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As India battle its devastating surge in the pandemic, the first shipment of COVID-19 aid from US has arrived in India. A Super Galaxy military transporter carrying more than 400 oxygen cylinders and other hospital equipment and nearly 1 million rapid coronavirus tests landed at New Delhi's international airport today (April 30).

First shipment of COVID-19 aid from US arrives in India

India posted a record daily rise in coronavirus cases of 386,452 on Friday, while deaths from COVID-19 jumped by 3,498 over the last 24 hours, according to health ministry data.

India has added about 7.7 million cases to its total caseload since the end of February, when its second wave picked up steam, according to a Reuters tally. In contrast, it took India nearly six months to add the previous 7.7 million cases. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-crisis-like-in-india-could-happen-anywhere-warns-who-381419">Also read | Covid crisis like in India could 'happen anywhere', warns WHO</a> 
 
The current rapid surge of COVID-19 cases has put immense pressure on the Indian health systems, already overburdened since the start of the pandemic.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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India reports 3,86,452 new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> cases, 3498 deaths and 2,97,540 discharges in the last 24 hours, as per Union Health Ministry 
 
Total cases: 1,87,62,976 
Total recoveries: 1,53,84,418 
Death toll: 2,08,330 
Active cases: 31,70,228 
 
Total vaccination: 15,22,45,179 <a href="https://t.co/mRsifO2IMP">pic.twitter.com/mRsifO2IMP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1387979313551527939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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To make available additional hospital beds and critical equipment for India, WHO is procuring mobile field hospitals with a capacity of 20-30 beds, which could be set up in the most affected areas.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-11-indian-courts-pull-up-governments-381518/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The bed capacity at these field hospitals can be increased to a maximum of 50, if needed, without impacting infection prevention and control protocols, and water and sanitation, the WHO release had added.

(With inputs from agencies)

India posted a record daily rise in coronavirus cases of 386,452 on Friday, while deaths from COVID-19 jumped by 3,498 over the last 24 hours, according to health ministry data.

India posted a record daily rise in coronavirus cases of 386,452 on Friday, while deaths from COVID-19 jumped by 3,498 over the last 24 hours, according to health ministry data. India has added about 7.7 million cases to its total caseload since the end of February, when its second wave picked up steam, according to a Reuters tally. In contrast, it took India nearly six months to add the previous 7.7 million cases. Also read | Covid crisis like in India could 'happen anywhere', warns WHO The current rapid surge of COVID-19 cases has put immense pressure on the Indian health systems, already overburdened since the start of the pandemic. India reports 3,86,452 new #COVID19 cases, 3498 deaths and 2,97,540 discharges in the last 24 hours, as per Union Health Ministry Total cases: 1,87,62,976 Total recoveries: 1,53,84,418 Death toll: 2,08,330 Active cases: 31,70,228 Total vaccination: 15,22,45,179 pic.twitter.com/mRsifO2IMP — ANI (@ANI) April 30, 2021 × To make available additional hospital beds and critical equipment for India, WHO is procuring mobile field hospitals with a capacity of 20-30 beds, which could be set up in the most affected areas. The bed capacity at these field hospitals can be increased to a maximum of 50, if needed, without impacting infection prevention and control protocols, and water and sanitation, the WHO release had added. (With inputs from agencies)

India records biggest-ever surge of 386,452 COVID-19 cases, 3498 deaths in a day

European Union Envoy to India Ugo Astuto has spoken to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal on the assistance by Brussels to New Delhi amid the covid pandemic. EU is sending tonnes of assistance, from oxygen concentrators to oxygen generator plants. He also spoke on the upcoming India EU leaders summit that will take place on 8th May. The virtual summit that happens in the backdrop of the covid crisis, will focus on many things including climate change. The envoy also lauded New Delhi saying, "India led the way in donating vaccines and setting an example on what global solidarity means"

India Covid Crisis: Envoy Ugo Astuto speaks about assistance by the EU

A case of the coronavirus variant first detected in India has now been detected in mainland&nbsp;France,&nbsp;regional health agency director Benoit Elleboode said Thursday.

A first case, involving a woman who travelled to India and is living in southwestern&nbsp;France, was confirmed on Thursday, the ministry said. Two other people who travelled to India were infected with the so-called Indian variant in southeastern&nbsp;France, the ministry said.

France has been&nbsp;imposing entry restrictions on travellers from India to fight a contagious coronavirus variant spreading in that country. They&nbsp;need to pass a mandatory antigen test upon their arrival, in addition to a pre-boarding PCR test.

The variant, named B.1.617, has been reported in some 17 countries, raising global concern.

The&nbsp;variant contains two key mutations to the outer "spike" portion of the virus that attaches to human cells.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said the predominant lineage of B.1.617 was first identified in&nbsp;India&nbsp;last December, although an earlier version was spotted in October 2020.

The WHO has described it as a "variant of interest", suggesting it may have mutations that would make the virus more transmissible, cause more severe disease or evade vaccine immunity. Other strains with known risks, such as those first detected in the United Kingdom, Brazil and South Africa, have been categorised as "variants of concern," a higher threat level.

India&nbsp;reported 379,257 new infections and 3,645 new deaths on Thursday, health ministry data showed, the highest number of fatalities in a single day since the start of the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

A case of the coronavirus variant first detected in India has now been detected in mainland France, regional health agency director Benoit Elleboode said Thursday.

A case of the coronavirus variant first detected in India has now been detected in mainland France, regional health agency director Benoit Elleboode said Thursday. A first case, involving a woman who travelled to India and is living in southwestern France, was confirmed on Thursday, the ministry said. Two other people who travelled to India were infected with the so-called Indian variant in southeastern France, the ministry said. France has been imposing entry restrictions on travellers from India to fight a contagious coronavirus variant spreading in that country. They need to pass a mandatory antigen test upon their arrival, in addition to a pre-boarding PCR test. The variant, named B.1.617, has been reported in some 17 countries, raising global concern. The variant contains two key mutations to the outer "spike" portion of the virus that attaches to human cells. The World Health Organization (WHO) said the predominant lineage of B.1.617 was first identified in India last December, although an earlier version was spotted in October 2020. The WHO has described it as a "variant of interest", suggesting it may have mutations that would make the virus more transmissible, cause more severe disease or evade vaccine immunity. Other strains with known risks, such as those first detected in the United Kingdom, Brazil and South Africa, have been categorised as "variants of concern," a higher threat level. India reported 379,257 new infections and 3,645 new deaths on Thursday, health ministry data showed, the highest number of fatalities in a single day since the start of the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

France reports first cases of coronavirus variant first detected in India

Supreme Court of India said on Friday that high courts in India should avoid "off-the-cuff" remarks during hearings as they may have serious ramifications.

Supreme Court's advice came during hearings on COVID-19 related pleas. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, appearing for the Centre and the Bihar government respectively said during the hearing that such remarks (from the high courts) gave impression as if authorities were doing nothing.

High courts of Madras and Delhi have been critical of Central government and various authorities for the way they have been handling Covid pandemic in India.

A bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud, hearing the suo motu case on COVID-19 management in the country, took note of the submissions of the Centre and Bihar government and cautioned restraint to High Courts.

"Even when we are criticising a judgement of a High Court, we do not say exactly what is in our heart and we exercise a degree of restraint. We would only expect that as freedom has been given to the High Courts to deal with these issues, certain of-the-cuff remarks, which are not necessary may be avoided," said the bench which also comprised Justices L Nageswara Rao and S Ravindra Bhat.

Government officials, including those who are COVID-19 infected, are working tirelessly to deal with the pandemic situation, the lawyers said.

Castigating officers on duty is "very demoralising", Kumar said.

The bench said judges also know that this is a new time where, every word said by them become part of social media.

"All we can say that we expect a degree of respect and restraint", the bench said.

The top court said particularly, in sensitive matters, it tended to exercise some caution and restraint.

"It is not because we are fearful of our remarks. Of course, we are independent. It is only because of the serious ramifications which off-the-cuff remarks about private citizens may have," Justice Chandrachud said.

"Sometimes judges make some observations to elicit proper response from lawyers, which should not be considered as those remarks against anyone," it said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Supreme Court of India said on Friday that high courts in India should avoid "off-the-cuff" remarks during hearings as they may have serious ramifications. Supreme Court's advice came during hearings on COVID-19 related pleas.

Supreme Court of India said on Friday that high courts in India should avoid "off-the-cuff" remarks during hearings as they may have serious ramifications. Supreme Court's advice came during hearings on COVID-19 related pleas. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and senior advocate Ranjit Kumar, appearing for the Centre and the Bihar government respectively said during the hearing that such remarks (from the high courts) gave impression as if authorities were doing nothing. High courts of Madras and Delhi have been critical of Central government and various authorities for the way they have been handling Covid pandemic in India. A bench headed by Justice D Y Chandrachud, hearing the suo motu case on COVID-19 management in the country, took note of the submissions of the Centre and Bihar government and cautioned restraint to High Courts. "Even when we are criticising a judgement of a High Court, we do not say exactly what is in our heart and we exercise a degree of restraint. We would only expect that as freedom has been given to the High Courts to deal with these issues, certain of-the-cuff remarks, which are not necessary may be avoided," said the bench which also comprised Justices L Nageswara Rao and S Ravindra Bhat. Government officials, including those who are COVID-19 infected, are working tirelessly to deal with the pandemic situation, the lawyers said. Castigating officers on duty is "very demoralising", Kumar said. The bench said judges also know that this is a new time where, every word said by them become part of social media. "All we can say that we expect a degree of respect and restraint", the bench said. The top court said particularly, in sensitive matters, it tended to exercise some caution and restraint. "It is not because we are fearful of our remarks. Of course, we are independent. It is only because of the serious ramifications which off-the-cuff remarks about private citizens may have," Justice Chandrachud said. "Sometimes judges make some observations to elicit proper response from lawyers, which should not be considered as those remarks against anyone," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

High courts should avoid 'off-the-cuff' remarks, says Supreme Court during Covid hearing

As India’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases surge and the crisis is taking over the country, international and domestic airlines are adding the frequency of flights out of India to bring citizens and residents home.

Air India is planning to increase the frequency of flights from India to the US to nearly 32 flights instead of 29, starting from May 11. This will mean an increase of nearly 33 flights in a week when compared to the pre-pandemic days.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/did-the-indian-govt-ignore-warnings-on-covid-2nd-wave-381712">Watch |</a>

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Joining the plan, Korean Air and Asiana Airlines are also hoping to soon charter flights from India to South Korea to help bring back citizens who have been stranded in India due to the pandemic. South Korea had earlier suspended all scheduled flights to and from India due to the Covid crisis. However, the two companies are in talks with the regulator to work out a plan to bring back South Korean nationals wanting to return.

Meanwhile, the US has released a Level 4 travel advisory. "U.S. citizens are reporting being denied admittance to hospitals in some cities due to a lack of space," the website of the US Embassy and Consulates in India read.

As per reports, carriers in India had managed to reach nearly 87 per cent of the pre-pandemic seat capacity and very hoping to make more progress soon. However, the second wave of the pandemic has once again slowed down the progress and brought a major pullback.

As India’s coronavirus cases surge and the crisis is taking over the country, international and domestic airlines are adding the frequency of flights out of India to bring citizens and residents home.

As India’s coronavirus cases surge and the crisis is taking over the country, international and domestic airlines are adding the frequency of flights out of India to bring citizens and residents home. Air India is planning to increase the frequency of flights from India to the US to nearly 32 flights instead of 29, starting from May 11. This will mean an increase of nearly 33 flights in a week when compared to the pre-pandemic days. Watch | Joining the plan, Korean Air and Asiana Airlines are also hoping to soon charter flights from India to South Korea to help bring back citizens who have been stranded in India due to the pandemic. South Korea had earlier suspended all scheduled flights to and from India due to the Covid crisis. However, the two companies are in talks with the regulator to work out a plan to bring back South Korean nationals wanting to return. Meanwhile, the US has released a Level 4 travel advisory. "U.S. citizens are reporting being denied admittance to hospitals in some cities due to a lack of space," the website of the US Embassy and Consulates in India read. As per reports, carriers in India had managed to reach nearly 87 per cent of the pre-pandemic seat capacity and very hoping to make more progress soon. However, the second wave of the pandemic has once again slowed down the progress and brought a major pullback.

As India's Covid crisis worsens, airlines double flights to bring citizens home

India is set to get 5 million doses of Russian Covid vaccine Sputnik V by June, even as the jab is set to be rolled out in the country from the 1st of May.

Sputnik V is the third vaccine India has approved after the University of Oxford- straZeneca vaccine Covisheild and Covaxin, the Indian vaccine manufactured by Bharat Biotech.

Announcing the development, the Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma said, "We expect between 150,000 to 200,000 ready-made vaccines to be available very quickly in the early part of May. But this will be increased by middle and the latter part of May and perhaps by May itself total Sputnik V Numbers will be probably more than 3 million."

"So, it's a very substantial number. This will steadily increase to 5 million on June, 10 million, correspondingly we wish to take it forward."

Gamaleya Research Institute, which developed the vaccine, has in a recent study said that the jab is effective against mutant forms of the virus.

The arrival of the Sputnik V vaccine coincides with India opening up vaccination for the entire adult population from the 1st of May.

Envoy Venkatesh said Sputnik V "will be providing a contribution to India's vaccination efforts" and "as the scale of vaccination increase in India, its manufacturing will happen".

Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), the country's&nbsp;sovereign wealth fund which&nbsp; funded the vaccine, has signed a pact with five Indian companies to produce 850 million doses of the vaccine.&nbsp;The production begins in May.

The India-produced Russian vaccine will not only be used in India and Russia but will also be exported to third countries.

The envoy highlighted, "We expect, in the months ahead, more than 60-70 % of Sputnik vaccine produced anywhere will be produced in India".

RDIF is in talks with Indian regulators to do a combination of vaccines like&nbsp;AstraZeneca followed by Sputnik V.

The Indian envoy said that while it has not been approved as yet, if that "combination is possible, then that is an additional benefit".

Russia is also expected to announce Sputnik Lite.

Russia extended support to India earlier this week by sending 22 tonnes of grant assistance to deal with the ongoing Covid crisis.

The assistance included 20 oxygen production units, 75 lung ventilators, 150 medical monitors, and 200,000 packs of medicines.

Russian Emergencies Ministry had sent two Il-76 aircraft with supplies, which envoy Venkatesh said "is extremely valued".

This assistance "will live in our memory as one more standing testimony of very close friendship" between India and Russia, he said.

Asked about any travel ban between the two countries amid the Covid crisis in India, the envoy said at present, there is no plan for restricting air travel&nbsp;between India and Russia.

Two flights are being run by Aeroflot and two by Air India between both the countries even as Moscow authorities have taken additional precautions including conducting additional test from travellers coming from India.

Several countries have imposed restrictions on travellers from India due to the Covid crisis.

India is set to get 5 million doses of Russian Covid vaccine Sputnik V by June, even as the jab is set to be rolled out in the country from the 1st of May. Sputnik V is the third vaccine India has approved after the University of Oxford- straZeneca vaccine Covisheild and Covaxin, the Indian vaccine manufactured by Bharat Biotech.

India is set to get 5 million doses of Russian Covid vaccine Sputnik V by June, even as the jab is set to be rolled out in the country from the 1st of May. Sputnik V is the third vaccine India has approved after the University of Oxford- straZeneca vaccine Covisheild and Covaxin, the Indian vaccine manufactured by Bharat Biotech. Announcing the development, the Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma said, "We expect between 150,000 to 200,000 ready-made vaccines to be available very quickly in the early part of May. But this will be increased by middle and the latter part of May and perhaps by May itself total Sputnik V Numbers will be probably more than 3 million." "So, it's a very substantial number. This will steadily increase to 5 million on June, 10 million, correspondingly we wish to take it forward." Gamaleya Research Institute, which developed the vaccine, has in a recent study said that the jab is effective against mutant forms of the virus. The arrival of the Sputnik V vaccine coincides with India opening up vaccination for the entire adult population from the 1st of May. Envoy Venkatesh said Sputnik V "will be providing a contribution to India's vaccination efforts" and "as the scale of vaccination increase in India, its manufacturing will happen". Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), the country's sovereign wealth fund which funded the vaccine, has signed a pact with five Indian companies to produce 850 million doses of the vaccine. The production begins in May. The India-produced Russian vaccine will not only be used in India and Russia but will also be exported to third countries. The envoy highlighted, "We expect, in the months ahead, more than 60-70 % of Sputnik vaccine produced anywhere will be produced in India". RDIF is in talks with Indian regulators to do a combination of vaccines like AstraZeneca followed by Sputnik V. The Indian envoy said that while it has not been approved as yet, if that "combination is possible, then that is an additional benefit". Russia is also expected to announce Sputnik Lite. Russia extended support to India earlier this week by sending 22 tonnes of grant assistance to deal with the ongoing Covid crisis. The assistance included 20 oxygen production units, 75 lung ventilators, 150 medical monitors, and 200,000 packs of medicines. Russian Emergencies Ministry had sent two Il-76 aircraft with supplies, which envoy Venkatesh said "is extremely valued". This assistance "will live in our memory as one more standing testimony of very close friendship" between India and Russia, he said. Asked about any travel ban between the two countries amid the Covid crisis in India, the envoy said at present, there is no plan for restricting air travel between India and Russia. Two flights are being run by Aeroflot and two by Air India between both the countries even as Moscow authorities have taken additional precautions including conducting additional test from travellers coming from India. Several countries have imposed restrictions on travellers from India due to the Covid crisis.

5 million doses of Russian Covid vaccine Sputnik V in India by June, says Indian envoy to Russia Venkatesh Varma

Chinese President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/xi-jinping">Xi Jinping </a>on Friday sent condolences to Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>situation in India.&nbsp;

In a letter that was sent on Friday, the Chinese president said that he is "very concerned" about the recent situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in India and on behalf of the "Chinese Government and people, as well as in my own name," he expressed "sincere sympathies to the Indian Government and people."

Watch |&nbsp;

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This is the first official communication between the two leaders since the last year's stand-off in eastern Ladakh and the Galwan Valley clashes.&nbsp;

Highlighting how "humanity is a community with a shared future", Xi said, "only through solidarity and cooperation can countries around the world ultimately defeat the pandemic."

"Chinese side stands ready to strengthen cooperation with the Indian side in fighting the pandemic and provide support and help in this regard", he said, adding, "I believe that under the leadership of the Indian Government, the Indian people will surely prevail over the pandemic."

<img alt="Chinese President letter to PM Modi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2a872e6-c1b1-4dcf-a932-5180776fed48" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/015cef68-d194-4ceb-901a-d4b94002407d.jpg" />

Earlier, Sun Weidong, Chinese ambassador to India, said on Thursday that Beijing has provided India will over 5,000 ventilators and 21,569 oxygen generators, among other supplies.&nbsp;

"Since this April, #China has supplied more than 5000 ventilators, 21569 oxygen generators, over 21.48 million masks &amp; around 3800 tons of medicines to #India, according to statistics of the General Administration of Customs of China," the envoy wrote on a tweet.&nbsp;

A few days ago, media reports said that the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) accused Beijing of stopping shipments of oxygen concentrators being procured from China to be delivered to India. &nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/japan-to-provide-oxygen-concentrators-ventilators-to-friend-and-partner-india-to-combat-covid-381682">Japan to provide oxygen concentrators, ventilators to 'friend and partner' India to combat Covid</a>

Chinese foreign ministry denied these reports, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday saying that the country would do the utmost to help India fight the pandemic.&nbsp;

He also said that the anti-pandemic supplies from China are entering India at a faster pace.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Sidhant Sibal)

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday sent condolences to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the coronavirus situation in India. In a letter that was sent on Friday, the Chinese president said that he is "very concerned" about the recent situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in India and on behalf of the "Chinese Government and people, as well as in my own name," he expressed "sincere sympathies to the Indian Government and people.

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday sent condolences to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the coronavirus situation in India. In a letter that was sent on Friday, the Chinese president said that he is "very concerned" about the recent situation of the COVID-19 pandemic in India and on behalf of the "Chinese Government and people, as well as in my own name," he expressed "sincere sympathies to the Indian Government and people." Watch | This is the first official communication between the two leaders since the last year's stand-off in eastern Ladakh and the Galwan Valley clashes. Highlighting how "humanity is a community with a shared future", Xi said, "only through solidarity and cooperation can countries around the world ultimately defeat the pandemic." "Chinese side stands ready to strengthen cooperation with the Indian side in fighting the pandemic and provide support and help in this regard", he said, adding, "I believe that under the leadership of the Indian Government, the Indian people will surely prevail over the pandemic." Earlier, Sun Weidong, Chinese ambassador to India, said on Thursday that Beijing has provided India will over 5,000 ventilators and 21,569 oxygen generators, among other supplies. "Since this April, #China has supplied more than 5000 ventilators, 21569 oxygen generators, over 21.48 million masks & around 3800 tons of medicines to #India, according to statistics of the General Administration of Customs of China," the envoy wrote on a tweet. A few days ago, media reports said that the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) accused Beijing of stopping shipments of oxygen concentrators being procured from China to be delivered to India. Also read | Japan to provide oxygen concentrators, ventilators to 'friend and partner' India to combat Covid Chinese foreign ministry denied these reports, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday saying that the country would do the utmost to help India fight the pandemic. He also said that the anti-pandemic supplies from China are entering India at a faster pace. (With inputs from Sidhant Sibal)

Chinese President Xi offers condolences to Indian PM Modi over Covid situation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday promised to do the utmost in supporting India's fight against the COVID-19 surge and said that anti-pandemic materials produced in China were entering India at a faster pace.

In a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Wang said that the Chinese side "shares empathy for the challenges facing India and expresses sincere sympathy".

"The coronavirus is the common enemy of mankind, and the international community needs solidarity and coordination for a concerted response.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="China: 10 sailors infected with 'imported' Covid variant">China: 10 sailors infected with 'imported' Covid variant</a>

The Chinese side firmly supports the Indian Government and people in fighting the pandemic," he wrote in the letter, a copy of which was tweeted by Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Weidong.

Wang said that anti pandemic materials produced in China are entering India at a faster pace to help India fight the epidemic.

"The Chinese side will continue to do its utmost to provide support and help according to the needs of India. We hope and believe that under the leadership of the Indian Government, the Indian people will surely prevail over the epidemic at an early date,&nbsp;he added.

Wang's letter came even as the militaries of the two countries are yet to resolve the disengagement from the remaining areas of eastern Ladakh after the withdrawal from Pangong lake area in February.

Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Thursday termed as "fake news" the reports of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum's (USISPF) allegations that Beijing has stopped shipments of oxygen concentrators being procured from China to be delivered to India to meet the oxygen shortages in view of the surge of COVID-19 cases.

Asked about the media reports quoting Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of Washington based USISPF, stating China has stopped all-cargo flights delaying his organisation's efforts to source one lakh oxygen concentrators from China to India, Wang Wenbin said it is a "fake news".

Aghi was quoted as saying that in order to overcome logistics challenges, his organisation is sourcing the oxygen concentrators from China for easy transportation to India.

He alleged that in view of Chinese action to stop the logistics flights to India, the concentrators are to be routed through Tokyo and Dubai resulting in delay.

"This is fake news reports that China has stopped transport of oxygen generators procured by the USA to India is fake news," the spokesman said.

He, however, declined to respond to questions about when state-run Sichuan Airlines which had suspended all 11 of its cargo flights to India resulting in disruption of procurement of oxygen concentrators would resume its flights.

After the announcement to suspend the flights on April 26 in view of the COVID-19, the airline retracted its decision and said it is working out a new plan to resume the services. But so far it has not announced any new schedule.

Asked when the airline would resume its operations, Wang Wenbin said, "I would refer you to the relevant airline". 
"China shows deep sympathy to India as the country struggles with rampant COVID-19 and China expresses its sincere condolences to the Indian people. We reiterate China's willingness to help and support India as per its needs,&nbsp;he said.

"Chinese companies have been led by the government to take actions. The first batch of oxygen concentrators have arrived in India. We would like to cooperate with India in multiple ways to provide assistance. We believe India will defeat the virus," he said.

Asked how many oxygen concentrators have been sent to India, he said, ?for specific numbers you may refer to websites of Chinese embassy and Consulates in India.

China's Ambassador to India Sun Weidong in a tweet on Wednesday said Chinese medical suppliers are working overtime on orders from India, at least 25000 orders for oxygen concentrators in recent days. Cargo planes are under plan for medical supplies. Chinese customs will facilitate relevant process.

Wu Zunyou, a chief epidemiologist with the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention told the media here, the Indian strain' of the coronavirus has been detected in some Chinese cities.

The surge in COVID-19 cases in some Asian countries has again sounded the alarm that the prevention and control of COVID-19 is far from over, which, instead, is difficult, complex, recurrent and long-term, Wu said, the state-run CGTN-TV reported.

According to official media reports, about 11 Chinese crew members of a cargo ship tested positive for the coronavirus after returning from India.

Wu also pointed out that the mutation of the novel coronavirus has been occurring since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and will not stop as long as the pandemic continues. But the transmission of different virus variants can be stopped, Wu said.

"Implementing containment measures is crucial both to stop the spread of the mutant strains and to prevent the occurrence of new mutations," he said.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday promised to do the utmost in supporting India's fight against the COVID-19 surge and said that anti-pandemic materials produced in China were entering India at a faster pace.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday promised to do the utmost in supporting India's fight against the COVID-19 surge and said that anti-pandemic materials produced in China were entering India at a faster pace. In a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Wang said that the Chinese side "shares empathy for the challenges facing India and expresses sincere sympathy". "The coronavirus is the common enemy of mankind, and the international community needs solidarity and coordination for a concerted response. Also read: China: 10 sailors infected with 'imported' Covid variant The Chinese side firmly supports the Indian Government and people in fighting the pandemic," he wrote in the letter, a copy of which was tweeted by Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Weidong. Wang said that anti pandemic materials produced in China are entering India at a faster pace to help India fight the epidemic. "The Chinese side will continue to do its utmost to provide support and help according to the needs of India. We hope and believe that under the leadership of the Indian Government, the Indian people will surely prevail over the epidemic at an early date, he added. Wang's letter came even as the militaries of the two countries are yet to resolve the disengagement from the remaining areas of eastern Ladakh after the withdrawal from Pangong lake area in February. Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Thursday termed as "fake news" the reports of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum's (USISPF) allegations that Beijing has stopped shipments of oxygen concentrators being procured from China to be delivered to India to meet the oxygen shortages in view of the surge of COVID-19 cases. Asked about the media reports quoting Mukesh Aghi, President and CEO of Washington based USISPF, stating China has stopped all-cargo flights delaying his organisation's efforts to source one lakh oxygen concentrators from China to India, Wang Wenbin said it is a "fake news". Aghi was quoted as saying that in order to overcome logistics challenges, his organisation is sourcing the oxygen concentrators from China for easy transportation to India. He alleged that in view of Chinese action to stop the logistics flights to India, the concentrators are to be routed through Tokyo and Dubai resulting in delay. "This is fake news reports that China has stopped transport of oxygen generators procured by the USA to India is fake news," the spokesman said. He, however, declined to respond to questions about when state-run Sichuan Airlines which had suspended all 11 of its cargo flights to India resulting in disruption of procurement of oxygen concentrators would resume its flights. After the announcement to suspend the flights on April 26 in view of the COVID-19, the airline retracted its decision and said it is working out a new plan to resume the services. But so far it has not announced any new schedule. Asked when the airline would resume its operations, Wang Wenbin said, "I would refer you to the relevant airline". "China shows deep sympathy to India as the country struggles with rampant COVID-19 and China expresses its sincere condolences to the Indian people. We reiterate China's willingness to help and support India as per its needs, he said. "Chinese companies have been led by the government to take actions. The first batch of oxygen concentrators have arrived in India. We would like to cooperate with India in multiple ways to provide assistance. We believe India will defeat the virus," he said. Asked how many oxygen concentrators have been sent to India, he said, ?for specific numbers you may refer to websites of Chinese embassy and Consulates in India. China's Ambassador to India Sun Weidong in a tweet on Wednesday said Chinese medical suppliers are working overtime on orders from India, at least 25000 orders for oxygen concentrators in recent days. Cargo planes are under plan for medical supplies. Chinese customs will facilitate relevant process. Wu Zunyou, a chief epidemiologist with the Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention told the media here, the Indian strain' of the coronavirus has been detected in some Chinese cities. The surge in COVID-19 cases in some Asian countries has again sounded the alarm that the prevention and control of COVID-19 is far from over, which, instead, is difficult, complex, recurrent and long-term, Wu said, the state-run CGTN-TV reported. According to official media reports, about 11 Chinese crew members of a cargo ship tested positive for the coronavirus after returning from India. Wu also pointed out that the mutation of the novel coronavirus has been occurring since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and will not stop as long as the pandemic continues. But the transmission of different virus variants can be stopped, Wu said. "Implementing containment measures is crucial both to stop the spread of the mutant strains and to prevent the occurrence of new mutations," he said.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi promises to do utmost in supporting India's fight against COVID-19 surge

India on Friday registered 3,36,452 COVID cases and more than 3000 deaths. The Govt of India has been proactively working to reduce the number of cases but is it enough? According to health experts the Indian govt had ignored the warnings regarding second wave of COVID in the first week of March. The Indian Judiciary being a watchdog in a democratic framework also lashing over the central and state govt of acting irresponsible and letting people die due to lack of 'Oxygen' and other basic medical equipments.

Did the Indian govt ignore warnings on COVID 2nd wave?

With just a day left for starting vaccination for those aged between 18 and 44, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan said that the shots ordered by the southern Indian state had not yet arrived and there was uncertainty about when they would arrive.

With just a day left for starting vaccination for those aged between 18 and 44, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary Dr J Radhakrishnan said that the shots ordered by the southern Indian state had not yet arrived and there was uncertainty about when they would arrive. “We have placed orders for 1.5crore vaccines and so far, the Central Government has not allocated the numbers. There is also no cavity on how many vaccines we would possibly get from the two makers - SII and Bharat Biotech,” he said. “All states are facing the same issue, and whether we will get the vaccines tomorrow is a question and we are in touch with the companies, it for them to revert and let us know,” Radhakrishnan added. However, the health secretary also said that there was sufficient stock of vaccines for those aged 45 and above. The central government recently permitted vaccination of those aged 18–44. Earlier, in the second phase, only those who were 45 and above were allowed to be vaccinated against coronavirus. Earlier this week, the Tamil Nadu government said that it had placed orders for 1.5crore vaccines via the Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation (TNMSC). According to the government, this is in line with the chief minister’s assurance of providing free vaccines for all within the eligible age group.

Vaccine shortage: Jabs for those aged above 18 unlikely from May 1 in Tamil Nadu

Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) Anil Baijal has tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday.

"I have tested positive for COVID with mild symptoms. Have isolated me since the onset of symptoms and all those who were in contact with me have been tested. Will continue to function and monitor the situation in Delhi from my residence." he tweeted. 
&nbsp;

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I have tested positive for COVID with mild symptoms. 
Have isolated myself since the onset of symptoms and all those who were in contact with me have been tested. 
Will continue to function and monitor the situation in Delhi from my residence.
— LG Delhi (@LtGovDelhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/LtGovDelhi/status/1388056768022937602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday,&nbsp;Baijal sought a report from Chief Secretary Vijay Dev on the city's preparedness for the vaccination of people above 18 years of age against COVID-19

That was&nbsp;his first significant move since the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act, 2021, which mandates that the Delhi "government" means the LG, came into force. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) Anil Baijal has tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday. "I have tested positive for COVID with mild symptoms. Have isolated me since the onset of symptoms and all those who were in contact with me have been tested.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor (LG) Anil Baijal has tested positive for Covid-19 on Friday. "I have tested positive for COVID with mild symptoms. Have isolated me since the onset of symptoms and all those who were in contact with me have been tested. Will continue to function and monitor the situation in Delhi from my residence." he tweeted. I have tested positive for COVID with mild symptoms. Have isolated myself since the onset of symptoms and all those who were in contact with me have been tested. Will continue to function and monitor the situation in Delhi from my residence. — LG Delhi (@LtGovDelhi) April 30, 2021 × On Thursday, Baijal sought a report from Chief Secretary Vijay Dev on the city's preparedness for the vaccination of people above 18 years of age against COVID-19 That was his first significant move since the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act, 2021, which mandates that the Delhi "government" means the LG, came into force. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal tests positive for Covid-19

Japan on Friday announced to provide 300 oxygen concentrators and as many ventilators to India as it stands with its "friend and partner" in its efforts to combat the unprecedented surge in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> cases.

India on Friday logged 3,86,452 new coronavirus infections, the highest single-day rise so far, pushing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,87,62,976, while active cases crossed the 3,100,000 mark. The death toll increased to 2,08,330 with 3,498 new fatalities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-biggest-ever-surge-of-386452-covid-19-cases-3498-deaths-in-a-day-381554">India records biggest-ever surge of 386,452 COVID-19 cases, 3498 deaths in a day</a>

On the request of the Indian government, Japan has "decided to proceed with the procedure to provide 300 oxygen concentrators and 300 ventilators to India in response to the current surge of COVID-19 infections in India," the Japanese Foreign Ministry said here in a statement.

"Japan stands with India, our friend and partner, in her efforts to fight against COVID-19 pandemic through this additional emergency assistance. Japan will continue to extend further support promptly in order to contain the COVID-19 situation," it said.

India is struggling with a second wave of the pandemic with more than 3,00,000 daily new coronavirus cases being reported in the past few days, and hospitals are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.

Japan on Friday announced to provide 300 oxygen concentrators and as many ventilators to India as it stands with its "friend and partner" in its efforts to combat the unprecedented surge in coronavirus cases.

Japan on Friday announced to provide 300 oxygen concentrators and as many ventilators to India as it stands with its "friend and partner" in its efforts to combat the unprecedented surge in coronavirus cases. India on Friday logged 3,86,452 new coronavirus infections, the highest single-day rise so far, pushing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,87,62,976, while active cases crossed the 3,100,000 mark. The death toll increased to 2,08,330 with 3,498 new fatalities. Also read | India records biggest-ever surge of 386,452 COVID-19 cases, 3498 deaths in a day On the request of the Indian government, Japan has "decided to proceed with the procedure to provide 300 oxygen concentrators and 300 ventilators to India in response to the current surge of COVID-19 infections in India," the Japanese Foreign Ministry said here in a statement. "Japan stands with India, our friend and partner, in her efforts to fight against COVID-19 pandemic through this additional emergency assistance. Japan will continue to extend further support promptly in order to contain the COVID-19 situation," it said. India is struggling with a second wave of the pandemic with more than 3,00,000 daily new coronavirus cases being reported in the past few days, and hospitals are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.

Japan to provide oxygen concentrators, ventilators to 'friend and partner' India to combat COVID-19

Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000&nbsp;vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement.

The government has started importing vital drug from other countries to ease its shortage in the country, it said. 
The first consignment of 75,000 vials will reach India on Friday, it added.

Demand for Remdesivir has gone up manifold in the country with a surge in COVID-19 cases.

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The antiviral drug is being used in the treatment of infectious disease.

HLL Lifecare Ltd, a Government of India owned company has ordered 4,50,000 vials of Remdesivir from M/s Gilead Sciences Inc USA and Egyptian Pharma Company, M/s Eva Pharma, the release said.

It is expected that Gilead Sciences will dispatch 75,000 to 1,00,000 vials in the next one or two days, it noted. 
Further 1,00,000 vials will also be supplied before or by May 15, the release said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-crisis-outpouring-of-solidarity-by-international-community-says-fs-shringla-381427">India covid crisis: Outpouring of solidarity by international community, says FS Shringla</a>

EVA Pharma will supply around 10,000 vials initially followed by 50,000 vials every 15 days or till July, it added.

The Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said it has also ramped up the production capacity of Remdesivir in the country.

As of April 27, the production capacity of the seven licensed domestic manufacturers has increased from 3.8 million vials per month to 10.3 million vials per month, it said.

Besides, a total of 1.373 million (13,73,000)&nbsp;vials have been supplied across the country by the drug companies in the last seven days (April 21-28). The daily supply has gone up from 67,900 vials on April 11 to 2,09,000&nbsp; vials on April 28, it added.

An advisory was also issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs to states and union territories to facilitate smooth movement of Remdesivir supplies, the ministry noted.

The government has also taken various steps, like a ban on exports and customs duty waiver, to enhance the availability of Remdesivir in the country, it said.

India saw 3,86,452 new coronavirus infections in a span of 24 hours, the highest single-day rise so far, pushing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,87,62,976, while active cases crossed the 3.1-million&nbsp;mark.

The death toll increased to 2,08,330 with 3,498 new fatalities, as per the Union health ministry data.&nbsp;

Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement.

Indian government has placed orders for import of 4,50,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir with the first consignment of 75,000 vials expected to reach Indian shores on Friday, the Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said in a statement. The government has started importing vital drug from other countries to ease its shortage in the country, it said. The first consignment of 75,000 vials will reach India on Friday, it added. Demand for Remdesivir has gone up manifold in the country with a surge in COVID-19 cases. The antiviral drug is being used in the treatment of infectious disease. HLL Lifecare Ltd, a Government of India owned company has ordered 4,50,000 vials of Remdesivir from M/s Gilead Sciences Inc USA and Egyptian Pharma Company, M/s Eva Pharma, the release said. It is expected that Gilead Sciences will dispatch 75,000 to 1,00,000 vials in the next one or two days, it noted. Further 1,00,000 vials will also be supplied before or by May 15, the release said. Also read | India covid crisis: Outpouring of solidarity by international community, says FS Shringla EVA Pharma will supply around 10,000 vials initially followed by 50,000 vials every 15 days or till July, it added. The Chemicals and Fertilisers Ministry said it has also ramped up the production capacity of Remdesivir in the country. As of April 27, the production capacity of the seven licensed domestic manufacturers has increased from 3.8 million vials per month to 10.3 million vials per month, it said. Besides, a total of 1.373 million (13,73,000) vials have been supplied across the country by the drug companies in the last seven days (April 21-28). The daily supply has gone up from 67,900 vials on April 11 to 2,09,000 vials on April 28, it added. An advisory was also issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs to states and union territories to facilitate smooth movement of Remdesivir supplies, the ministry noted. The government has also taken various steps, like a ban on exports and customs duty waiver, to enhance the availability of Remdesivir in the country, it said. India saw 3,86,452 new coronavirus infections in a span of 24 hours, the highest single-day rise so far, pushing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,87,62,976, while active cases crossed the 3.1-million mark. The death toll increased to 2,08,330 with 3,498 new fatalities, as per the Union health ministry data.

India to import 450,000 vials of antiviral drug Remdesivir amid spike in COVID-19 cases

Several Indian states, including Delhi, have indicated that they may have to delay the third phase of the vaccination drive for all adults in the country as jabs against the Coronavirus may not be immediately available due to shortage of stocks and delay in deliveries.

India: Phase 3 vaccination drive hampered in many states due to vaccine shortage

Senior Indian TV journalist Rohit Sardana passed away on Friday, days after testing positive for COVID-19. 
 
On April 24, Sardana had tweeted that he had contracted the coronavirus. 
 
Reports said that he passed away this morning after suffering a heart attack. 
 
<img alt="Rohit Sardana " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b4dfec0-1bc3-410f-bb80-22e9629a7185" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/rohittweet.JPG" /> 
 
Sardana, who had a long and very successful association with the Zee Media, has left the media world in a state of utter shock.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He had hosted 'Taal Thok Ke', a popular debate programme&nbsp;that discusses contemporary issues in India on Zee News.&nbsp;

Sardana left Zee News to join Aaj Tak in 2017 and, since then, he was hosting the debate show 'Dangal.'

(With inputs from agencies)

Senior Indian TV journalist Rohit Sardana passed away on Friday, days after testing positive for COVID-19. On April 24, Sardana had tweeted that he had contracted the coronavirus.

Senior Indian TV journalist Rohit Sardana passed away on Friday, days after testing positive for COVID-19. On April 24, Sardana had tweeted that he had contracted the coronavirus. Reports said that he passed away this morning after suffering a heart attack. Sardana, who had a long and very successful association with the Zee Media, has left the media world in a state of utter shock. He had hosted 'Taal Thok Ke', a popular debate programme that discusses contemporary issues in India on Zee News. Sardana left Zee News to join Aaj Tak in 2017 and, since then, he was hosting the debate show 'Dangal.' (With inputs from agencies)

Indian TV journalist Rohit Sardana dies days after testing positive for COVID-19

Former Attorney General for India and veteran jurist Soli Sorabjee passed away on Friday morning, aged 91.

He had served as the Attorney General for India from 1989-90 and then from 1998-2004.

He was admitted to a private hospital in South Delhi after getting infected with COVID-19.

Union defence minister Rajnath Singh has expressed his deep condolence at the demise of Sorabjee.

“Deeply pained by the demise of India’s former Attorney General and veteran jurist, Shri Soli Sorabjee. He was an exceptional legal mind and a great scholar of our constitution. His services to the nation will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family,” Rajnath Singh tweeted.

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Deeply pained by the demise of India’s former Attorney General and veteran jurist, Shri Soli Sorabjee. He was an exceptional legal mind and a great scholar of our constitution. His services to the nation will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1387984268714860547?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"The gentle giant Soli Sorabjee passed away this morning. Always ready to lend a helping hand Soli Sir leaves behind countless admirers &amp; many memories. My condolences to the family in this hour of grief" tweeted Union Minister Smriti Irani while condoling Sorabjee`s demise.

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The gentle giant Soli Sorabjee passed away this morning. Always ready to lend a helping hand Soli Sir leaves behind countless admirers &amp; many memories. My condolences to the family in this hour of grief.
— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) <a href="https://twitter.com/smritiirani/status/1387978441538998274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sorabjee, born in 1930, enrolled at the bar in 1953. In 1971, Bombay High Court designated him as a senior advocate.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Attorney General for India and veteran jurist Soli Sorabjee passed away on Friday morning, aged 91. He had served as the Attorney General for India from 1989-90 and then from 1998-2004.

Former Attorney General for India and veteran jurist Soli Sorabjee passed away on Friday morning, aged 91. He had served as the Attorney General for India from 1989-90 and then from 1998-2004. He was admitted to a private hospital in South Delhi after getting infected with COVID-19. Union defence minister Rajnath Singh has expressed his deep condolence at the demise of Sorabjee. “Deeply pained by the demise of India’s former Attorney General and veteran jurist, Shri Soli Sorabjee. He was an exceptional legal mind and a great scholar of our constitution. His services to the nation will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family,” Rajnath Singh tweeted. Deeply pained by the demise of India’s former Attorney General and veteran jurist, Shri Soli Sorabjee. He was an exceptional legal mind and a great scholar of our constitution. His services to the nation will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his bereaved family. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) April 30, 2021 × "The gentle giant Soli Sorabjee passed away this morning. Always ready to lend a helping hand Soli Sir leaves behind countless admirers & many memories. My condolences to the family in this hour of grief" tweeted Union Minister Smriti Irani while condoling Sorabjee`s demise. The gentle giant Soli Sorabjee passed away this morning. Always ready to lend a helping hand Soli Sir leaves behind countless admirers & many memories. My condolences to the family in this hour of grief. — Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) April 30, 2021 × Sorabjee, born in 1930, enrolled at the bar in 1953. In 1971, Bombay High Court designated him as a senior advocate. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Attorney General of India Soli Sorabjee dies due to COVID-19

The first US government assistance flight carrying COVID-19 emergency aid supplies landed in India on Friday morning.&nbsp;

A military aircraft Super Galaxy military transporter brought the first supplies to help India to fight the deadly second COVID-19 wave that has wreaked havoc across the country, straining its healthcare system.

The aircraft is carrying more than 400 oxygen cylinders and other hospital equipment and nearly one million rapid coronavirus tests landed at New Delhi’s international airport.

“The first of several emergency COVID-19 relief shipments from the United States has arrived in India! Building on over 70 years of cooperation, the United States stands with India as we fight the COVID-19 pandemic together. #USIndiaDosti,” the US Embassy tweeted.

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The first of several emergency COVID-19 relief shipments from the United States has arrived in India! Building on over 70 years of cooperation, the United States stands with India as we fight the COVID-19 pandemic together. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USIndiaDosti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USIndiaDosti</a> <a href="https://t.co/OpHn8ZMXrJ">pic.twitter.com/OpHn8ZMXrJ</a>
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAndIndia/status/1387963303238897665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India is currently recording a world record infection rate of more than 380,000 cases and 3,500 deaths a day and a huge international aid operation has been launched with dozens of countries promising help.

The delivery, which flew in from the Travis military base in California, followed talks this week between US President Joe Biden and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“The United States is delivering supplies worth more than $100 million in the coming days to provide urgent relief to our partners in India,” State Department spokesman Ned Price said Thursday.

Coronavirus cases are surging in India amid a widespread oxygen shortage and slow vaccine rollout. The country's pandemic death toll surpassed 205,000 on Friday, amid reports that COVID fatalities and cases are going uncounted.

(With inputs from agencies)

The first US government assistance flight carrying COVID-19 emergency aid supplies landed in India on Friday morning. A military aircraft Super Galaxy military transporter brought the first supplies to help India to fight the deadly second COVID-19 wave that has wreaked havoc across the country, straining its healthcare system.

The first US government assistance flight carrying COVID-19 emergency aid supplies landed in India on Friday morning. A military aircraft Super Galaxy military transporter brought the first supplies to help India to fight the deadly second COVID-19 wave that has wreaked havoc across the country, straining its healthcare system. The aircraft is carrying more than 400 oxygen cylinders and other hospital equipment and nearly one million rapid coronavirus tests landed at New Delhi’s international airport. “The first of several emergency COVID-19 relief shipments from the United States has arrived in India! Building on over 70 years of cooperation, the United States stands with India as we fight the COVID-19 pandemic together. #USIndiaDosti,” the US Embassy tweeted. The first of several emergency COVID-19 relief shipments from the United States has arrived in India! Building on over 70 years of cooperation, the United States stands with India as we fight the COVID-19 pandemic together. #USIndiaDosti pic.twitter.com/OpHn8ZMXrJ — U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) April 30, 2021 × India is currently recording a world record infection rate of more than 380,000 cases and 3,500 deaths a day and a huge international aid operation has been launched with dozens of countries promising help. The delivery, which flew in from the Travis military base in California, followed talks this week between US President Joe Biden and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “The United States is delivering supplies worth more than $100 million in the coming days to provide urgent relief to our partners in India,” State Department spokesman Ned Price said Thursday. Coronavirus cases are surging in India amid a widespread oxygen shortage and slow vaccine rollout. The country's pandemic death toll surpassed 205,000 on Friday, amid reports that COVID fatalities and cases are going uncounted. (With inputs from agencies)

US stands with India: First of $100 million Covid aid from US arrives in India 

The Government of India on Wednesday recorded nearly 1.32&nbsp;crore (13.2 million) registrations for coronavirus vaccination from May 1.

In the third phase of the vaccination drive, everyone above the age of 18 will be eligible to get inoculated against Covid-19.

The Union Health Ministry highlighted that vaccination is a critical component of the containment and management strategy of the Government of India in its fight against the( Covid pandemic.

"So we close Day 1 with 1.32 crore registrations on http://Cowin.gov.in. Kudos to Team CoWIN for building a truly scalable and robust platform. Handling more than 50000 API calls per second is mammoth!!," Aarogya Setu tweeted. 
&nbsp;

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So we close Day 1 with 1.32 Cr Registrations on <a href="https://t.co/xWRsgcZ3lD">https://t.co/xWRsgcZ3lD</a>. Kudos to Team CoWin for building a truly scalable and robust platform. Handling more than 50000 API calls per second is mammoth!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LargestVaccinationDrive?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LargestVaccinationDrive</a> <a href="https://t.co/DafOrdMfBP">pic.twitter.com/DafOrdMfBP</a>
— Aarogya Setu (@SetuAarogya) <a href="https://twitter.com/SetuAarogya/status/1387475346707009537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, many users struggled to get themselves registered and complained about the technical problems they faced while trying to register themselves on the CoWin portal.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Government of India on Wednesday recorded nearly 1.32 crore (13.2 million) registrations for coronavirus vaccination from May 1. In the third phase of the vaccination drive, everyone above the age of 18 will be eligible to get inoculated against Covid-19.

The Government of India on Wednesday recorded nearly 1.32 crore (13.2 million) registrations for coronavirus vaccination from May 1. In the third phase of the vaccination drive, everyone above the age of 18 will be eligible to get inoculated against Covid-19. The Union Health Ministry highlighted that vaccination is a critical component of the containment and management strategy of the Government of India in its fight against the( Covid pandemic. "So we close Day 1 with 1.32 crore registrations on http://Cowin.gov.in. Kudos to Team CoWIN for building a truly scalable and robust platform. Handling more than 50000 API calls per second is mammoth!!," Aarogya Setu tweeted. So we close Day 1 with 1.32 Cr Registrations on https://t.co/xWRsgcZ3lD. Kudos to Team CoWin for building a truly scalable and robust platform. Handling more than 50000 API calls per second is mammoth!! #LargestVaccinationDrive pic.twitter.com/DafOrdMfBP — Aarogya Setu (@SetuAarogya) April 28, 2021 × However, many users struggled to get themselves registered and complained about the technical problems they faced while trying to register themselves on the CoWin portal. (With inputs from agencies)

13.2 million Indians register for third phase of vaccinations but unable to book slots

Karnataka Revenue Minister, R. Ashoka on Thursday said that ministers have unanimously decided to contribute their one year`s salary for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">Covid</a> relief work in the state.

After attending the meetings convened by Chief Minister B.S. Yedyurappa at his home office, Ashoka said that Yediyurappa has also appealed to all legislators to contribute a month`s salary, but as ministers, they have voluntarily agreed to constitute a year`s salary to this work.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-14-days-of-lockdown-in-karnataka-starting-april-27-night-380509">COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night</a>

He also stated that due to overburdening of&nbsp;existing crematoriums, the state government has identified land parcels measuring a total of 230.5 acres and it will be handed over to the Bengaluru civic body.

"Our basic aim is to reduce long queues in front of crematoriums and in any eventualities there should not be any shortage of space to cremate or bury," he said and added that already three crematoriums have developed problems following which three more are coming up at Mavallipura, Giddenahalli and Tavarekere on the city`s outskirts.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bengaluru-lockdown-what-will-be-open-what-will-be-closed-380571">Bengaluru Lockdown: What will be open, what will be closed</a>

Those at Giddenahalli and Tavarekere with a capacity to cremate 70 bodies have become operational while the one at Mavallipura with a capacity to burn 40 will start operations soon.

Karnataka Revenue Minister, R. Ashoka on Thursday said that ministers have unanimously decided to contribute their one year`s salary for Covid relief work in the state.

Karnataka Revenue Minister, R. Ashoka on Thursday said that ministers have unanimously decided to contribute their one year`s salary for Covid relief work in the state. After attending the meetings convened by Chief Minister B.S. Yedyurappa at his home office, Ashoka said that Yediyurappa has also appealed to all legislators to contribute a month`s salary, but as ministers, they have voluntarily agreed to constitute a year`s salary to this work. Also read | COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night He also stated that due to overburdening of existing crematoriums, the state government has identified land parcels measuring a total of 230.5 acres and it will be handed over to the Bengaluru civic body. "Our basic aim is to reduce long queues in front of crematoriums and in any eventualities there should not be any shortage of space to cremate or bury," he said and added that already three crematoriums have developed problems following which three more are coming up at Mavallipura, Giddenahalli and Tavarekere on the city`s outskirts. Also read | Bengaluru Lockdown: What will be open, what will be closed Those at Giddenahalli and Tavarekere with a capacity to cremate 70 bodies have become operational while the one at Mavallipura with a capacity to burn 40 will start operations soon.

Karnataka ministers to contribute year's salary for Covid relief

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh was on Thursday discharged from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences here, where he was admitted after testing positive for COVID-19.

Sources close to the Congress leader said he was doing fine and returned home on Thursday afternoon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-indian-pm-manmohan-singh-tests-positive-for-covid-19-378650">Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh tests positive for COVID-19</a>

Singh, 88, was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) trauma centre, a dedicated COVID-19 facility, on April 19 after he had mild fever and tested positive for the novel coronavirus infection.

He received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine on March 4 and the second dose on April 3.

None of the other members of Singh's family have tested positive for the infection, the sources said.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said, "Good to know former PM Dr Manmohan Singh ji has been discharged from hospital and has recovered from COVID-19. My best wishes for his good health and well being."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-tests-positive-for-covid-19-says-has-mild-symptoms-378798">Rahul Gandhi tests positive for Covid-19, says has 'mild symptoms'</a>

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram said that the nation is happy and relieved that Dr Manmohan Singh has recovered and has been discharged from hospital. "Nation wishes him a healthy and long life."&nbsp;

"Concerned that CM, Rajasthan Ashok Gehlot has tested positive. Wish him a full and speedy recovery," Chidambaram said.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh was on Thursday discharged from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences here, where he was admitted after testing positive for COVID-19.

Former prime minister Manmohan Singh was on Thursday discharged from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences here, where he was admitted after testing positive for COVID-19. Sources close to the Congress leader said he was doing fine and returned home on Thursday afternoon. Also read | Former Indian PM Manmohan Singh tests positive for COVID-19 Singh, 88, was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) trauma centre, a dedicated COVID-19 facility, on April 19 after he had mild fever and tested positive for the novel coronavirus infection. He received the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine on March 4 and the second dose on April 3. None of the other members of Singh's family have tested positive for the infection, the sources said. Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said, "Good to know former PM Dr Manmohan Singh ji has been discharged from hospital and has recovered from COVID-19. My best wishes for his good health and well being." Also read | Rahul Gandhi tests positive for Covid-19, says has 'mild symptoms' Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram said that the nation is happy and relieved that Dr Manmohan Singh has recovered and has been discharged from hospital. "Nation wishes him a healthy and long life." "Concerned that CM, Rajasthan Ashok Gehlot has tested positive. Wish him a full and speedy recovery," Chidambaram said.

Ex-PM Manmohan Singh discharged from AIIMS

Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday.

Apart from the Axis My India-India Today and the Republic-CNX exit polls, which gave the BJP an edge in the battleground state, all other surveys, including the CVoter Exit Poll for Times Now/ABP News, forecast a third victory for the Trinamool, putting it ahead in the 294-member Assembly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indian-election-body-bans-all-victory-processions-after-poll-results-380799/amp">COVID-19: Indian election body bans all victory processions after poll results</a>

However, the survey of Axis My India-India Today, whose predictions in the 2019 Assembly elections had shown the immense BJP gains in the state, again gave the party its first-ever victory in the state polls. According to it, the BJP could end with 134-160 seats, the Trinamool with 130-156, and the Left with a mere 0-2. On the other hand, the P-MARQ survey gave the Trinamool 152-172 seats, the BJP 112-132, and the Left 10-20. The NewsX-Polstrat gave the Trinamool 152-162 and the BJP 111-125 seats.

The ETG Research poll gave Banerjee`s party 164-176, the BJP 105-115 and the Left 10-15 seats. CVoter gave Trinamool 152-164, the BJP 109-121 and the Left 14-25.

The Republic-CNX poll, however, showed a BJP victory, giving it 138-148 seats, with 128-132 for the Trinamool and 11-21 for the Left.

Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday.

Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress is set to retain power in West Bengal, all exit polls, except two, indicated after the month-long, eight-phase Assembly polls ended on Thursday. Apart from the Axis My India-India Today and the Republic-CNX exit polls, which gave the BJP an edge in the battleground state, all other surveys, including the CVoter Exit Poll for Times Now/ABP News, forecast a third victory for the Trinamool, putting it ahead in the 294-member Assembly. Also read | COVID-19: Indian election body bans all victory processions after poll results However, the survey of Axis My India-India Today, whose predictions in the 2019 Assembly elections had shown the immense BJP gains in the state, again gave the party its first-ever victory in the state polls. According to it, the BJP could end with 134-160 seats, the Trinamool with 130-156, and the Left with a mere 0-2. On the other hand, the P-MARQ survey gave the Trinamool 152-172 seats, the BJP 112-132, and the Left 10-20. The NewsX-Polstrat gave the Trinamool 152-162 and the BJP 111-125 seats. The ETG Research poll gave Banerjee`s party 164-176, the BJP 105-115 and the Left 10-15 seats. CVoter gave Trinamool 152-164, the BJP 109-121 and the Left 14-25. The Republic-CNX poll, however, showed a BJP victory, giving it 138-148 seats, with 128-132 for the Trinamool and 11-21 for the Left.

Hat-trick for Mamata in Bengal, indicate all exit polls save two

India's second wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> is now a matter of global concern and the reason is the devastating numbers. More than 360,000 new cases were reported today, marking a new world record for single-day spikes.

For seven days now, India has been recording more than 300,000 cases and these are recorded cases. The actual numbers could be much higher, considering the high backlog of cases that testing centres are dealing with.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wuhan-virus-surge-india-sets-new-world-record-in-daily-active-cases-381241/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-crisis-russia-south-korea-canada-announce-assistance-prince-charles-uk-extend-solidarity-381127" hreflang="en">India's Covid crisis: Russia, South Korea, Canada announce assistance</a>

India has a new record in fatalities too as more than 200,000 total deaths have been reported till now, with an addition of nearly 3,200 deaths which have been logged in the last 24 hours.

This is the first time India has reported over 3,000 deaths in a day. India now ranks fourth in the world in coronavirus fatalities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biontech-founder-confident-its-covid-vaccine-willl-work-against-strain-first-found-in-india-381076">BioNTech 'confident' its Covid jab will work against variant found in India</a>

India is close to the 18 million mark and going by the seven-day average, it looks like India will cross that number tomorrow. The active cases are now closer to three million, and they represent close to 17 per cent of India's caseload.

The country's recoveries are holding steady as more than 14 million people have recovered — more than 82 per cent of all cases.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/people-with-o-blood-group-less-vulnerable-to-covid-19-indian-research-body-381106" hreflang="en">People with 'O' blood group less vulnerable to COVID-19: Indian research body</a>

A major update is that today, India opened up vaccine registration for all adults — every citizen above the age of 18. This is a welcome move that saw a patchy start as citizens who tried to register today faced troubles and could not log in. Those who did manage to get in couldn't get the appointments.

This led to words such as 'OTP', 'Waiting for OTP', and 'No OTP' trending today on India’s social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook.

The website was overloaded but it also raises another issue. As people waited to get registered, the country is worried if there are enough vaccines for every citizen.

India's second wave of coronavirus is now a matter of global concern and the reason is the devastating numbers. More than 360,000 new cases were reported today, marking a new world record for single-day spikes.

India's second wave of coronavirus is now a matter of global concern and the reason is the devastating numbers. More than 360,000 new cases were reported today, marking a new world record for single-day spikes. For seven days now, India has been recording more than 300,000 cases and these are recorded cases. The actual numbers could be much higher, considering the high backlog of cases that testing centres are dealing with. Also read | India's Covid crisis: Russia, South Korea, Canada announce assistance India has a new record in fatalities too as more than 200,000 total deaths have been reported till now, with an addition of nearly 3,200 deaths which have been logged in the last 24 hours. This is the first time India has reported over 3,000 deaths in a day. India now ranks fourth in the world in coronavirus fatalities. Also read | BioNTech 'confident' its Covid jab will work against variant found in India India is close to the 18 million mark and going by the seven-day average, it looks like India will cross that number tomorrow. The active cases are now closer to three million, and they represent close to 17 per cent of India's caseload. The country's recoveries are holding steady as more than 14 million people have recovered — more than 82 per cent of all cases. Also read | People with 'O' blood group less vulnerable to COVID-19: Indian research body A major update is that today, India opened up vaccine registration for all adults — every citizen above the age of 18. This is a welcome move that saw a patchy start as citizens who tried to register today faced troubles and could not log in. Those who did manage to get in couldn't get the appointments. This led to words such as 'OTP', 'Waiting for OTP', and 'No OTP' trending today on India’s social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook. The website was overloaded but it also raises another issue. As people waited to get registered, the country is worried if there are enough vaccines for every citizen.

No OTP! India waits to get vaccinated as Covid cases near 18 million mark

Coronavirus crisis in India calls for introspection. There have been lapses And failures. Though it's true that nobody could have predicted such a big surge, India could have been better prepared.

It's also true that mass religious and political events could have been called off. A blame game in the middle of a crisis may not help. But that doesn't mean we don't hold governments to account.

Indian courts have now stepped in. They're making sure that those leading us do not become complacent. At least 11 high courts have pulled up various state governments and the Centre.

The Supreme Court of India has made it absolutely clear that the judiciary won't be a silent spectator in the current crisis.

Indian courts are making sure that the political class is held to account.

The high courts in Delhi, Allahabad, Patna, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai are hearing petitions about the covid-19 situation in the respective states.

Their interventions and criticism of the govts responsible is both sharp and reassuring.

On April 27th, the Delhi High Court pulled up the Aam Aadmi Party government. saying its confidence was shaken over the handling of the crisis in the national capital.

"Set your house in order. Enough is enough. If you cannot manage it, tell us, then we will ask the central government to send their officers in and do it. We will ask them to take over. We cannot let people die like this,' said the court.

The high court has directed the Delhi government to address the alleged mismanagement in the distribution of medical Oxygen and ensure oxygen supply 'by all means necessary'

On April 19, The Allahabad High Court pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for its approach in dealing with the rising cases.

"Those in power must shun the attitude of my way or no way. They should welcome suggestions from all quarters. We would be laughed at that we have enough money to spend on elections and very little to spend on public health,' the court said.

The court also ordered a lockdown in five major cities in the state but the order was stayed by a Supreme Court directive after the UP govt protested.

In West Bengal, which held a month-long election in the middle of the second wave, and will count votes on may 2nd, the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court has pulled up the Election Commission.

"The ECI is empowered to act, but what is it doing? Just passing circulars and leaving it to the people? Issuance of circulars and holding of meetings by themselves do not discharge the onerous responsibility of the ECI," said the court.

On April 16, the Gujarat High Court also took the state government for downplaying the severity of the crisis.

"Hiding the real picture, suppressing accurate data would generate more serious problems including fear, loss of trust and panic among the public,' said the court.

The court has directed the state govt to ensure its affidavits reflect the ground realities.

In Maharashtra, the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has pulled up both the state and the centre for failing to comply with its order to supply 10,000 units of Remdesivir in the Vidarbha region.

"If you don't feel ashamed of yourself, we are feeling ashamed of being part of such a nasty society. You are neglecting and ignoring patients. We give you a solution, you do not follow it. You do not give us a solution. What absolute nonsense is going on here,' the court said.

'Absolute nonsense', were the exact words of Justices SB Shukre and SM Modak.

High courts in other states have also been unsparing in their remarks. High courts in Patna, Karnataka, Telangana and Chennai have all pulled up respective governments for their handling of the current crisis.

As for the Supreme Court of India, it first directed the Centre to submit a national Covid plan. Now it has pulled up the govt over disparity in vaccine prices, demanding that the rationale behind different prices for Centre &amp; states be explained. The apex court has also said it won't stop high courts from hearing petitions in their respective states adding that the judiciary wants to play a complementary role. And it can't be a silent spectator to what it called a 'national calamity'.

Coronavirus crisis in India calls for introspection. There have been lapses And failures. Though it's true that nobody could have predicted such a big surge, India could have been better prepared.

Coronavirus crisis in India calls for introspection. There have been lapses And failures. Though it's true that nobody could have predicted such a big surge, India could have been better prepared. It's also true that mass religious and political events could have been called off. A blame game in the middle of a crisis may not help. But that doesn't mean we don't hold governments to account. Indian courts have now stepped in. They're making sure that those leading us do not become complacent. At least 11 high courts have pulled up various state governments and the Centre. The Supreme Court of India has made it absolutely clear that the judiciary won't be a silent spectator in the current crisis. Indian courts are making sure that the political class is held to account. The high courts in Delhi, Allahabad, Patna, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai are hearing petitions about the covid-19 situation in the respective states. Their interventions and criticism of the govts responsible is both sharp and reassuring. On April 27th, the Delhi High Court pulled up the Aam Aadmi Party government. saying its confidence was shaken over the handling of the crisis in the national capital. "Set your house in order. Enough is enough. If you cannot manage it, tell us, then we will ask the central government to send their officers in and do it. We will ask them to take over. We cannot let people die like this,' said the court. The high court has directed the Delhi government to address the alleged mismanagement in the distribution of medical Oxygen and ensure oxygen supply 'by all means necessary' On April 19, The Allahabad High Court pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government for its approach in dealing with the rising cases. "Those in power must shun the attitude of my way or no way. They should welcome suggestions from all quarters. We would be laughed at that we have enough money to spend on elections and very little to spend on public health,' the court said. The court also ordered a lockdown in five major cities in the state but the order was stayed by a Supreme Court directive after the UP govt protested. In West Bengal, which held a month-long election in the middle of the second wave, and will count votes on may 2nd, the Chief Justice of the Calcutta High Court has pulled up the Election Commission. "The ECI is empowered to act, but what is it doing? Just passing circulars and leaving it to the people? Issuance of circulars and holding of meetings by themselves do not discharge the onerous responsibility of the ECI," said the court. On April 16, the Gujarat High Court also took the state government for downplaying the severity of the crisis. "Hiding the real picture, suppressing accurate data would generate more serious problems including fear, loss of trust and panic among the public,' said the court. The court has directed the state govt to ensure its affidavits reflect the ground realities. In Maharashtra, the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court has pulled up both the state and the centre for failing to comply with its order to supply 10,000 units of Remdesivir in the Vidarbha region. "If you don't feel ashamed of yourself, we are feeling ashamed of being part of such a nasty society. You are neglecting and ignoring patients. We give you a solution, you do not follow it. You do not give us a solution. What absolute nonsense is going on here,' the court said. 'Absolute nonsense', were the exact words of Justices SB Shukre and SM Modak. High courts in other states have also been unsparing in their remarks. High courts in Patna, Karnataka, Telangana and Chennai have all pulled up respective governments for their handling of the current crisis. As for the Supreme Court of India, it first directed the Centre to submit a national Covid plan. Now it has pulled up the govt over disparity in vaccine prices, demanding that the rationale behind different prices for Centre & states be explained. The apex court has also said it won't stop high courts from hearing petitions in their respective states adding that the judiciary wants to play a complementary role. And it can't be a silent spectator to what it called a 'national calamity'.

Indian courts pull up governments over Covid crisis

Amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic, India is dealing with shortages on all fronts, be it oxygen, medicines, vaccines, or even doctors and nurses. The capacity is limited and the demand is overwhelming. As a result, there is chaos and what is being called a system collapse.

So far, India has two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines</a> available for use — Covishield, which is the Oxford vaccine, and Covaxin, which is made in India. Put together, India gets about 70 to 85 million doses per month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-otp-india-waits-to-get-vaccinated-as-covid-cases-near-18-million-mark-381217" hreflang="en">No OTP! India waits to get vaccinated as Covid cases near 18 million mark</a>

Earlier, 15 per cent of the total supplies were being exported but&nbsp;for the moment, India has stopped exports. So we have 70 to 85 million per month and now about 170 million doses per month if India has to cover 80 per cent of the population by the end of this year.

If India aims at universal coverage, i.e. vaccinating the entire adult population, we need about 220 million doses per month. One also has to remember that even though these are estimates, the numbers fall short.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-crisis-russia-south-korea-canada-announce-assistance-prince-charles-uk-extend-solidarity-381127" hreflang="en">India's Covid crisis: Russia, South Korea, Canada announce assistance</a>

The supply is limited because the producers are limited. At the moment, more than 10 million doses are reportedly available with states and union territories. In the next three days, another eight million doses will be supplied.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-india-run-out-of-doctors-to-treat-the-wuhan-virus-381229/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This is what we have to start vaccinating people between 18 and 45 —almost 600 million people. So, if you get an appointment, do not miss your turn and take what you are getting, be it Covishield or Covaxin.

The other big shortage, and a very important one, is oxygen. It is essential for the treatment of coronavirus. Patients with severe symptoms run out of breath because the virus spreads to the lungs. So, patients need supplemental oxygen as that is what keeps them alive, as doctors treat the infection.

In case one cannot find supplemental oxygen, patients keep gasping for breath, which worsens the infection and can lead to death.

Indian hospitals do not have enough oxygen and the crisis exploded last week as hospitals gave countdowns about how oxygen was about to run out in two hours, four hours, or even 40 minutes. Medical experts turned to social media with appeals and went to court asking for supplies.

Is India out of oxygen?

Surprisingly, the answer to this is ‘no’.

India is a significant producer of oxygen as it produces more than 7,000 metric tonnes of oxygen per day. However, in recent weeks the demand has shot up tremendously.

According to one estimate, India's coronavirus patients need more than 13 million cubic metres of oxygen. This is among the highest in the world.

The requirement for medical oxygen has increased by 76 per cent — from almost 4,000 metric tonnes per day to approximately 7,000 metric tonnes per day.

So, on paper, India can technically meet this demand and can even have a few metric tonnes to spare. However, in reality, this oxygen is not reaching patients and hospitals because India doesn't have enough tankers to supply it.

Therefore, several countries are stepping in to help and are sending oxygen tankers to India. This week, 14 tankers arrived from three countries.

India already possesses more than 1,200 oxygen tankers. According to reports, they have a capacity of more than 16,000 metric tonnes of liquid oxygen but it takes upto a week of turnaround time. It takes one week for officials to pick up oxygen from one source and deliver it to another.

The biggest bottleneck are cryogenic containers which are used to transport oxygen in liquid form.

India might face another challenge

India is reporting over 300,000 daily cases and if this trajectory continues, we might not have enough doctors to treat the patients.

Recently, some scientists from India's IITs came up with a model. They believe the second wave will peak by May but India will still be dealing with millions of cases. Their estimate says India could have 3.3 to 3.5 million active cases between May 11 and 15.

While the country can arrange more beds and oxygen tankers till then, India suffers a serious crunch for skilled medical personnel.

Before the pandemic, we had one doctor for more than 1,400 patients in India. There is a 76 per cent shortage of medical specialists in government hospitals. The second wave has pushed India's doctors to their limits.

The frontline workers&nbsp;are working through the week and overtime to save lives. Student doctors and nurses could be roped in to help the struggling medical experts.

According to one claim, more than 200,000 nursing students and 25,000 student doctors are waiting in the wings as they have completed their training and are waiting to appear for their final exams.

India could tap into this talent pool. The authorities can postpone the exams for now, and let them work with existing healthcare workers.

However, all of these are proposals based on trajectories and projections which may or may not come true. Experience, though, has taught us&nbsp;that we must hope for the best, and prepare for the worst.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, India is dealing with shortages on all fronts, be it oxygen, medicines, vaccines, or even doctors and nurses. The capacity is limited and the demand is overwhelming.

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, India is dealing with shortages on all fronts, be it oxygen, medicines, vaccines, or even doctors and nurses. The capacity is limited and the demand is overwhelming. As a result, there is chaos and what is being called a system collapse. So far, India has two vaccines available for use — Covishield, which is the Oxford vaccine, and Covaxin, which is made in India. Put together, India gets about 70 to 85 million doses per month. Also read | No OTP! India waits to get vaccinated as Covid cases near 18 million mark Earlier, 15 per cent of the total supplies were being exported but for the moment, India has stopped exports. So we have 70 to 85 million per month and now about 170 million doses per month if India has to cover 80 per cent of the population by the end of this year. If India aims at universal coverage, i.e. vaccinating the entire adult population, we need about 220 million doses per month. One also has to remember that even though these are estimates, the numbers fall short. Also read | India's Covid crisis: Russia, South Korea, Canada announce assistance The supply is limited because the producers are limited. At the moment, more than 10 million doses are reportedly available with states and union territories. In the next three days, another eight million doses will be supplied. Watch | This is what we have to start vaccinating people between 18 and 45 —almost 600 million people. So, if you get an appointment, do not miss your turn and take what you are getting, be it Covishield or Covaxin. The other big shortage, and a very important one, is oxygen. It is essential for the treatment of coronavirus. Patients with severe symptoms run out of breath because the virus spreads to the lungs. So, patients need supplemental oxygen as that is what keeps them alive, as doctors treat the infection. In case one cannot find supplemental oxygen, patients keep gasping for breath, which worsens the infection and can lead to death. Indian hospitals do not have enough oxygen and the crisis exploded last week as hospitals gave countdowns about how oxygen was about to run out in two hours, four hours, or even 40 minutes. Medical experts turned to social media with appeals and went to court asking for supplies. Is India out of oxygen? Surprisingly, the answer to this is ‘no’. India is a significant producer of oxygen as it produces more than 7,000 metric tonnes of oxygen per day. However, in recent weeks the demand has shot up tremendously. According to one estimate, India's coronavirus patients need more than 13 million cubic metres of oxygen. This is among the highest in the world. The requirement for medical oxygen has increased by 76 per cent — from almost 4,000 metric tonnes per day to approximately 7,000 metric tonnes per day. So, on paper, India can technically meet this demand and can even have a few metric tonnes to spare. However, in reality, this oxygen is not reaching patients and hospitals because India doesn't have enough tankers to supply it. Therefore, several countries are stepping in to help and are sending oxygen tankers to India. This week, 14 tankers arrived from three countries. India already possesses more than 1,200 oxygen tankers. According to reports, they have a capacity of more than 16,000 metric tonnes of liquid oxygen but it takes upto a week of turnaround time. It takes one week for officials to pick up oxygen from one source and deliver it to another. The biggest bottleneck are cryogenic containers which are used to transport oxygen in liquid form. India might face another challenge India is reporting over 300,000 daily cases and if this trajectory continues, we might not have enough doctors to treat the patients. Recently, some scientists from India's IITs came up with a model. They believe the second wave will peak by May but India will still be dealing with millions of cases. Their estimate says India could have 3.3 to 3.5 million active cases between May 11 and 15. While the country can arrange more beds and oxygen tankers till then, India suffers a serious crunch for skilled medical personnel. Before the pandemic, we had one doctor for more than 1,400 patients in India. There is a 76 per cent shortage of medical specialists in government hospitals. The second wave has pushed India's doctors to their limits. The frontline workers are working through the week and overtime to save lives. Student doctors and nurses could be roped in to help the struggling medical experts. According to one claim, more than 200,000 nursing students and 25,000 student doctors are waiting in the wings as they have completed their training and are waiting to appear for their final exams. India could tap into this talent pool. The authorities can postpone the exams for now, and let them work with existing healthcare workers. However, all of these are proposals based on trajectories and projections which may or may not come true. Experience, though, has taught us that we must hope for the best, and prepare for the worst.

While India fights oxygen shortage, another challenge lurks in the shadows

Every country is territorial about its sphere, with Russia considering eastern Europe as its backyard and the US thinking the same of Central America.

In this report, we will look at India's sphere of influence and how far does it extend.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-remote-island-base-in-the-indian-ocean-381233/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

We will also see what are India's plans to consolidate its presence?

Let's begin with the vast Indian Ocean to the south.

Indians have sailed these waters for hundreds of years, but of late, it has become a strategic playground because of China.

Beijing wants to box India in with the 'String of Pearls' initiative, which comprises strategic ports that China controls.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-aggression-continues-as-liaoning-sails-between-japanese-islands-381177">China's aggression continues as Liaoning sails between Japanese islands</a>

India has responded in kind, as it is developing a military base in the south-western Indian Ocean.

There is North Agalega, an island controlled by Mauritius, India's long-standing ally.

This is where India is building its base.

It might seem like the middle of nowhere, but look around and it will make perfect sense.

To the south is the Reunion island, controlled by the French, another close ally, and to the north is Djibouti, China's foothold in Africa where they have a military base.&nbsp;

So the Indian base serves two objectives.&nbsp;

The first is to coordinate with allies and in fact, this is already happening as India recently conducted joint patrols with French vessels from the Reunion.

The second objective is surveillance, as from Agalega, India can keep an eye on Southern African trade routes, where most of China's energy trade is concentrated.&nbsp;

But we are not quite at that stage because North Agalega is still a remote outpost.&nbsp;

It is 12 km long and 1.5 km wide, which means it is small even by island standards.

Fewer than 300 people live there and until a few years back it was like a ghost island.

However, today it is buzzing with construction activity.

In October 2014, the island was wilderness surrounded by sea, but in 2015, India sought access to it.

New Delhi wanted to develop it as a staging point for its air force and navy.

Six years later, there is a new 3,000-metre-long runway, capable of hosting India's new Boeing patrol aircraft.

To the island's north, a new seaport is being constructed.

There are barracks, parade fields and accommodation for Indian workers.

It's a full-fledged Indian military base, but both India and Mauritius have been tight-lipped about it.

But, chances are, Agalega will serve as a surveillance hub for India, a crucial foothold in the south-western Indian Ocean.

In fact, Australia too is shifting focus to its military bases and again because of China.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced a major spending spree, close to 580 million dollars, to upgrade four military bases to the country's north.

All kinds of upgrades are being planned, including a larger airstrip in the northern territory, new firing ranges, training facilities and housing for US Marines during joint war games.

The messaging from Canberra has changed in the last few months.

First, they tried to strike a balance between criticising China and trading with it, a move that failed miserably.

Now, top Australian officials are asking liberal democracies to brace for war.

Morrison appears more invested in the campaign against China.

"Our objective here in this part of the world is a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our objective here is to ensure a peaceful region but one that, at the same time, Australia is in a position to always protect its interests, always advance our national interests, always support a global world order that favours freedom and that is something that we share very deeply with our American friends and allies," Morrison said.

So the walls are closing in around China, not just militarily, but countries are mounting an economic challenge too.

This is where supply chains come in.

China controls global supply chains and it is dangerous for the world.

Beijing can choke any country it wants to and the downside of Chinese control was seen last year.&nbsp;

There was no transparency and a lot of delays.

So three countries have come together to sidestep China: India, Australia and Japan, members of the Quad alliance.

They have launched a new supply chain project called the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI).&nbsp;

Under this, businesses from these three countries will join hands and meet at investment forums facilitated by their governments.

The idea is to create a stable and seamless supply chain, one that can survive disruptions.

They've issued a joint statement, saying that the current supply chains are vulnerable, in a clear reference to China.

But the joint statement did not mention Beijing. Nonetheless, China is livid.

It has called this initiative an artificial supply chain, a deviation from the free-market economy.

The irony is that an opaque Communist country is preaching the world on free-market theory.

Regardless of what China thinks, the initiative is going ahead.&nbsp;

As a first step, all three countries will share best practices on robust supply networks.

Their trade ministers will meet annually to review progress.

So three Quad nations are showing the way beyond China.

The US is missing from this initiative, but it does call for a possible expansion if there is consensus.

Talks will not dissuade the Chinese military, but overseas bases and war games will.

The same is true for China's supply chain system as you can talk all you want at the World Trade Organization (WTO), but Beijing always reverts to type.

So the solution is this: build your own supply chain, delete Beijing from the equation.

There should be military deterrence and economic isolation, something that should make China pay.

Every country is territorial about its sphere, with Russia considering eastern Europe as its backyard and the US thinking the same of Central America. In this report, we will look at India's sphere of influence and how far does it extend.

Every country is territorial about its sphere, with Russia considering eastern Europe as its backyard and the US thinking the same of Central America. In this report, we will look at India's sphere of influence and how far does it extend. Watch | We will also see what are India's plans to consolidate its presence? Let's begin with the vast Indian Ocean to the south. Indians have sailed these waters for hundreds of years, but of late, it has become a strategic playground because of China. Beijing wants to box India in with the 'String of Pearls' initiative, which comprises strategic ports that China controls. Also read | China's aggression continues as Liaoning sails between Japanese islands India has responded in kind, as it is developing a military base in the south-western Indian Ocean. There is North Agalega, an island controlled by Mauritius, India's long-standing ally. This is where India is building its base. It might seem like the middle of nowhere, but look around and it will make perfect sense. To the south is the Reunion island, controlled by the French, another close ally, and to the north is Djibouti, China's foothold in Africa where they have a military base. So the Indian base serves two objectives. The first is to coordinate with allies and in fact, this is already happening as India recently conducted joint patrols with French vessels from the Reunion. The second objective is surveillance, as from Agalega, India can keep an eye on Southern African trade routes, where most of China's energy trade is concentrated. But we are not quite at that stage because North Agalega is still a remote outpost. It is 12 km long and 1.5 km wide, which means it is small even by island standards. Fewer than 300 people live there and until a few years back it was like a ghost island. However, today it is buzzing with construction activity. In October 2014, the island was wilderness surrounded by sea, but in 2015, India sought access to it. New Delhi wanted to develop it as a staging point for its air force and navy. Six years later, there is a new 3,000-metre-long runway, capable of hosting India's new Boeing patrol aircraft. To the island's north, a new seaport is being constructed. There are barracks, parade fields and accommodation for Indian workers. It's a full-fledged Indian military base, but both India and Mauritius have been tight-lipped about it. But, chances are, Agalega will serve as a surveillance hub for India, a crucial foothold in the south-western Indian Ocean. In fact, Australia too is shifting focus to its military bases and again because of China. Prime Minister Scott Morrison has announced a major spending spree, close to 580 million dollars, to upgrade four military bases to the country's north. All kinds of upgrades are being planned, including a larger airstrip in the northern territory, new firing ranges, training facilities and housing for US Marines during joint war games. The messaging from Canberra has changed in the last few months. First, they tried to strike a balance between criticising China and trading with it, a move that failed miserably. Now, top Australian officials are asking liberal democracies to brace for war. Morrison appears more invested in the campaign against China. "Our objective here in this part of the world is a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our objective here is to ensure a peaceful region but one that, at the same time, Australia is in a position to always protect its interests, always advance our national interests, always support a global world order that favours freedom and that is something that we share very deeply with our American friends and allies," Morrison said. So the walls are closing in around China, not just militarily, but countries are mounting an economic challenge too. This is where supply chains come in. China controls global supply chains and it is dangerous for the world. Beijing can choke any country it wants to and the downside of Chinese control was seen last year. There was no transparency and a lot of delays. So three countries have come together to sidestep China: India, Australia and Japan, members of the Quad alliance. They have launched a new supply chain project called the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI). Under this, businesses from these three countries will join hands and meet at investment forums facilitated by their governments. The idea is to create a stable and seamless supply chain, one that can survive disruptions. They've issued a joint statement, saying that the current supply chains are vulnerable, in a clear reference to China. But the joint statement did not mention Beijing. Nonetheless, China is livid. It has called this initiative an artificial supply chain, a deviation from the free-market economy. The irony is that an opaque Communist country is preaching the world on free-market theory. Regardless of what China thinks, the initiative is going ahead. As a first step, all three countries will share best practices on robust supply networks. Their trade ministers will meet annually to review progress. So three Quad nations are showing the way beyond China. The US is missing from this initiative, but it does call for a possible expansion if there is consensus. Talks will not dissuade the Chinese military, but overseas bases and war games will. The same is true for China's supply chain system as you can talk all you want at the World Trade Organization (WTO), but Beijing always reverts to type. So the solution is this: build your own supply chain, delete Beijing from the equation. There should be military deterrence and economic isolation, something that should make China pay.

What is India's sphere of influence to checkmate China?

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