North Indians), despite them having voted for the BJP in large numbers. The remark comes after Sekar Babu had won against BJP Youth Wing State president Vinoj P Selvam in North Chennai’s Harbour Constituency, which has a large share of communities from Gujarat, Rajasthan, who have resided in the area for many generations. Also read | Tamil Nadu’s ongoing lockdown extended until May 31. New guidelines inside Starting off his speech by lauding the food donation as the highest form of charity, the minister assured that DMK would take part in the charitable events of the community and support them, despite them not having voted for the 'Dravidian party'. "I have been living in this region for almost 40 years. Today, the situation has changed a lot and many North Indian friends have seen economic progress, and this is because of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu. The BJP is not the cause for your well-being, increased standard of living or economic development, it is the Dravidian parties," Babu said, adding that, despite all this, the North Indian Community has always been voting for the BJP out of some fascination. Interestingly, DMK and AIADMK have been in power in Tamil Nadu since 1967, following the defeat of the then Congress government. Also read | From liquid oxygen to O2 concentrators, here’s how ISRO is aiding India’s COVID-19 battle "Our DMK Member of Parliament Dayanidhi Maran asks why do we have to work for them (North Indians) when they don’t vote for us, to which I say, even they belong to this land. The MLAs and Chief Minister are common representatives, irrespective of whether some people voted for them or not. It is in that spirit that we are working for you," he added. He further goes on to say that the North Indian Community vote bank did not cast their votes for DMK in Assembly and Parliamentary polls that took place in years 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2021. He claims that the DMK hardly got any votes in the region where North Indians lived in large numbers, despite the party having worked for the community. In the 2021 Assembly polls, he said that in the areas where North Indians lived, DMK secured only 50 votes, whereas the BJP secured 300-350 votes. "Whenever we meet you, you say that you voted for us. But these are not ballot paper times, EVM data clearly points out which area voted for whom. You did not vote for the MLA and MP who worked for you, but how much ever you reject us, we won’t reject you. DMK is there to work for you," Babu boasted. Reacting to the DMK Minister’s comments, the BJP has said that such comments are blatant threats against BJP voters. The statement also condemned the manner in which DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran raised questions (as quoted by Sekar Babu) about serving people who didn’t vote for the DMK. "Dayanidhi Maran must clarify whether he had spoken that way, it is the height of atrocity that a Member of Parliament has said something so narrow-minded and divisive," read the statement from BJP Spokesperson Narayanan Thirupathy. "It is highly condemnable that Ministers who take an oath by the Constitution and represent all the people chose to refer to a section of their constituency as North Indians. By pointing out the voters choice of preferring the BJP, is like questioning the voters’ democratic right and a blatant threat from those in power." The BJP also demanded an apology from Minister Sekar Babu and requested Chief Minister MK Stalin to condemn the minister’s remarks.

DMK minister’s comments on not getting Hindi-speakers’ votes courts trouble; BJP objects

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