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A total of 86,023 beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine across 11 states on May 1, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.&nbsp;

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 15,68,16,031 as the phase-3 of the nationwide vaccination drive commenced on Saturday.&nbsp;

The ministry said, "86,023 beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years received their first dose of Covid vaccine across 11 states".&nbsp;

These states are Chhattisgarh (987), Delhi (1,472), Gujarat (51,622), Jammu and Kashmir (201), Karnataka (649), Maharashtra (12,525), Odisha (97), Punjab (298), Rajasthan (1853), Tamil Nadu (527) and UP (15,792). &nbsp;

Cumulatively, 15,68,16,031 vaccine doses have been administered through 22,93,911 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 am, the ministry said.&nbsp;

These include 94,28,490 healthcare workers (HCWs), who have taken the first dose and 62,65,397 HCWs, who have taken the second dose, 1,27,57,529 FLWs, who received the first dose and 69,22,093 FLWs, who took the second dose.&nbsp;

It also includes 86,023 beneficiaries in the age-group of 18-45. Besides, 5,26,18,135 and 1,14,49,310 beneficiaries more than 60 years old have been administered the first and second dose, respectively, while 5,32,80,976 and 40,08,078 beneficiaries aged 45 to 60 have taken the first and second dose.&nbsp;

Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh account for 67 per cent of the cumulative doses given so far in the country.&nbsp;

More than 18 lakh vaccination doses were administered in a span of 24 hours.&nbsp;

As on day-106 of the vaccination drive (May 1), 18,26,219 vaccine doses were given. Across 15,968 sessions, 11,14,214 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose and 7,12,005 beneficiaries received their second dose of vaccine.&nbsp;

A total of 86,023 beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine across 11 states on May 1, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.

A total of 86,023 beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine across 11 states on May 1, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 15,68,16,031 as the phase-3 of the nationwide vaccination drive commenced on Saturday. The ministry said, "86,023 beneficiaries in the age group of 18-44 years received their first dose of Covid vaccine across 11 states". These states are Chhattisgarh (987), Delhi (1,472), Gujarat (51,622), Jammu and Kashmir (201), Karnataka (649), Maharashtra (12,525), Odisha (97), Punjab (298), Rajasthan (1853), Tamil Nadu (527) and UP (15,792). Cumulatively, 15,68,16,031 vaccine doses have been administered through 22,93,911 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 am, the ministry said. These include 94,28,490 healthcare workers (HCWs), who have taken the first dose and 62,65,397 HCWs, who have taken the second dose, 1,27,57,529 FLWs, who received the first dose and 69,22,093 FLWs, who took the second dose. It also includes 86,023 beneficiaries in the age-group of 18-45. Besides, 5,26,18,135 and 1,14,49,310 beneficiaries more than 60 years old have been administered the first and second dose, respectively, while 5,32,80,976 and 40,08,078 beneficiaries aged 45 to 60 have taken the first and second dose. Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh account for 67 per cent of the cumulative doses given so far in the country. More than 18 lakh vaccination doses were administered in a span of 24 hours. As on day-106 of the vaccination drive (May 1), 18,26,219 vaccine doses were given. Across 15,968 sessions, 11,14,214 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose and 7,12,005 beneficiaries received their second dose of vaccine.

Phase-3 vaccination: Over 86,000 received first dose on May 1 in India

78,60,779 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs which will receive 56,20,670 additional doses within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.&nbsp;

The Government of India has so far provided 16,54,93,410 vaccine doses to states and UTs free of cost. Of this, the total consumption including wastages is 15,76,32,631 doses.&nbsp;

Implementation of the Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of COVID-19 vaccination started on Saturday. Registration for the new eligible population groups has commenced since April 28. Potential beneficiaries can either register directly on CoWIN portal or through the Aarogya Setu app. &nbsp;

"More than 78,60,779 COVID vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered.&nbsp;

"Furthermore, more than 56,20,670 vaccine doses will be received in addition by them within the next three days," the ministry said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

78,60,779 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs which will receive 56,20,670 additional doses within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday.

78,60,779 COVID-19 vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs which will receive 56,20,670 additional doses within the next three days, the Union Health Ministry said on Sunday. The Government of India has so far provided 16,54,93,410 vaccine doses to states and UTs free of cost. Of this, the total consumption including wastages is 15,76,32,631 doses. Implementation of the Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of COVID-19 vaccination started on Saturday. Registration for the new eligible population groups has commenced since April 28. Potential beneficiaries can either register directly on CoWIN portal or through the Aarogya Setu app. "More than 78,60,779 COVID vaccine doses are still available with the states and UTs to be administered. "Furthermore, more than 56,20,670 vaccine doses will be received in addition by them within the next three days," the ministry said. (With inputs from agencies)

78,60,779 COVID-19 vaccine doses still available with states: Centre 

Elated over the initial trends&nbsp;of Assam poll results, which showed that the BJP has an edge over its rivals, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will retain power in the state.&nbsp;

The ruling BJP-led NDA is surging ahead of the Grand Alliance spearheaded by the Congress in Assam, leading in 77 of the 119 seats, trends available on the Election Commission website at 12.15 pm showed.&nbsp;

"People have blessed us. We can say for sure that the BJP will form government in Assam. We are coming back to power with our partners AGP and UPPL," Sonowal told reporters.&nbsp;

Asked if the ruling coalition will be able to bag 100 seats, as claimed by the saffron camp ahead of the polls, he said, "The trends are completely in&nbsp;favour&nbsp;of the BJP. The party will achieve its target. However, we will have to wait for the final results."&nbsp;

Sonowal is maintaining a comfortable lead in&nbsp;Majuli&nbsp;constituency.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Elated over the initial trends of Assam poll results, which showed that the BJP has an edge over its rivals, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will retain power in the state.

Elated over the initial trends of Assam poll results, which showed that the BJP has an edge over its rivals, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal on Sunday exuded confidence that the saffron party-led alliance will retain power in the state. The ruling BJP-led NDA is surging ahead of the Grand Alliance spearheaded by the Congress in Assam, leading in 77 of the 119 seats, trends available on the Election Commission website at 12.15 pm showed. "People have blessed us. We can say for sure that the BJP will form government in Assam. We are coming back to power with our partners AGP and UPPL," Sonowal told reporters. Asked if the ruling coalition will be able to bag 100 seats, as claimed by the saffron camp ahead of the polls, he said, "The trends are completely in favour of the BJP. The party will achieve its target. However, we will have to wait for the final results." Sonowal is maintaining a comfortable lead in Majuli constituency. (With inputs from agencies)

People blessed us, BJP to retain power in Assam: Sonowal 

As the day progressed, the ruling Trinamool Congress seemed to have an advantage in the race as TMC is leading in 166 seats while the Bharatiya Janata Party is leading in 83 seats as per the initial trends.&nbsp;

The counting of votes on 292 seats in the state has begun on Sunday at 8 am following the COVID-19 protocol.&nbsp;

The early trends showed that West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee is trailing from the Nandigram seat. Bengal witnessed a fierce contest between the ruling Trinamool Congress and BJP across eight phases.&nbsp;

The Samyukta Morcha comprising the Congress, Left parties and ISF has also tried to put up a strong fight.&nbsp;

The BJP has made a concerted attempt to dislodge the TMC.&nbsp;

The Election Commission has made necessary arrangements for counting.&nbsp;

The counting is taking place amid an unprecedented surge in COVID-19 cases in the country. Several surveys gave an edge to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC).&nbsp;

In West Bengal, all exit polls predicted that the BJP would make major inroads and a few also said that the party would emerge victoriously.&nbsp;

Times Now-C voter exit poll predicted 158 seats for TMC, 115 for BJP and 19 for others. ABP-C Voter predicted TMC to get 152-164 seats, BJP 109-121 seats and Left-Congress alliance 14-25 seats.&nbsp;

According to the Republic-CNX exit poll, BJP with 138-148 seats has an edge over TMC which is predicted to get 128-138 seats.&nbsp;

As per India TV- People`s Pulse, BJP is expected to get 173-192 seats while TMC will be reduced to 64-88 seats and the Left-Congress alliance will get 7-12 seats.&nbsp;

Axis My India predicted a hung assembly in Bengal with the ruling TMC expected to get 130-156 seats and BJP 134-160 seats.

As the day progressed, the ruling Trinamool Congress seemed to have an advantage in the race as TMC is leading in 166 seats while the Bharatiya Janata Party is leading in 83 seats as per the initial trends.

As the day progressed, the ruling Trinamool Congress seemed to have an advantage in the race as TMC is leading in 166 seats while the Bharatiya Janata Party is leading in 83 seats as per the initial trends. The counting of votes on 292 seats in the state has begun on Sunday at 8 am following the COVID-19 protocol. The early trends showed that West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee is trailing from the Nandigram seat. Bengal witnessed a fierce contest between the ruling Trinamool Congress and BJP across eight phases. The Samyukta Morcha comprising the Congress, Left parties and ISF has also tried to put up a strong fight. The BJP has made a concerted attempt to dislodge the TMC. The Election Commission has made necessary arrangements for counting. The counting is taking place amid an unprecedented surge in COVID-19 cases in the country. Several surveys gave an edge to the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC). In West Bengal, all exit polls predicted that the BJP would make major inroads and a few also said that the party would emerge victoriously. Times Now-C voter exit poll predicted 158 seats for TMC, 115 for BJP and 19 for others. ABP-C Voter predicted TMC to get 152-164 seats, BJP 109-121 seats and Left-Congress alliance 14-25 seats. According to the Republic-CNX exit poll, BJP with 138-148 seats has an edge over TMC which is predicted to get 128-138 seats. As per India TV- People`s Pulse, BJP is expected to get 173-192 seats while TMC will be reduced to 64-88 seats and the Left-Congress alliance will get 7-12 seats. Axis My India predicted a hung assembly in Bengal with the ruling TMC expected to get 130-156 seats and BJP 134-160 seats.

West Bengal Assembly poll results: TMC leads in 166 seats, BJP in 83

India will start the vaccination drive for those in the 18-44 age bracket from Saturday as the country continues to battle the second wave of COVID-19.

However, some states have flagged the shortage of vaccines and expressed their inability to start vaccination of people above 18 years from Saturday.

The Centre on April 19 had announced a 'liberalised'&nbsp;policy, making all above 18 years of age eligible to get vaccinated from May 1.

It has also allowed state governments and private hospitals to purchase vaccines from manufacturers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="COVID-19: India records highest-ever 4,01,993 new cases, 3,523 deaths ">COVID-19: India records highest-ever 4,01,993 new cases, 3,523 deaths&nbsp;</a>

As per the revised rules, the centre will receive 50 per cent of the vaccines supplied; states and private hospitals will get the remaining doses.

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, more than 2.45 crore beneficiaries registered themselves on Co-WIN portal till 9.30 pm on Friday for the Phase III of the vaccination drive.

However, due to the delay in procurement of vaccines leading to a shortage, several states have said they won't be able to kick off the drive on Saturday.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday also appealed to residents of the national capital not to queue up at vaccination centres as vaccines have not yet been received.

"I request you to not queue up at the centres tomorrow (Saturday). As soon as the vaccines come, we will make proper announcements.

Only then people with appointments can start coming to the centres," the Chief Minister had said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Vaccine shortage: Jabs for those aged above 18 unlikely from May 1 in Tamil Nadu">Vaccine shortage: Jabs for those aged above 18 unlikely from May 1 in Tamil Nadu</a>

West Bengal Government on Friday said the vaccination drive for those between 18 to 44 years of age will begin as and when the State receives the vaccine doses.

It added that vaccination of those above 45 years will continue. The Tamil Nadu government also deferred its roll out of the massive vaccination drive for the 18-44 years age group on May 1 as originally planned.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy said that there appears a huge gap between demand and supply of vaccines in the country and it would not be possible to provide vaccination for those aged between 18 and 44 years beginning May 1, and hence, they will have to wait at least till August or September.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has asked people in the 18 to 45 age group not to visit vaccination centres on Saturday as the government is yet to receive a new lot of vaccines. He said that the government will inform well in advance as to when the vaccination drive will commence for this age group and the procedure for registration thereon.

The vaccination drive against COVID-19 for people aged 18 to 45 will be not be beginning from May 1 in Madhya Pradesh as vaccines are not available, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan informed on Thursday. The Chief Minister said the state government had spoken to both the country's COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers - Serum Institue of India and Bharat Biotech, and were informed that they would not be able to provide doses of the vaccine.

Karnataka Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar on Friday urged the people of the state aged between 18-44 years to 'refrain from going to hospitals' on Saturday, saying that the state has not received the required COVID-19 vaccine doses from the Serum Institute of India (SII).

Chhattisgarh Health Minister TS Singh Deo said that the state will start the vaccination from the poorest people, who have Antyodaya ration card or BPL card due to shortage of vaccine.

Maharashtra Health minister Rajesh Tope on Friday also said that the state government will start a nominal vaccination drive on May 1 as Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray believes that vaccination for those between 18 and 44 must start vaccination from May 1.

India had started the COVID-19 vaccination drive on January 16 with two vaccines -- Covishield (Oxford-AstraZeneca's vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India) and Covaxin (manufactured by Bharat Biotech Limited).

The second phase of the COVID-19 vaccination drive to inoculate people above 60 years and those over 45 with comorbidities against the coronavirus began on March 1.

The third phase began on April 1 for all above 45 years of age. In the next phase beginning May 1, all above the age of 18 would be eligible to receive the shot.

India will start the vaccination drive for those in the 18-44 age bracket from Saturday as the country continues to battle the second wave of COVID-19. However, some states have flagged the shortage of vaccines and expressed their inability to start vaccination of people above 18 years from Saturday.

India will start the vaccination drive for those in the 18-44 age bracket from Saturday as the country continues to battle the second wave of COVID-19. However, some states have flagged the shortage of vaccines and expressed their inability to start vaccination of people above 18 years from Saturday. The Centre on April 19 had announced a 'liberalised' policy, making all above 18 years of age eligible to get vaccinated from May 1. It has also allowed state governments and private hospitals to purchase vaccines from manufacturers. Also read: COVID-19: India records highest-ever 4,01,993 new cases, 3,523 deaths As per the revised rules, the centre will receive 50 per cent of the vaccines supplied; states and private hospitals will get the remaining doses. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, more than 2.45 crore beneficiaries registered themselves on Co-WIN portal till 9.30 pm on Friday for the Phase III of the vaccination drive. However, due to the delay in procurement of vaccines leading to a shortage, several states have said they won't be able to kick off the drive on Saturday. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Friday also appealed to residents of the national capital not to queue up at vaccination centres as vaccines have not yet been received. "I request you to not queue up at the centres tomorrow (Saturday). As soon as the vaccines come, we will make proper announcements. Only then people with appointments can start coming to the centres," the Chief Minister had said. Also read: Vaccine shortage: Jabs for those aged above 18 unlikely from May 1 in Tamil Nadu West Bengal Government on Friday said the vaccination drive for those between 18 to 44 years of age will begin as and when the State receives the vaccine doses. It added that vaccination of those above 45 years will continue. The Tamil Nadu government also deferred its roll out of the massive vaccination drive for the 18-44 years age group on May 1 as originally planned. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy said that there appears a huge gap between demand and supply of vaccines in the country and it would not be possible to provide vaccination for those aged between 18 and 44 years beginning May 1, and hence, they will have to wait at least till August or September. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has asked people in the 18 to 45 age group not to visit vaccination centres on Saturday as the government is yet to receive a new lot of vaccines. He said that the government will inform well in advance as to when the vaccination drive will commence for this age group and the procedure for registration thereon. The vaccination drive against COVID-19 for people aged 18 to 45 will be not be beginning from May 1 in Madhya Pradesh as vaccines are not available, Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan informed on Thursday. The Chief Minister said the state government had spoken to both the country's COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers - Serum Institue of India and Bharat Biotech, and were informed that they would not be able to provide doses of the vaccine. Karnataka Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar on Friday urged the people of the state aged between 18-44 years to 'refrain from going to hospitals' on Saturday, saying that the state has not received the required COVID-19 vaccine doses from the Serum Institute of India (SII). Chhattisgarh Health Minister TS Singh Deo said that the state will start the vaccination from the poorest people, who have Antyodaya ration card or BPL card due to shortage of vaccine. Maharashtra Health minister Rajesh Tope on Friday also said that the state government will start a nominal vaccination drive on May 1 as Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray believes that vaccination for those between 18 and 44 must start vaccination from May 1. India had started the COVID-19 vaccination drive on January 16 with two vaccines -- Covishield (Oxford-AstraZeneca's vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India) and Covaxin (manufactured by Bharat Biotech Limited). The second phase of the COVID-19 vaccination drive to inoculate people above 60 years and those over 45 with comorbidities against the coronavirus began on March 1. The third phase began on April 1 for all above 45 years of age. In the next phase beginning May 1, all above the age of 18 would be eligible to receive the shot.

COVID-19: India to begin vaccination drive for 18+ from today amid vaccine shortage

The Delhi Police will take strict action against malpractices by ambulances and black-marketing of Covid medicines and oxygen, said Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava on Saturday.

Shrivastava said this while reviewing the enforcement of lockdown and action taken against hoarding/black marketing of medicines/oxygen gas cylinders during a virtual meeting at the Vimarsh conference hall, Police Headquarters today.

"District Delhi Commissioners were instructed to activate a robust human intelligence mechanism with the deployment of decoy customer in order to unearth the entire chain," read a press release by the Delhi Police.

It was also emphasised to sensitise cyber cells to check the online frauds reportedly being committed in the name of arranging oxygen, medicines, and medical equipment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-capital-new-delhi-extends-lockdown-by-a-week-as-covid-cases-rise-381971">Indian capital New Delhi extends lockdown by a week as Covid cases rise</a>

It was also re-emphasised to arrange green corridors for unhindered movement of oxygen tankers.

On the lockdown enforcement front, DCPs were told to use public address system to make people aware about the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a>&nbsp;appropriate behaviour and staying home to protect themselves. Strict action should be taken against those found violating lockdown instructions while the movement of only bonafide e-pass holders, needy or genuine should be allowed.

Shrivastava further reiterated that the welfare of staff should be looked after by all districts and units and admission to hospital or treatment of infected staff should be ensured on priority. It should also be ensured that AYUSH kits and other safety material meant for staff should reach till the last field functionary.

The Delhi Police will take strict action against malpractices by ambulances and black-marketing of Covid medicines and oxygen, said Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava on Saturday.

The Delhi Police will take strict action against malpractices by ambulances and black-marketing of Covid medicines and oxygen, said Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava on Saturday. Shrivastava said this while reviewing the enforcement of lockdown and action taken against hoarding/black marketing of medicines/oxygen gas cylinders during a virtual meeting at the Vimarsh conference hall, Police Headquarters today. "District Delhi Commissioners were instructed to activate a robust human intelligence mechanism with the deployment of decoy customer in order to unearth the entire chain," read a press release by the Delhi Police. It was also emphasised to sensitise cyber cells to check the online frauds reportedly being committed in the name of arranging oxygen, medicines, and medical equipment. Also read | Indian capital New Delhi extends lockdown by a week as Covid cases rise It was also re-emphasised to arrange green corridors for unhindered movement of oxygen tankers. On the lockdown enforcement front, DCPs were told to use public address system to make people aware about the Covid appropriate behaviour and staying home to protect themselves. Strict action should be taken against those found violating lockdown instructions while the movement of only bonafide e-pass holders, needy or genuine should be allowed. Shrivastava further reiterated that the welfare of staff should be looked after by all districts and units and admission to hospital or treatment of infected staff should be ensured on priority. It should also be ensured that AYUSH kits and other safety material meant for staff should reach till the last field functionary.

Strict action against black-marketing of Covid medicines, oxygen: Delhi Police

Amid the second surge of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> pandemic, the Haryana Government on Saturday said it has decided that employees with severe disabilities, vulnerable persons and pregnant women shall not be called for duty, even if they are engaged in essential services.

As per the decision, if required, they can work from home, provided they have the necessary infrastructure to the same. This exemption will remain in force till further orders, according to a government statement.

Sharing more details in this regard an official spokesperson said that keeping in view the prevailing situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic and with an aim to break the infection chain and safety of persons of certain categories, the Government has issued detailed preventive measures to contain the spread of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Coronavirus</a> (COVID-19).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-to-begin-vaccination-drive-for-18-from-today-amid-vaccine-shortage-381855">COVID-19: India to begin vaccination drive for 18+ from today amid vaccine shortage</a>

Guidelines for protection and safety of persons with disabilities, vulnerable persons and pregnant women.

"Vulnerable persons viz. employees of the age of 50 years or above, employees suffering from hypertension, blood pressure, heart or lung disease, cancer and other chronic disease are at high risk of developing a serious illness, they shall not be exposed to any front-line work requiring direct contact with the public," said the statement.

Similarly, all pregnant women employees whether regular, contractual, outsources, daily wages or adhoc are also advised to work from home. As presently there is a surge in numbers of COVID-19 cases and therefore, it is imperative to put in place strict measures to prevent the virus spread therefore these instructions may be brought to the notice of all concerned for strict compliance, it said.

Amid the second surge of COVID-19 pandemic, the Haryana Government on Saturday said it has decided that employees with severe disabilities, vulnerable persons and pregnant women shall not be called for duty, even if they are engaged in essential services.

Amid the second surge of COVID-19 pandemic, the Haryana Government on Saturday said it has decided that employees with severe disabilities, vulnerable persons and pregnant women shall not be called for duty, even if they are engaged in essential services. As per the decision, if required, they can work from home, provided they have the necessary infrastructure to the same. This exemption will remain in force till further orders, according to a government statement. Sharing more details in this regard an official spokesperson said that keeping in view the prevailing situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic and with an aim to break the infection chain and safety of persons of certain categories, the Government has issued detailed preventive measures to contain the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19). Also read | COVID-19: India to begin vaccination drive for 18+ from today amid vaccine shortage Guidelines for protection and safety of persons with disabilities, vulnerable persons and pregnant women. "Vulnerable persons viz. employees of the age of 50 years or above, employees suffering from hypertension, blood pressure, heart or lung disease, cancer and other chronic disease are at high risk of developing a serious illness, they shall not be exposed to any front-line work requiring direct contact with the public," said the statement. Similarly, all pregnant women employees whether regular, contractual, outsources, daily wages or adhoc are also advised to work from home. As presently there is a surge in numbers of COVID-19 cases and therefore, it is imperative to put in place strict measures to prevent the virus spread therefore these instructions may be brought to the notice of all concerned for strict compliance, it said.

COVID-19: Haryana issues directions to not call vulnerable persons, pregnant women for work

Coronavirus cases in India hit a record daily high with over 4,00,000 new infections being reported in the last 24 hours, while the active cases crossed the 32,00,000 mark, according to date updated by the Union Health Ministry on Saturday.&nbsp;

The infection tally rose to 1,91,64,969 with 4,01,993 new cases, while the death toll increased to 2,11,853 with 3,523 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.&nbsp;

Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 32,68,710, accounting for 17.06 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 81.84 per cent.&nbsp;

The number of people, who have recuperated from the disease, surged to 1,56,84,406, while the case fatality rate stands 1.11 per cent, the data stated.&nbsp;

India crossed the grim milestone of 15,000,000 on April 19.&nbsp;

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 28,83,37,385 samples have been tested up to April 30, of which 19,45,299 were done on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Coronavirus cases in India hit a record daily high with over 4,00,000 new infections being reported in the last 24 hours, while the active cases crossed the 32,00,000 mark, according to date updated by the Union Health Ministry on Saturday.

Coronavirus cases in India hit a record daily high with over 4,00,000 new infections being reported in the last 24 hours, while the active cases crossed the 32,00,000 mark, according to date updated by the Union Health Ministry on Saturday. The infection tally rose to 1,91,64,969 with 4,01,993 new cases, while the death toll increased to 2,11,853 with 3,523 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 32,68,710, accounting for 17.06 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 81.84 per cent. The number of people, who have recuperated from the disease, surged to 1,56,84,406, while the case fatality rate stands 1.11 per cent, the data stated. India crossed the grim milestone of 15,000,000 on April 19. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 28,83,37,385 samples have been tested up to April 30, of which 19,45,299 were done on Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India records highest-ever 4,01,993 new cases, 3,523 deaths 

The US State Department has approved the potential sale of six Boeing-made P-8I patrol aircraft and related equipment to India for an estimated cost of $2,420,000, the Pentagon said on Friday.&nbsp;

India's potential purchase of P-8 aircraft would help expand its maritime surveillance capabilities.&nbsp;

The package would include tactical radio, missile warning sensors, GPS systems, support equipment, spares and technical support, the Pentagon said.&nbsp;

The Pentagon's Defence Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of the possible sale on Friday. &nbsp;

Despite approval by the State Department, the notification does not indicate that a contract has been signed or that negotiations have concluded.&nbsp;

The Pentagon said Boeing was the prime contractor for the weapons. &nbsp;

India's first purchase of P-8I aircraft was in 2009.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The US State Department has approved the potential sale of six Boeing-made P-8I patrol aircraft and related equipment to India for an estimated cost of $2,420,000, the Pentagon said on Friday.

The US State Department has approved the potential sale of six Boeing-made P-8I patrol aircraft and related equipment to India for an estimated cost of $2,420,000, the Pentagon said on Friday. India's potential purchase of P-8 aircraft would help expand its maritime surveillance capabilities. The package would include tactical radio, missile warning sensors, GPS systems, support equipment, spares and technical support, the Pentagon said. The Pentagon's Defence Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of the possible sale on Friday. Despite approval by the State Department, the notification does not indicate that a contract has been signed or that negotiations have concluded. The Pentagon said Boeing was the prime contractor for the weapons. India's first purchase of P-8I aircraft was in 2009. (With inputs from agencies)

US State Department OKs potential sale of P-8 surveillance planes to India: Pentagon 

A flight carrying the first lot of Sputnik V vaccines from Russia landed in Hyderabad, Telangana on Saturday. Last month, the Drug Controller General (DCGI) had issued permission for Dr. Reddy`s Laboratories to import the Russian vaccine to India for emergency use.

COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in India

Coronavirus cases in India hit a record daily high with over 4,00,000 new infections being reported in the last 24 hours.

COVID-19: India records highest-ever 4,01,993 new cases

COVID-19: World comes together to help India

Top US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci on Saturday urged India to go into a nationwide lockdown in response to the ongoing surge in COVID-19 cases.

"I think the most important thing in the immediate is to get oxygen, get supplies, get medication, get PPE, those kinds of things," The Indian Express quoted Fauci as saying.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an address following the surge in cases had said that he was not going to impose a national lockdown but left the onus on states to take the call. "But also, one of the immediate things to do is to essentially call a shutdown of the country," Fauci&nbsp;said during the interview.

He further said that the COVID-19 lockdown need not be extremely long. "And if you shut down, you don't have to shut down for six months. You can shut down temporarily to put an end to the cycle of transmission," he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/world-has-failed-india-amid-record-surge-in-covid-19-cases-says-top-us-disease-expert-fauci-381019" hreflang="en">World has failed India amid record surge in COVID-19 cases, says top US disease expert Fauci</a>

Fauci also said that “no one likes likes to lock down the country”, while urging Indian authorities to lock down the country for a “few weeks”, which in his opinion would have a considerable impact on the degree of the outbreak.

Currently, India is witnessing the worst surge reported among any country in the world with over 400,000 new cases reported nationwide on May 1. In April alone, India recorded over seven million infections which has overwhelmed healthcare system in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/us-contemplating-changing-3-foot-social-distancing-rule-anthony-fauci-370452" hreflang="en">US contemplating changing 3-foot social distancing rule: Anthony Fauci</a>

New states and regions in the country have imposed lockdowns - namely the state of Maharashtra and the Union Territory of Delhi. On Saturday, Delhi extended its lockdown by a week for the second time.

(With inputs from agencies)

Top US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci on Saturday urged India to go into a nationwide lockdown in response to the ongoing surge in COVID-19 cases. "I think the most important thing in the immediate is to get oxygen, get supplies, get medication, get PPE, those kinds of things," The Indian Express quoted Fauci as saying.

Top US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci on Saturday urged India to go into a nationwide lockdown in response to the ongoing surge in COVID-19 cases. "I think the most important thing in the immediate is to get oxygen, get supplies, get medication, get PPE, those kinds of things," The Indian Express quoted Fauci as saying. Related video: 'US may not need AstraZeneca Covid vaccine', says Anthony Fauci Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an address following the surge in cases had said that he was not going to impose a national lockdown but left the onus on states to take the call. "But also, one of the immediate things to do is to essentially call a shutdown of the country," Fauci said during the interview. He further said that the COVID-19 lockdown need not be extremely long. "And if you shut down, you don't have to shut down for six months. You can shut down temporarily to put an end to the cycle of transmission," he said. Also read: World has failed India amid record surge in COVID-19 cases, says top US disease expert Fauci Fauci also said that “no one likes likes to lock down the country”, while urging Indian authorities to lock down the country for a “few weeks”, which in his opinion would have a considerable impact on the degree of the outbreak. Currently, India is witnessing the worst surge reported among any country in the world with over 400,000 new cases reported nationwide on May 1. In April alone, India recorded over seven million infections which has overwhelmed healthcare system in the country. Also read: US contemplating changing 3-foot social distancing rule: Anthony Fauci New states and regions in the country have imposed lockdowns - namely the state of Maharashtra and the Union Territory of Delhi. On Saturday, Delhi extended its lockdown by a week for the second time. (With inputs from agencies)

Top US disease expert Dr Fauci urges India to impose nationwide lockdown for 'few weeks'

Indian capital New Delhi&nbsp;extended&nbsp;lockdown in the city by a week on Saturday, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

Coronavirus cases in the country continue to shoot up with over 400,000 fresh cases registered in the last 24 hours - the highest ever numbers for the country and the world so far.

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"Lockdown in&nbsp;Delhi&nbsp;is being extended by one week," Arvind Kejriwal said on Twitter. The current lockdown was set to expire in the city on Monday but the cases are currently rising in the city which is home to over 20 million residents.

On Saturday, India reported 401,993 new cases of COVID-19 from the last 24 hours, marking the highest daily count for the country as well as the world. For the last ten days, the country has reported over 300,000 fresh cases everyday.

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COVID-19 deaths jumped by 3,523 over the last 23 hours, taking the total death toll in the country to 211,853, according to the data by the Indian Health Ministry.

On Friday, the Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal urged people to not crowd at vaccination centres, while promising that more vaccines are set to arrive in the city "tomorrow or the day after".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-first-lot-of-russian-vaccine-sputnik-v-arrives-in-hyderabad-381953" hreflang="en">COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad</a>

On Saturday, a&nbsp;group of scientific advisers working for the Indian government reportedly told authorities that minor mutations have been reported in many samples of coronavirus. A leader of the group told Reuters that these mutations could “possible evade immune response” and would require further enquiry.

Even then, the group added that though mutations are being flagged by the authorities, there currently exists no reason to believe these could be dangerous or were expanding.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian capital New Delhi extended lockdown in the city by a week on Saturday, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Coronavirus cases in the country continue to shoot up with over 400,000 fresh cases registered in the last 24 hours - the highest ever numbers for the country and the world so far.

Indian capital New Delhi extended lockdown in the city by a week on Saturday, said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Coronavirus cases in the country continue to shoot up with over 400,000 fresh cases registered in the last 24 hours - the highest ever numbers for the country and the world so far. "Lockdown in Delhi is being extended by one week," Arvind Kejriwal said on Twitter. The current lockdown was set to expire in the city on Monday but the cases are currently rising in the city which is home to over 20 million residents. On Saturday, India reported 401,993 new cases of COVID-19 from the last 24 hours, marking the highest daily count for the country as well as the world. For the last ten days, the country has reported over 300,000 fresh cases everyday. Also read: Coronavirus mutations that could 'evade immune response' flagged by Indian scientists: Report COVID-19 deaths jumped by 3,523 over the last 23 hours, taking the total death toll in the country to 211,853, according to the data by the Indian Health Ministry. On Friday, the Chief Minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal urged people to not crowd at vaccination centres, while promising that more vaccines are set to arrive in the city "tomorrow or the day after". Also read: COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad On Saturday, a group of scientific advisers working for the Indian government reportedly told authorities that minor mutations have been reported in many samples of coronavirus. A leader of the group told Reuters that these mutations could “possible evade immune response” and would require further enquiry. Even then, the group added that though mutations are being flagged by the authorities, there currently exists no reason to believe these could be dangerous or were expanding. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian capital New Delhi extends lockdown by a week as Covid cases rise

A group of scientific advisers working for the Indian government reportedly told authorities that minor mutations have been reported in many samples of coronavirus. A leader of the group told Reuters that these mutations could “possible evade immune response” and would require further enquiry.

Even then, the group added that though mutations are being flagged by the authorities, there currently exists no reason to believe these could be dangerous or were expanding. Currently, India is witnessing the worst surge reported among any country in the world with over 400,000 new cases reported nationwide on May 1.

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Scientists are attempting to understand whether the surge was caused by a variant which was first detected in the country - B.1.617. The World Health Organization so far has not declared the variant as “of concern”. It had declared mutations first emerging in Britain, Brazil, and South Africa as “variants of concern”.

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On April 27, the WHO said that its modelling based on genome sequencing suggest that the variant had a higher growth rate than any other mutations that are spreading in India.

The forum of advisers to the Indian government is known as the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genetics Consortium or INSACOG. The group has traced more variants in the country that it feels need to be tracked.

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"We are seeing some mutation coming up in some samples that could possibly evade immune responses," Shahid Jameel, chair of the scientific advisory group of INSACOG told Reuters.

"Unless you culture those viruses and test them in the lab, you can't say for sure. At this point, there is no reason to believe that they are expanding or if they can be dangerous, but we flagged it so that we keep our eye on the ball," he further said.

(With inputs from agencies)

A group of scientific advisers working for the Indian government reportedly told authorities that minor mutations have been reported in many samples of coronavirus.

A group of scientific advisers working for the Indian government reportedly told authorities that minor mutations have been reported in many samples of coronavirus. A leader of the group told Reuters that these mutations could “possible evade immune response” and would require further enquiry. Even then, the group added that though mutations are being flagged by the authorities, there currently exists no reason to believe these could be dangerous or were expanding. Currently, India is witnessing the worst surge reported among any country in the world with over 400,000 new cases reported nationwide on May 1. Scientists are attempting to understand whether the surge was caused by a variant which was first detected in the country - B.1.617. The World Health Organization so far has not declared the variant as “of concern”. It had declared mutations first emerging in Britain, Brazil, and South Africa as “variants of concern”. Also read: Covaxin found to neutralise the 617 variant of COVID-19: Dr Fauci On April 27, the WHO said that its modelling based on genome sequencing suggest that the variant had a higher growth rate than any other mutations that are spreading in India. The forum of advisers to the Indian government is known as the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genetics Consortium or INSACOG. The group has traced more variants in the country that it feels need to be tracked. Also read: A 'variant-proof' French vaccine may be key to fight against Covid "We are seeing some mutation coming up in some samples that could possibly evade immune responses," Shahid Jameel, chair of the scientific advisory group of INSACOG told Reuters. "Unless you culture those viruses and test them in the lab, you can't say for sure. At this point, there is no reason to believe that they are expanding or if they can be dangerous, but we flagged it so that we keep our eye on the ball," he further said. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus mutations that could 'evade immune response' flagged by Indian scientists: Report

A flight carrying the first lot of Sputnik V vaccines from Russia, landed in Hyderabad, Telangana on Saturday.Last month, the Drug Controller General (DCGI) had issued permission for Dr. Reddy`s Laboratories to import the Russian vaccine to India for emergency use.

The rollout of the Russian vaccine is expected to augment India`s third phase of the vaccination drive which commenced today amid a record rise in COVID-19 cases. India for the first time has reported more than 4 lakh new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours.

A total of 4,01,993 fresh COVID-19 cases were recorded in the last 24 hours taking the cumulative count of the cases to 1,91,64,969, the Union Health Ministry reported on Saturday.

Sputnik V is the third vaccine India has given the go-ahead to after `Covishield`, developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca and `Covaxin`, the indigenous vaccine manufactured by Bharat Biotech.

Covishield is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.Earlier, the Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma had said that India expects between 150,000 to 200,000 ready-made vaccines to be available very quickly in the early part of May.

Diplomatic sources had told ANI that India will get a substantive number of vaccines in the first tranche and the supply will continue in instalments. India is expecting 5 million vials of Sputnik vaccines by the next month.

A flight carrying the first lot of Sputnik V vaccines from Russia, landed in Hyderabad, Telangana on Saturday.Last month, the Drug Controller General (DCGI) had issued permission for Dr.

A flight carrying the first lot of Sputnik V vaccines from Russia, landed in Hyderabad, Telangana on Saturday.Last month, the Drug Controller General (DCGI) had issued permission for Dr. Reddy`s Laboratories to import the Russian vaccine to India for emergency use. The rollout of the Russian vaccine is expected to augment India`s third phase of the vaccination drive which commenced today amid a record rise in COVID-19 cases. India for the first time has reported more than 4 lakh new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours. A total of 4,01,993 fresh COVID-19 cases were recorded in the last 24 hours taking the cumulative count of the cases to 1,91,64,969, the Union Health Ministry reported on Saturday. Sputnik V is the third vaccine India has given the go-ahead to after `Covishield`, developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca and `Covaxin`, the indigenous vaccine manufactured by Bharat Biotech. Covishield is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.Earlier, the Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma had said that India expects between 150,000 to 200,000 ready-made vaccines to be available very quickly in the early part of May. Diplomatic sources had told ANI that India will get a substantive number of vaccines in the first tranche and the supply will continue in instalments. India is expecting 5 million vials of Sputnik vaccines by the next month.

COVID-19: First lot of Russian vaccine Sputnik V arrives in Hyderabad

The third phase of vaccination has begun for people above the age of 18 years in the Union Territory of Jammu&nbsp;and Kashmir today. The government said that it has received&nbsp;around 75,000 new doses of Covaxin from Hyderabad.&nbsp;

The administration urged people to register themselves for the vaccine and also said that people who are not registered will not be vaccinated. There are around 10 designated centres in Srinagar where the third phase of vaccination has been started by the government.&nbsp;

"We have sufficient quantities of vaccines available&nbsp;with us. Earlier people were coming in less numbers but in the last few days, the demand for vaccines has increased and that's why we are getting more. We will keep it available&nbsp;for people. 10 centres for the people of age group 18-45 have been established. We request people in this age group to register themselves in CoWin app and come at the time of appointment.'' said Ajaz Asad, DC Srinagar.&nbsp;

More than 2.3 million (23&nbsp;lakh) people have been vaccinated in the Union Territory so far. The increasing demand for the vaccines is one of the reasons that many centres were closed as there were no vaccines available till today morning. However people appreciated the administration's effort of getting new doses of vaccines.&nbsp;

"It was very nice to get vaccinated, I think everyone should get vaccinated, The slot opened today and I thankfully registered. There is no walk in but everyone has to register on the CoWin app',' said Sardar Nasir Ali Khan, who got vaccinated today in Srinagar.&nbsp;

However, Jammu and Kashmir has announced free of cost vaccines for all age groups. As the cases crossed 3,000 mark, government had announced complete lockdown till Monday morning in 11 districts of the Union Territory.&nbsp;

The third phase of vaccination has begun for people above the age of 18 years in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir today. The government said that it has received around 75,000 new doses of Covaxin from Hyderabad.

The third phase of vaccination has begun for people above the age of 18 years in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir today. The government said that it has received around 75,000 new doses of Covaxin from Hyderabad. The administration urged people to register themselves for the vaccine and also said that people who are not registered will not be vaccinated. There are around 10 designated centres in Srinagar where the third phase of vaccination has been started by the government. "We have sufficient quantities of vaccines available with us. Earlier people were coming in less numbers but in the last few days, the demand for vaccines has increased and that's why we are getting more. We will keep it available for people. 10 centres for the people of age group 18-45 have been established. We request people in this age group to register themselves in CoWin app and come at the time of appointment.'' said Ajaz Asad, DC Srinagar. More than 2.3 million (23 lakh) people have been vaccinated in the Union Territory so far. The increasing demand for the vaccines is one of the reasons that many centres were closed as there were no vaccines available till today morning. However people appreciated the administration's effort of getting new doses of vaccines. "It was very nice to get vaccinated, I think everyone should get vaccinated, The slot opened today and I thankfully registered. There is no walk in but everyone has to register on the CoWin app',' said Sardar Nasir Ali Khan, who got vaccinated today in Srinagar. However, Jammu and Kashmir has announced free of cost vaccines for all age groups. As the cases crossed 3,000 mark, government had announced complete lockdown till Monday morning in 11 districts of the Union Territory.

Third phase of coronavirus vaccination begins in Jammu and Kashmir

At least 12 Covid-19 patients died on Saturday in the latest in a series of hospital fires in India, local media reported, as the country's healthcare system buckles under a surge in cases.

There were around 50 other patients at the four-storey hospital in Bharuch in the western state of Gujarat when the blaze began at 1&nbsp;am (0730 GMT). It has since been put out.

Also read: <a href="Several signs were ignored as India battered by fresh wave of coronavirus">Several signs were ignored as India battered by fresh wave of coronavirus</a>

"As per information at 6.30 am, the death toll in the tragedy stood at 18. Immediately after the fire, we had confirmation of 12 deaths," the Press Trust of India quoted a local police official as saying.

On April 23 a fire on the outskirts of Mumbai killed 13 Covid patients, a few days after another blaze left 22 people dead at another clinic, also in Maharashtra state.

Last month 22 other coronavirus patients died at a hospital in the same state when the oxygen supply to their ventilators was disrupted by a leak.

India's healthcare system has long suffered from underfunding, and the new virus outbreak has seen critical shortages in oxygen, drugs and hospital beds, with patients dying outside hospitals in some areas.

At least 12 Covid-19 patients died on Saturday in the latest in a series of hospital fires in India, local media reported, as the country's healthcare system buckles under a surge in cases.

At least 12 Covid-19 patients died on Saturday in the latest in a series of hospital fires in India, local media reported, as the country's healthcare system buckles under a surge in cases. There were around 50 other patients at the four-storey hospital in Bharuch in the western state of Gujarat when the blaze began at 1 am (0730 GMT). It has since been put out. Also read: Several signs were ignored as India battered by fresh wave of coronavirus "As per information at 6.30 am, the death toll in the tragedy stood at 18. Immediately after the fire, we had confirmation of 12 deaths," the Press Trust of India quoted a local police official as saying. On April 23 a fire on the outskirts of Mumbai killed 13 Covid patients, a few days after another blaze left 22 people dead at another clinic, also in Maharashtra state. Last month 22 other coronavirus patients died at a hospital in the same state when the oxygen supply to their ventilators was disrupted by a leak. India's healthcare system has long suffered from underfunding, and the new virus outbreak has seen critical shortages in oxygen, drugs and hospital beds, with patients dying outside hospitals in some areas.

Indian hospital's fire kills 12 Covid patients: Reports

The European Union's envoy to Delhi Ugo Astuto, in an exclusive interaction with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal said that "team Europe" was giving a robust response to India's needs amid coronavirus pandemic.

"Team Europe is coming together to offer its support to India in its difficult moment, just like India supported the rest of the world for the past few months exporting vaccines worldwide," said Astuto.

He lauded India's outreach on vaccines earlier this year, saying, "India has actually led the way in donating vaccines in the region and beyond and setting examples of what global solidarity means".

Here is the full interview.

WION: How is EU assisting India in dealing with the crisis?

Ambassador Ugo Astuto: The European Union as a team Europe is coming together to offer its support to India in its difficult moment, just like India supported the rest of the world for the past few months exporting vaccines worldwide.&nbsp;

There has been a conversation with Indian authorities about how best we can help and as a result of this conversation, we have activated the civil protection mechanism. Its a mechanism, which ensures the rapid deployment of emergency support, a direct link for the national civil protection authorities of the 27 member states.

Through this mechanism we can coordinate the response and we can also help in logistics and transport. The response has been very substantial, indeed. Last night we had deliveries from Romania and Ireland landing in Delhi. From Dublin, we had 700 Oxygen concentrators being brought in, one Oxygen generator, 365 ventilators.&nbsp; 
From Bucharest, 80 Oxygen concentrators and 75 Oxygen cylinders.&nbsp;

We expect on Sunday, another plane to land from Belgium and bring in 9000 doses of antiviral medicine Remdesivir.&nbsp;

As we speak, other member states are joining in.&nbsp;

Just to give you an idea,&nbsp;

68 ventilators from Luxembourg, 5500 vials of Remdesivir from Portugal, 120 ventilators from Sweden, 8 Oxygen generators, liquid Oxygen, and 28 ventilators from France, one Oxygen generating plant, 20 ventilators from Italy, 318 Oxygen cylinders from Finland, 5500 vials of Remdesivir, 238 Oxygen cylinders from Austria, &nbsp;Oxygen concentrators from Germany have already arrived in Delhi. Waiting for more from Germany. More support is expected from other member states like Netherlands, Estonia, Poland, and more. As you can see a very robust response from team Europe. The whole of the European Union trying to extend some help.

WION: India needs tankers for Oxygen and other related stuff, how is the EU helping? Also, any support for vaccines? India is trying to get vaccines from other countries?

Ambassador Ugo Astuto: At this stage focus of our support is on Oxygen. We had an exchange with the Indian authorities, who suggest we should focus on Oxygen and some antiviral medicines, that is what we are doing now. That is what we are focusing on. From the list earlier, most of the supplies being delivered now are Oxygen and Oxygen-related material and antiviral medicines. That is what we are doing now.&nbsp;

From the list, I read earlier, you will read most of the supplies being delivered now are about Oxygen and Oxygen related material, ventilators and antiviral medicines, following the contacts with the Indian authorities. &nbsp;

WION: How has the EU in the past assisted the world community in dealing with such a crisis--with a focus on Covid?&nbsp;

Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Yes, this mechanism, the European Civil Protection Mechanism, is made precisely for that, to face and address the emergency situation in Europe and beyond and it has been activated a number of times, since its inception.&nbsp;

When it comes specifically to Covid infection, from the outset European Union just like India has been on the path of global cooperation in the fight against the Pandemic, and Covid 19 has shown this sort of crisis knows no border.&nbsp;

An effective response requires global co-operation and mutual support. We are facing this epidemic together and we will only get out of it together. That is why we have launched a team Europe approach when it comes to Covid.&nbsp;

We have provided medical equipment and medicines to a number of partners around the world, particularly low-income countries in Africa for a total of almost 38.5 billion Euros. On vaccines, specifically, European Union is committed that everyone who needs vaccines gets it, irrespective of where he or she lives. That is why European Union and its member states are leading voices in the establishment of this COVAX facility, I am sure you are familiar with it.&nbsp;

COVAX is a facility in order to supply vaccines to those who need them. Team Europe, European Union's member states, European Investment Bank together are among the largest donors to this facility. I don't have to remind, that India is playing a key role in the COVAX facility in the manufacturing of vaccines which has then been exported.&nbsp;

India has actually led the way in donating vaccines in the region and beyond and setting examples of what global solidarity means. Clearly, this is also contingent on domestic needs. It is true for India, it's true for the EU as well. The initial assumption is we want to be open to the needs of the global community. For the European Union, for instance, almost as many vaccines which has been injected into EU citizens have been exported so far. Between January and April, more than 110 million doses of vaccines have been exported from the European Union to more than 40 countries. This is another area where the EU and India have been working based on the same human-centric values.

WION: The India, EU leaders virtual summit will take place on 8th May. What will be the key focus at the summit?&nbsp;

Ambassador Ugo Astuto: The latest meeting is happening in the backdrop of the global health crisis, so the reaction to the Covid crisis will obviously be paramount. But, besides that, the strategic partnership between European Union and India has been growing vigorously in the last couple of years.&nbsp;

At the last summit, in July 2020 we decided to further broaden the scope and areas of cooperation. We want to defend multilateralism, combat climate change, to foster the greening of our economic models. We want to undertake digital transition in a manner that is consistent with our democratic values.&nbsp;

We want to foster connectivity to cooperate on political and security issues. So we set up what we call a road up to 2025, guiding us. The next summit, I am sure will inject further momentum into all these topics of interest.&nbsp;

For instance, we are working now on preparing a new India connectivity partnership because we share the same principles that underpin--we want connectivity to be environmentally, socially, and physically sustainable. We both recognize the role of the private sector. We want to give the right incentive to come in and build infrastructure in a sustainable manner, in a transparent, inclusive, and rules-based manner.&nbsp;

So I think, on these things EU and India are natural partners, for bringing forward the development of a shared vision of connectivity. Another major priority I have to mention is the fight against climate change, in the run-up to COP26 which will take place in Glasgow, India has achieved a very significant result to the greening of its economic model, particularly on renewables--investment in solar has been very impressive with significant result.&nbsp;

I believe India is a trendsetter. So much scope for exchanging experiences. Science tells us, as an international community we all need to work together and be ambitious, we want to address the existential issue of climate change, temperatures are still rising, we need to act now for the sake of future generations and we need to make Glasgow a success. Here I think the EU and India have much scope to work together to make Glasgow a success and other priorities I would like to highlight the digital transition. As open societies and democracies, the EU and India can work together to make sure that the digital transition takes place in a secure place, fostering innovation and competition but also full respect to individual rights and freedom.&nbsp;

Issues such as data protection, experience with GDPR, or security of networks, all these are relevant issues. Naming a few, there are many other topics like trade and investment, research innovation, there are so many. Lots of cooperation between India and the EU.

WION: EU is pushing India on net neutrality. What has the EU offering for achieving it? Technology? Finance? How can a country like India develop a roadmap without clarity on technology and finance?

Ambassador Ugo Astuto: What we trying to do in Europe is to develop a model for digital transition which is underpinned by democratic values and which meets the need of the citizen. It must be human-centric, it's not the platforms, it's not about the needs of the state, it's mostly about citizens and its needs.&nbsp;

That is why we are undertaking the digital transition because we want to make the lives of citizens easier. We want to protect freedom of expression, offline and online. I think, in this respect the challenge we face as the European Union is very similar to the challenges which India faces. We both are democracies and open societies and I believe that we are facing the same issues and in all likelihood, we can work together to foster convergences when it comes to the regulatory framework.

WION: European Council approves conclusions on EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy. What do your Indo-Pacific guidelines mean for India?

Ambassador Ugo Astuto: I am sure your have read the approval of the council conclusion on the Indo-Pacific. The council conclusion sets the ground for the approval of a new strategy for the Indo-Pacific which will be issued in the coming months.&nbsp;

Now the basic starting point is the European Union is a stakeholder when it comes to the prosperity and stability of the Indo-Pacific.

Indo-Pacific is a region that has tremendous importance for the world, its a center of economic development, its a center of innovation, in a large part, the very future of the world will be decided in the Indo-Pacific.&nbsp; 
European Union has an important stake, and we want to offer a contribution. A contribution which is underpinned by our strong belief in multilateralism, in a cooperative approach to international relations, respect for International Law, including The Law of the Seas.&nbsp;

These principles, bring us naturally close to India and its own endeavor to make the Indo pacific region of peace and prosperity. I think the council conclusion and the strategy will help us in identifying additional common converging interest in the region against the risk of instability and in order to foster our common view of a prosperous future for the region.

WION: How do you see the situation in Afghanistan? How EU and India can play a vital role?

Ambassador Ugo Astuto: You see, India and the EU have a natural convergence of view when it comes to Afghanistan because our major point is gains of the last 20 years, are not lost, in terms of democratic rights, human rights, women's rights.&nbsp;

We want a peace process that is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, this is our priority and we have no other interest-- the prosperity, and welfare of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

We are following developments with this in mind that the framework, the democratic rights, the gains of in terms of rights of women and girls which have been gained in past few years are preserved and are not lost and that road to peace, its a road which is also consolidating the present democratic rights.

The European Union's envoy to Delhi Ugo Astuto, in an exclusive interaction with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal said that "team Europe" was giving a robust response to India's needs amid coronavirus pandemic.

The European Union's envoy to Delhi Ugo Astuto, in an exclusive interaction with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibbal said that "team Europe" was giving a robust response to India's needs amid coronavirus pandemic. "Team Europe is coming together to offer its support to India in its difficult moment, just like India supported the rest of the world for the past few months exporting vaccines worldwide," said Astuto. He lauded India's outreach on vaccines earlier this year, saying, "India has actually led the way in donating vaccines in the region and beyond and setting examples of what global solidarity means". Here is the full interview. WION: How is EU assisting India in dealing with the crisis? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: The European Union as a team Europe is coming together to offer its support to India in its difficult moment, just like India supported the rest of the world for the past few months exporting vaccines worldwide. There has been a conversation with Indian authorities about how best we can help and as a result of this conversation, we have activated the civil protection mechanism. Its a mechanism, which ensures the rapid deployment of emergency support, a direct link for the national civil protection authorities of the 27 member states. Through this mechanism we can coordinate the response and we can also help in logistics and transport. The response has been very substantial, indeed. Last night we had deliveries from Romania and Ireland landing in Delhi. From Dublin, we had 700 Oxygen concentrators being brought in, one Oxygen generator, 365 ventilators. From Bucharest, 80 Oxygen concentrators and 75 Oxygen cylinders. We expect on Sunday, another plane to land from Belgium and bring in 9000 doses of antiviral medicine Remdesivir. As we speak, other member states are joining in. Just to give you an idea, 68 ventilators from Luxembourg, 5500 vials of Remdesivir from Portugal, 120 ventilators from Sweden, 8 Oxygen generators, liquid Oxygen, and 28 ventilators from France, one Oxygen generating plant, 20 ventilators from Italy, 318 Oxygen cylinders from Finland, 5500 vials of Remdesivir, 238 Oxygen cylinders from Austria, Oxygen concentrators from Germany have already arrived in Delhi. Waiting for more from Germany. More support is expected from other member states like Netherlands, Estonia, Poland, and more. As you can see a very robust response from team Europe. The whole of the European Union trying to extend some help. WION: India needs tankers for Oxygen and other related stuff, how is the EU helping? Also, any support for vaccines? India is trying to get vaccines from other countries? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: At this stage focus of our support is on Oxygen. We had an exchange with the Indian authorities, who suggest we should focus on Oxygen and some antiviral medicines, that is what we are doing now. That is what we are focusing on. From the list earlier, most of the supplies being delivered now are Oxygen and Oxygen-related material and antiviral medicines. That is what we are doing now. From the list, I read earlier, you will read most of the supplies being delivered now are about Oxygen and Oxygen related material, ventilators and antiviral medicines, following the contacts with the Indian authorities. WION: How has the EU in the past assisted the world community in dealing with such a crisis--with a focus on Covid? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: Yes, this mechanism, the European Civil Protection Mechanism, is made precisely for that, to face and address the emergency situation in Europe and beyond and it has been activated a number of times, since its inception. When it comes specifically to Covid infection, from the outset European Union just like India has been on the path of global cooperation in the fight against the Pandemic, and Covid 19 has shown this sort of crisis knows no border. An effective response requires global co-operation and mutual support. We are facing this epidemic together and we will only get out of it together. That is why we have launched a team Europe approach when it comes to Covid. We have provided medical equipment and medicines to a number of partners around the world, particularly low-income countries in Africa for a total of almost 38.5 billion Euros. On vaccines, specifically, European Union is committed that everyone who needs vaccines gets it, irrespective of where he or she lives. That is why European Union and its member states are leading voices in the establishment of this COVAX facility, I am sure you are familiar with it. COVAX is a facility in order to supply vaccines to those who need them. Team Europe, European Union's member states, European Investment Bank together are among the largest donors to this facility. I don't have to remind, that India is playing a key role in the COVAX facility in the manufacturing of vaccines which has then been exported. India has actually led the way in donating vaccines in the region and beyond and setting examples of what global solidarity means. Clearly, this is also contingent on domestic needs. It is true for India, it's true for the EU as well. The initial assumption is we want to be open to the needs of the global community. For the European Union, for instance, almost as many vaccines which has been injected into EU citizens have been exported so far. Between January and April, more than 110 million doses of vaccines have been exported from the European Union to more than 40 countries. This is another area where the EU and India have been working based on the same human-centric values. WION: The India, EU leaders virtual summit will take place on 8th May. What will be the key focus at the summit? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: The latest meeting is happening in the backdrop of the global health crisis, so the reaction to the Covid crisis will obviously be paramount. But, besides that, the strategic partnership between European Union and India has been growing vigorously in the last couple of years. At the last summit, in July 2020 we decided to further broaden the scope and areas of cooperation. We want to defend multilateralism, combat climate change, to foster the greening of our economic models. We want to undertake digital transition in a manner that is consistent with our democratic values. We want to foster connectivity to cooperate on political and security issues. So we set up what we call a road up to 2025, guiding us. The next summit, I am sure will inject further momentum into all these topics of interest. For instance, we are working now on preparing a new India connectivity partnership because we share the same principles that underpin--we want connectivity to be environmentally, socially, and physically sustainable. We both recognize the role of the private sector. We want to give the right incentive to come in and build infrastructure in a sustainable manner, in a transparent, inclusive, and rules-based manner. So I think, on these things EU and India are natural partners, for bringing forward the development of a shared vision of connectivity. Another major priority I have to mention is the fight against climate change, in the run-up to COP26 which will take place in Glasgow, India has achieved a very significant result to the greening of its economic model, particularly on renewables--investment in solar has been very impressive with significant result. I believe India is a trendsetter. So much scope for exchanging experiences. Science tells us, as an international community we all need to work together and be ambitious, we want to address the existential issue of climate change, temperatures are still rising, we need to act now for the sake of future generations and we need to make Glasgow a success. Here I think the EU and India have much scope to work together to make Glasgow a success and other priorities I would like to highlight the digital transition. As open societies and democracies, the EU and India can work together to make sure that the digital transition takes place in a secure place, fostering innovation and competition but also full respect to individual rights and freedom. Issues such as data protection, experience with GDPR, or security of networks, all these are relevant issues. Naming a few, there are many other topics like trade and investment, research innovation, there are so many. Lots of cooperation between India and the EU. WION: EU is pushing India on net neutrality. What has the EU offering for achieving it? Technology? Finance? How can a country like India develop a roadmap without clarity on technology and finance? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: What we trying to do in Europe is to develop a model for digital transition which is underpinned by democratic values and which meets the need of the citizen. It must be human-centric, it's not the platforms, it's not about the needs of the state, it's mostly about citizens and its needs. That is why we are undertaking the digital transition because we want to make the lives of citizens easier. We want to protect freedom of expression, offline and online. I think, in this respect the challenge we face as the European Union is very similar to the challenges which India faces. We both are democracies and open societies and I believe that we are facing the same issues and in all likelihood, we can work together to foster convergences when it comes to the regulatory framework. WION: European Council approves conclusions on EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy. What do your Indo-Pacific guidelines mean for India? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: I am sure your have read the approval of the council conclusion on the Indo-Pacific. The council conclusion sets the ground for the approval of a new strategy for the Indo-Pacific which will be issued in the coming months. Now the basic starting point is the European Union is a stakeholder when it comes to the prosperity and stability of the Indo-Pacific. Indo-Pacific is a region that has tremendous importance for the world, its a center of economic development, its a center of innovation, in a large part, the very future of the world will be decided in the Indo-Pacific. European Union has an important stake, and we want to offer a contribution. A contribution which is underpinned by our strong belief in multilateralism, in a cooperative approach to international relations, respect for International Law, including The Law of the Seas. These principles, bring us naturally close to India and its own endeavor to make the Indo pacific region of peace and prosperity. I think the council conclusion and the strategy will help us in identifying additional common converging interest in the region against the risk of instability and in order to foster our common view of a prosperous future for the region. WION: How do you see the situation in Afghanistan? How EU and India can play a vital role? Ambassador Ugo Astuto: You see, India and the EU have a natural convergence of view when it comes to Afghanistan because our major point is gains of the last 20 years, are not lost, in terms of democratic rights, human rights, women's rights. We want a peace process that is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, this is our priority and we have no other interest-- the prosperity, and welfare of Afghanistan. We are following developments with this in mind that the framework, the democratic rights, the gains of in terms of rights of women and girls which have been gained in past few years are preserved and are not lost and that road to peace, its a road which is also consolidating the present democratic rights.

India Covid crisis: EU Envoy Ugo Astuto says 'robust response' by Team Europe

At least 11 Indian high courts have pulled up various state governments and the centre over ongoing COVID-19 crisis. The Supreme Court of India has made it absolutely clear that the judiciary won't be a silent spectator in the current situation.

11 Indian high courts pull up state govts over COVID-19 crisis

A spike in illegal narcotics from the 'Golden Triangle` to South and Southeast Asian countries as a result of pandemic-related supply gluts and a likely increase in production is worrying Myanmar's neighbours, including India. 
 
The Golden Triangle, located in northeastern Myanmar bordering Laos, Thailand and China, is one of the two biggest global sources of narcotic drugs. 
 
Anti-narcotics authorities in neighbouring Thailand have seized more than 80 million methamphetamine pills, or yaba, in the past six months, a record haul that they blame partly on a supply glut caused by the Covid-19. 
 
The Assam Rifles that guards India's borders with Myanmar has also reported a significant rise in drug seizures in northeastern states like Manipur and Mizoram but many feel the `seizures are mere tips of the iceberg". 
 
Assam Rifles DG Lt Gen Sukhdeep Sangwan said during a recent seminar that his traditional counter-insurgency force is "fully geared to meet the drug threat from Myanmar." 
 
"We started by focusing on couriers who cross the border carrying headlines but now we are focusing on the organized cartels operating on the long Frontier. Our pro-active intelligence-driven operations are helping bust the drug smuggling rackets," Sangwan said. 
 
Some big seizures in Mizoram and Manipur by Assam Rifles may have turned the heat on the drug cartels operating on the India-Myanmar border, but the boom in production in Myanmar remains a cause for worry. 
 
2020 was a boom year for Myanmar`s drug trafficking syndicates, with the United Nations Office on Drugs on Crime (UNODC) reporting a sharp drop in the price of methamphetamines in East and Southeast Asia to its lowest level in 10 years. 
 
That was because the market was overwhelmed with supply. 
 
This boost owes to cartels in the 'Golden Triangle', like the United Wa State Army (UWSA), developing the ability to produce the ingredients to manufacture various synthetic drugs, including amphetamine-type stimulants like crystal meth and yaba, as well as synthetic opioids. 
 
This innovation has enabled drug traffickers to avoid restrictions on the import of precursors such as pseudoephedrine and ephedrine, particularly from China. 
 
"This development has allowed transnational criminal networks to flourish and expand their operations despite the economic recession prompted by COVID-19," said a UNODC report. 
 
The steady increase in meth production has been reflected in the region`s seizures: Asian anti-drug authorities confiscated a record 139 tons of meth in 2019, up from 127 tons in 2018 and 82.5 tons in 2017, according to UNODC data. Data for 2020 was not available but UNODC says they will be close to 150 tons. 
 
The UNODC has warned that the region should brace for a larger flow of illegal drugs as the crisis in Myanmar deepens, and the formal economy all but collapses amid strikes, protests, and increasingly violent crackdowns by the security forces. 
 
Organized drug cartels and their militias in eastern Myanmar will consolidate their control, thriving on the chaos unleashed by the February 1 military takeover, Jeremy Douglas, who heads the UNODC office in Bangkok. 
 
"If past actions are an indicator of what`s coming, then we`re likely to see another increase in synthetic drug production," Douglas said. 
 
"The best way to make big money fast is the drug trade, and the pieces are in place to scale up." 
 
As with Covid-19, chaos for Myanmar is an opportunity for the region`s drug trafficking syndicates. 
 
Over the past two decades, meth production has jumped up in Myanmar, displacing the opium and heroin production in the 'Golden Triangle'. 
 
Much of this is concentrated in Shan State, especially in regions controlled by dozens of micro-militias linked to the Myanmar military, as well as in regions under the sway of non-state armed groups like the United Wa State Army. 
 
The International Crisis Group puts the total value of the Golden Triangle drug trade at around $40 billion per year. 
 
The worry for India and Bangladesh emerges from a dynamic shift in the Burmese illicit drug industry. Smaller cartels like the Wei Brothers, Zhang Ming group and Lo Hsin Nian group have moved their production facilities to Western Myanmar on borders with India and Bangladesh. 
 
They were forced to do so over the years by bigger cartels like Khun Sa`s Mong Tai Army (top heroin producer) and UWSA (top meth producer). 
 
These smaller cartels enjoy the protection of the Burmese military and they often use some northeastern rebel groups and Rohingya militants to transport narcotics into India and Bangladesh. 
 
" The presence of these cartels on our borders, their links to Burmese military and their use of some of our insurgents, creates new challenges for our drug enforcement agencies and border guarding forces," says former Intelligence Bureau official Benu Ghosh. 
 
He says Indian agencies and forces like Assam Rifles must gear up to meet the challenge by developing greater inter-agency coordination and drug-related intelligence must be beefed up.

A spike in illegal narcotics from the 'Golden Triangle` to South and Southeast Asian countries as a result of pandemic-related supply gluts and a likely increase in production is worrying Myanmar's neighbours, including India.

A spike in illegal narcotics from the 'Golden Triangle` to South and Southeast Asian countries as a result of pandemic-related supply gluts and a likely increase in production is worrying Myanmar's neighbours, including India. The Golden Triangle, located in northeastern Myanmar bordering Laos, Thailand and China, is one of the two biggest global sources of narcotic drugs. Anti-narcotics authorities in neighbouring Thailand have seized more than 80 million methamphetamine pills, or yaba, in the past six months, a record haul that they blame partly on a supply glut caused by the Covid-19. The Assam Rifles that guards India's borders with Myanmar has also reported a significant rise in drug seizures in northeastern states like Manipur and Mizoram but many feel the `seizures are mere tips of the iceberg". Assam Rifles DG Lt Gen Sukhdeep Sangwan said during a recent seminar that his traditional counter-insurgency force is "fully geared to meet the drug threat from Myanmar." "We started by focusing on couriers who cross the border carrying headlines but now we are focusing on the organized cartels operating on the long Frontier. Our pro-active intelligence-driven operations are helping bust the drug smuggling rackets," Sangwan said. Some big seizures in Mizoram and Manipur by Assam Rifles may have turned the heat on the drug cartels operating on the India-Myanmar border, but the boom in production in Myanmar remains a cause for worry. 2020 was a boom year for Myanmar`s drug trafficking syndicates, with the United Nations Office on Drugs on Crime (UNODC) reporting a sharp drop in the price of methamphetamines in East and Southeast Asia to its lowest level in 10 years. That was because the market was overwhelmed with supply. This boost owes to cartels in the 'Golden Triangle', like the United Wa State Army (UWSA), developing the ability to produce the ingredients to manufacture various synthetic drugs, including amphetamine-type stimulants like crystal meth and yaba, as well as synthetic opioids. This innovation has enabled drug traffickers to avoid restrictions on the import of precursors such as pseudoephedrine and ephedrine, particularly from China. "This development has allowed transnational criminal networks to flourish and expand their operations despite the economic recession prompted by COVID-19," said a UNODC report. The steady increase in meth production has been reflected in the region`s seizures: Asian anti-drug authorities confiscated a record 139 tons of meth in 2019, up from 127 tons in 2018 and 82.5 tons in 2017, according to UNODC data. Data for 2020 was not available but UNODC says they will be close to 150 tons. The UNODC has warned that the region should brace for a larger flow of illegal drugs as the crisis in Myanmar deepens, and the formal economy all but collapses amid strikes, protests, and increasingly violent crackdowns by the security forces. Organized drug cartels and their militias in eastern Myanmar will consolidate their control, thriving on the chaos unleashed by the February 1 military takeover, Jeremy Douglas, who heads the UNODC office in Bangkok. "If past actions are an indicator of what`s coming, then we`re likely to see another increase in synthetic drug production," Douglas said. "The best way to make big money fast is the drug trade, and the pieces are in place to scale up." As with Covid-19, chaos for Myanmar is an opportunity for the region`s drug trafficking syndicates. Over the past two decades, meth production has jumped up in Myanmar, displacing the opium and heroin production in the 'Golden Triangle'. Much of this is concentrated in Shan State, especially in regions controlled by dozens of micro-militias linked to the Myanmar military, as well as in regions under the sway of non-state armed groups like the United Wa State Army. The International Crisis Group puts the total value of the Golden Triangle drug trade at around $40 billion per year. The worry for India and Bangladesh emerges from a dynamic shift in the Burmese illicit drug industry. Smaller cartels like the Wei Brothers, Zhang Ming group and Lo Hsin Nian group have moved their production facilities to Western Myanmar on borders with India and Bangladesh. They were forced to do so over the years by bigger cartels like Khun Sa`s Mong Tai Army (top heroin producer) and UWSA (top meth producer). These smaller cartels enjoy the protection of the Burmese military and they often use some northeastern rebel groups and Rohingya militants to transport narcotics into India and Bangladesh. " The presence of these cartels on our borders, their links to Burmese military and their use of some of our insurgents, creates new challenges for our drug enforcement agencies and border guarding forces," says former Intelligence Bureau official Benu Ghosh. He says Indian agencies and forces like Assam Rifles must gear up to meet the challenge by developing greater inter-agency coordination and drug-related intelligence must be beefed up.

Myanmar drug surge worry for neighbours including India

 Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], April 30 (ANI): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed strict action against private hospitals flouting norms to provide COVID-19 vaccination for relatives and friends, the Chief Minister`s Office informed on Friday. In a tweet, the CMO informed that District Collectors and the Police have been directed to take strict action and those behind these violations will have to face consequences. "The CM has directed District Collectors and Police to take strict action against private hospitals flouting vaccination norms to provide vaccination for the relatives and friends. Such acts are unwarranted and those behind it will have to face the consequences," the CMO informed. Earlier on Thursday, state Health Minister KK Shailaja had issued new guidelines that said preference will be given to those taking the second dose of COVID-19 vaccine."There is no need to rush to COVID vaccination centres for this. The second dose of the Covishield vaccine should be taken within 6-8 weeks and the Covaxin within 4-6 weeks. The list of those eligible to receive the second dose of vaccine at each vaccination center will be available on the CoWIN portal," she said. Chief Minister Vijayan on Wednesday announced that the state government will order 1 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses and called for a change in the new vaccination policy and pricing.The state reported 38,607 new COVID19 cases and 48 deaths reported on Thursday. This is the highest single-day spike in cases in the state. The death toll stands at 5,259. (ANI) 

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], April 30 (ANI): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed strict action against private hospitals flouting norms to provide COVID-19 vaccination for relatives and friends, the Chief Minister`s Office informed on Friday.

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], April 30 (ANI): Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has directed strict action against private hospitals flouting norms to provide COVID-19 vaccination for relatives and friends, the Chief Minister`s Office informed on Friday. In a tweet, the CMO informed that District Collectors and the Police have been directed to take strict action and those behind these violations will have to face consequences. "The CM has directed District Collectors and Police to take strict action against private hospitals flouting vaccination norms to provide vaccination for the relatives and friends. Such acts are unwarranted and those behind it will have to face the consequences," the CMO informed. Earlier on Thursday, state Health Minister KK Shailaja had issued new guidelines that said preference will be given to those taking the second dose of COVID-19 vaccine."There is no need to rush to COVID vaccination centres for this. The second dose of the Covishield vaccine should be taken within 6-8 weeks and the Covaxin within 4-6 weeks. The list of those eligible to receive the second dose of vaccine at each vaccination center will be available on the CoWIN portal," she said. Chief Minister Vijayan on Wednesday announced that the state government will order 1 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses and called for a change in the new vaccination policy and pricing.The state reported 38,607 new COVID19 cases and 48 deaths reported on Thursday. This is the highest single-day spike in cases in the state. The death toll stands at 5,259. (ANI)

COVID-19: Kerala CM orders strict action against pvt hospitals flouting norms to vaccinate relatives, friends

India’s External affairs minister&nbsp;S Jaishankar will be heading to London on Monday to attend the two-day long G7 plus 3 ministerial meeting amid a Covid crisis in India.

The focus of this meet will be on the importance of global supply chains in fighting the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has taken millions of lives all across the globe. Jaishankar is aiming to use this opportunity to plan a path for the recovery of economies that have been negatively affected due to the pandemic and to find ways to battle climate change.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-speaks-to-blinken-on-covid-19-situation-in-india-381784" hreflang="en">Jaishankar speaks to Blinken on COVID-19 situation in India</a>

Jaishankar will be meeting ministers in the UK on May 03 and 04, in a bid to lay the groundwork for the G7 plus 3 summit, which is scheduled for June 11-13. He will also be meeting foreign ministers of Australia and France during the same visit.

India will, once again, be aiming to come up with a positive solution to delicensing of the coronavirus vaccines in order to make the vaccines available for people, all over the world, at a lower cost and in significant quantities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-vaccine-coverage-surpasses-154800000-381783" hreflang="en">India's COVID-19 vaccine coverage surpasses 154,800,000</a>

The participants of this meeting will also try to establish routes and an arrangement through which countries will be able to provide help to other nations suffering in the coronavirus pandemic in a swift and efficient manner.

Another major issue that will be discussed during Jaishankar’s UK visit will be climate change and a plan to reduce carbon footprint. India has, in the past, taken several steps to fight against the increasing danger of climate change. However, the country is hoping to come up with more measures after the Cornwall Summit.

India’s External affairs minister S Jaishankar will be heading to London on Monday to attend the two-day long G7 plus 3 ministerial meeting amid a Covid crisis in India.

India’s External affairs minister S Jaishankar will be heading to London on Monday to attend the two-day long G7 plus 3 ministerial meeting amid a Covid crisis in India. The focus of this meet will be on the importance of global supply chains in fighting the deadly coronavirus pandemic that has taken millions of lives all across the globe. Jaishankar is aiming to use this opportunity to plan a path for the recovery of economies that have been negatively affected due to the pandemic and to find ways to battle climate change. Also read | Jaishankar speaks to Blinken on COVID-19 situation in India Jaishankar will be meeting ministers in the UK on May 03 and 04, in a bid to lay the groundwork for the G7 plus 3 summit, which is scheduled for June 11-13. He will also be meeting foreign ministers of Australia and France during the same visit. India will, once again, be aiming to come up with a positive solution to delicensing of the coronavirus vaccines in order to make the vaccines available for people, all over the world, at a lower cost and in significant quantities. Also read | India's COVID-19 vaccine coverage surpasses 154,800,000 The participants of this meeting will also try to establish routes and an arrangement through which countries will be able to provide help to other nations suffering in the coronavirus pandemic in a swift and efficient manner. Another major issue that will be discussed during Jaishankar’s UK visit will be climate change and a plan to reduce carbon footprint. India has, in the past, taken several steps to fight against the increasing danger of climate change. However, the country is hoping to come up with more measures after the Cornwall Summit.

Jaishankar to visit London to discuss global medical supply chain in G7 ministerial

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on COVID-19 situation in India and reviewed the flow of equipment and material from the United States.

"Just concluded a call with @SecBlinken. Our discussions focussed on Indian requirements to address the Covid challenge more effectively," Jaishankar tweeted.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just concluded a call with <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a>. Our discussions focussed on Indian requirements to address the Covid challenge more effectively.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1388137803733602307?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In a subsequent tweet, Jaishankar wrote, "Reviewed the flow of equipment and material from the US. Highlighted the importance of strengthening oxygen supply, expanding vaccine production and increasing Remdesivir supply. Appreciated the forthcoming response of the US in this regard."

US State Department spokesperson Ned Price also informed that the both leaders reaffirmed the strength of the US-India partnership in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-states-delay-vaccination-drive-due-to-vaccine-shortage-381774" hreflang="en">Indian states delay vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage</a>

"Secretary of State Antony J Blinken spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar today to reaffirm the strength of the US-India partnership in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Expressing his appreciation for Indian assistance in America`s time of need, Blinken reviewed comprehensive ongoing US government efforts in support of the Indian government`s COVID-19 response operations," Price said in a statement.

Both the leaders agreed to remain in close contact during this difficult period."Blinken also noted the outpouring of support from US industries, non-governmental institutions, and private citizens for COVID-19 relief efforts in India.

The Secretary offered condolences and noted our concern for those who have lost friends and loved ones during this difficult period. Secretary Blinken and Minister Jaishankar agreed to remain in close contact," the statement read.

On Friday, the United States delivered its first shipment of medical supplies to India including 423 oxygen cylinders with regulators (200 Size D, 223 Size H), 210 pulse oximeters, 184,000 Abbott Rapid Diagnostic Test Kits, and 84000 N-95 face masks, while in second shipment the US delivered 17 H-size (large) oxygen cylinders and 7,00,000 Abbott Rapid Diagnostic Test Kits to help the country fight the coronavirus pandemic.

The surge in the COVID-19 cases continues to affect India as the country records over 3.8 lakh daily cases.

India reports 3,86,452 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours and this is the highest single-day spike in the cases since the pandemic began last year. The cumulative count of the COVID-19 cases has gone up to 1,87,62,976, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on COVID-19 situation in India and reviewed the flow of equipment and material from the United States.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on COVID-19 situation in India and reviewed the flow of equipment and material from the United States. "Just concluded a call with @SecBlinken. Our discussions focussed on Indian requirements to address the Covid challenge more effectively," Jaishankar tweeted. Just concluded a call with @SecBlinken. Our discussions focussed on Indian requirements to address the Covid challenge more effectively. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) April 30, 2021 × In a subsequent tweet, Jaishankar wrote, "Reviewed the flow of equipment and material from the US. Highlighted the importance of strengthening oxygen supply, expanding vaccine production and increasing Remdesivir supply. Appreciated the forthcoming response of the US in this regard." US State Department spokesperson Ned Price also informed that the both leaders reaffirmed the strength of the US-India partnership in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read | Indian states delay vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage "Secretary of State Antony J Blinken spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar today to reaffirm the strength of the US-India partnership in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Expressing his appreciation for Indian assistance in America`s time of need, Blinken reviewed comprehensive ongoing US government efforts in support of the Indian government`s COVID-19 response operations," Price said in a statement. Both the leaders agreed to remain in close contact during this difficult period."Blinken also noted the outpouring of support from US industries, non-governmental institutions, and private citizens for COVID-19 relief efforts in India. The Secretary offered condolences and noted our concern for those who have lost friends and loved ones during this difficult period. Secretary Blinken and Minister Jaishankar agreed to remain in close contact," the statement read. On Friday, the United States delivered its first shipment of medical supplies to India including 423 oxygen cylinders with regulators (200 Size D, 223 Size H), 210 pulse oximeters, 184,000 Abbott Rapid Diagnostic Test Kits, and 84000 N-95 face masks, while in second shipment the US delivered 17 H-size (large) oxygen cylinders and 7,00,000 Abbott Rapid Diagnostic Test Kits to help the country fight the coronavirus pandemic. The surge in the COVID-19 cases continues to affect India as the country records over 3.8 lakh daily cases. India reports 3,86,452 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours and this is the highest single-day spike in the cases since the pandemic began last year. The cumulative count of the COVID-19 cases has gone up to 1,87,62,976, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

Jaishankar speaks to Blinken on COVID-19 situation in India

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Friday informed that India innoculated more than 2,600,000&nbsp; vaccine doses till 8 pm on Friday, taking the cumulative vaccine coverage to more than 15.48 crore doses.

"The total vaccination across the country has crossed more than 15.48 crore mark. The country has administered more than 26 lakh vaccine doses till 8 pm today," read the press release by the Union Ministry.

Aso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-states-delay-vaccination-drive-due-to-vaccine-shortage-381774" hreflang="en">Indian states delay vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage</a>

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 154,854,096 as per the 8 pm provisional report today.

These include 9,410,892 Healthcare Workers (HCWs) who have taken the first dose and 6,240,077 HCWs who have taken the second dose. Adding to the count, 12,548,925 Frontline Workers (FLWs) were administered their dose and 68,11,824 FLWs were administered their second dose.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-indias-covid-crisis-worsens-airlines-double-flights-to-bring-citizens-home-381728" hreflang="en">As India's Covid crisis worsens, airlines double flights to bring citizens home</a>

Further, 52,653,077 citizens between 45-60 years were innoculated with their first dose and 3,759,948 citizens between 45-60 were innoculated with their second dose. Mounting ahead, 52,351,313 people above 60 years were given their first jab and 11,078,040 people above 60 years were given their second jab.

Total 2,608,948 vaccine doses were given till 8 pm today, the 105th day of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination. Out of which 1,477,309 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose and 1,131,639 beneficiaries received the second dose of the vaccine as per the provisional report.

Final reports would be completed for the day by late tonight.

Also, the vaccination drive for people aged above 18 years is going to commence from tomorrow in various parts of the country.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Friday informed that India innoculated more than 2,600,000 vaccine doses till 8 pm on Friday, taking the cumulative vaccine coverage to more than 15.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) on Friday informed that India innoculated more than 2,600,000 vaccine doses till 8 pm on Friday, taking the cumulative vaccine coverage to more than 15.48 crore doses. "The total vaccination across the country has crossed more than 15.48 crore mark. The country has administered more than 26 lakh vaccine doses till 8 pm today," read the press release by the Union Ministry. Aso read | Indian states delay vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 154,854,096 as per the 8 pm provisional report today. These include 9,410,892 Healthcare Workers (HCWs) who have taken the first dose and 6,240,077 HCWs who have taken the second dose. Adding to the count, 12,548,925 Frontline Workers (FLWs) were administered their dose and 68,11,824 FLWs were administered their second dose. Also read | As India's Covid crisis worsens, airlines double flights to bring citizens home Further, 52,653,077 citizens between 45-60 years were innoculated with their first dose and 3,759,948 citizens between 45-60 were innoculated with their second dose. Mounting ahead, 52,351,313 people above 60 years were given their first jab and 11,078,040 people above 60 years were given their second jab. Total 2,608,948 vaccine doses were given till 8 pm today, the 105th day of nationwide COVID-19 vaccination. Out of which 1,477,309 beneficiaries were vaccinated for the first dose and 1,131,639 beneficiaries received the second dose of the vaccine as per the provisional report. Final reports would be completed for the day by late tonight. Also, the vaccination drive for people aged above 18 years is going to commence from tomorrow in various parts of the country.

India's COVID-19 vaccine coverage surpasses 154,800,000

Several Indian states have said that they can not start the nationwide coronavirus inoculation drive within their territories due to shortage of vaccines. The nationwide drive is due to start on May 1. New infections in India surged to another daily record.

India reported 386,452 news cases in the past 24 hours, while deaths from COVID-19 jumped by 3,498 over the last 24 hours, according to health ministry data.

However, medical experts believe actual COVID-19 numbers may be five to 10 times greater than the official tally.

Only about 9% of India's 1.4 billion people have received a vaccine dose since January.

Innoculation centres in Mumbai, the capital of the western state of Maharashtra will be shut for three days starting Friday because of vaccine shortage.

In the southern state of Karnataka, home to the tech hub of Bengaluru, state health minister said Karnataka's vaccination drive for adults will not begin on May 1.

Punjab and Madhya Pradesh state also said they will not be able to commence the vaccination drive due to the unavailability of doses.

In Gujarat, officials said vaccination for the 18-45 age group is expected to start in a fortnight, as the state expects to receive vaccines by then.

Officials in the eastern state of Odisha said they hoped to start vaccinations on Monday if vaccine stocks arrive.

World aid has started arriving in India as it struggles to combat what has been described as a humanitarian disaster.

(With inputs from agencies)

Several Indian states have said that they can not start the nationwide coronavirus inoculation drive within their territories due to shortage of vaccines. The nationwide drive is due to start on May 1.

Several Indian states have said that they can not start the nationwide coronavirus inoculation drive within their territories due to shortage of vaccines. The nationwide drive is due to start on May 1. New infections in India surged to another daily record. India reported 386,452 news cases in the past 24 hours, while deaths from COVID-19 jumped by 3,498 over the last 24 hours, according to health ministry data. However, medical experts believe actual COVID-19 numbers may be five to 10 times greater than the official tally. Only about 9% of India's 1.4 billion people have received a vaccine dose since January. Innoculation centres in Mumbai, the capital of the western state of Maharashtra will be shut for three days starting Friday because of vaccine shortage. In the southern state of Karnataka, home to the tech hub of Bengaluru, state health minister said Karnataka's vaccination drive for adults will not begin on May 1. Punjab and Madhya Pradesh state also said they will not be able to commence the vaccination drive due to the unavailability of doses. In Gujarat, officials said vaccination for the 18-45 age group is expected to start in a fortnight, as the state expects to receive vaccines by then. Officials in the eastern state of Odisha said they hoped to start vaccinations on Monday if vaccine stocks arrive. World aid has started arriving in India as it struggles to combat what has been described as a humanitarian disaster. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian states delay vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage

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