Amid the increasing number of COVID-19 cases across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, restrictions have been put in place by the administration.&nbsp;

A lot of people along with their families who have been tested positive are finding it difficult to have access to food. A campaign called 'Food for Kashmir' is fast gaining popularity as they deliver free home-cooked food to these coronavirus patients and their families.

A food delivery startup called Tiffin Aaw in Srinagar has started this campaign on social media. They have taken it upon themselves to deliver free meals for Covid positive families, Covid warriors and people in need. The concept was started when the owner Rais Ahmad got a lot of distress calls from people outside Kashmir, wanting food to be delivered to their Covid-hit parents.

''Food for Kashmir was started recently, we got lots of distress calls from the people whose families were covid positive they were not able to pay for their food, we as a start-up would not have been in that position to give free food to so many people. So we thought we need to do something and that's when we started a campaign where people would sponsor food for those who will not be able to pay. We got great responses from across. '' said Rayees Ahmad, founder, Tiffin Aaw.&nbsp;

The startup has also decided to keep this initiative going till the pandemic is not over. They are asking people to sponsor their meals for those in need. They deliver these food packets to hospitals, homes and to covid wellness centres.&nbsp;

'This initiative will go on till the pandemic is over. We are serving homemade food, people who are in hospitals crave for home-cooked meals and that's&nbsp;why we give them homemade food and it brings smile on their face which gives us satisfaction that we did our job.'' said Rayees Ahmad, founder, Tiffin Aaw.&nbsp;

All the coronavirus protocols and SOPss are being followed by the staf working at Tiffin Aaw. They wear PPE kits, masks and keep a sanitiser handy while the food is being made and later delivered to the people.&nbsp;

''We are a small startup and its just been a year. People are calling us , we are giving food to people without asking for money. And among those people only, some get so emotional and tell us that they want to sponsor other covid positive family's or patients''. said Nida Rayees, co-founder, Tiffin Aaw.

"We are following all Covid protocols and not allowing delivery boys in our kitchen," she added.&nbsp;&nbsp;"And now we have put out a request asking people to donate us a small tent so that we can keep ppe kits, masks etc separately.''

Amid the increasing number of COVID-19 cases across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, restrictions have been put in place by the administration. A lot of people along with their families who have been tested positive are finding it difficult to have access to food.

Amid the increasing number of COVID-19 cases across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, restrictions have been put in place by the administration. A lot of people along with their families who have been tested positive are finding it difficult to have access to food. A campaign called 'Food for Kashmir' is fast gaining popularity as they deliver free home-cooked food to these coronavirus patients and their families. A food delivery startup called Tiffin Aaw in Srinagar has started this campaign on social media. They have taken it upon themselves to deliver free meals for Covid positive families, Covid warriors and people in need. The concept was started when the owner Rais Ahmad got a lot of distress calls from people outside Kashmir, wanting food to be delivered to their Covid-hit parents. ''Food for Kashmir was started recently, we got lots of distress calls from the people whose families were covid positive they were not able to pay for their food, we as a start-up would not have been in that position to give free food to so many people. So we thought we need to do something and that's when we started a campaign where people would sponsor food for those who will not be able to pay. We got great responses from across. '' said Rayees Ahmad, founder, Tiffin Aaw. The startup has also decided to keep this initiative going till the pandemic is not over. They are asking people to sponsor their meals for those in need. They deliver these food packets to hospitals, homes and to covid wellness centres. 'This initiative will go on till the pandemic is over. We are serving homemade food, people who are in hospitals crave for home-cooked meals and that's why we give them homemade food and it brings smile on their face which gives us satisfaction that we did our job.'' said Rayees Ahmad, founder, Tiffin Aaw. All the coronavirus protocols and SOPss are being followed by the staf working at Tiffin Aaw. They wear PPE kits, masks and keep a sanitiser handy while the food is being made and later delivered to the people. ''We are a small startup and its just been a year. People are calling us , we are giving food to people without asking for money. And among those people only, some get so emotional and tell us that they want to sponsor other covid positive family's or patients''. said Nida Rayees, co-founder, Tiffin Aaw. "We are following all Covid protocols and not allowing delivery boys in our kitchen," she added. "And now we have put out a request asking people to donate us a small tent so that we can keep ppe kits, masks etc separately.''

'Food for Kashmir' campaign gains popularity amid pandemic

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday announced a lockdown in the state till May 15 due to escalating coronavirus cases.

"Amid increasing COVID-19 cases, restrictions to continue in the state from May 5 to May 15. All state government offices to remain closed, excluding essential services such as district administration, civil defence etc and essential shops," the state's chief secretary said.

Meanwhile in Chandigarh, authorities said night curfew will continue from 6 pm to 5 am every day along with complete weekend curfew. Restricted movement will be allowed from 5pm on May 4 to 5am on May 11, with only essentials shops allowed to remain open. Home delivery is allowed up to 9 pm and takeaways till 5pm.

The central government said a streamlined mechanism for allocation of support supplies received by India has been put into place for effective distribution of the medical and other relief and support material.&nbsp;

The country has been hit with the second wave of coronavirus with cases crossing the 20-million mark on Tuesday. According to officials, 50,00,000 infections were added in the last 15 days.&nbsp;

Indian states Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab and Chattishgarh have witnessed increasing number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in recent weeks.

As the coronavirus crisis has deepened in India's capital, the local AAP government said all ration card holders in Delhi, around 7.2 million, will be given free ration for the next two months.

"It doesn't mean that the lockdown will continue for two months. It is just being done to help the poor going through financial issues," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said.

Amid the pandemic, the Indian defence forces have stepped in. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has set up a 100-bed COVID-19 treatment facility at Air Force Station Jalahalli to be operational from May 6 with 20 beds and&nbsp;oxygen concentrators.

There will also be 10 ICU beds and 40 beds with piped oxygen, 50 beds with oxygen concentrators, it added.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday announced a lockdown in the state till May 15 due to escalating coronavirus cases. "Amid increasing COVID-19 cases, restrictions to continue in the state from May 5 to May 15.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday announced a lockdown in the state till May 15 due to escalating coronavirus cases. "Amid increasing COVID-19 cases, restrictions to continue in the state from May 5 to May 15. All state government offices to remain closed, excluding essential services such as district administration, civil defence etc and essential shops," the state's chief secretary said. Meanwhile in Chandigarh, authorities said night curfew will continue from 6 pm to 5 am every day along with complete weekend curfew. Restricted movement will be allowed from 5pm on May 4 to 5am on May 11, with only essentials shops allowed to remain open. Home delivery is allowed up to 9 pm and takeaways till 5pm. The central government said a streamlined mechanism for allocation of support supplies received by India has been put into place for effective distribution of the medical and other relief and support material. The country has been hit with the second wave of coronavirus with cases crossing the 20-million mark on Tuesday. According to officials, 50,00,000 infections were added in the last 15 days. Indian states Maharashtra, Delhi, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Punjab and Chattishgarh have witnessed increasing number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in recent weeks. As the coronavirus crisis has deepened in India's capital, the local AAP government said all ration card holders in Delhi, around 7.2 million, will be given free ration for the next two months. "It doesn't mean that the lockdown will continue for two months. It is just being done to help the poor going through financial issues," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said. Amid the pandemic, the Indian defence forces have stepped in. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has set up a 100-bed COVID-19 treatment facility at Air Force Station Jalahalli to be operational from May 6 with 20 beds and oxygen concentrators. There will also be 10 ICU beds and 40 beds with piped oxygen, 50 beds with oxygen concentrators, it added.

COVID-19 in India: Bihar to go into lockdown; night curfew to continue in Chandigarh

A shipment carrying two oxygen generators, 548 oxygen concentrators, 365 ventilators and other medical equipment arrived here on Tuesday from Ireland to provide support in India`s fight against the second COVID-19 surge. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, it is the second shipment of medical aid from Ireland.

The ministry said it is grateful to Ireland, a European Union member, for the support which will help add to India`s oxygen capacities. "Further strengthening our cooperation. 2nd shipment from Ireland carrying 2 oxygen generators, 548 oxygen concentrators, 365 ventilators and other medical equipment arrives. Deeply grateful to our EU partner for the support which will help add to our oxygen capacities," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted.

A few days back, the first shipment from Ireland containing 700 units of oxygen concentrators and 365 ventilators arrived here. Reeling under the impact of the deadly COVID-19 wave, India reported 3,57,229 new COVID-19 cases, 3,20,289 discharges, and 3,449 deaths in the last 24 hours, as per Union Health Ministry`s data on Tuesday.

The total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 2,02,82,833.The worsening COVID-19 situation in India has seen a surge in the demand for medical oxygen and beds for the COVID-19 patients.

Several countries around the world have come forward to help India as it continues to struggle with the increase in its health infrastructure needs caused by the rising coronavirus cases.The member states of the European Union are delivering medical aid following India`s request for support as the country has witnessed a record surge in COVID-19 cases in the second wave of the pandemic.

The aid is being provided through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, which is coordinated by the Emergency Response Coordination Centre of the European Commission.Several countries like Romania, Italy, Germany, France and Belgium have already sent in the supplies.

A shipment carrying two oxygen generators, 548 oxygen concentrators, 365 ventilators and other medical equipment arrived here on Tuesday from Ireland to provide support in India`s fight against the second COVID-19 surge.

A shipment carrying two oxygen generators, 548 oxygen concentrators, 365 ventilators and other medical equipment arrived here on Tuesday from Ireland to provide support in India`s fight against the second COVID-19 surge. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, it is the second shipment of medical aid from Ireland. The ministry said it is grateful to Ireland, a European Union member, for the support which will help add to India`s oxygen capacities. "Further strengthening our cooperation. 2nd shipment from Ireland carrying 2 oxygen generators, 548 oxygen concentrators, 365 ventilators and other medical equipment arrives. Deeply grateful to our EU partner for the support which will help add to our oxygen capacities," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi tweeted. A few days back, the first shipment from Ireland containing 700 units of oxygen concentrators and 365 ventilators arrived here. Reeling under the impact of the deadly COVID-19 wave, India reported 3,57,229 new COVID-19 cases, 3,20,289 discharges, and 3,449 deaths in the last 24 hours, as per Union Health Ministry`s data on Tuesday. The total number of coronavirus cases in the country now stands at 2,02,82,833.The worsening COVID-19 situation in India has seen a surge in the demand for medical oxygen and beds for the COVID-19 patients. Several countries around the world have come forward to help India as it continues to struggle with the increase in its health infrastructure needs caused by the rising coronavirus cases.The member states of the European Union are delivering medical aid following India`s request for support as the country has witnessed a record surge in COVID-19 cases in the second wave of the pandemic. The aid is being provided through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, which is coordinated by the Emergency Response Coordination Centre of the European Commission.Several countries like Romania, Italy, Germany, France and Belgium have already sent in the supplies.

India receives Covid aid including 548 oxygen concentrators, 365 ventilators from Ireland

India's total tally of COVID-19 cases crossed the&nbsp;20-million&nbsp;mark with over 50,00,000&nbsp;infections being added&nbsp;in just 15 days.&nbsp;

The total tally of coronavirus cases in the country mounted to 2,02,82,833 with 3,57,229 new infections being reported in a day, while the death toll increased to 2,22,408 with&nbsp;3,449&nbsp;new fatalities,&nbsp;according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to&nbsp;34,47,133 comprising 17 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 81.91 per cent,&nbsp;the&nbsp;data updated at 8 am showed.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,66,13,292,&nbsp;while the case fatality&nbsp;rate&nbsp;was&nbsp;recorded at 1.10 per cent, the data stated.&nbsp;

According to the ICMR, 29,33,10,779 samples have been tested up to&nbsp;May 3&nbsp;with&nbsp;16,63,742&nbsp;samples being tested on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The 3,449 new fatalities include 567 from Maharashtra, 448 from Delhi, 285&nbsp;from Uttar Pradesh, 266&nbsp;from&nbsp;Chhattisgarh,&nbsp;239&nbsp;&nbsp;from Karnataka, 155 from Punjab, 154&nbsp;from Rajasthan, 140 each from Gujarat and Haryana, 129 from Jharkhand, 128 from Uttarakhand and 122 from Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

A total of 2,22,408 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 70,851 from Maharashtra, 17,414 from Delhi, 16,250 from Karnataka, 14,468 from Tamil Nadu, 13,447 from Uttar Pradesh, 11,637 from West Bengal, 9,472 from Punjab and 9,275 from Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.&nbsp;

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

India's total tally of COVID-19 cases crossed the 20-million mark with over 50,00,000 infections being added in just 15 days. The total tally of coronavirus cases in the country mounted to 2,02,82,833 with 3,57,229 new infections being reported in a day, while the death toll increased to 2,22,408 with 3,449 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

India's total tally of COVID-19 cases crossed the 20-million mark with over 50,00,000 infections being added in just 15 days. The total tally of coronavirus cases in the country mounted to 2,02,82,833 with 3,57,229 new infections being reported in a day, while the death toll increased to 2,22,408 with 3,449 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 34,47,133 comprising 17 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 81.91 per cent, the data updated at 8 am showed. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,66,13,292, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.10 per cent, the data stated. According to the ICMR, 29,33,10,779 samples have been tested up to May 3 with 16,63,742 samples being tested on Monday. The 3,449 new fatalities include 567 from Maharashtra, 448 from Delhi, 285 from Uttar Pradesh, 266 from Chhattisgarh, 239 from Karnataka, 155 from Punjab, 154 from Rajasthan, 140 each from Gujarat and Haryana, 129 from Jharkhand, 128 from Uttarakhand and 122 from Tamil Nadu. A total of 2,22,408 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 70,851 from Maharashtra, 17,414 from Delhi, 16,250 from Karnataka, 14,468 from Tamil Nadu, 13,447 from Uttar Pradesh, 11,637 from West Bengal, 9,472 from Punjab and 9,275 from Chhattisgarh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. (With input from agencies)

India's COVID-19 cases cross 20 million 

While some countries have started looking toward relaxing mitigation measures in the not-so-distant future, but the crisis in India highlights that the pandemic is still far from over.&nbsp;

Today, the total tally of coronavirus cases in India mounted to 2,02,82,833 with 3,57,229 new infections being reported in a day, while the death toll increased to 2,22,408 with 3,449 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data.&nbsp;

According to the University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, "the number of cases that are being detected needs to be multiplied by 20 or more to get the number of infections that are occurring in India."&nbsp;

"Without drastic measures to bolster the health system to deal with this onslaught, decreased social mixing, and increased effective face mask use, the situation currently looks quite grim for India," IHME researchers wrote in a briefing.

The institute projects that India will report over 1 million deaths by the start of August. The country's official death toll currently stands at 2,22,408. 
 
It also said that the cumulative death toll due to COVID-19 could rise to 6,65,000 by the end of July, with around 3,29,000 additional deaths between April 12 to August 1. However, a universal mask coverage (95 per cent) by the end of the third week of April can bring down this figure by 70,000.&nbsp;

India's massive population deepens the challenge of containing a highly transmissible virus.

The rate of known coronavirus infections per capita is still less than the United States endured at its peak.&nbsp;

In India, there have been nearly 19 million known infections since the start of the pandemic, or roughly 1.3% of the total population – compared with more than 32 million, or almost 10% of the U.S. population.&nbsp;

A total of 2,22,408 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 70,851 from Maharashtra, 17,414 from Delhi, 16,250 from Karnataka, 14,468 from Tamil Nadu, 13,447 from Uttar Pradesh, 11,637 from West Bengal, 9,472 from Punjab and 9,275 from Chhattisgarh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

While some countries have started looking toward relaxing mitigation measures in the not-so-distant future, but the crisis in India highlights that the pandemic is still far from over.

While some countries have started looking toward relaxing mitigation measures in the not-so-distant future, but the crisis in India highlights that the pandemic is still far from over. Today, the total tally of coronavirus cases in India mounted to 2,02,82,833 with 3,57,229 new infections being reported in a day, while the death toll increased to 2,22,408 with 3,449 new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data. According to the University of Washington's Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, "the number of cases that are being detected needs to be multiplied by 20 or more to get the number of infections that are occurring in India." "Without drastic measures to bolster the health system to deal with this onslaught, decreased social mixing, and increased effective face mask use, the situation currently looks quite grim for India," IHME researchers wrote in a briefing. The institute projects that India will report over 1 million deaths by the start of August. The country's official death toll currently stands at 2,22,408. It also said that the cumulative death toll due to COVID-19 could rise to 6,65,000 by the end of July, with around 3,29,000 additional deaths between April 12 to August 1. However, a universal mask coverage (95 per cent) by the end of the third week of April can bring down this figure by 70,000. India's massive population deepens the challenge of containing a highly transmissible virus. The rate of known coronavirus infections per capita is still less than the United States endured at its peak. In India, there have been nearly 19 million known infections since the start of the pandemic, or roughly 1.3% of the total population – compared with more than 32 million, or almost 10% of the U.S. population. A total of 2,22,408 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 70,851 from Maharashtra, 17,414 from Delhi, 16,250 from Karnataka, 14,468 from Tamil Nadu, 13,447 from Uttar Pradesh, 11,637 from West Bengal, 9,472 from Punjab and 9,275 from Chhattisgarh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. (With inputs from agencies)

India to see over 1 million deaths by the start of August: US study projects

India on Tuesday reported 3,57,229 new case, taking the overall case count past the 2 crore mark to 2,02,82,833.&nbsp;

Further, with 3,449 fresh fatalities, the national covid death toll rose to 2,22,408, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

Maharashtra, Karnataka and Delhi are among 10 states that account for 71.71 per cent of the 3,57,229 new COVID-19 cases in the country. India's daily positivity rate now stands at 21.47 per cent.

The ministry said that Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 48,621. It is followed by Karnataka with 44,438 while Uttar Pradesh reported 29,052 new cases.

Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh are among the other states in the list of 10.

Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Bihar and Haryana cumulatively account for 81.41 per cent of India's total active cases, the ministry said.

India's Covid-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of 1.50 crore on April 19.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 29,33,10,779 samples have been tested up to May 3 with 16,63,742 samples being tested on Monday.

Only the US, with more than 3.3 crore cases so far, has recorded a higher count. Brazil is in the third spot with fewer than 1.5 crore cases.&nbsp;

The Indian government has, to date, provided nearly 16.69 crore vaccine doses to states/UTs free of cost. Over 75 lakh vaccine doses are still available with states/UTs for use.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India on Tuesday reported 3,57,229 new case, taking the overall case count past the 2 crore mark to 2,02,82,833. Further, with 3,449 fresh fatalities, the national covid death toll rose to 2,22,408, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

India on Tuesday reported 3,57,229 new case, taking the overall case count past the 2 crore mark to 2,02,82,833. Further, with 3,449 fresh fatalities, the national covid death toll rose to 2,22,408, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. Maharashtra, Karnataka and Delhi are among 10 states that account for 71.71 per cent of the 3,57,229 new COVID-19 cases in the country. India's daily positivity rate now stands at 21.47 per cent. The ministry said that Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 48,621. It is followed by Karnataka with 44,438 while Uttar Pradesh reported 29,052 new cases. Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh are among the other states in the list of 10. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Bihar and Haryana cumulatively account for 81.41 per cent of India's total active cases, the ministry said. India's Covid-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of 1.50 crore on April 19. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 29,33,10,779 samples have been tested up to May 3 with 16,63,742 samples being tested on Monday. Only the US, with more than 3.3 crore cases so far, has recorded a higher count. Brazil is in the third spot with fewer than 1.5 crore cases. The Indian government has, to date, provided nearly 16.69 crore vaccine doses to states/UTs free of cost. Over 75 lakh vaccine doses are still available with states/UTs for use. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19 in India: 10 states account for 71% of total cases

Ahead of the India-UK virtual summit to be chaired by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Indian PM Narendra Modi, the former has announced one billion pounds of new UK-India trade deals which includes an investment of 240 million pounds&nbsp;by Pune-based Serum Institute of India&nbsp;(SII).

The investment by SII, according to the UK government, will be into their vaccine business and a new sales office that will generate new business worth one billion pounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ahead of the summit, Johnson said, "Like every aspect of the UK-India relationship, the economic links between our countries make our people stronger and safer."&nbsp;

All in all, the announcement on a trade deal will create 6,500 new jobs in the UK and includes over £533&nbsp;million&nbsp;of new Indian investment into the UK.&nbsp;£200&nbsp;million&nbsp;of these deals will support low carbon growth.&nbsp;

One of the key focus areas of the virtual summit will be the launching of the Comprehensive Roadmap 2030. The roadmap aims to expand and deepen India-UK cooperation in the next decade in five areas:&nbsp;people-to-people relationship, trade and prosperity,&nbsp;defence&nbsp;and security, climate action and healthcare.&nbsp;

The UK sees New Delhi as its key partner in a post-Brexit world and as part of its Indo-Pacific tilt, has been increasing engagement. In fact,&nbsp;the&nbsp;UK PM was very keen on visiting India and both times,&nbsp;in January and April, it got postponed due to the Covid pandemic.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as the Covid crisis in India leaves unimaginable devastation, London has been quick to send assistance.

Last week,&nbsp;it became the first country to send planeloads of assistance to New Delhi and so far, it&nbsp;has sent £6 million worth of medical supplies.

The British Asian Trust raised over £1.6mn in the last week through their emergency appeal&nbsp;and&nbsp;UK business leaders have&nbsp;mobilised&nbsp;in response to the Indian High Commission’s request for vital equipment.&nbsp;

Ahead of the India-UK virtual summit to be chaired by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Indian PM Narendra Modi, the former has announced one billion pounds of new UK-India trade deals which includes an investment of 240 million pounds by Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII).

Ahead of the India-UK virtual summit to be chaired by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Indian PM Narendra Modi, the former has announced one billion pounds of new UK-India trade deals which includes an investment of 240 million pounds by Pune-based Serum Institute of India (SII). The investment by SII, according to the UK government, will be into their vaccine business and a new sales office that will generate new business worth one billion pounds. Ahead of the summit, Johnson said, "Like every aspect of the UK-India relationship, the economic links between our countries make our people stronger and safer." All in all, the announcement on a trade deal will create 6,500 new jobs in the UK and includes over £533 million of new Indian investment into the UK. £200 million of these deals will support low carbon growth. One of the key focus areas of the virtual summit will be the launching of the Comprehensive Roadmap 2030. The roadmap aims to expand and deepen India-UK cooperation in the next decade in five areas: people-to-people relationship, trade and prosperity, defence and security, climate action and healthcare. The UK sees New Delhi as its key partner in a post-Brexit world and as part of its Indo-Pacific tilt, has been increasing engagement. In fact, the UK PM was very keen on visiting India and both times, in January and April, it got postponed due to the Covid pandemic. Meanwhile, as the Covid crisis in India leaves unimaginable devastation, London has been quick to send assistance. Last week, it became the first country to send planeloads of assistance to New Delhi and so far, it has sent £6 million worth of medical supplies. The British Asian Trust raised over £1.6mn in the last week through their emergency appeal and UK business leaders have mobilised in response to the Indian High Commission’s request for vital equipment.

Modi-Boris virtual summit brings deals worth 1 billion pounds, enhanced trade partnership  

Along with the ongoing Covid crisis and US assistance to India in dealing with it, Indo-Pacific dominated the talks between India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in London.

This was the first physical meeting between the two&nbsp;since the new Biden administration took charge in January. Both of them have been in constant touch, telephonically and virtually.

After the meeting, EAM said, "We discussed first and foremost the strong support we are getting from the United States on dealing with the Covid situation. We are very, very appreciative of that."

So far, US has sent five&nbsp;consignments of assistance to India to deal with the ongoing devastating Covid crisis. India has been reporting over 300,000 cases of Covid daily for days now. The assistance includes oxygen concentrators and other related supplies.

The US secretary of state said, "We remember so well when India came to our assistance in the early days of Covid in a very important and powerful way".

"We are joined in this fight together and determined to do everything we can to help".

The focus was also on vaccines, and how Indian vaccine production can address both India's own needs and the world's requirements.

Under the Quad vaccine initiative, India will be producing a large number of vaccines for the countries in the Indo-Pacific, with the US and Japan's financial support and Australia's logistical backing. Focus was expectedly on Indo Pacific, with sources saying that the ministers reviewed the "progress in practical cooperation" in recent months.

Both the ministers also discussed the agenda before United Nations Security Council, Climate change, the situation in Myanmar.

On Myanmar, discussions centred on the ASEAN's&nbsp;five-point plan and its further progress.

Along with the ongoing Covid crisis and US assistance to India in dealing with it, Indo-Pacific dominated the talks between India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in London.

Along with the ongoing Covid crisis and US assistance to India in dealing with it, Indo-Pacific dominated the talks between India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in London. This was the first physical meeting between the two since the new Biden administration took charge in January. Both of them have been in constant touch, telephonically and virtually. After the meeting, EAM said, "We discussed first and foremost the strong support we are getting from the United States on dealing with the Covid situation. We are very, very appreciative of that." So far, US has sent five consignments of assistance to India to deal with the ongoing devastating Covid crisis. India has been reporting over 300,000 cases of Covid daily for days now. The assistance includes oxygen concentrators and other related supplies. The US secretary of state said, "We remember so well when India came to our assistance in the early days of Covid in a very important and powerful way". "We are joined in this fight together and determined to do everything we can to help". The focus was also on vaccines, and how Indian vaccine production can address both India's own needs and the world's requirements. Under the Quad vaccine initiative, India will be producing a large number of vaccines for the countries in the Indo-Pacific, with the US and Japan's financial support and Australia's logistical backing. Focus was expectedly on Indo Pacific, with sources saying that the ministers reviewed the "progress in practical cooperation" in recent months. Both the ministers also discussed the agenda before United Nations Security Council, Climate change, the situation in Myanmar. On Myanmar, discussions centred on the ASEAN's five-point plan and its further progress.

COVID-19 crisis, Indo-Pacific dominate Jaishankar-Blinken talks in London

Drug major Natco Pharma on Monday said, it has received emergency use approval for Baricitinib tablets, for the treatment of COVID-19 positive patients, from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in India.&nbsp;

CDSCO is responsible for approval of drugs, conduct of clinical trials, laying down the standards for drugs, control over the quality of imported drugs in the country and coordination of the activities of state drug control organisations.&nbsp;

"Natco Pharma Ltd has received emergency use approval for Baricitinib tablets, 1mg, 2mg and 4mg strengths from Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in India," the company said in a regulatory filing.&nbsp;

Baricitinib in combination with Remdesivir, is used for treatment of COVID-19 positive patients, the company said. &nbsp;

Natco said it will request a compulsory license based on emergency use and in light of the grave and serious public health emergency across India due to the pandemic. &nbsp;

The company is ready to launch the product this week, so as to make the product available to suffering patients across India, it added.&nbsp;

Shares of Natco Pharma were trading 3.35 per cent higher at Rs 926.70 apiece on BSE.&nbsp;

Drug major Natco Pharma on Monday said, it has received emergency use approval for Baricitinib tablets, for the treatment of COVID-19 positive patients, from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in India.

Drug major Natco Pharma on Monday said, it has received emergency use approval for Baricitinib tablets, for the treatment of COVID-19 positive patients, from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in India. CDSCO is responsible for approval of drugs, conduct of clinical trials, laying down the standards for drugs, control over the quality of imported drugs in the country and coordination of the activities of state drug control organisations. "Natco Pharma Ltd has received emergency use approval for Baricitinib tablets, 1mg, 2mg and 4mg strengths from Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in India," the company said in a regulatory filing. Baricitinib in combination with Remdesivir, is used for treatment of COVID-19 positive patients, the company said. Natco said it will request a compulsory license based on emergency use and in light of the grave and serious public health emergency across India due to the pandemic. The company is ready to launch the product this week, so as to make the product available to suffering patients across India, it added. Shares of Natco Pharma were trading 3.35 per cent higher at Rs 926.70 apiece on BSE.

Natco gets CDSCO nod for emergency use of Baricitinib tablets for COVID-19 treatment 

A Hyderabad-based woman has sought help from the state and&nbsp;central governments in locating her husband in Qatar, who has not contacted her for the last five years.

Haleema, who is a resident of Hashimabad of Bandlaguda in Hyderabad, got married to Mohammad Naveed Ahmed in January 2008.&nbsp;

In 2014, in search of work, Naveed left for Qatar and had been in regular touch with Haleema till 2016. However, since 2016, as told by Haleema, her husband has not been in touch with her and their two children.

Speaking to ANI, Haleema informed her husband left for Qatar in search of a job as a driver in 2014 and till 2016 he had been in contact with her on regular basis and used to send her money for the expenses.

It has become extremely difficult for her to look after the children as Naveed is the sole breadwinner in her family. She has now appealed to the Telangana government as well as the central government to help her in locating her husband.&nbsp;

To support Haleema and her two children, following the appeal of Amjed Ullah Khan, the spokesperson of Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), many people have come forward to help her with her expenses.

She has received Rs 56,000 in her bank account to date while other people have been helping her with groceries and other stuff.&nbsp;

A Hyderabad-based woman has sought help from the state and central governments in locating her husband in Qatar, who has not contacted her for the last five years.

A Hyderabad-based woman has sought help from the state and central governments in locating her husband in Qatar, who has not contacted her for the last five years. Haleema, who is a resident of Hashimabad of Bandlaguda in Hyderabad, got married to Mohammad Naveed Ahmed in January 2008. In 2014, in search of work, Naveed left for Qatar and had been in regular touch with Haleema till 2016. However, since 2016, as told by Haleema, her husband has not been in touch with her and their two children. Speaking to ANI, Haleema informed her husband left for Qatar in search of a job as a driver in 2014 and till 2016 he had been in contact with her on regular basis and used to send her money for the expenses. It has become extremely difficult for her to look after the children as Naveed is the sole breadwinner in her family. She has now appealed to the Telangana government as well as the central government to help her in locating her husband. To support Haleema and her two children, following the appeal of Amjed Ullah Khan, the spokesperson of Majlis Bachao Tehreek (MBT), many people have come forward to help her with her expenses. She has received Rs 56,000 in her bank account to date while other people have been helping her with groceries and other stuff.

Hyderabad woman seeks help from government to locate her husband in Qatar

Considering the pandemic situation in the country, vaccines are on top of India's wish list. There are more than 3,000 pharma companies in India. Together they run 10,500 manufacturing facilities. It's an industry valued at more than 30 billion dollars.

However, Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech are the only two companies out of 3,000 that are producing vaccines. The rest don't have licenses. The lack of license is because of the patents.

Vaccines are patented. Their recipes are locked away. Pharma giants are unwilling to publicly share knowledge. So a handful of companies are doing all the heavy lifting and are producing all the vaccines with their limited capacity.

How likely is a patent waiver?

In October, India and South Africa proposed this at the World Trade Organisation. It split the world along expected lines.

Most of the developing world supports the proposal. But the West is not budging. Australia, Canada, the EU, Britain and the US are opposing it.

They want to keep vaccine formulas locked away.

But what exactly is their motivation? After all, these countries are heading towards a vaccine surplus. They have enough for themselves, so it makes no sense for them to block a patent waiver.

However, when lobbying by pharma companies is taken into account, it makes sense. If the West gives in vaccine formulas could become a global common. Every pharma company could be producing vaccines.

And there is precedent for this. In 2001, the WTO waived patents on drugs for LDCs or least developed countries. In 2015, this waiver was extended for another 17 years. So patents are important but not absolute.

But can india wait around for the WTO?

This pandemic has taught us that global solidarity exists only in theory.

Is compulsory licensing an option?

This is basically an override of patents. Regulators can authorise companies to produce a patented product without the patent owner's permission.

All vaccines are patented by their makers. It is the government's job to protect these patents. But sometimes during emergencies, governments themselves can override these patents.

In India, compulsory licensing is permitted under the patents act of 1970. Specifically, Section 92 of the act empowers the Central government to issue compulsory licenses. But there are three conditions.

One, there must be a national emergency.

Two, the requirement must be extremely urgent.

Three, it must be for public non-commercial use.

A deadly virus killing 3,000 Indians a day, does qualify for all three. So theoretically India can do this. India can override patents on Pfizer and AstraZeneca and other vaccines.

All of Indian companies can be producing Wuhan virus vaccines. This practice is approved by the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Countries are free to issue compulsory licenses during emergencies. They are also free to decide what constitutes an emergency.&nbsp;

There is only one caveat.

The patent owner must be suitably compensated. So there is no scope of a backlash from Geneva. Even the Supreme Court of India is asking the centre to consider this option.

If the government does opt for compulsory licensing, a good start would be Bharat Biotech's Covaxin. It is a homegrown jab. So making it available to other producers would set a great example for the world.

But is overriding patents a sure-shot solution?

It is certainly the first step. Patent waiving is not the same as patent sharing. Indian companies will still have to reverse-engineer the vaccines, not to mention run clinical trials all over again.

So in the long run, patent waivers are the way to go.

But to beat the immediate bottleneck, there is an even better solution. Voluntary licenses.

AstraZeneca's vaccine is patented. But India's Serum Institute has been producing it by the millions. This is because Astrazeneca has issued a voluntary license for their jab.

They have shared their formula with Serum Institute. Sputnik-V has done the same with Dr Reddy's

Voluntary licenses save time and money.

To step up vaccine production, two things need to happen.

One, Indian pharma companies must reach out for licenses. They can't sit out this vaccination drive.

And two, foreign jab makers need to loosen the reins.

Either make their formulas public or issue more voluntary licenses.

These are decisions that usually involves a lot of haggling. But India needs to make these decisions right now.

Considering the pandemic situation in the country, vaccines are on top of India's wish list. There are more than 3,000 pharma companies in India. Together they run 10,500 manufacturing facilities.

Considering the pandemic situation in the country, vaccines are on top of India's wish list. There are more than 3,000 pharma companies in India. Together they run 10,500 manufacturing facilities. It's an industry valued at more than 30 billion dollars. However, Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech are the only two companies out of 3,000 that are producing vaccines. The rest don't have licenses. The lack of license is because of the patents. Vaccines are patented. Their recipes are locked away. Pharma giants are unwilling to publicly share knowledge. So a handful of companies are doing all the heavy lifting and are producing all the vaccines with their limited capacity. How likely is a patent waiver? In October, India and South Africa proposed this at the World Trade Organisation. It split the world along expected lines. Most of the developing world supports the proposal. But the West is not budging. Australia, Canada, the EU, Britain and the US are opposing it. They want to keep vaccine formulas locked away. But what exactly is their motivation? After all, these countries are heading towards a vaccine surplus. They have enough for themselves, so it makes no sense for them to block a patent waiver. However, when lobbying by pharma companies is taken into account, it makes sense. If the West gives in vaccine formulas could become a global common. Every pharma company could be producing vaccines. And there is precedent for this. In 2001, the WTO waived patents on drugs for LDCs or least developed countries. In 2015, this waiver was extended for another 17 years. So patents are important but not absolute. But can india wait around for the WTO? This pandemic has taught us that global solidarity exists only in theory. Is compulsory licensing an option? This is basically an override of patents. Regulators can authorise companies to produce a patented product without the patent owner's permission. All vaccines are patented by their makers. It is the government's job to protect these patents. But sometimes during emergencies, governments themselves can override these patents. In India, compulsory licensing is permitted under the patents act of 1970. Specifically, Section 92 of the act empowers the Central government to issue compulsory licenses. But there are three conditions. One, there must be a national emergency. Two, the requirement must be extremely urgent. Three, it must be for public non-commercial use. A deadly virus killing 3,000 Indians a day, does qualify for all three. So theoretically India can do this. India can override patents on Pfizer and AstraZeneca and other vaccines. All of Indian companies can be producing Wuhan virus vaccines. This practice is approved by the World Trade Organisation (WTO). Countries are free to issue compulsory licenses during emergencies. They are also free to decide what constitutes an emergency. There is only one caveat. The patent owner must be suitably compensated. So there is no scope of a backlash from Geneva. Even the Supreme Court of India is asking the centre to consider this option. If the government does opt for compulsory licensing, a good start would be Bharat Biotech's Covaxin. It is a homegrown jab. So making it available to other producers would set a great example for the world. But is overriding patents a sure-shot solution? It is certainly the first step. Patent waiving is not the same as patent sharing. Indian companies will still have to reverse-engineer the vaccines, not to mention run clinical trials all over again. So in the long run, patent waivers are the way to go. But to beat the immediate bottleneck, there is an even better solution. Voluntary licenses. AstraZeneca's vaccine is patented. But India's Serum Institute has been producing it by the millions. This is because Astrazeneca has issued a voluntary license for their jab. They have shared their formula with Serum Institute. Sputnik-V has done the same with Dr Reddy's Voluntary licenses save time and money. To step up vaccine production, two things need to happen. One, Indian pharma companies must reach out for licenses. They can't sit out this vaccination drive. And two, foreign jab makers need to loosen the reins. Either make their formulas public or issue more voluntary licenses. These are decisions that usually involves a lot of haggling. But India needs to make these decisions right now.

India needs to take some decisions to ease pandemic situation

At a times when India's Coronavirus cases and casualties are rising exponentially, Confederation of Indian Industry has urged the government to take the “strongest national steps” and to curtail economic activity to save lives.

World Business Watch: CII chief calls for strict curbs to battle COVID-19 pandemic

India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>situation is dire, with shortages of supplies that are crippling.

The country set a daily world record on new infections.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-did-the-pandemic-in-india-get-out-of-control-381790/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

One out of three new infections worldwide and nearly one out of four deaths worldwide is from India.

How did the pandemic in India get out of control?

We expected a second surge, but not of this magnitude.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-states-delay-vaccination-drive-due-to-vaccine-shortage-381774">Indian states delay vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage</a>

In February, India was reporting less than 10,000 cases in a day as new cases dropped to a nine-month low.

Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said: "India is in the endgame of the pandemic".

Now, for nine days in a row, India has reported more than 300,000 daily new cases.

So did the government of India declare victory too soon? Did experts predict such a surge? No, they did not.

Did we make it worse with mass, super spreader events? Yes, we did.

Could we have been better prepared? Of course, we could and should have been.

Governments, both at the centre and the state level, missed some obvious red flags.

The first one came six months ago, which should have provided enough time to prepare.&nbsp;

<h2>Variant discovery</h2>

India first discovered the double mutant in October 2020, the variant that is said to be driving India's surge.

Earlier this month, the double mutant was found in 61 per cent of the samples in Maharashtra, the state that is the biggest hotspot in India right now.

The double mutant has become a variant of global concern.

It has spread to at least 17 countries with the latest case being witnessed in France.

When a new variant is found, it means the virus is changing shape in order to keep spreading among people.

When India found this new variant, it should've got its guard up.

But, the warnings were ignored.

<h2>Covid committee raised alarm</h2>

A government committee had raised an alarm last month.

The National COVID-19 Supermodel Committee predicts how the virus will behave in the future by extrapolating the available data.

The head of its panel spoke to an Indian newspaper in March, saying that by March 8 and 9, it was clear that India was witnessing a second wave, especially in states like Maharashtra, Kerala and Chhattisgarh.

At this point, governments across the board should have acted with urgency.

They should have expanded their capacities, instead, they went in the opposite direction.

<h2>Coronavirus facilities reduced</h2>

Dedicated coronavirus facilities and oxygen supported beds were reduced.

An estimate suggests that these facilities fell by six per cent between December 2020 and April 2021.

Even the proposal to add more oxygen plants was caught in a bureaucratic tangle.

In October last year, the Indian government invited tenders to set up 162 new oxygen plants around the country.

They even sanctioned money for the project, but it moved slowly.

By April, only 33 of these plants had been installed.

The gap has resulted in a crisis with lives being lost due to oxygen shortage.

When the situation spiralled out of control, the system swung into action.

As many as 59 new plants were to be installed by the end of this month and as per the new target, 80 more oxygen plants will be added by May.&nbsp;

<h2>Vaccination drive</h2>

India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination </a>drive began in January this year.

It has been four months and the standalone numbers are good.

But if you look at the big picture, India hasn't been able to cover even 10 per cent of its population.

The population is huge and so India's vaccination drive should have been more aggressive.

So far, only two per cent of Indians have been fully vaccinated.

There is enough proof that vaccines bring down the caseload, reduce the risk of hospitalisation and death.

In the southern state of Karnataka, 30 per cent of the people who died due to the Wuhan virus had no co-morbidity.

They didn't suffer from any serious ailments and were healthy individuals.

To sum up, India is as much a victim of lapses as an unpredictable and deadly virus.

Unfortunately, hindsight can only give us lessons for the future: not undo the death and devastation of the past.

India's coronavirus situation is dire, with shortages of supplies that are crippling. The country set a daily world record on new infections. Watch One out of three new infections worldwide and nearly one out of four deaths worldwide is from India.

India's coronavirus situation is dire, with shortages of supplies that are crippling. The country set a daily world record on new infections. Watch One out of three new infections worldwide and nearly one out of four deaths worldwide is from India. How did the pandemic in India get out of control? We expected a second surge, but not of this magnitude. Also read | Indian states delay vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage In February, India was reporting less than 10,000 cases in a day as new cases dropped to a nine-month low. Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said: "India is in the endgame of the pandemic". Now, for nine days in a row, India has reported more than 300,000 daily new cases. So did the government of India declare victory too soon? Did experts predict such a surge? No, they did not. Did we make it worse with mass, super spreader events? Yes, we did. Could we have been better prepared? Of course, we could and should have been. Governments, both at the centre and the state level, missed some obvious red flags. The first one came six months ago, which should have provided enough time to prepare. Variant discovery India first discovered the double mutant in October 2020, the variant that is said to be driving India's surge. Earlier this month, the double mutant was found in 61 per cent of the samples in Maharashtra, the state that is the biggest hotspot in India right now. The double mutant has become a variant of global concern. It has spread to at least 17 countries with the latest case being witnessed in France. When a new variant is found, it means the virus is changing shape in order to keep spreading among people. When India found this new variant, it should've got its guard up. But, the warnings were ignored. Covid committee raised alarm A government committee had raised an alarm last month. The National COVID-19 Supermodel Committee predicts how the virus will behave in the future by extrapolating the available data. The head of its panel spoke to an Indian newspaper in March, saying that by March 8 and 9, it was clear that India was witnessing a second wave, especially in states like Maharashtra, Kerala and Chhattisgarh. At this point, governments across the board should have acted with urgency. They should have expanded their capacities, instead, they went in the opposite direction. Coronavirus facilities reduced Dedicated coronavirus facilities and oxygen supported beds were reduced. An estimate suggests that these facilities fell by six per cent between December 2020 and April 2021. Even the proposal to add more oxygen plants was caught in a bureaucratic tangle. In October last year, the Indian government invited tenders to set up 162 new oxygen plants around the country. They even sanctioned money for the project, but it moved slowly. By April, only 33 of these plants had been installed. The gap has resulted in a crisis with lives being lost due to oxygen shortage. When the situation spiralled out of control, the system swung into action. As many as 59 new plants were to be installed by the end of this month and as per the new target, 80 more oxygen plants will be added by May. Vaccination drive India's vaccination drive began in January this year. It has been four months and the standalone numbers are good. But if you look at the big picture, India hasn't been able to cover even 10 per cent of its population. The population is huge and so India's vaccination drive should have been more aggressive. So far, only two per cent of Indians have been fully vaccinated. There is enough proof that vaccines bring down the caseload, reduce the risk of hospitalisation and death. In the southern state of Karnataka, 30 per cent of the people who died due to the Wuhan virus had no co-morbidity. They didn't suffer from any serious ailments and were healthy individuals. To sum up, India is as much a victim of lapses as an unpredictable and deadly virus. Unfortunately, hindsight can only give us lessons for the future: not undo the death and devastation of the past.

Several signs were ignored as India battered by fresh wave of coronavirus

Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal on Sunday asked concerned departments and agencies to submit an action plan concerning the availability of hospital beds, medicines, medical oxygen as well as increasing the capacity of crematoriums and graveyards amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital.

"Lt Governor has sought further advise from concerned departments and agencies concerning the availability of key medicines, beds, medical oxygen and augmentation of capacities at crematoriums and graveyards, to address the ongoing problems being faced by people," LG office said in a tweet from its official handle.

The LG has also asked the departments and agencies of the Delhi government to submit a quantifiable action plan that could be monitored while addressing the problems due to shortages.

"LG has also suggested that the possibility of reemploying recently retired Doctors and other paramedical staff, where ever required, be looked into to address shortages," he added.

A massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital has resulted in shortages of hospital beds, medical oxygen and medicines for patients.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi`s new COVID-19 cases slightly dipped on Sunday to 20,394 but the city saw 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. This is the second consecutive day when Delhi saw more than 400 deaths.

The total count of cases in the city has gone up to 11,94,946 including 92,290 active cases and 10,85,690 recoveries. The death toll has gone up to 16,966.

Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal on Sunday asked concerned departments and agencies to submit an action plan concerning the availability of hospital beds, medicines, medical oxygen as well as increasing the capacity of crematoriums and graveyards amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital.

Lieutenant Governor of Delhi Anil Baijal on Sunday asked concerned departments and agencies to submit an action plan concerning the availability of hospital beds, medicines, medical oxygen as well as increasing the capacity of crematoriums and graveyards amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital. "Lt Governor has sought further advise from concerned departments and agencies concerning the availability of key medicines, beds, medical oxygen and augmentation of capacities at crematoriums and graveyards, to address the ongoing problems being faced by people," LG office said in a tweet from its official handle. The LG has also asked the departments and agencies of the Delhi government to submit a quantifiable action plan that could be monitored while addressing the problems due to shortages. "LG has also suggested that the possibility of reemploying recently retired Doctors and other paramedical staff, where ever required, be looked into to address shortages," he added. A massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the national capital has resulted in shortages of hospital beds, medical oxygen and medicines for patients. Meanwhile, Delhi`s new COVID-19 cases slightly dipped on Sunday to 20,394 but the city saw 407 deaths in the last 24 hours. This is the second consecutive day when Delhi saw more than 400 deaths. The total count of cases in the city has gone up to 11,94,946 including 92,290 active cases and 10,85,690 recoveries. The death toll has gone up to 16,966.

COVID-19: Delhi Lt Governor seeks action plan to address shortage of hospital beds, oxygen

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the country, the Punjab government on Sunday issued that no one will be allowed to enter the state without a negative COVID-19 test result or a vaccine certificate.&nbsp;

In a set of new guidelines to curb the spread of the virus, the state government further said that all non-essential shops would be closed till May 15.&nbsp;

"Nobody to enter the state whether by air, rail or road without either a COVID negative report or vaccination certificate. In addition, all non-essential shops will continue to remain closed till May 15," the order said.&nbsp;

It added, "The daily night curfew from 6 pm to 5 am and a weekend curfew from 6 pm on Friday till 5 am on Monday will continue. RT-PCR testing of road and streetwise vendors to be carried out."&nbsp;

In the last 24 hours, Punjab reported 7,327 fresh COVID-19 cases, 5,244 discharges, and 157 deaths, the state health department informed. There are currently 60,108 active cases. The total number of discharges stands at 3,15,845 while the death toll is at 9,317.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the country, the Punjab government on Sunday issued that no one will be allowed to enter the state without a negative COVID-19 test result or a vaccine certificate.

As COVID-19 cases continue to rise across the country, the Punjab government on Sunday issued that no one will be allowed to enter the state without a negative COVID-19 test result or a vaccine certificate. In a set of new guidelines to curb the spread of the virus, the state government further said that all non-essential shops would be closed till May 15. "Nobody to enter the state whether by air, rail or road without either a COVID negative report or vaccination certificate. In addition, all non-essential shops will continue to remain closed till May 15," the order said. It added, "The daily night curfew from 6 pm to 5 am and a weekend curfew from 6 pm on Friday till 5 am on Monday will continue. RT-PCR testing of road and streetwise vendors to be carried out." In the last 24 hours, Punjab reported 7,327 fresh COVID-19 cases, 5,244 discharges, and 157 deaths, the state health department informed. There are currently 60,108 active cases. The total number of discharges stands at 3,15,845 while the death toll is at 9,317.

No entry in Punjab without negative COVID-19 test or vaccination certificate

 Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], May 3 (ANI): To meet the urgent requirements of Covid-19 patients, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Sunday handed over 50 oxygen cylinders to Gandhi Hospital in Secunderabad.As part of DRDO`s sustained efforts to meet the urgent requirement of oxygen supplies, director-general of missiles and strategic systems, MSR Prasad, handed over the oxygen cylinders to authorities of the hospital in Secunderabad in the presence of Union Minister of State Kishan Reddy.According to the official release, the cylinders have a water capacity of around 46.7 litres each and can be pressurised up to 150 bars. In total, each cylinder can store around 7,000 litres of oxygen.These oxygen cylinders delivered to the hospital are high-pressure seamless cylinders which have been certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), Government of India. (ANI) 

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], May 3 (ANI): To meet the urgent requirements of Covid-19 patients, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Sunday handed over 50 oxygen cylinders to Gandhi Hospital in Secunderabad.

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], May 3 (ANI): To meet the urgent requirements of Covid-19 patients, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) on Sunday handed over 50 oxygen cylinders to Gandhi Hospital in Secunderabad.As part of DRDO`s sustained efforts to meet the urgent requirement of oxygen supplies, director-general of missiles and strategic systems, MSR Prasad, handed over the oxygen cylinders to authorities of the hospital in Secunderabad in the presence of Union Minister of State Kishan Reddy.According to the official release, the cylinders have a water capacity of around 46.7 litres each and can be pressurised up to 150 bars. In total, each cylinder can store around 7,000 litres of oxygen.These oxygen cylinders delivered to the hospital are high-pressure seamless cylinders which have been certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), Government of India. (ANI)

DRDO delivers 50 oxygen cylinders to Hyderabad''s Gandhi Hospital

An official statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said that Modi expressed his appreciation of the EU and its member states for mobilizing rapid support for India’s fight against the second wave of covid-19.

PM Modi discusses Covid-19 situation with European Commission President

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday announced that all accredited and yellow card journalists in the state will be included in the list of frontline warriors in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. 
 
All power corporation employees in the state have also been brought under the ambit of frontline workers. 
 
These employees, along with the journalists, will now be eligible for all the benefits that the frontline workers are entitled to, including priority vaccination, the Chief Minister said at a high-level Covid review meeting. 
 
Journalists have been taking grave risks in covering the pandemic from the ground and helping to spread awareness about the virus for the past more than a year, the Chief Minister said. 
 
They need to be protected, he said, adding that though many states had raised the demand for their inclusion in the frontline workers category, the government of India has not responded so far. 
 
The Punjab government, therefore, has decided to provide frontline protection to the journalists and also power corporation employees, who too are endangering their lives while maintaining critical power services in hospitals and other vital institutions. 
&nbsp;

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday announced that all accredited and yellow card journalists in the state will be included in the list of frontline warriors in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday announced that all accredited and yellow card journalists in the state will be included in the list of frontline warriors in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. All power corporation employees in the state have also been brought under the ambit of frontline workers. These employees, along with the journalists, will now be eligible for all the benefits that the frontline workers are entitled to, including priority vaccination, the Chief Minister said at a high-level Covid review meeting. Journalists have been taking grave risks in covering the pandemic from the ground and helping to spread awareness about the virus for the past more than a year, the Chief Minister said. They need to be protected, he said, adding that though many states had raised the demand for their inclusion in the frontline workers category, the government of India has not responded so far. The Punjab government, therefore, has decided to provide frontline protection to the journalists and also power corporation employees, who too are endangering their lives while maintaining critical power services in hospitals and other vital institutions.

Journalists declared frontline warriors in Punjab

Pfizer&nbsp;is in discussions with the Indian government seeking an "expedited approval pathway" for its COVID-19 vaccine, its CEO Albert Bourla said on LinkedIn on Monday, announcing a donation of medicines worth more than $70 million.

"We are deeply concerned by the critical COVID-19 situation in India, and our hearts go out to you, your loved ones and all the people of India," he said in a mail sent to Pfizer India employees that he posted on&nbsp;LinkedIn.

Pfizer is committed to being a partner in India's fight against this disease and is quickly working to mobilise the largest humanitarian relief effort in the company's history, he added.

"Right now, Pfizer colleagues at distribution centres in the US, Europe and Asia are hard at work rushing shipments of Pfizer medicines that the Government of India has identified as part of its COVID treatment protocol," Bourla said.

Pfizer is donating these medicines to help make sure that every COVID-19 patient in every public hospital across India can have access to the company's medicines they need free of charge, he added.

"These medicines, valued at more than $70 million, will be made available immediately, and we will work closely with the government and our NGO partners to get them to where they are needed most," Bourla said.

This effort, in combination with Pfizer Foundation funding that supports humanitarian organisations providing essential and life-saving equipment to India, such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators and consumables, is our most comprehensive humanitarian relief response ever, he added.

He also said that the company is aware that access to vaccines is critical to ending this pandemic.

"Unfortunately, our vaccine is not registered in India although our application was submitted months ago. We are currently discussing with the Indian government an expedited approval pathway to make our Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available for use in the country," Bourla said.

Pfizer stands in solidarity with all those currently affected by COVID-19 in India and around the world and will continue to do everything possible to provide assistance, he added.

"As we work to meet the public health need and to be a partner with the Government of India to establish a path forward for our vaccine, please know you and your loved ones are foremost in our thoughts and prayers," Bourla said.

Earlier in April, Pfizer said that it had offered a not-for-profit price for its vaccine for the government immunisation programme in India.

"Pfizer remains committed to continuing our engagement with the government towards making the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine available for use in the government's immunisation programme in the country," the company had said in April.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer is in discussions with the Indian government seeking an "expedited approval pathway" for its COVID-19 vaccine, its CEO Albert Bourla said on LinkedIn on Monday, announcing a donation of medicines worth more than $70 million.

Pfizer is in discussions with the Indian government seeking an "expedited approval pathway" for its COVID-19 vaccine, its CEO Albert Bourla said on LinkedIn on Monday, announcing a donation of medicines worth more than $70 million. "We are deeply concerned by the critical COVID-19 situation in India, and our hearts go out to you, your loved ones and all the people of India," he said in a mail sent to Pfizer India employees that he posted on LinkedIn. Pfizer is committed to being a partner in India's fight against this disease and is quickly working to mobilise the largest humanitarian relief effort in the company's history, he added. "Right now, Pfizer colleagues at distribution centres in the US, Europe and Asia are hard at work rushing shipments of Pfizer medicines that the Government of India has identified as part of its COVID treatment protocol," Bourla said. Pfizer is donating these medicines to help make sure that every COVID-19 patient in every public hospital across India can have access to the company's medicines they need free of charge, he added. "These medicines, valued at more than $70 million, will be made available immediately, and we will work closely with the government and our NGO partners to get them to where they are needed most," Bourla said. This effort, in combination with Pfizer Foundation funding that supports humanitarian organisations providing essential and life-saving equipment to India, such as ventilators, oxygen concentrators and consumables, is our most comprehensive humanitarian relief response ever, he added. He also said that the company is aware that access to vaccines is critical to ending this pandemic. "Unfortunately, our vaccine is not registered in India although our application was submitted months ago. We are currently discussing with the Indian government an expedited approval pathway to make our Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine available for use in the country," Bourla said. Pfizer stands in solidarity with all those currently affected by COVID-19 in India and around the world and will continue to do everything possible to provide assistance, he added. "As we work to meet the public health need and to be a partner with the Government of India to establish a path forward for our vaccine, please know you and your loved ones are foremost in our thoughts and prayers," Bourla said. Earlier in April, Pfizer said that it had offered a not-for-profit price for its vaccine for the government immunisation programme in India. "Pfizer remains committed to continuing our engagement with the government towards making the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine available for use in the government's immunisation programme in the country," the company had said in April. (With inputs from agencies)

Pfizer donates 'largest humanitarian relief' worth $70 million to India

India on Monday received shipment of oxygen production plant and twenty ventilators from Italy amid the pandemic in the country which has hit the country hard with the shortage of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/natco-gets-cdsco-nod-for-emergency-use-of-baricitinib-tablets-for-covid-19-treatment-382479"> oxygen</a> equipment in the country.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-records-368-lakh-new-cases-in-single-day-3417-fresh-fatalities-382535/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We value the support from our important EU partner, Italy. Will help augment our oxygen capacities," India's external affairs ministry said in a statement, adding, "taking forward our warm and multifaceted relationship."

Earlier, the fourth consignment of medical supplies containing 60 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worst-is-yet-to-come-says-google-ceo-sundar-pichai-on-indias-covid-crisis-382532">ventilators</a> had arrived from the UK as the external affairs ministry thanked the "strategic partner and friend for the support."

The Indian Air Force&nbsp;(IAF) had said on Sunday that C-17s have airlifted four <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-entry-in-punjab-without-negative-covid-19-test-or-vaccination-certificate-382418">cryogenic</a> oxygen containers from Frankfurt in Germany to Hindon airbase in Delhi including 450 oxygen cylinders from Brize Norton in the UK to the Chennai airbase in Tamil Nadu.

On Sunday, a flight carrying 125,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir had arrived at Delhi airport from the United States.

The US embassy in New Delhi in a statement said: "The American people stand united with India in the fight against COVID-19. Today, 125,000 vials of the antiviral drug Remdesivir arrived from the US -the fourth relief shipment- and there are more life-saving supplies on the way."

In a statement, Janez Lenarčič, said: "I am proud to say EU member states are providing further substantial help in a Team Europe effort to show our solidarity with our Indian friends."

"Collective action is the only solution if we want to win our fight against the COVID-19 pandemic," he added.

The ambassador of the European Union to India and Bhutan, Ugo Astuto had said earlier that "more aeroplanes have arrived from France, Germany &amp; Belgium with urgently needed oxygen, equipment and&nbsp;medicines. Team Europe is pooling resources &amp; mobilizing support in solidarity with India."

Medical supplies had also arrived from Germany, Romania, Belgium and France through the EUCivPro mechanism.&nbsp;

India on Monday received shipment of oxygen production plant and twenty ventilators from Italy amid the pandemic in the country which has hit the country hard with the shortage of oxygen equipment in the country.

India on Monday received shipment of oxygen production plant and twenty ventilators from Italy amid the pandemic in the country which has hit the country hard with the shortage of oxygen equipment in the country. Watch: "We value the support from our important EU partner, Italy. Will help augment our oxygen capacities," India's external affairs ministry said in a statement, adding, "taking forward our warm and multifaceted relationship." Earlier, the fourth consignment of medical supplies containing 60 ventilators had arrived from the UK as the external affairs ministry thanked the "strategic partner and friend for the support." The Indian Air Force (IAF) had said on Sunday that C-17s have airlifted four cryogenic oxygen containers from Frankfurt in Germany to Hindon airbase in Delhi including 450 oxygen cylinders from Brize Norton in the UK to the Chennai airbase in Tamil Nadu. On Sunday, a flight carrying 125,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir had arrived at Delhi airport from the United States. The US embassy in New Delhi in a statement said: "The American people stand united with India in the fight against COVID-19. Today, 125,000 vials of the antiviral drug Remdesivir arrived from the US -the fourth relief shipment- and there are more life-saving supplies on the way." In a statement, Janez Lenarčič, said: "I am proud to say EU member states are providing further substantial help in a Team Europe effort to show our solidarity with our Indian friends." "Collective action is the only solution if we want to win our fight against the COVID-19 pandemic," he added. The ambassador of the European Union to India and Bhutan, Ugo Astuto had said earlier that "more aeroplanes have arrived from France, Germany & Belgium with urgently needed oxygen, equipment and medicines. Team Europe is pooling resources & mobilizing support in solidarity with India." Medical supplies had also arrived from Germany, Romania, Belgium and France through the EUCivPro mechanism.

Covid aid to India: Oxygen production plant, 20 ventilators arrive from Italy

The daily COVID-19 cases in India showed a slight dip with 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, taking the total tally of cases to 1,99,25,604, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday.&nbsp;

The death toll increased to 2,18,959 with 3,417 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. &nbsp;

While the country recorded 4,01,993 new cases on May 1, it had registered 3,92,488 fresh cases on May 2. &nbsp;

Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 34,13,642 comprising 17.13 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate stands at 81.77 per cent. &nbsp;

The number of people, who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,62,93,003, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.10 per cent, the data stated. &nbsp;

According to the ICMR, 29,16,47,037 samples have been tested up to May 2 with 15,04,698 samples being tested on Sunday. &nbsp;

The 3,417 new fatalities include 669 from Maharashtra, 407 from Delhi, 288 from Uttar Pradesh, 217 from Karnataka, 199 from Chhattisgarh, 159 from Rajasthan, 157 from Punjab, 153 each from Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, 145 from Haryana and 115 from Jharkhand.&nbsp;

A total of 2,18,959 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 70,284 from Maharashtra, 16,966 from Delhi, 16,011 from Karnataka, 14,346 from Tamil Nadu, 13,162 from Uttar Pradesh, 11,539 from West Bengal, 9,317 from Punjab and 9,009 from Chhattisgarh.&nbsp;

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.&nbsp;

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The daily COVID-19 cases in India showed a slight dip with 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, taking the total tally of cases to 1,99,25,604, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday.

The daily COVID-19 cases in India showed a slight dip with 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, taking the total tally of cases to 1,99,25,604, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday. The death toll increased to 2,18,959 with 3,417 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. While the country recorded 4,01,993 new cases on May 1, it had registered 3,92,488 fresh cases on May 2. Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 34,13,642 comprising 17.13 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate stands at 81.77 per cent. The number of people, who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,62,93,003, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.10 per cent, the data stated. According to the ICMR, 29,16,47,037 samples have been tested up to May 2 with 15,04,698 samples being tested on Sunday. The 3,417 new fatalities include 669 from Maharashtra, 407 from Delhi, 288 from Uttar Pradesh, 217 from Karnataka, 199 from Chhattisgarh, 159 from Rajasthan, 157 from Punjab, 153 each from Gujarat and Tamil Nadu, 145 from Haryana and 115 from Jharkhand. A total of 2,18,959 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 70,284 from Maharashtra, 16,966 from Delhi, 16,011 from Karnataka, 14,346 from Tamil Nadu, 13,162 from Uttar Pradesh, 11,539 from West Bengal, 9,317 from Punjab and 9,009 from Chhattisgarh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India records 3,68,147 new cases and 3,417 fatalities in single day  

The step was taken after two players of KKR players tested positive for Covid-19. An official statement was released by IPL in this regard, which confirmed that Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier have contracted the virus.

KKR vs RCB match postponed as 2 players in KKR camp test positiv

With 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections reported in the last 24 hours, the daily Covid-19 cases showed a slight dip but continued to stay above 3 lakh taking the total tally of cases to 1,99,25,604

India records 3.68 lakh new cases in single day, 3,417 fresh fatalities

Google chief executive Sundar Pichai said that the Covid-19 situation in India is dire and the 'worst is yet to come'. Google CEO told CNN that it has been 'heartening' to see the kind of attention people at the highest levels in the United States have been giving to the health crisis unfolding in India and other countries.&nbsp;

“The situation there is dire and it has been heartbreaking to see. And I think the worst is yet to come,” said Pichai.&nbsp;

“What's been heartening, at least being here, is definitely seeing the attention here. I realise that at the highest levels, from President Biden, secretary Blinken, there has been focus on engaging to see how we can help India and the other countries being affected,” Pichai added.&nbsp;

Recently, the first US government assistance flight carrying COVID-19 emergency aid supplies landed in India. &nbsp;

A military aircraft Super Galaxy military transporter brought the first supplies to help India to fight the deadly second COVID-19 wave that has wreaked havoc across the country, straining its healthcare system.&nbsp;

The aircraft is carrying more than 400 oxygen cylinders and other hospital equipment and nearly one million rapid coronavirus tests landed at New Delhi’s international airport.&nbsp;

“The first of several emergency COVID-19 relief shipments from the United States has arrived in India! Building on over 70 years of cooperation, the United States stands with India as we fight the COVID-19 pandemic together. #USIndiaDosti,” the US Embassy tweeted.&nbsp;

India is currently recording a world record infection rate of more than 380,000 cases and 3,500 deaths a day and a huge international aid operation has been launched with dozens of countries promising help.&nbsp;

The delivery, which flew in from the Travis military base in California, followed talks this week between US President Joe Biden and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

“The United States is delivering supplies worth more than $100 million in the coming days to provide urgent relief to our partners in India,” State Department spokesman Ned Price said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Google chief executive Sundar Pichai said that the Covid-19 situation in India is dire and the 'worst is yet to come'. Google CEO told CNN that it has been 'heartening' to see the kind of attention people at the highest levels in the United States have been giving to the health crisis unfolding in India and other countries.

Google chief executive Sundar Pichai said that the Covid-19 situation in India is dire and the 'worst is yet to come'. Google CEO told CNN that it has been 'heartening' to see the kind of attention people at the highest levels in the United States have been giving to the health crisis unfolding in India and other countries. “The situation there is dire and it has been heartbreaking to see. And I think the worst is yet to come,” said Pichai. “What's been heartening, at least being here, is definitely seeing the attention here. I realise that at the highest levels, from President Biden, secretary Blinken, there has been focus on engaging to see how we can help India and the other countries being affected,” Pichai added. Recently, the first US government assistance flight carrying COVID-19 emergency aid supplies landed in India. A military aircraft Super Galaxy military transporter brought the first supplies to help India to fight the deadly second COVID-19 wave that has wreaked havoc across the country, straining its healthcare system. The aircraft is carrying more than 400 oxygen cylinders and other hospital equipment and nearly one million rapid coronavirus tests landed at New Delhi’s international airport. “The first of several emergency COVID-19 relief shipments from the United States has arrived in India! Building on over 70 years of cooperation, the United States stands with India as we fight the COVID-19 pandemic together. #USIndiaDosti,” the US Embassy tweeted. India is currently recording a world record infection rate of more than 380,000 cases and 3,500 deaths a day and a huge international aid operation has been launched with dozens of countries promising help. The delivery, which flew in from the Travis military base in California, followed talks this week between US President Joe Biden and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “The United States is delivering supplies worth more than $100 million in the coming days to provide urgent relief to our partners in India,” State Department spokesman Ned Price said. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Worst is yet to come’, says Google CEO Sundar Pichai on India’s Covid crisis

The Indian rupee slumped 24 paise to 74.33 against the US dollar in opening trade on Monday tracking weak domestic equities and strong American currency.&nbsp;

Forex traders said concerns over rising COVID-19 cases and foreign fund outflows also weighed on investors' sentiment.&nbsp;

At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened lower at 74.25 against the dollar, and lost further ground and touched 74.33, registering a fall of 24 paise over its previous close.&nbsp;

On Friday, rupee had closed at 74.09 against the US dollar.&nbsp;

Rupee opened on a week note on global dollar strength and weaker-than-expected performance of BJP in state elections, particularly Bengal, said Abhishek Goenka, Founder and CEO, IFA Global.&nbsp;

Goenka further said that "it is likely to trade a 74.15-74.45 range intraday with an upside bias".&nbsp;

The major trigger point for the markets could be the CPI and IIP numbers this week, Reliance Securities said in a research note adding that volumes could be low this week as Chinese investors and traders will be away from the markets on account of Labour Day break from May 3 to 5 this week.&nbsp;

The 30-share BSE Sensex was trading 363.46 points or 0.75 per cent lower at 48,418.90. Similarly, the broader NSE Nifty slipped 85.15 points or 0.58 per cent to 14,545.95.&nbsp;

The daily COVID-19 cases in India showed a slight dip with 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, taking the total tally of cases to 1,99,25,604, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday.&nbsp;

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) remained net sellers in the capital markets, as they pulled out Rs 3,465.07 crore on Friday, as per provisional data.&nbsp;

The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading higher by 0.06 per cent at 91.33.&nbsp;

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, was down by 0.45 per cent to USD 66.46 per barrel. &nbsp;

The Indian rupee slumped 24 paise to 74.33 against the US dollar in opening trade on Monday tracking weak domestic equities and strong American currency. Forex traders said concerns over rising COVID-19 cases and foreign fund outflows also weighed on investors' sentiment.

The Indian rupee slumped 24 paise to 74.33 against the US dollar in opening trade on Monday tracking weak domestic equities and strong American currency. Forex traders said concerns over rising COVID-19 cases and foreign fund outflows also weighed on investors' sentiment. At the interbank foreign exchange, the domestic unit opened lower at 74.25 against the dollar, and lost further ground and touched 74.33, registering a fall of 24 paise over its previous close. On Friday, rupee had closed at 74.09 against the US dollar. Rupee opened on a week note on global dollar strength and weaker-than-expected performance of BJP in state elections, particularly Bengal, said Abhishek Goenka, Founder and CEO, IFA Global. Goenka further said that "it is likely to trade a 74.15-74.45 range intraday with an upside bias". The major trigger point for the markets could be the CPI and IIP numbers this week, Reliance Securities said in a research note adding that volumes could be low this week as Chinese investors and traders will be away from the markets on account of Labour Day break from May 3 to 5 this week. The 30-share BSE Sensex was trading 363.46 points or 0.75 per cent lower at 48,418.90. Similarly, the broader NSE Nifty slipped 85.15 points or 0.58 per cent to 14,545.95. The daily COVID-19 cases in India showed a slight dip with 3,68,147 new coronavirus infections being reported in a day, taking the total tally of cases to 1,99,25,604, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Monday. Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) remained net sellers in the capital markets, as they pulled out Rs 3,465.07 crore on Friday, as per provisional data. The dollar index, which gauges the greenback's strength against a basket of six currencies, was trading higher by 0.06 per cent at 91.33. Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, was down by 0.45 per cent to USD 66.46 per barrel.

Rupee falls 24 paise to 74.33 against US dollar in early trade 

In a stark contrast to the Jayalalithaa-Karunanidhi era of politics that was driven by blatant displays of vendetta, outgoing chief minister of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu Edappadi K Palaniswami has congratulated the chief minister-in-waiting MK Stalin.&nbsp;

What has also gained attention is how Stalin went the extra mile to seek Palaniswami’s cooperation for the development of Tamil Nadu.&nbsp;

It is also learnt that after the AIADMK’s electoral defeat, Palaniswami, who is staying in Salem, sent his resignation to Governor Banwarilal Purohit.

“I convey my best wishes to MK Stalin who is going to take oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister” Palaniswami shared on his Twitter account on Monday.

Stalin was quick to thank the outgoing chief minister and AIADMK Joint-coordinator. “I thank Palaniswami and also seek his ideas and cooperation for building the best Tamil Nadu”.&nbsp;

During the early hours of Monday, Stalin paid his respects at his father M Karunanidhi’s resting place, by symbolically placing the winning certificate.&nbsp; 
Speaking to the media, Stalin said that considering the severe Covid-19 pandemic situation in the state, the swearing-in function will be simple and may be held in Raj Bhavan(Governor’s Residence).

He added that the DMK party will form the government for the sixth time in Tamil Nadu and follow the footsteps of five-time Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi. Stalin also said the DMK’s governance will be such that those who had voted for the party will feel happy voting for it, and even those who did not vote would regret their decision to not have voted for them.

DMK General Secretary Durai Murugan said that the party’s elected representatives would meet at the party headquarters at 6 pm, Tuesday, under the leadership of MK Stalin.

In a stark contrast to the Jayalalithaa-Karunanidhi era of politics that was driven by blatant displays of vendetta, outgoing chief minister of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu Edappadi K Palaniswami has congratulated the chief minister-in-waiting MK Stalin.

In a stark contrast to the Jayalalithaa-Karunanidhi era of politics that was driven by blatant displays of vendetta, outgoing chief minister of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu Edappadi K Palaniswami has congratulated the chief minister-in-waiting MK Stalin. What has also gained attention is how Stalin went the extra mile to seek Palaniswami’s cooperation for the development of Tamil Nadu. It is also learnt that after the AIADMK’s electoral defeat, Palaniswami, who is staying in Salem, sent his resignation to Governor Banwarilal Purohit. “I convey my best wishes to MK Stalin who is going to take oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister” Palaniswami shared on his Twitter account on Monday. Stalin was quick to thank the outgoing chief minister and AIADMK Joint-coordinator. “I thank Palaniswami and also seek his ideas and cooperation for building the best Tamil Nadu”. During the early hours of Monday, Stalin paid his respects at his father M Karunanidhi’s resting place, by symbolically placing the winning certificate. Speaking to the media, Stalin said that considering the severe Covid-19 pandemic situation in the state, the swearing-in function will be simple and may be held in Raj Bhavan(Governor’s Residence). He added that the DMK party will form the government for the sixth time in Tamil Nadu and follow the footsteps of five-time Chief Minister M.Karunanidhi. Stalin also said the DMK’s governance will be such that those who had voted for the party will feel happy voting for it, and even those who did not vote would regret their decision to not have voted for them. DMK General Secretary Durai Murugan said that the party’s elected representatives would meet at the party headquarters at 6 pm, Tuesday, under the leadership of MK Stalin.

Outgoing CM Palaniswami congratulates Stalin, who responds seeking EPS’ ideas and cooperation

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COVID-19: India records 3,68,147 new cases and 3,417 fatalities in single day

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India records 3.68 lakh new cases in single day, 3,417 fresh fatalities