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Chhota Rajan, the gangster of Mumbai underworld, has died of COVID-19, according to reports.

An official confirmation is yet to be made.

Rajan died in New Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the reports said.

He was admitted to AIIMS on April 26.

Born Rajendra Nikalje, he&nbsp;was arrested from Indonesia in 2015 and was lodged in Delhi's high security Tihar Jail since then.

He is an accused in some 70 criminal cases including extortion and murder in the western state of Maharashtra.

A special court was created for trial on pending cases in Delhi after they were tranferred to Central Bureau of Investigation.

In 2018, Rajan was sentenced to life in prison in the 2011 murder case of journalist Jyotirmoy Dey.

Chhota Rajan, the gangster of Mumbai underworld, has died of COVID-19, according to reports. An official confirmation is yet to be made. Rajan died in New Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the reports said.

Chhota Rajan, the gangster of Mumbai underworld, has died of COVID-19, according to reports. An official confirmation is yet to be made. Rajan died in New Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the reports said. He was admitted to AIIMS on April 26. Born Rajendra Nikalje, he was arrested from Indonesia in 2015 and was lodged in Delhi's high security Tihar Jail since then. He is an accused in some 70 criminal cases including extortion and murder in the western state of Maharashtra. A special court was created for trial on pending cases in Delhi after they were tranferred to Central Bureau of Investigation. In 2018, Rajan was sentenced to life in prison in the 2011 murder case of journalist Jyotirmoy Dey.

Mumbai gangster Chhota Rajan dies of COVID-19 in Delhi: Reports

Switzerland, on Thursday, joined the league of countries that are extending assistance to India by sending 600 oxygen concentrators and 50 respirators worth&nbsp;$3.3 million approx.

The Swiss assistance comes as India battles the second wave of the covid pandemic. Speaking WION's&nbsp;Sidhant Sibal, Swiss Ambassador to India Dr Ralf Heckner said, "It is good to see not only the swiss government and the swiss people but also the Swiss private sector are stepping up. Lots of solidarity coming from Switzerland to India."

Nearly 40 Swiss companies have also come together and pledged medical relief worth over CHF 7 million for India’s fight against COVID-19. The medical relief package includes oxygen concentrators, rapid antigen test kits, ventilators, portable suction pumps and helmets with ventilation for medical staff.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/american-civil-rights-activist-urges-biden-to-give-astrazeneca-vaccine-to-india-383443" hreflang="en">American civil rights activist urges Biden to give AstraZeneca vaccine to India</a>

Asked about concerns about the support reaching to various end-users, the envoy said, "In my own assessment, give the Indian government some more time to finalise the structures and processes."

Talking about the covid vaccine patent wavier, Heckner said, "With the decision of the US government,&nbsp;we have a new situation" and he assured that the&nbsp;"swiss government is assessing the new situation".&nbsp;

WION: Switzerland has sent humanitarian aid to India. If you can provide us details of the assistance? 
Dr&nbsp;Ralf Heckner: This is a huge crisis, a lot of people are suffering in India. On the other side, we see a lot of international solidarity. About 40 countries are providing relief package to India and I am happy to say Switzerland is among those countries. Last night swiss cargo flight landed in New Delhi with 13 tons of medical equipment. We had 600 oxygen concentrators onboard and 50 ventilators. Ventilators came from the stock of Swiss armed force — originally for the Swiss people. Now they are here to assist the suffering Indian population and humanitarian aid has arrived in India. I am happy this was done quickly and we handed over the goods to the Indian red cross society.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-second-wave-in-india-a-tragedy-says-us-surgeon-general-dr-vivek-murthy-383432" hreflang="en">Covid second wave in India a tragedy, says US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy</a>

WION:&nbsp;The private sector from Switzerland has also stepped in to help India. Can you give us more information on that? 
Dr Ralf Heckner: Indeed the private sector is part and parcel of this solidarity coming from Switzerland. You might know Switzerland is one of the most important trade and investment partners of India. There are more than 300 Swiss businesses in India, 120 Indian businesses in Switzerland and they come together under the Swiss-India chamber of commerce. My embassy, together with the Swiss business hub in Mumbai with the Swiss India chamber of commerce, coordinated the relief package from the private sector. More than 30 swiss businesses are part of the relief package. The first cargo will arrive on Saturday morning in Delhi with 100 oxygen concentrators again. It is good to see not only the swiss government and the swiss people but also the Swiss private sector are stepping up. Lots of solidarity coming from Switzerland to India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-after-backlash-australia-to-send-repatriation-flights-for-stranded-citizens-in-india-383399" hreflang="en">COVID-19: After backlash, Australia to send repatriation flights for stranded citizens in India</a>

WION:&nbsp;The Swiss Development Agency worked with Indian cities to detect covid in wastewater systems. Can you tell us about that? 
Dr&nbsp;Ralf Heckner: Last year when COVID stuck, the swiss development agency redirected programmes, projects, and funds in order to fight covid. That was also done here in India. Normally, the Swiss Development Agency in India is dealing with global warming and climate change. Last year, the Swiss development agency invested in projects that helped city authorities to detect covid early on in wastewater. It is an important early warning system for municipal authorities in order to detect covid early on —&nbsp;before you have people coming into hospitals. This is not only being done in India, but in swiss cities as well. Wastewater covid early detection system is very important for our policymakers at the municipal level to act early on during a covid crisis.&nbsp;

WION: Any concerns about the end-use of humanitarian aid? 
Dr Ralf Heckner: First and foremost it is important how this relief effort is being done. For this relief package from Switzerland, our partner here is the Indian Red Cross Society. So, the cargo last night was handed over to the Indian Red Cross Society, and our relief goods will be dispatched and distributed through the Ministry of Health. So, my embassy is not distributing the relief items.

Early in my career, I was head of the crisis management center of the Swiss federal department of foreign affairs where my job was to look after swiss citizens abroad in a crisis situation and I learned there that it needs time ahead of the beginning of the crisis to get the right structures and the right processes in place in order to be able to efficiently deal with and manage that crisis. That is exactly what I am seeing here now when it comes to the Indian government. The Indian government is setting up the right structures and the right processes when it comes to dealing with the crisis and also dispatching the incoming relief items. In my own assessment, give the Indian government some more time to finalise the structures and processes.&nbsp;

WION: Any travel advisory for travellers coming from India? 
Dr&nbsp;Ralf Heckner: One year ago, we changed our travel advice, but it is the same for more or less all the countries of the globe. The swiss authorities are advising the locals to only travel in case of necessity. That is the travel advisory&nbsp;that is in place for almost all countries of this planet and also for India. In that respect, we did not change our travel advisory when it comes to India.

WION:&nbsp;Is your government planning any evacuations for&nbsp;embassy officials?&nbsp; 
Dr Ralf Heckner: The foreign minister was very clear right at the beginning of the crisis that missions abroad have to remain functional. They have to work, and&nbsp;move on, and do their business. For that reason, the transferrable staff remains abroad and that is the policy that remains up to today.

We have all the staff members here in Delhi, transferrable staff members in Mumbai and Bangalore, who will stay in India.&nbsp;When it comes to the situation of my embassy and consular generals in Mumbai, there is the swiss business hub in Mumbai, the CG in Bangalore. We had to evacuate a transferrable staff member from Banglore to Switzerland because of COVID, two weeks ago.

When it comes to the situation here in the embassy, I have a number of local staff members who are ill in different stages of COVID. Luckily, no severe case has been reported yet.

Our covid measures are strict from the beginning.&nbsp;I arrived in September and have always kept very strict covid measures here at the embassy and that was the right decision. In early March I felt&nbsp;some of my staff members wanted to go back to normal and tried putting some pressure on me to change our covid mitigation measures, and I made it clear at the start of March that it was not the time to let down our guard. That situation in India reminds me of the situation of last summer in Europe. In October, with the cold coming in Europe, we had the start of a big wave in Europe and Switzerland. So, we remain very cautious and prudent when it comes to covid here at the embassy, in Banglore and Mumbai.&nbsp;

WION: US has announced support for vaccine intellectual property right wavier. What is the Swiss government's stance? 
Dr&nbsp;Ralf Heckner: With the decision of the US government, we have a new situation and that means that the Swiss government is assessing the new situation, and based on that we will take a position. So, I am aware this is happening now in Bern, and let us wait and see what the outcome will be.

Switzerland, on Thursday, joined the league of countries that are extending assistance to India by sending 600 oxygen concentrators and 50 respirators worth $3.3 million approx.

Switzerland, on Thursday, joined the league of countries that are extending assistance to India by sending 600 oxygen concentrators and 50 respirators worth $3.3 million approx. The Swiss assistance comes as India battles the second wave of the covid pandemic. Speaking WION's Sidhant Sibal, Swiss Ambassador to India Dr Ralf Heckner said, "It is good to see not only the swiss government and the swiss people but also the Swiss private sector are stepping up. Lots of solidarity coming from Switzerland to India." Nearly 40 Swiss companies have also come together and pledged medical relief worth over CHF 7 million for India’s fight against COVID-19. The medical relief package includes oxygen concentrators, rapid antigen test kits, ventilators, portable suction pumps and helmets with ventilation for medical staff. Also read | American civil rights activist urges Biden to give AstraZeneca vaccine to India Asked about concerns about the support reaching to various end-users, the envoy said, "In my own assessment, give the Indian government some more time to finalise the structures and processes." Talking about the covid vaccine patent wavier, Heckner said, "With the decision of the US government, we have a new situation" and he assured that the "swiss government is assessing the new situation". WION: Switzerland has sent humanitarian aid to India. If you can provide us details of the assistance? Dr Ralf Heckner: This is a huge crisis, a lot of people are suffering in India. On the other side, we see a lot of international solidarity. About 40 countries are providing relief package to India and I am happy to say Switzerland is among those countries. Last night swiss cargo flight landed in New Delhi with 13 tons of medical equipment. We had 600 oxygen concentrators onboard and 50 ventilators. Ventilators came from the stock of Swiss armed force — originally for the Swiss people. Now they are here to assist the suffering Indian population and humanitarian aid has arrived in India. I am happy this was done quickly and we handed over the goods to the Indian red cross society. Also read | Covid second wave in India a tragedy, says US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy WION: The private sector from Switzerland has also stepped in to help India. Can you give us more information on that? Dr Ralf Heckner: Indeed the private sector is part and parcel of this solidarity coming from Switzerland. You might know Switzerland is one of the most important trade and investment partners of India. There are more than 300 Swiss businesses in India, 120 Indian businesses in Switzerland and they come together under the Swiss-India chamber of commerce. My embassy, together with the Swiss business hub in Mumbai with the Swiss India chamber of commerce, coordinated the relief package from the private sector. More than 30 swiss businesses are part of the relief package. The first cargo will arrive on Saturday morning in Delhi with 100 oxygen concentrators again. It is good to see not only the swiss government and the swiss people but also the Swiss private sector are stepping up. Lots of solidarity coming from Switzerland to India. Also read | COVID-19: After backlash, Australia to send repatriation flights for stranded citizens in India WION: The Swiss Development Agency worked with Indian cities to detect covid in wastewater systems. Can you tell us about that? Dr Ralf Heckner: Last year when COVID stuck, the swiss development agency redirected programmes, projects, and funds in order to fight covid. That was also done here in India. Normally, the Swiss Development Agency in India is dealing with global warming and climate change. Last year, the Swiss development agency invested in projects that helped city authorities to detect covid early on in wastewater. It is an important early warning system for municipal authorities in order to detect covid early on — before you have people coming into hospitals. This is not only being done in India, but in swiss cities as well. Wastewater covid early detection system is very important for our policymakers at the municipal level to act early on during a covid crisis. WION: Any concerns about the end-use of humanitarian aid? Dr Ralf Heckner: First and foremost it is important how this relief effort is being done. For this relief package from Switzerland, our partner here is the Indian Red Cross Society. So, the cargo last night was handed over to the Indian Red Cross Society, and our relief goods will be dispatched and distributed through the Ministry of Health. So, my embassy is not distributing the relief items. Early in my career, I was head of the crisis management center of the Swiss federal department of foreign affairs where my job was to look after swiss citizens abroad in a crisis situation and I learned there that it needs time ahead of the beginning of the crisis to get the right structures and the right processes in place in order to be able to efficiently deal with and manage that crisis. That is exactly what I am seeing here now when it comes to the Indian government. The Indian government is setting up the right structures and the right processes when it comes to dealing with the crisis and also dispatching the incoming relief items. In my own assessment, give the Indian government some more time to finalise the structures and processes. WION: Any travel advisory for travellers coming from India? Dr Ralf Heckner: One year ago, we changed our travel advice, but it is the same for more or less all the countries of the globe. The swiss authorities are advising the locals to only travel in case of necessity. That is the travel advisory that is in place for almost all countries of this planet and also for India. In that respect, we did not change our travel advisory when it comes to India. WION: Is your government planning any evacuations for embassy officials? Dr Ralf Heckner: The foreign minister was very clear right at the beginning of the crisis that missions abroad have to remain functional. They have to work, and move on, and do their business. For that reason, the transferrable staff remains abroad and that is the policy that remains up to today. We have all the staff members here in Delhi, transferrable staff members in Mumbai and Bangalore, who will stay in India. When it comes to the situation of my embassy and consular generals in Mumbai, there is the swiss business hub in Mumbai, the CG in Bangalore. We had to evacuate a transferrable staff member from Banglore to Switzerland because of COVID, two weeks ago. When it comes to the situation here in the embassy, I have a number of local staff members who are ill in different stages of COVID. Luckily, no severe case has been reported yet. Our covid measures are strict from the beginning. I arrived in September and have always kept very strict covid measures here at the embassy and that was the right decision. In early March I felt some of my staff members wanted to go back to normal and tried putting some pressure on me to change our covid mitigation measures, and I made it clear at the start of March that it was not the time to let down our guard. That situation in India reminds me of the situation of last summer in Europe. In October, with the cold coming in Europe, we had the start of a big wave in Europe and Switzerland. So, we remain very cautious and prudent when it comes to covid here at the embassy, in Banglore and Mumbai. WION: US has announced support for vaccine intellectual property right wavier. What is the Swiss government's stance? Dr Ralf Heckner: With the decision of the US government, we have a new situation and that means that the Swiss government is assessing the new situation, and based on that we will take a position. So, I am aware this is happening now in Bern, and let us wait and see what the outcome will be.

Switzerland extends assistance to India; breaks silence on covid vaccine patent wavier

Australia’s recent decision on border closure has attracted a lot of criticism, especially on humanitarian grounds.

However, after facing backlash about the strict punishment for the people returning from India, the Australian government has decided to lift the ban and start repatriation flights for citizens stuck in India from May 15.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-australian-state-of-victoria-sends-aid-worth-31-million-to-india-383233" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Australian state of Victoria sends aid worth $31 million to India</a>

“The National Security Committee of Cabinet has confirmed that it will have done its job by then, and as a result we see no need to extend it beyond that date,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.

He also defended his decision of implementing a heavy financial penalty and jail time for anyone attempting to use a loophole in the rule by flying in from a third country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sets-yet-another-record-with-over-414000-new-covid-19-cases-death-toll-stands-at-234083-383383" hreflang="en">India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083</a>

“The order that we have put in place has been highly effective, it’s doing the job that we needed it to do, and that was to ensure that we could do everything we can to prevent a third wave of COVID-19 here in Australia,” Morrison said.

The country will send three repatriation flights to India between May 15 and May 31, which are expected to bring back nearly 900 people stuck in India during the covid crisis. The most vulnerable people will be given priority in this process, Morrison said.

Australia’s recent decision on border closure has attracted a lot of criticism, especially on humanitarian grounds. However, after facing backlash about the strict punishment for the people returning from India, the Australian government has decided to lift the ban and start repatriation flights for citizens stuck in India from May 15.

Australia’s recent decision on border closure has attracted a lot of criticism, especially on humanitarian grounds. However, after facing backlash about the strict punishment for the people returning from India, the Australian government has decided to lift the ban and start repatriation flights for citizens stuck in India from May 15. Also read | Coronavirus in India: Australian state of Victoria sends aid worth $31 million to India “The National Security Committee of Cabinet has confirmed that it will have done its job by then, and as a result we see no need to extend it beyond that date,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. He also defended his decision of implementing a heavy financial penalty and jail time for anyone attempting to use a loophole in the rule by flying in from a third country. Also read | India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083 “The order that we have put in place has been highly effective, it’s doing the job that we needed it to do, and that was to ensure that we could do everything we can to prevent a third wave of COVID-19 here in Australia,” Morrison said. The country will send three repatriation flights to India between May 15 and May 31, which are expected to bring back nearly 900 people stuck in India during the covid crisis. The most vulnerable people will be given priority in this process, Morrison said.

COVID-19: After backlash, Australia to send repatriation flights for stranded citizens in India

The second wave of COVID-19 in India is a tragedy, US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy has said, underlining the need for countries to help each other during the crisis.

"If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it's that we need each other to get through this pandemic."

"As a world, we need each other in terms of countries to step up to help make sure that the world has an adequate supply of vaccine, to ensure people have treatments available, supply of PPE because the threat of COVID in any part of the world is ultimately a threat to every country," Indian-American Murthy told a news channel in an interview.

To a question on the current Covid crisis in India and if the US might face a similar situation, Murthy hoped that it never happens.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083">India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083</a>

"But it is always a possibility and that we have to be mindful of. And I'm cautiously optimistic that we will do well in this country, especially if we keep up our efforts at the vaccination campaign,&nbsp;he said on Thursday.

"What's happening in India is a tragedy. And India has two challenges or has many challenges, but in terms of their variants, it has to B117 variant, which is the predominant one circulating here, which we know is at least 50 per cent or more contagious than the variant we were dealing with last year in the US,&nbsp;Murthy said.

The 617 variant of the deadly virus may or may not be more transmissible, he said, adding that doctors are still trying to understand it.

"It's just what they do. But they can't mutate, if they're not spreading, if they're not replicating within people. That's why we got to work hard. Just remember, this is not an effort that one person can take care of on their own or one country on its own," said the Indian-American surgeon general.&nbsp;

The second wave of COVID-19 in India is a tragedy, US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy has said, underlining the need for countries to help each other during the crisis.

The second wave of COVID-19 in India is a tragedy, US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy has said, underlining the need for countries to help each other during the crisis. "If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it's that we need each other to get through this pandemic." "As a world, we need each other in terms of countries to step up to help make sure that the world has an adequate supply of vaccine, to ensure people have treatments available, supply of PPE because the threat of COVID in any part of the world is ultimately a threat to every country," Indian-American Murthy told a news channel in an interview. To a question on the current Covid crisis in India and if the US might face a similar situation, Murthy hoped that it never happens. Also read: India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083 "But it is always a possibility and that we have to be mindful of. And I'm cautiously optimistic that we will do well in this country, especially if we keep up our efforts at the vaccination campaign, he said on Thursday. "What's happening in India is a tragedy. And India has two challenges or has many challenges, but in terms of their variants, it has to B117 variant, which is the predominant one circulating here, which we know is at least 50 per cent or more contagious than the variant we were dealing with last year in the US, Murthy said. The 617 variant of the deadly virus may or may not be more transmissible, he said, adding that doctors are still trying to understand it. "It's just what they do. But they can't mutate, if they're not spreading, if they're not replicating within people. That's why we got to work hard. Just remember, this is not an effort that one person can take care of on their own or one country on its own," said the Indian-American surgeon general.

Covid second wave in India a tragedy, says US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy

Amid a massive surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>cases, the southern Indian state of Kerala on Thursday announced a complete lockdown from May 8.&nbsp;

The decision comes as Kerala on Wednesday recorded nearly 42,000 infections, the state's highest single-day cases so far.&nbsp;

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said that the lockdown will be imposed in the state from May 8 at 6 am and will remain in place to May 16, as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-high-court-asks-centre-why-it-should-not-face-contempt-for-failing-to-supply-oxygen-383121/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Vijayan had on Wednesday hinted at tightening restrictions as he expressed concerns over a "very serious situation".&nbsp;

"The state is going through a very serious situation and Covid is spreading rapidly. All figures are increasing and the test positivity rate is not reducing either. In these circumstances, we need to strengthen the restrictions," Vijayan was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. &nbsp;

The chief minister also said that as cases are rising, the oxygen stock is decreasing "very rapidly," urging the central government to address the issue.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/experts-make-dire-projections-amid-second-covid-wave-as-india-faces-medical-shortages-383084">Experts make dire projections amid second Covid wave as India faces medical shortages</a>

"In this scenario, we need the Centre's help in maintaining adequate stock of oxygen. I have requested the prime minister to provide 1,000 MT of imported liquefied medical oxygen to the state," Vijayan said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India on Thursday witnessed another grim milestone with a daily record of 412,262 new infections.

With 3,980 fresh fatalities, India's death toll stands at 230,168.&nbsp;

Amid a massive surge in coronavirus cases, the southern Indian state of Kerala on Thursday announced a complete lockdown from May 8. The decision comes as Kerala on Wednesday recorded nearly 42,000 infections, the state's highest single-day cases so far.

Amid a massive surge in coronavirus cases, the southern Indian state of Kerala on Thursday announced a complete lockdown from May 8. The decision comes as Kerala on Wednesday recorded nearly 42,000 infections, the state's highest single-day cases so far. Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan said that the lockdown will be imposed in the state from May 8 at 6 am and will remain in place to May 16, as reported by news agency ANI. Watch | Vijayan had on Wednesday hinted at tightening restrictions as he expressed concerns over a "very serious situation". "The state is going through a very serious situation and Covid is spreading rapidly. All figures are increasing and the test positivity rate is not reducing either. In these circumstances, we need to strengthen the restrictions," Vijayan was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The chief minister also said that as cases are rising, the oxygen stock is decreasing "very rapidly," urging the central government to address the issue. Also read | Experts make dire projections amid second Covid wave as India faces medical shortages "In this scenario, we need the Centre's help in maintaining adequate stock of oxygen. I have requested the prime minister to provide 1,000 MT of imported liquefied medical oxygen to the state," Vijayan said. Meanwhile, India on Thursday witnessed another grim milestone with a daily record of 412,262 new infections. With 3,980 fresh fatalities, India's death toll stands at 230,168.

COVID-19 in India: Southern state of Kerala announces complete lockdown

As India struggles with a deadly second wave, the government's principal scientific advisor has said that a third wave is inevitable.

It's hard to imagine a situation worse than the one India is currently suffering. In the last week, 46 per cent of all global cases were recorded from India including 25 per cent of all deaths which is an increase of 20 per cent compared to the previous week.

India's caseload hasn't been reducing for two weeks with more than 300,000 new cases added every day. In the last 24 hours, over 382,000 tests came back positive and around the same number of people have recovered with more than 338,000 people discharged from hospitals.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-covid-surge-a-third-wave-is-inevitable-383081">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-covid-surge-a-third-wave-is-inevitable-383081/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least 17 million people have recovered since last year. India now has around 3.5 million active cases and the highest single-day death toll so far - 3,780 deaths reported on Tuesday.

A third wave is inevitable, K Vijay Raghavan, principal scientific advisor to the government of India has warned. Raghavan has made three big statements.

Firstly, "a third wave is inevitable" because the virus is circulating at a high level and as it continues to mutate and evolve, it leaves the door open for a third wave.

K Vijay Raghavan said it is not clear when India will see the third wave but added that the country should still prepare for it.

Secondly, vaccines are still effective against the variants in circulation right now, so getting a jab is important. Also, watch out for the mutations, Raghavan added, which is a new challenge. The virus will keep mutating and there will be variants of all kinds - strong and weak.&nbsp;India needs to map and study them.

So as India prepares for an uncertain future, it must also deal with a grim present.

The challenges seem endless. Black marketing of drugs has begun on a large scale as cases have exploded and supplies have run out. From oxygen supplies to Remdesivir injections, everything is being sold in black at elevated prices.

As people run from pillar to post to arrange beds, VVIPS remain lodged in hospitals just for fever. A major government hospital in Delhi didn't admit members of its own staff after doctors and nurses tested positive despite having 35 VIP nursing home rooms.

Even after a month into the second wave, India is struggling to ensure a steady supply to hospitals.&nbsp;

The desperate are turning to the black market and only the rich can afford it. One oxygen cylinder usually costs anywhere between $81 to $135 in the black market, that is 6,000 to 10,000 rupees. Going by one estimate, the same cylinder is now being sold for as much as $1,300, that's 100,000 Indian rupees.

These horror stories are not limited to India. Greed and corruption are not unique to any country. In Indonesia, a company recycled used cotton swabs for Wuhan virus tests. Last week,&nbsp;&nbsp;five workers of the firm were arrested.

They had acquired used swabs and washed and re-packed them. These swabs were later shipped off to the third largest airport in Indonesia. Reports say it could have affected 9,000 travellers since December.

As India struggles with a deadly second wave, the government's principal scientific advisor has said that a third wave is inevitable. It's hard to imagine a situation worse than the one India is currently suffering.

As India struggles with a deadly second wave, the government's principal scientific advisor has said that a third wave is inevitable. It's hard to imagine a situation worse than the one India is currently suffering. In the last week, 46 per cent of all global cases were recorded from India including 25 per cent of all deaths which is an increase of 20 per cent compared to the previous week. India's caseload hasn't been reducing for two weeks with more than 300,000 new cases added every day. In the last 24 hours, over 382,000 tests came back positive and around the same number of people have recovered with more than 338,000 people discharged from hospitals. Watch | At least 17 million people have recovered since last year. India now has around 3.5 million active cases and the highest single-day death toll so far - 3,780 deaths reported on Tuesday. A third wave is inevitable, K Vijay Raghavan, principal scientific advisor to the government of India has warned. Raghavan has made three big statements. Firstly, "a third wave is inevitable" because the virus is circulating at a high level and as it continues to mutate and evolve, it leaves the door open for a third wave. K Vijay Raghavan said it is not clear when India will see the third wave but added that the country should still prepare for it. Secondly, vaccines are still effective against the variants in circulation right now, so getting a jab is important. Also, watch out for the mutations, Raghavan added, which is a new challenge. The virus will keep mutating and there will be variants of all kinds - strong and weak. India needs to map and study them. So as India prepares for an uncertain future, it must also deal with a grim present. The challenges seem endless. Black marketing of drugs has begun on a large scale as cases have exploded and supplies have run out. From oxygen supplies to Remdesivir injections, everything is being sold in black at elevated prices. As people run from pillar to post to arrange beds, VVIPS remain lodged in hospitals just for fever. A major government hospital in Delhi didn't admit members of its own staff after doctors and nurses tested positive despite having 35 VIP nursing home rooms. Even after a month into the second wave, India is struggling to ensure a steady supply to hospitals. The desperate are turning to the black market and only the rich can afford it. One oxygen cylinder usually costs anywhere between $81 to $135 in the black market, that is 6,000 to 10,000 rupees. Going by one estimate, the same cylinder is now being sold for as much as $1,300, that's 100,000 Indian rupees. These horror stories are not limited to India. Greed and corruption are not unique to any country. In Indonesia, a company recycled used cotton swabs for Wuhan virus tests. Last week, five workers of the firm were arrested. They had acquired used swabs and washed and re-packed them. These swabs were later shipped off to the third largest airport in Indonesia. Reports say it could have affected 9,000 travellers since December.

As India battles second wave, third wave is inevitable, says government expert

Kamal Haasan’s fledgeling political party Makkal Needhi Maiam is witnessing the mass resignation of its top rung leaders after the party faced a severe rout in their maiden Assembly Elections in Tamil Nadu. The developments came to light after the party’s Central Governing Body(CGB) met at their headquarters in Chennai on Thursday evening.&nbsp;

WION has learnt that Haasan had asked members of his party’s Central Governing body to tender their resignations from the respective posts they held(not from the primary membership of the party), following which they obliged. This was ostensibly done because Haasan wanted to do some” soul-searching and make fundamental changes in the party”, after drawing a blank. &nbsp;

“He demanded the resignation and we complied. I think it is because of the defeat and the President decides to look into who is required in the Central governing body. He lost by a small margin, but he did win hearts. It was a wrong constituency selection, had he contested anywhere in Chennai he would’ve won hands down” CK Kumaravel a top entrepreneur, who was asked to resign from the CGB told Zee media.

Shortly after the meeting ended, Kamal’s party issued a statement saying that CGB members Dr R. Mahendran, Muruganandam, Maurya, Thangavelu, Umadevi, CK Kumaravel, Sekar and Suresh Iyer. However, it also added that Kamal Haasan himself would decide on accepting these resignations and the further course of action.&nbsp;

Among those who resigned is Dr R. Mahendran, who served as the Vice President of the fledgeling party. However, unlike the others, Mahendran himself had tendered his resignation (both from the VP post and primary membership) to Kamal Haasan. He also shared with the media, an 8-page letter he had written to Kamal Haasan, outlining the reasons for his decision to quit and a single-page letter written to the party cadre.&nbsp;

Mahendran’s letter to Haasan said that the actor had a non-democratic style of running the party and that Kamal had favoured some advisors and consultants whose services did not benefit the party in any manner. It alleges that Kamal’s party was being pushed to function as a fan club and that the veteran actor was being “managed and manipulated” by his advisors. “I had lost all hope for any semblance of change in how the party is being run over the past one and a half years” Mahendran had written, urging Kamal Haasan to look back at their journey.&nbsp;

“There was no discussion with the Governing body or EC after the poll rout, neither was any planned, but today Haasan comes and says that “this is my party” when the other members pleaded that this was our party. Stating the so-called restructuring of the party, he’s asked the others to resign, whereas I had prepared myself to leave the party, over the last month. It’s reactionary, this is the style of functioning I knew that he will continue to have.” Mahendran told Zee Media. Mahendran believes that if his exit changes the party, then it is his biggest service to the party.&nbsp;

A while after Mahendran’s statement was released, Kamal Haasan shared a statement accusing Mahendran of being a betrayer, who did not let others grow and as someone who was trying to pin the blame of his incompetence and dishonesty on others. “There was a collective voice asking for the ouster of betrayers. The first among the list of betrayers were Dr.R. Mahendran” the statement said, without elaborating any further.&nbsp;

Kamal Haasan’s fledgeling political party Makkal Needhi Maiam is witnessing the mass resignation of its top rung leaders after the party faced a severe rout in their maiden Assembly Elections in Tamil Nadu.

Kamal Haasan’s fledgeling political party Makkal Needhi Maiam is witnessing the mass resignation of its top rung leaders after the party faced a severe rout in their maiden Assembly Elections in Tamil Nadu. The developments came to light after the party’s Central Governing Body(CGB) met at their headquarters in Chennai on Thursday evening. WION has learnt that Haasan had asked members of his party’s Central Governing body to tender their resignations from the respective posts they held(not from the primary membership of the party), following which they obliged. This was ostensibly done because Haasan wanted to do some” soul-searching and make fundamental changes in the party”, after drawing a blank. “He demanded the resignation and we complied. I think it is because of the defeat and the President decides to look into who is required in the Central governing body. He lost by a small margin, but he did win hearts. It was a wrong constituency selection, had he contested anywhere in Chennai he would’ve won hands down” CK Kumaravel a top entrepreneur, who was asked to resign from the CGB told Zee media. Shortly after the meeting ended, Kamal’s party issued a statement saying that CGB members Dr R. Mahendran, Muruganandam, Maurya, Thangavelu, Umadevi, CK Kumaravel, Sekar and Suresh Iyer. However, it also added that Kamal Haasan himself would decide on accepting these resignations and the further course of action. Among those who resigned is Dr R. Mahendran, who served as the Vice President of the fledgeling party. However, unlike the others, Mahendran himself had tendered his resignation (both from the VP post and primary membership) to Kamal Haasan. He also shared with the media, an 8-page letter he had written to Kamal Haasan, outlining the reasons for his decision to quit and a single-page letter written to the party cadre. Mahendran’s letter to Haasan said that the actor had a non-democratic style of running the party and that Kamal had favoured some advisors and consultants whose services did not benefit the party in any manner. It alleges that Kamal’s party was being pushed to function as a fan club and that the veteran actor was being “managed and manipulated” by his advisors. “I had lost all hope for any semblance of change in how the party is being run over the past one and a half years” Mahendran had written, urging Kamal Haasan to look back at their journey. “There was no discussion with the Governing body or EC after the poll rout, neither was any planned, but today Haasan comes and says that “this is my party” when the other members pleaded that this was our party. Stating the so-called restructuring of the party, he’s asked the others to resign, whereas I had prepared myself to leave the party, over the last month. It’s reactionary, this is the style of functioning I knew that he will continue to have.” Mahendran told Zee Media. Mahendran believes that if his exit changes the party, then it is his biggest service to the party. A while after Mahendran’s statement was released, Kamal Haasan shared a statement accusing Mahendran of being a betrayer, who did not let others grow and as someone who was trying to pin the blame of his incompetence and dishonesty on others. “There was a collective voice asking for the ouster of betrayers. The first among the list of betrayers were Dr.R. Mahendran” the statement said, without elaborating any further.

Kamal Haasan’s political party Makkal Needhi Maiam crumbles, sees multiple resignations

India has been facing shortages in its battle against coronavirus despite aid flowing in from all over the world.&nbsp;

For two weeks now, countries across the globe have been delivering assistance packages to India - oxygen concentrators, medicines, testing kits, masks and even ventilators.

However, patients have been dying in hospitals because of oxygen supplies. Social media is flooded with SOS calls for drugs and injections.

Indian courts have come down heavily on the political leadership. India's second wave has been relentless.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-shortages-continue-in-india-despite-foreign-aid-383077">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-shortages-continue-in-india-despite-foreign-aid-383077/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As the steep graph moves up, the shortages have cut deeper with hospitals and doctors stretched beyond limits.

A doctor in Delhi compared the situation to an earthquake. He said governments need to go beyond just supplying oxygen. The sudden onslaught of cases has left Indian hospitals gasping for breath.

Dozens of countries have pledged assistance to India.

Military planes filled with ventilators, oxygen supplies and anti-viral drugs have been rushed to New Delhi but the big question is whether the lifesaving consignments have reached&nbsp;those who need them.

Governments have been fighting for supplies in courts as&nbsp;judges have pulled up leaders.

On Tuesday, the Delhi High Court asked the central government why it shouldn't be sued for contempt over the supply of oxygen.

The court said: "While we are going on with the hearing there are several hospitals and nursing homes saying they are not getting oxygen, where do you think all that oxygen is going if it's sufficient? are you living in ivory towers?"

On Wednesday, the matter reached India's Supreme Court.

The top court stayed the contempt order of the Delhi High Court. It asked the central government to present a plan to ensure Delhi gets its share of oxygen.&nbsp;

The court's observations were sharp: "Between the centre and state, putting officers in jail or hauling them up for contempt, the people of Delhi won't get oxygen".

Similar hearings took place at the Allahabad High Court.

The court took up the matter suo motu after the death of patients in Lucknow and Meerut due to the lack of oxygen.

The judges said those responsible for supplying oxygen to hospitals are committing a criminal act and it amounts to genocide.

Also, questions are being raised outside India.

Last week, the US State Department was asked if it was tracking the aid it had sent to India.

A reporter said there should be accountability for the "US taxpayers' money", Washington replied it was doing its best to make sure India's needs are taken care of during the crisis.

Some answers came from the government of India this week. It said a cell within the health ministry is responsible for coordinating the receipt and allocation of relief material with nearly four million items donated across 24 categories which&nbsp;have been sent to 38 healthcare facilities across India.

However, it's not enough. India has been adding more than 300,000 cases every day. It needs more supplies and fast.

Meanwhile, experts both in India and abroad have been making dire projections.

A team at the Indian Institute of Science said&nbsp;India could see more than 400,000 deaths by June, if cases continue to rise at the same pace.

Experts at the University of Washington predicted even worse - their model forecasts more than a million deaths by July, if the present surge is not crushed.

India has been facing shortages in its battle against coronavirus despite aid flowing in from all over the world. For two weeks now, countries across the globe have been delivering assistance packages to India - oxygen concentrators, medicines, testing kits, masks and even ventilators.

India has been facing shortages in its battle against coronavirus despite aid flowing in from all over the world. For two weeks now, countries across the globe have been delivering assistance packages to India - oxygen concentrators, medicines, testing kits, masks and even ventilators. However, patients have been dying in hospitals because of oxygen supplies. Social media is flooded with SOS calls for drugs and injections. Indian courts have come down heavily on the political leadership. India's second wave has been relentless. Watch | As the steep graph moves up, the shortages have cut deeper with hospitals and doctors stretched beyond limits. A doctor in Delhi compared the situation to an earthquake. He said governments need to go beyond just supplying oxygen. The sudden onslaught of cases has left Indian hospitals gasping for breath. Dozens of countries have pledged assistance to India. Military planes filled with ventilators, oxygen supplies and anti-viral drugs have been rushed to New Delhi but the big question is whether the lifesaving consignments have reached those who need them. Governments have been fighting for supplies in courts as judges have pulled up leaders. On Tuesday, the Delhi High Court asked the central government why it shouldn't be sued for contempt over the supply of oxygen. The court said: "While we are going on with the hearing there are several hospitals and nursing homes saying they are not getting oxygen, where do you think all that oxygen is going if it's sufficient? are you living in ivory towers?" On Wednesday, the matter reached India's Supreme Court. The top court stayed the contempt order of the Delhi High Court. It asked the central government to present a plan to ensure Delhi gets its share of oxygen. The court's observations were sharp: "Between the centre and state, putting officers in jail or hauling them up for contempt, the people of Delhi won't get oxygen". Similar hearings took place at the Allahabad High Court. The court took up the matter suo motu after the death of patients in Lucknow and Meerut due to the lack of oxygen. The judges said those responsible for supplying oxygen to hospitals are committing a criminal act and it amounts to genocide. Also, questions are being raised outside India. Last week, the US State Department was asked if it was tracking the aid it had sent to India. A reporter said there should be accountability for the "US taxpayers' money", Washington replied it was doing its best to make sure India's needs are taken care of during the crisis. Some answers came from the government of India this week. It said a cell within the health ministry is responsible for coordinating the receipt and allocation of relief material with nearly four million items donated across 24 categories which have been sent to 38 healthcare facilities across India. However, it's not enough. India has been adding more than 300,000 cases every day. It needs more supplies and fast. Meanwhile, experts both in India and abroad have been making dire projections. A team at the Indian Institute of Science said India could see more than 400,000 deaths by June, if cases continue to rise at the same pace. Experts at the University of Washington predicted even worse - their model forecasts more than a million deaths by July, if the present surge is not crushed.

Experts make dire projections amid second Covid wave as India faces medical shortages

The&nbsp;European&nbsp;Commission said&nbsp;that efforts to win approval for the EU's massive investment deal with China were effectively "suspended" given the soured diplomatic relations between both sides after tit-for-tat sanctions.

"We now in a sense have&nbsp;suspended... political outreach activities from the&nbsp;European&nbsp;Commission side," EU Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis said&nbsp;in an interview.

"It's clear in the current situation with the EU sanctions in place against China and Chinese counter-sanctions in place, including against members of&nbsp;European&nbsp;Parliament (that) the environment is not conducive for ratification of the agreement," Dombrovskis said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-eu-choses-india-over-china-for-free-trade-383089">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-eu-choses-india-over-china-for-free-trade-383089/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

To the surprise of many, the&nbsp;European&nbsp;Union&nbsp;and China in late December approved a major investment pact, wrapping up seven years of painstaking negotiations thanks to a final push by Germany.

The pact has been defended as a much-needed opening to China's long-closed economy for&nbsp;European&nbsp;companies, but was sure to face a difficult ratification amongst the 27 member states as well as the&nbsp;European&nbsp;Parliament.

Dombrovskis, a former Latvian prime minister, is in charge of spearheading that approval process in the EU, which has already met with pushback from key MEPs.

The&nbsp;European&nbsp;Union&nbsp;sanctioned four Chinese officials&nbsp;in March over suspected human rights violations in China's Xinjiang.

China responded by imposing its own sanctions against&nbsp;European&nbsp;politicians, scholars and research groups.

India and&nbsp;the European Union have long held conversations on ways to enhance trade.

A free-trade pact was discussed in 2013&nbsp;but the talks were put on hold due to&nbsp;disagreements on technical issues like tariffs, patents and data security.

Now the two sides are looking to settle these differences. This Saturday, a&nbsp;summit will be held between EU leaders and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The aim will be to revive the stalled discussions.

According to a draft summit statement, The two sides plan to resume&nbsp;negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial trade agreement.

''We emphasise our commitment to free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region space, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity, sovereignty, democracy and rule of law,'' it added.

The European Commission said that efforts to win approval for the EU's massive investment deal with China were effectively "suspended" given the soured diplomatic relations between both sides after tit-for-tat sanctions.

The European Commission said that efforts to win approval for the EU's massive investment deal with China were effectively "suspended" given the soured diplomatic relations between both sides after tit-for-tat sanctions. "We now in a sense have suspended... political outreach activities from the European Commission side," EU Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis said in an interview. "It's clear in the current situation with the EU sanctions in place against China and Chinese counter-sanctions in place, including against members of European Parliament (that) the environment is not conducive for ratification of the agreement," Dombrovskis said. Watch | To the surprise of many, the European Union and China in late December approved a major investment pact, wrapping up seven years of painstaking negotiations thanks to a final push by Germany. The pact has been defended as a much-needed opening to China's long-closed economy for European companies, but was sure to face a difficult ratification amongst the 27 member states as well as the European Parliament. Dombrovskis, a former Latvian prime minister, is in charge of spearheading that approval process in the EU, which has already met with pushback from key MEPs. The European Union sanctioned four Chinese officials in March over suspected human rights violations in China's Xinjiang. China responded by imposing its own sanctions against European politicians, scholars and research groups. India and the European Union have long held conversations on ways to enhance trade. A free-trade pact was discussed in 2013 but the talks were put on hold due to disagreements on technical issues like tariffs, patents and data security. Now the two sides are looking to settle these differences. This Saturday, a summit will be held between EU leaders and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The aim will be to revive the stalled discussions. According to a draft summit statement, The two sides plan to resume negotiations for a balanced, ambitious, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial trade agreement. ''We emphasise our commitment to free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region space, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity, sovereignty, democracy and rule of law,'' it added.

How will India benefit from EU's ratification of China investment deal?

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines.

In the United States, if you received a single shot Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine, you’re a one-doser. If you received Moderna, you part of the middle class. And if you got the Pfizer shots, you are the real deal - a double-dosed Pfizer elite, as evident on social media. In memes across social media, Pfizer is made to look like the rich man's jab. One user called it decadent and luxurious. Of course, this is all hogwash. The best vaccine is the vaccine you get.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pfizers-bumper-profit-from-vaccine-sales-383086">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pfizers-bumper-profit-from-vaccine-sales-383086/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

How did Pfizer build&nbsp;this brand?

Pfizer is a pharmaceutical&nbsp;veteran and the company was founded way back in 1849. Almost a century later, they had their biggest breakthrough. They successfully mass-produced penicillin. Today, they are among the leading pharmaceutical&nbsp; giants in the world. Last year, they reported $9.6 billion in profits, way before the vaccine rollout.

Pfizer's first quarter report logged&nbsp;$3.5 billion in revenue. Nearly a quarter of all revenue came from the jabs. Pfizer didn't actually publish profit data, but said that it would be in the high 20 per cent range, around $900 million in three months pre-tax.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/canada-becomes-first-country-to-authorise-pfizer-covid-vaccine-for-kids-age-12-and-up-383033" hreflang="en">Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up</a>

So Pfizer is saving lives and getting rich doing it. But who is Pfizer selling to? Apparently, the world's rich. They are planning to produce 2.5 billion doses this year out of which only 40 million will go to Covax, just 2 per cent of their total output. In contrast, the much smaller Moderna are giving 500 million.

Pfizer is earning money by selling to the rich and by signing opaque deals with different price tags in each country. Some reports say the US is paying $19.5 per dose while Israel is paying $30.

What about India?

Pfizer is watching India closely. They recently donated medicines worth $70 million to India. It is being called Pfizer's largest humanitarian effort in history, and the company is in talks with the Indian government to seek speedy approval of vaccines.

Pfizer was the first to seek emergency approval for its vaccine in India last year. But in February, they pulled out. India wanted a small local safety trial but Pfizer was unwilling.

During the ongoing second wave, India continues to face vaccine shortages so regulations were relaxed. All foreign jabs approved by major regulators were fast-tracked with one condition: They had to organise a domestic trial within 30 days of approval.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/business-economy/pfizer-raises-2021-sales-forecast-for-covid-vaccines-to-26-billion-382891" hreflang="en">Pfizer raises 2021 sales forecast for Covid vaccines to $26 billion</a>

A Pfizer spokesperson was asked whether the company had sought a waiver for domestic trials. She replied that Pfizer's application was backed by overseas trial data and added that the jab was already endorsed by all major regulators.

Assuming the jab is cleared, two worries still remain - cost and storage. Pfizer has promised to deliver its vaccine at low cost to India. Pfizer jabs are stored at minus 70 degree celsius and India does not have the infrastructure for this.

The company says they could deliver the shots in specially designed containers right to the vaccination centres. And the shelf life of Pfizer vaccines can be extended by days through dry ice. So if and when the Pfizer jabs arrive, they will have to fly off the shelves. It would be much easier if Pfizer shared their formulas with Indian producers but they are big on patents.

Pfizer successfully mass-produced penicillin during World War 2. Thousands of allied soldiers lived because of Pfizer. Today, that same company is making millions from a crisis and&nbsp;India is Pfizer's shot at redemption.

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines.

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines. In the United States, if you received a single shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you’re a one-doser. If you received Moderna, you part of the middle class. And if you got the Pfizer shots, you are the real deal - a double-dosed Pfizer elite, as evident on social media. In memes across social media, Pfizer is made to look like the rich man's jab. One user called it decadent and luxurious. Of course, this is all hogwash. The best vaccine is the vaccine you get. Watch | How did Pfizer build this brand? Pfizer is a pharmaceutical veteran and the company was founded way back in 1849. Almost a century later, they had their biggest breakthrough. They successfully mass-produced penicillin. Today, they are among the leading pharmaceutical giants in the world. Last year, they reported $9.6 billion in profits, way before the vaccine rollout. Pfizer's first quarter report logged $3.5 billion in revenue. Nearly a quarter of all revenue came from the jabs. Pfizer didn't actually publish profit data, but said that it would be in the high 20 per cent range, around $900 million in three months pre-tax. Also read: Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up So Pfizer is saving lives and getting rich doing it. But who is Pfizer selling to? Apparently, the world's rich. They are planning to produce 2.5 billion doses this year out of which only 40 million will go to Covax, just 2 per cent of their total output. In contrast, the much smaller Moderna are giving 500 million. Pfizer is earning money by selling to the rich and by signing opaque deals with different price tags in each country. Some reports say the US is paying $19.5 per dose while Israel is paying $30. What about India? Pfizer is watching India closely. They recently donated medicines worth $70 million to India. It is being called Pfizer's largest humanitarian effort in history, and the company is in talks with the Indian government to seek speedy approval of vaccines. Pfizer was the first to seek emergency approval for its vaccine in India last year. But in February, they pulled out. India wanted a small local safety trial but Pfizer was unwilling. During the ongoing second wave, India continues to face vaccine shortages so regulations were relaxed. All foreign jabs approved by major regulators were fast-tracked with one condition: They had to organise a domestic trial within 30 days of approval. Also read: Pfizer raises 2021 sales forecast for Covid vaccines to $26 billion A Pfizer spokesperson was asked whether the company had sought a waiver for domestic trials. She replied that Pfizer's application was backed by overseas trial data and added that the jab was already endorsed by all major regulators. Assuming the jab is cleared, two worries still remain - cost and storage. Pfizer has promised to deliver its vaccine at low cost to India. Pfizer jabs are stored at minus 70 degree celsius and India does not have the infrastructure for this. The company says they could deliver the shots in specially designed containers right to the vaccination centres. And the shelf life of Pfizer vaccines can be extended by days through dry ice. So if and when the Pfizer jabs arrive, they will have to fly off the shelves. It would be much easier if Pfizer shared their formulas with Indian producers but they are big on patents. Pfizer successfully mass-produced penicillin during World War 2. Thousands of allied soldiers lived because of Pfizer. Today, that same company is making millions from a crisis and India is Pfizer's shot at redemption.

COVID-19: Why India is Pfizer's shot at redemption

With 412,262 fresh cases and 3,980 deaths in the last 24 hours, India on Thursday recorded maximum fresh cases and fatalities in a day, another grim record, taking the total caseload in the country to 21,077,410, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

Not only has it been 15 straight days with India recording more than three lakh cases but also the second time after May 1 records saw it breaching the four-lakh margin in a day. Casualties are now closer to the 4,000 mark after nine days straight of over 3,000 deaths every day.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-establishes-covid-hospital-in-kashmir-383098" hreflang="en">Indian army establishes COVID hospital in Kashmir</a>

On Wednesday, India recorded 3,780 fatalities due to Covid infection. On May 1, India has recorded 401,993 cases of Covid in 24 hours.

India now has 3,566,398 active cases and reported 230,168 deaths so far.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/experts-make-dire-projections-amid-second-covid-wave-as-india-faces-medical-shortages-383084" hreflang="en">Experts make dire projections amid second Covid wave as India faces medical shortages</a>

According to MoHFW, a total of 329,113 people have been discharged in the last 24 hours after getting cured.

The health ministry said that a total of 162,513,339 people have been vaccinated so far in the country, including 1,955,733, who were administered vaccines in the last 24 hours.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 296,775,209 samples have been tested up to Wednesday (May 5) for COVID-19, of these 1,923,131 samples were tested on Wednesday.

On Wednesday, reeling under the second wave of Covid, Karnataka saw new cases breach the 50,000 mark, including 23,106 in Bengaluru.

Similarly, Kerala recorded 41,953 cases in the last 24 hours.

With 412,262 fresh cases and 3,980 deaths in the last 24 hours, India on Thursday recorded maximum fresh cases and fatalities in a day, another grim record, taking the total caseload in the country to 21,077,410, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

With 412,262 fresh cases and 3,980 deaths in the last 24 hours, India on Thursday recorded maximum fresh cases and fatalities in a day, another grim record, taking the total caseload in the country to 21,077,410, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. Not only has it been 15 straight days with India recording more than three lakh cases but also the second time after May 1 records saw it breaching the four-lakh margin in a day. Casualties are now closer to the 4,000 mark after nine days straight of over 3,000 deaths every day. Also read | Indian army establishes COVID hospital in Kashmir On Wednesday, India recorded 3,780 fatalities due to Covid infection. On May 1, India has recorded 401,993 cases of Covid in 24 hours. India now has 3,566,398 active cases and reported 230,168 deaths so far. Also read | Experts make dire projections amid second Covid wave as India faces medical shortages According to MoHFW, a total of 329,113 people have been discharged in the last 24 hours after getting cured. The health ministry said that a total of 162,513,339 people have been vaccinated so far in the country, including 1,955,733, who were administered vaccines in the last 24 hours. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 296,775,209 samples have been tested up to Wednesday (May 5) for COVID-19, of these 1,923,131 samples were tested on Wednesday. On Wednesday, reeling under the second wave of Covid, Karnataka saw new cases breach the 50,000 mark, including 23,106 in Bengaluru. Similarly, Kerala recorded 41,953 cases in the last 24 hours.

COVID-19: India registers record 412,262 new cases, over 300,000 cases recover

The Delhi High Court directed the Centre government to show cause why contempt not be initiated against it for failing to comply with order on supply of oxygen to the state for treating COVID-19 patients.

Delhi High Court asks Centre why it should not face contempt for failing to supply oxygen

Guwahati, May 6 (IANS) Commercial operations in Rupsi airport, northeast India`s 15th airport and Assam`s 7th, would start from Saturday, officials said on Thursday.
 
An Airport Authority of India (AAI) official said that a trial flight was conducted on the Guwahati-Rupsi-Guwahati route by private Flybig airlines on Wednesday. 
"The trial run was completed timely and safely with extended support from the state government and agencies concerned. The flight is scheduled to operate on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Booking for this route has been opened by Flybig airlines," the AAI official said. 
The airport in Assam`s Kokrajhar district has been developed at a cost of Rs 69 crore under the Regional Connectivity Scheme-Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (RCS-UDAN) scheme. 
"The airport is one of India`s newest in RCS route which would cater local population providing direct connectivity to cities like Guwahati and Kolkata," the official said. 
Spread across 337 acres, the newly-developed airport has a terminal building with an area of 3,500 square metres, and its runway is suitable for ATR-72 type aircraft. 
An AAI release said that the airport is also provisioned with sustainability features like rainwater harvesting system, solid waste management system and horticulture works besides being near a fenced forest with rich fauna and flora. 
The airport will cater the need of air travellers from four western Assam districts of Dhubri, Kokarajhar, Bongaigaon and Goalpara as well as neighbouring states like West Bengal, Meghalaya and some parts of Bhutan. 
There are 14 airports in the northeast region -- Guwahati, Silchar, Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Tezpur and Lilalabari (Assam), Tezu and Pasighat (Arunachal Pradesh), Agartala (Tripura), Imphal (Manipur), Shillong (Meghalaya), Dimapur (Nagaland), Lengpui (Mizoram) and Pakyong (Sikkim). The AAI is also developing the Hollongi airport in Arunachal Pradesh, boosting air connectivity in the mountainous areas. 
Meanwhile, budget airline, Flybig, announced that their flights would connect Guwahati, Rupsi, and Kolkata initially and subsequently Agartala, Dibrugarh, Tezu and Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh would be connected with Guwahati and Shillong. 
Company CEO Captain Srinivas Rao said that Flybig is bringing connectivity to northeast region at a time when the country is facing challenges due to Covid-19 pandemic and safer means of transport have become critical to ensure the aspirations of the emerging region and its economy. 
"Partnering with Central and state governments to leverage initiatives such as the Regional Connectivity Scheme under the government`s UDAN project, Flybig endeavours to be the development platform for the region in which it operates," a company statement said. 
--IANS 
sc/vd

Guwahati, May 6 (IANS) Commercial operations in Rupsi airport, northeast India`s 15th airport and Assam`s 7th, would start from Saturday, officials said on Thursday.

Guwahati, May 6 (IANS) Commercial operations in Rupsi airport, northeast India`s 15th airport and Assam`s 7th, would start from Saturday, officials said on Thursday. An Airport Authority of India (AAI) official said that a trial flight was conducted on the Guwahati-Rupsi-Guwahati route by private Flybig airlines on Wednesday. "The trial run was completed timely and safely with extended support from the state government and agencies concerned. The flight is scheduled to operate on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Booking for this route has been opened by Flybig airlines," the AAI official said. The airport in Assam`s Kokrajhar district has been developed at a cost of Rs 69 crore under the Regional Connectivity Scheme-Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (RCS-UDAN) scheme. "The airport is one of India`s newest in RCS route which would cater local population providing direct connectivity to cities like Guwahati and Kolkata," the official said. Spread across 337 acres, the newly-developed airport has a terminal building with an area of 3,500 square metres, and its runway is suitable for ATR-72 type aircraft. An AAI release said that the airport is also provisioned with sustainability features like rainwater harvesting system, solid waste management system and horticulture works besides being near a fenced forest with rich fauna and flora. The airport will cater the need of air travellers from four western Assam districts of Dhubri, Kokarajhar, Bongaigaon and Goalpara as well as neighbouring states like West Bengal, Meghalaya and some parts of Bhutan. There are 14 airports in the northeast region -- Guwahati, Silchar, Dibrugarh, Jorhat, Tezpur and Lilalabari (Assam), Tezu and Pasighat (Arunachal Pradesh), Agartala (Tripura), Imphal (Manipur), Shillong (Meghalaya), Dimapur (Nagaland), Lengpui (Mizoram) and Pakyong (Sikkim). The AAI is also developing the Hollongi airport in Arunachal Pradesh, boosting air connectivity in the mountainous areas. Meanwhile, budget airline, Flybig, announced that their flights would connect Guwahati, Rupsi, and Kolkata initially and subsequently Agartala, Dibrugarh, Tezu and Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh would be connected with Guwahati and Shillong. Company CEO Captain Srinivas Rao said that Flybig is bringing connectivity to northeast region at a time when the country is facing challenges due to Covid-19 pandemic and safer means of transport have become critical to ensure the aspirations of the emerging region and its economy. "Partnering with Central and state governments to leverage initiatives such as the Regional Connectivity Scheme under the government`s UDAN project, Flybig endeavours to be the development platform for the region in which it operates," a company statement said. --IANS sc/vd

NE India''s 15th airport to become operational on Saturday

Russia's single-dose covid vaccine Sputnik light will be produced in India, much in the line of its predecessors Sputnik V whose production also happens in the country.

"It will be produced in exactly the same countries where Sputnik V will be produced. So it's India, Korea, and China," said Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) in a virtual presser.

"Many other countries already produce the Sputnik V vaccine. So same capabilities production can be used because basically Sputnik Light will be the first shot of the Sputnik V vaccine. So we will use the same production capacity that exists," He explained.

Russian Ministry of Health, the Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, and RDIF on Thursday announced that Sputnik Light has received authorization for use in Russia. RDIF and the Gamaleya Institute are behind the Russian vaccine. &nbsp;

According to RDIF, the Sputnik Light vaccine demonstrated 79.4 per cent efficacy. 7000 people in multiple countries like Russia, UAE, Ghana, and others were involved in its Phase III clinical study.&nbsp;

India has already given approval to Sputnik V and the first consignment arrived in the country on 1st May. In fact, RDIF has signed pacts with 5 Indian companies to produce 850 million doses of the vaccine in the country that will not only be used in India and Russia but also exported to 3rd country. Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma recently said, "We expect in the months ahead more than 60-70 % of Sputnik vaccine produced anywhere will be produced in India".

More than 60 Countries have given approval to Sputnik V and as of May 5, more than 20 million people globally have received the first injection of the Sputnik V vaccine. Meanwhile, the cost of the Sputnik Light vaccine globally according to Russian authorities will be less than $10 and it can be kept in temperatures at +2 +8.&nbsp; 
Kirill Dmitriev is hopeful of various regulators across the world giving it approval, with some approvals expected as early as next week.&nbsp;

Russia's single-dose covid vaccine Sputnik light will be produced in India, much in the line of its predecessors Sputnik V whose production also happens in the country.

Russia's single-dose covid vaccine Sputnik light will be produced in India, much in the line of its predecessors Sputnik V whose production also happens in the country. "It will be produced in exactly the same countries where Sputnik V will be produced. So it's India, Korea, and China," said Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) in a virtual presser. "Many other countries already produce the Sputnik V vaccine. So same capabilities production can be used because basically Sputnik Light will be the first shot of the Sputnik V vaccine. So we will use the same production capacity that exists," He explained. Russian Ministry of Health, the Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, and RDIF on Thursday announced that Sputnik Light has received authorization for use in Russia. RDIF and the Gamaleya Institute are behind the Russian vaccine. According to RDIF, the Sputnik Light vaccine demonstrated 79.4 per cent efficacy. 7000 people in multiple countries like Russia, UAE, Ghana, and others were involved in its Phase III clinical study. India has already given approval to Sputnik V and the first consignment arrived in the country on 1st May. In fact, RDIF has signed pacts with 5 Indian companies to produce 850 million doses of the vaccine in the country that will not only be used in India and Russia but also exported to 3rd country. Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma recently said, "We expect in the months ahead more than 60-70 % of Sputnik vaccine produced anywhere will be produced in India". More than 60 Countries have given approval to Sputnik V and as of May 5, more than 20 million people globally have received the first injection of the Sputnik V vaccine. Meanwhile, the cost of the Sputnik Light vaccine globally according to Russian authorities will be less than $10 and it can be kept in temperatures at +2 +8. Kirill Dmitriev is hopeful of various regulators across the world giving it approval, with some approvals expected as early as next week.

Sputnik Light, Russia's single-dose Covid vaccine will be produced in India

Russia's single-dose COVID-19&nbsp;vaccine Sputnik Light will be produced in India, much in the line of its predecessors Sputnik V whose production also happens in the country.

"It will be produced in exactly the same countries where Sputnik V will be produced. So it's India, Korea, and China," said&nbsp;Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian direct investment Fund (RDIF) in a virtual presser told reporters.&nbsp;

He explained, "many other countries already produce the Sputnik V vaccine. So same capabilities production can be used because basically&nbsp;Sputnik light will be the first shot of the Sputnik V vaccine. So we will use the same production capacity that exists."

The Russian ministry of health, the Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, and RDIF on Thursday announced that Sputnik light has received authorization for use in Russia.&nbsp;

According to RDIF, the Sputnik Light vaccine demonstrated 79.4 per cent&nbsp;efficacy. 7000 people in multiple countries like Russia, UAE, Ghana, and others were involved in its Phase III clinical study.&nbsp;

India has given approval to Sputnik V and the first consignment arrived in the country on May 1.

In fact, RDIF has signed pacts with five&nbsp;Indian companies to produce 850 million doses of the vaccine in the country that will not only be used in India and Russia but also exported to the third&nbsp;country.&nbsp;

Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma recently said, "We expect in the months ahead more than 60-70 per cent of Sputnik vaccine produced anywhere will be produced in India".

More than 60 countries have given approval to Sputnik V and as of May 5&nbsp;more than 20 million people globally have received the first injection of the&nbsp;Sputnik V vaccine.

Meanwhile, the cost of the Sputnik Light vaccine globally according to Russian authorities will be less than $10 and it can be kept in temperatures at +2 +8.&nbsp;Kirill Dmitriev is hopeful of various regulators across the world giving it approval, with some approvals expected as early as next week.&nbsp;

Russia's single-dose COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik Light will be produced in India, much in the line of its predecessors Sputnik V whose production also happens in the country.

Russia's single-dose COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik Light will be produced in India, much in the line of its predecessors Sputnik V whose production also happens in the country. "It will be produced in exactly the same countries where Sputnik V will be produced. So it's India, Korea, and China," said Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian direct investment Fund (RDIF) in a virtual presser told reporters. He explained, "many other countries already produce the Sputnik V vaccine. So same capabilities production can be used because basically Sputnik light will be the first shot of the Sputnik V vaccine. So we will use the same production capacity that exists." The Russian ministry of health, the Gamaleya National Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, and RDIF on Thursday announced that Sputnik light has received authorization for use in Russia. According to RDIF, the Sputnik Light vaccine demonstrated 79.4 per cent efficacy. 7000 people in multiple countries like Russia, UAE, Ghana, and others were involved in its Phase III clinical study. India has given approval to Sputnik V and the first consignment arrived in the country on May 1. In fact, RDIF has signed pacts with five Indian companies to produce 850 million doses of the vaccine in the country that will not only be used in India and Russia but also exported to the third country. Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma recently said, "We expect in the months ahead more than 60-70 per cent of Sputnik vaccine produced anywhere will be produced in India". More than 60 countries have given approval to Sputnik V and as of May 5 more than 20 million people globally have received the first injection of the Sputnik V vaccine. Meanwhile, the cost of the Sputnik Light vaccine globally according to Russian authorities will be less than $10 and it can be kept in temperatures at +2 +8. Kirill Dmitriev is hopeful of various regulators across the world giving it approval, with some approvals expected as early as next week.

Russia's single-dose COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik Light to be produced in India

India's deadly second wave of COVID-19 is making global headlines. News of death, grief and collapsing health infrastructure has become the new normal for most of us. But, it is also important to applaud those who are fighting the pandemic with great resilience. India's youth is using apps to help save lives. WION brings you more in this report.

India's youth turn to apps to save lives amid COVID-19 pandemic

As the cases of Coronavirus amid second wave are witnessing an upward trajectory since last few weeks, the Indian nationals in UK are worried about their families here in India.

Indian nationals in UK react to worsening crisis in India

Principle scientific advisor of India, KV Raghavan has warned that a third wave of Coronavirus in the country is inevitable but timing could not be predicted and the authorities should be prepared for it.

Indian government advisor warns of third Coronavirus wave

India and the EU will agree to resume the negotiations at the virtual summit between Prime Minister Modi and top leadership of the bloc

India, EU to announce resumption of FTA talks at virtual summit

The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to impose ‘corona curfew’ in the state from May 7 till midnight of May 16 to break the chain of Covid-19 transmission.

An FIR will also be registered against families hiding information about COVID-infected patients in Himachal Pradesh's Solang district, according to the office of Gram Panchayat, Solang.&nbsp;

The Gram Panchayat Secretary ordered that shopkeepers found without masks and gloves will be fined Rs 500 because of Corona curfew from midnight of May 6.&nbsp;

It has been mandatory to wear masks at all public places in the village.

People who will be travelling from outside to the village will have to undergo a seven-day quarantine, said the secretary.

Meanwhile, families of COVID patients have to also undergo a 14-day home quarantine.

As per the Union Health Ministry, Himachal Pradesh has 25,902 active COVID cases. In the last 24 hours, the state recorded 2,330 new cases and 32 related deaths.

India recorded a new high of 4,12,262 new Covid cases and 3,980 deaths, taking the country's tally to 2,10,77,410.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to impose ‘corona curfew’ in the state from May 7 till midnight of May 16 to break the chain of Covid-19 transmission.

The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to impose ‘corona curfew’ in the state from May 7 till midnight of May 16 to break the chain of Covid-19 transmission. An FIR will also be registered against families hiding information about COVID-infected patients in Himachal Pradesh's Solang district, according to the office of Gram Panchayat, Solang. The Gram Panchayat Secretary ordered that shopkeepers found without masks and gloves will be fined Rs 500 because of Corona curfew from midnight of May 6. It has been mandatory to wear masks at all public places in the village. People who will be travelling from outside to the village will have to undergo a seven-day quarantine, said the secretary. Meanwhile, families of COVID patients have to also undergo a 14-day home quarantine. As per the Union Health Ministry, Himachal Pradesh has 25,902 active COVID cases. In the last 24 hours, the state recorded 2,330 new cases and 32 related deaths. India recorded a new high of 4,12,262 new Covid cases and 3,980 deaths, taking the country's tally to 2,10,77,410. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 in Himachal Pradesh: FIR for hiding COVID-infection, fine for not wearing mask

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister-designate and Dravide Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin will have a 33-member cabinet.

Stalin’s oath-taking will be held at 9 am on Friday in a small ceremony at the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s residence) in Chennai, amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The list of ministers released by the government does not include Chepauk MLA and Stalin’s son Udhayanidhi (who has been at the receiving end of criticism regarding blatant nepotism). It features only two women - Geetha Jeevan and Kayalvizhi Selvaraj.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Stalin has urged his partymen and cadre to watch the swearing-in ceremony on television from their&nbsp;homes, given the pandemic surge.&nbsp;

In a statement, he said he had hoped for a swearing-in where he could take oath in the presence of their party cadre that led their party to victory, but now it has become impossible owing to the pandemic.&nbsp;

This is the sixth time that a DMK government will be sworn in to rule Tamil Nadu. DMK founder CN Annadurai was the first leader from the party to be elected chief minister in 1967.&nbsp;

Following the demise of Annadurai in 1969 due to cancer, M Karunanidhi took over the reins of the party and government. He was subsequently elected chief minister five times. MK Stalin will be taking over his father’s legacy and will be serving as chief minister of Tamil Nadu for th&nbsp;first time, in his nearly 50 years of political career.

The list of ministers largely consists of senior DMK leaders, successors of veteran leaders and includes only a few members of the younger generation.

Stalin holds the all-important chief minister post that encompasses Public, General administration, IAS, IPS, Home etc.&nbsp;

He will be assisted by Duraimurugan (water resources minister), KN Nehru (municipal administration minister), K&nbsp;Ponmudi (higher education minister), EV. Velu (public works minister), MA Subramanian (minister for medical and family welfare) and Palanivel Thiagarajan (minister for finance and human resources) among others.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister-designate and Dravide Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin will have a 33-member cabinet. Stalin’s oath-taking will be held at 9 am on Friday in a small ceremony at the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s residence) in Chennai, amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic.

Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister-designate and Dravide Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) chief MK Stalin will have a 33-member cabinet. Stalin’s oath-taking will be held at 9 am on Friday in a small ceremony at the Raj Bhavan (Governor’s residence) in Chennai, amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic. The list of ministers released by the government does not include Chepauk MLA and Stalin’s son Udhayanidhi (who has been at the receiving end of criticism regarding blatant nepotism). It features only two women - Geetha Jeevan and Kayalvizhi Selvaraj. Earlier in the day, Stalin has urged his partymen and cadre to watch the swearing-in ceremony on television from their homes, given the pandemic surge. In a statement, he said he had hoped for a swearing-in where he could take oath in the presence of their party cadre that led their party to victory, but now it has become impossible owing to the pandemic. This is the sixth time that a DMK government will be sworn in to rule Tamil Nadu. DMK founder CN Annadurai was the first leader from the party to be elected chief minister in 1967. Following the demise of Annadurai in 1969 due to cancer, M Karunanidhi took over the reins of the party and government. He was subsequently elected chief minister five times. MK Stalin will be taking over his father’s legacy and will be serving as chief minister of Tamil Nadu for th first time, in his nearly 50 years of political career. The list of ministers largely consists of senior DMK leaders, successors of veteran leaders and includes only a few members of the younger generation. Stalin holds the all-important chief minister post that encompasses Public, General administration, IAS, IPS, Home etc. He will be assisted by Duraimurugan (water resources minister), KN Nehru (municipal administration minister), K Ponmudi (higher education minister), EV. Velu (public works minister), MA Subramanian (minister for medical and family welfare) and Palanivel Thiagarajan (minister for finance and human resources) among others.

MK Stalin’s cabinet to have 33 ministers; his son not included, only 2 women

At a time when there is&nbsp;a huge surge in cases of COVID-19 patients across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the valley hospitals are reeling under tremendous pressure.

Srinagar administration with the help of a charity group has converted the&nbsp;Hajj house in&nbsp;Kashmir into a hundred bed&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;hospital.&nbsp;

''We have established a 100-bed facility in collaboration with the state administration, we have 28 high flow beds available, 72 beds with oxygen supply. We have a target to create at least 200 bed facility here. We have JVC hospital close by and we have already tied up with them,'' Bashir Nadvi,&nbsp;Chairman Athrout, Charity Group

The charity group is also helping people with medical equipment at home. They are providing oxygen concentrators, mini ventilators, and oxymeters to coronavirus positive patients.&nbsp;

''We have around 350 oxygen concentrators and all are with patients at the moment in their homes. We also have mini ventilators, bipap,cpap and pulse oximeters and all have been distributed to people in need at the moment. We are getting more stuff. We will be providing more oximeters to people in need,'' said&nbsp;Bashir Nadvi,&nbsp;Chairman Athrout, Charity Group

Jammu and Kashmir reported more than 4,716 COVID-19&nbsp;cases on Wednesday while 3,198 originated from the Kashmir region, Jammu reported 1,518 coronavirus&nbsp;cases.

The government said that 52 people died on Wednesday due to virus&nbsp;related issues in the Union Territory.

At a time when there is a huge surge in cases of COVID-19 patients across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the valley hospitals are reeling under tremendous pressure.

At a time when there is a huge surge in cases of COVID-19 patients across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the valley hospitals are reeling under tremendous pressure. Srinagar administration with the help of a charity group has converted the Hajj house in Kashmir into a hundred bed Covid hospital. ''We have established a 100-bed facility in collaboration with the state administration, we have 28 high flow beds available, 72 beds with oxygen supply. We have a target to create at least 200 bed facility here. We have JVC hospital close by and we have already tied up with them,'' Bashir Nadvi, Chairman Athrout, Charity Group The charity group is also helping people with medical equipment at home. They are providing oxygen concentrators, mini ventilators, and oxymeters to coronavirus positive patients. ''We have around 350 oxygen concentrators and all are with patients at the moment in their homes. We also have mini ventilators, bipap,cpap and pulse oximeters and all have been distributed to people in need at the moment. We are getting more stuff. We will be providing more oximeters to people in need,'' said Bashir Nadvi, Chairman Athrout, Charity Group Jammu and Kashmir reported more than 4,716 COVID-19 cases on Wednesday while 3,198 originated from the Kashmir region, Jammu reported 1,518 coronavirus cases. The government said that 52 people died on Wednesday due to virus related issues in the Union Territory.

Hajj house in Kashmir converted into coronavirus hospital

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued a notice in the petitions of WhatsApp and Facebook challenging the Competition Commission of India (CCI) order for an investigation into the messaging app's new privacy policy.

The Division Bench of Justice DN Patel and Justice Jasmeet Singh sought the response of all respondents and slated the matter for May 21.

The Single Bench Justice Navin Chawla on April 22 had dismissed Facebook and WhatsApp pleas challenging a Competition Commission of India (CCI) order for an investigation into the messaging app's new privacy policy.

The petitioners have challenged the March 24 order passed by CCI directing a probe into the new privacy policy and the probe should be completed within 60 days.

Facebook and WhatsApp, said that since the issue of WhatsApp's privacy policy is being heard by the Supreme Court and High Court, therefore there was no requirement of CCI to order the probe.

Senior Advocate Harish Salve and Former Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi appeared for the petitioners and told the court that CCI proceedings must be kept in abeyance as the matter is pending before Supreme Court, High Court, etc.

Additional Solicitor General Aman Lekhi, who represented CCI in the matter, had earlier told the court that the matter is not of privacy but access to data and the Competition is going to deal with metadata.

ASG Lekhi responded that data can have a privacy or competition dimension. He also said that the issue is completely competition-based as understanding consumer behaviour and preferences facilitate targeted advertising.&nbsp;

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued a notice in the petitions of WhatsApp and Facebook challenging the Competition Commission of India (CCI) order for an investigation into the messaging app's new privacy policy.

The Delhi High Court on Thursday issued a notice in the petitions of WhatsApp and Facebook challenging the Competition Commission of India (CCI) order for an investigation into the messaging app's new privacy policy. The Division Bench of Justice DN Patel and Justice Jasmeet Singh sought the response of all respondents and slated the matter for May 21. The Single Bench Justice Navin Chawla on April 22 had dismissed Facebook and WhatsApp pleas challenging a Competition Commission of India (CCI) order for an investigation into the messaging app's new privacy policy. The petitioners have challenged the March 24 order passed by CCI directing a probe into the new privacy policy and the probe should be completed within 60 days. Facebook and WhatsApp, said that since the issue of WhatsApp's privacy policy is being heard by the Supreme Court and High Court, therefore there was no requirement of CCI to order the probe. Senior Advocate Harish Salve and Former Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi appeared for the petitioners and told the court that CCI proceedings must be kept in abeyance as the matter is pending before Supreme Court, High Court, etc. Additional Solicitor General Aman Lekhi, who represented CCI in the matter, had earlier told the court that the matter is not of privacy but access to data and the Competition is going to deal with metadata. ASG Lekhi responded that data can have a privacy or competition dimension. He also said that the issue is completely competition-based as understanding consumer behaviour and preferences facilitate targeted advertising.

Delhi HC issues notice on Facebook, WhatsApp pleas challenging order on new privacy policy

As countries and organisations come forward to aid India in fighting a massive wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>, the Australian state of Victoria became the latest to provide assistance.&nbsp;

Victoria on Tuesday announced aid worth AUD 41 million (approx $31 million), which includes providing 1,000 ventilators and other medical equipment to India.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-reports-biggest-spike-of-412-lakh-new-cases-383229/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We are working with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to deliver this support to India as the country works to manage the second wave of coronavirus and treat those infected," an official statement said.

"The 1,000 ICU ventilators are currently owned by the Department of Health and will be donated to India for humanitarian purposes and the state was also preparing to send a range of supporting equipment like connectors and humidifiers, with the total package valued at over 41 million Australian dollars."

The state's acting Premier James Merlino called the COVID-19 situation in India "devastating" and added that the state has a "responsibility" to help.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-will-india-benefit-from-eus-ratification-of-china-investment-deal-383066">How will India benefit from EU's ratification of China investment deal?</a>

The most number of migrants from India in Australia reside in Victoria.&nbsp;

Several countries, including the US, UK, Russia, France, and Germany are sending critical supplies to India as the country struggles to deal with oxygen, vaccine shortages to tackle the ongoing wave that has wreaked havoc in the country.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

As countries and organisations come forward to aid India in fighting a massive wave of coronavirus, the Australian state of Victoria became the latest to provide assistance.

As countries and organisations come forward to aid India in fighting a massive wave of coronavirus, the Australian state of Victoria became the latest to provide assistance. Victoria on Tuesday announced aid worth AUD 41 million (approx $31 million), which includes providing 1,000 ventilators and other medical equipment to India. Watch | "We are working with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to deliver this support to India as the country works to manage the second wave of coronavirus and treat those infected," an official statement said. "The 1,000 ICU ventilators are currently owned by the Department of Health and will be donated to India for humanitarian purposes and the state was also preparing to send a range of supporting equipment like connectors and humidifiers, with the total package valued at over 41 million Australian dollars." The state's acting Premier James Merlino called the COVID-19 situation in India "devastating" and added that the state has a "responsibility" to help. Also read | How will India benefit from EU's ratification of China investment deal? The most number of migrants from India in Australia reside in Victoria. Several countries, including the US, UK, Russia, France, and Germany are sending critical supplies to India as the country struggles to deal with oxygen, vaccine shortages to tackle the ongoing wave that has wreaked havoc in the country.

Coronavirus in India: Australian state of Victoria sends aid worth $31 million to India

Three terrorists were killed and one was persuaded to surrender in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-shopian-encounter-enters-the-third-day-as-fresh-firing-breaks-out-370690">Shopian </a>&nbsp;in south Kashmir.

The terrorists belonged to the Al Badr outfit. They have been identified as Danish Mir, Mohd Umer Bhat, both residents of Khajapora&nbsp;and Zaid Bashir Reshi, resident of Raben in south Kashmir.&nbsp;

Security forces had got specific input about the presence of terrorists in the area, after which a joint search operation was launched by police, 44RR and 178bn of CRPF. All four terrorists were given an option to surrender.&nbsp;

“During the search operation as the presence of terrorists got ascertained they were given an opportunity to surrender. Family members of the trapped terrorists were also called to the encounter site to motivate and persuade them to surrender.&nbsp;

"One of the trapped terrorist Tausif Ahmad ultimately surrendered and laid down his arms before the joint security forces.” said IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

The surrendered terrorist was asked to make an appeal to the other three holed up <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/seven-terrorists-killed-by-security-forces-aguh-terror-outfit-wiped-out-in-jk-376274">terrorists</a> to lay down their arms and surrender, but they refused. A video of the appeal was released by security forces later.&nbsp;

“The surrendered terrorist later also appealed to his trapped companions to surrender, however, they turned down the surrender offer and fired indiscriminately on joint search party which was retaliated leading to an encounter. “said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

Incriminating material&nbsp;including arms and&nbsp;ammunition was recovered from the site of the encounter. The last rites of the slain terrorists shall be performed after conducting medico-legal formalities and their nearest family members shall be allowed to participate in the last rites.

Three terrorists were killed and one was persuaded to surrender in Shopian in south Kashmir. The terrorists belonged to the Al Badr outfit. They have been identified as Danish Mir, Mohd Umer Bhat, both residents of Khajapora and Zaid Bashir Reshi, resident of Raben in south Kashmir.

Three terrorists were killed and one was persuaded to surrender in Shopian in south Kashmir. The terrorists belonged to the Al Badr outfit. They have been identified as Danish Mir, Mohd Umer Bhat, both residents of Khajapora and Zaid Bashir Reshi, resident of Raben in south Kashmir. Security forces had got specific input about the presence of terrorists in the area, after which a joint search operation was launched by police, 44RR and 178bn of CRPF. All four terrorists were given an option to surrender. “During the search operation as the presence of terrorists got ascertained they were given an opportunity to surrender. Family members of the trapped terrorists were also called to the encounter site to motivate and persuade them to surrender. "One of the trapped terrorist Tausif Ahmad ultimately surrendered and laid down his arms before the joint security forces.” said IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar. The surrendered terrorist was asked to make an appeal to the other three holed up terrorists to lay down their arms and surrender, but they refused. A video of the appeal was released by security forces later. “The surrendered terrorist later also appealed to his trapped companions to surrender, however, they turned down the surrender offer and fired indiscriminately on joint search party which was retaliated leading to an encounter. “said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir Police. Incriminating material including arms and ammunition was recovered from the site of the encounter. The last rites of the slain terrorists shall be performed after conducting medico-legal formalities and their nearest family members shall be allowed to participate in the last rites.

Three terrorists killed, one surrenders in south Kashmir

The country also added 3,980 more fatalities, the deadliest day yet, taking the death toll past 2.3 lakh.

India reports biggest spike of 4.12 lakh new cases

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