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Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday announced a "close down" in the south Indian state for 14 days from Tuesday night to control COVID-19 surge.

Shops selling essential items and groceries will be allowed to remain open between 6 am and 10 am.

Only construction, manufacturing and agriculture sectors will be allowed to function. Public transport will remain shut, Yediyurappa said.

Karnataka is the latest region to enter a lockdown after similar curbs in many parts of India, which is battling a massive second wave of infections that have pressured its health system.

Bengaluru, a city of 12 million, reported more than 20,000 new infections on Sunday, its highest single-day tally so far and second only to the capital, Delhi.

(With inputs from agencies)

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday announced a "close down" in the south Indian state for 14 days from Tuesday night to control COVID-19 surge. Shops selling essential items and groceries will be allowed to remain open between 6 am and 10 am.

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday announced a "close down" in the south Indian state for 14 days from Tuesday night to control COVID-19 surge. Shops selling essential items and groceries will be allowed to remain open between 6 am and 10 am. Only construction, manufacturing and agriculture sectors will be allowed to function. Public transport will remain shut, Yediyurappa said. Karnataka is the latest region to enter a lockdown after similar curbs in many parts of India, which is battling a massive second wave of infections that have pressured its health system. Bengaluru, a city of 12 million, reported more than 20,000 new infections on Sunday, its highest single-day tally so far and second only to the capital, Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night

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A whole host of countries have come in India's support as it battles the Covid crisis. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country. Indian missions globally are doing the heavy lifting while many private Indian players are also pitching in. India's allies like the the US, UAE, UK, France and others have come in full support of New Delhi.

Here is the list of all the countries that are extending assistance to India. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Singapore 
Four Oxygen containers brought by Indian Air Force on Saturday. 7,511 O2 concentrators, 516 BiPAP machines to be sent by the country, of which 500 BiPAPs, 250 oxygen concentrators have already been brought. Singapore's embassy in a tweet said, "we will fight this together".

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Dear friends in India—we will fight this together! We are working closely with <a href="https://twitter.com/Temasek?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Temasek</a> and other partners to send 7,511 O2 concentrator, 516 BiPAP machines, &amp; other supplies ASAP. 🇸🇬🤝🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaFightsCorona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaFightsCorona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SingaporeWithIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SingaporeWithIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/9ymUBJp0A2">https://t.co/9ymUBJp0A2</a>
— Singapore in India (@SGinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGinIndia/status/1386558201886244867?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

United Arab Emirates&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 
Indian Air Force flew in seven empty cryogenic oxygen containers from the West Asian country. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan spoke to Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday, expressing his solidarity with India. Jaishankar tweeted, "As always, deeply value good wishes and international cooperation."

Well-known buildings in UAE like the Burj Khalifa, ADNOC &nbsp;were lit up in colours of the Indian flag with the message #staystrongIndia.&nbsp;

Britain 
UK announced it will send 600 pieces, which include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices, to India. The first batch will reach on Tuesday morning. Nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, which can extract oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators will reach India this week. UK prime minister, foreign and health secretaries, and ambassador made public comments in solidarity with the people of India. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said,“We stand side by side with India as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against Covid-19."

United States

The US has agreed to provide the specific raw materials for Indian Covishield vaccine manufacturers. The development comes after the Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and American National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke to each other.

US will be supplying therapeutics, rapid diagnostic test kits, ventilators, PPE kits, oxygen generators, and deploy an expert team of health advisors from CDC and USAID.

Already, more than 300 O2 concentrators have been brought by Air India from New York. Tweets by the US president, vice president, defence secretary, &nbsp;surgeon general, deputy secretary of the state showed support for India.

President Joe Biden tweeted, "Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need."

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Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need. <a href="https://t.co/SzWRj0eP3y">https://t.co/SzWRj0eP3y</a>
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1386401947729633280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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France 
The French presidency has said that the country will provide India "significant" oxygen support and is working on the delivery of high-performance oxygen generator units as well as some other equipment.&nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron was the first world leader to send a message of public solidarity. He said, "I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support."

European Union

European Union, over the weekend, activated its "civil protection mechanism" to help India. Janez Lenarčič, European Commissioner for Crisis Management, in a tweet said, "EU will do its utmost to mobilize assistance to support people of India". 
&nbsp;

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Upon request for assistance by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>, we have activated the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EU</a> Civil Protection Mechanism. 
 
The 🇪🇺 will do its utmost to mobilise assistance to support people of 🇮🇳. 
 
Our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ERCC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ERCC</a> is already coordinating EU MS that are ready to provide urgently needed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/oxygen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#oxygen</a> &amp; medicine rapidly.
— Janez Lenarčič (@JanezLenarcic) <a href="https://twitter.com/JanezLenarcic/status/1386270858688270336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen seconded him saying, "EU is pooling resources".&nbsp;The matter came up during a discussion between Margrethe Vestager Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and Jaishankar.

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Alarmed by the epidemiological situation in India. We are ready to support. 
 
The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. 
 
We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people! <a href="https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3">https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3</a>
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) <a href="https://twitter.com/vonderleyen/status/1386292464277852162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Denmark 
The Nordic country is extending support to India. Denmark's envoy to Delhi Freddy Svane told&nbsp;WION,"We are working closely with MEA [Ministry of External Affairs] to assist India with whatever is required. That’s what friends are about".

Germany&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday announced that Germany&nbsp;is preparing urgent support for India. German armed forces will give India oxygen generators. Smaller units from the German private sector will also be sent. Cooperation between German top medical institute Robert Koch Institute (RKI) with Indian institutions to support&nbsp; sequencing of viral loads is on the anvil. Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported.

Saudi Arabia 
80 metric tonnes of oxygen have been procured from the country in cooperation with Adani and Linde and the Indian high commission.

China 
The country has offered to provide assistance. A Chinese embassy spokesperson in Delhi told WION that "talks and discussions are ongoing" with the Indian side.

Hong Kong 
800 oxygen concentrators were airlifted for SpiceHealth, a healthcare company founded by the promoters of SpiceJet.

Pakistan 
Has offered to provide relief support to India including ventilators, Bi PAP, digital X-ray machines, PPEs and related items. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Foreign Minister SM Qureshi extended support to India.&nbsp;The country's well-known NGO Edhi Foundation has written to PM Modi and has offered to send ambulances. Spontaneous support by Pakistani society, especially on social media, was seen with a lot of positive trends.

Iran 
Iran Health Minister Dr Saeed Namaki wrote to the Indian Health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, saying, "The government and people of Iran are ready to spare no technical assistance, expertise and equipment in these difficult days and at the height of the plight of the dear citizens of India with the COVID-19 epidemic."

Japan 
Under its grant assistance, oxygen generators will be provided with a procurement process still underway. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga for providing assistance to India for combating the pandemic during a call on Monday.

Russia 
Support has been offered by Russia. It is cosidering sending the drug Remdesivir to India for Covid patients.Australia 
Australian cabinet is likely to announce support for India.&nbsp;Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in a tweet said, "Australia stands with our friends in India as it manages a difficult second COVID-19 wave. We know how strong and resilient the Indian nation is @narendramodi and I will keep working in partnership on this global challenge."

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Australia stands with our friends in India as it manages a difficult second COVID-19 wave. We know how strong and resilient the Indian nation is. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and I will keep working in partnership on this global challenge.
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1385738966595297280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Canada 
The country has offered to send assistance.&nbsp;Marc Garneau, Canada's foreign minister, tweeted, "Our thoughts are with the people of India as they face a devastating new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada stands ready to assist and has reached out to Indian authorities to determine how Canada can best support India in its time of need."&nbsp;

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Our thoughts are with the people of India as they face a devastating new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada stands ready to assist and has reached out to Indian authorities to determine how Canada can best support India in its time of need.
— Marc Garneau (@MarcGarneau) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarcGarneau/status/1386490684950126593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Afghanistan 
Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar and envoy to India Farid Mamundzay all tweeted and showed solidarity for India. The Afghan president tweeted, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people &amp; government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of COVID. On behalf of the Afghan people &amp; government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones &amp; wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus."

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Our hearts go out to the Indian people &amp; government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of COVID. On behalf of the Afghan people &amp; government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones &amp; wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1386292558024691715?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Bhutan 
Bhutan's Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji tweeted, "Our deepest prayers and complete solidarity to the government and people of India in this most difficult period of the pandemic. Praying and hoping for quick relief and recovery."

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Our deepest prayers and complete solidarity to the government and people of India in this most difficult period of the pandemic. Praying and hoping for quick relief and recovery. <a href="https://twitter.com/GovtOfIndia_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GovtOfIndia_</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RuchiraKamboj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RuchiraKamboj</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/govind?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@govind</a>
— ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FMBhutan/status/1385817210208153602?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

 
There was show of support from several other countries such as&nbsp;Mexico and Slovenia.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;
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&nbsp;

A whole host of countries have come in India's support as it battles the Covid crisis. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country.

A whole host of countries have come in India's support as it battles the Covid crisis. More than 300,000 cases have been reported on a daily basis in the country. Indian missions globally are doing the heavy lifting while many private Indian players are also pitching in. India's allies like the the US, UAE, UK, France and others have come in full support of New Delhi. Here is the list of all the countries that are extending assistance to India. Singapore Four Oxygen containers brought by Indian Air Force on Saturday. 7,511 O2 concentrators, 516 BiPAP machines to be sent by the country, of which 500 BiPAPs, 250 oxygen concentrators have already been brought. Singapore's embassy in a tweet said, "we will fight this together". Dear friends in India—we will fight this together! We are working closely with @Temasek and other partners to send 7,511 O2 concentrator, 516 BiPAP machines, & other supplies ASAP. 🇸🇬🤝🇮🇳 #IndiaFightsCorona #SingaporeWithIndia https://t.co/9ymUBJp0A2 — Singapore in India (@SGinIndia) April 26, 2021 × United Arab Emirates Indian Air Force flew in seven empty cryogenic oxygen containers from the West Asian country. UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan spoke to Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Saturday, expressing his solidarity with India. Jaishankar tweeted, "As always, deeply value good wishes and international cooperation." Well-known buildings in UAE like the Burj Khalifa, ADNOC were lit up in colours of the Indian flag with the message #staystrongIndia. Britain UK announced it will send 600 pieces, which include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices, to India. The first batch will reach on Tuesday morning. Nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, which can extract oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators will reach India this week. UK prime minister, foreign and health secretaries, and ambassador made public comments in solidarity with the people of India. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said,“We stand side by side with India as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against Covid-19." United States The US has agreed to provide the specific raw materials for Indian Covishield vaccine manufacturers. The development comes after the Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and American National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke to each other. US will be supplying therapeutics, rapid diagnostic test kits, ventilators, PPE kits, oxygen generators, and deploy an expert team of health advisors from CDC and USAID. Already, more than 300 O2 concentrators have been brought by Air India from New York. Tweets by the US president, vice president, defence secretary, surgeon general, deputy secretary of the state showed support for India. President Joe Biden tweeted, "Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need." Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need. https://t.co/SzWRj0eP3y — President Biden (@POTUS) April 25, 2021 × France The French presidency has said that the country will provide India "significant" oxygen support and is working on the delivery of high-performance oxygen generator units as well as some other equipment. President Emmanuel Macron was the first world leader to send a message of public solidarity. He said, "I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support." European Union European Union, over the weekend, activated its "civil protection mechanism" to help India. Janez Lenarčič, European Commissioner for Crisis Management, in a tweet said, "EU will do its utmost to mobilize assistance to support people of India". Upon request for assistance by #India, we have activated the #EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The 🇪🇺 will do its utmost to mobilise assistance to support people of 🇮🇳. Our #ERCC is already coordinating EU MS that are ready to provide urgently needed #oxygen & medicine rapidly. — Janez Lenarčič (@JanezLenarcic) April 25, 2021 × President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen seconded him saying, "EU is pooling resources". The matter came up during a discussion between Margrethe Vestager Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and Jaishankar. Alarmed by the epidemiological situation in India. We are ready to support. The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people! https://t.co/Pv8ezFPdS3 — Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) April 25, 2021 × Denmark The Nordic country is extending support to India. Denmark's envoy to Delhi Freddy Svane told WION,"We are working closely with MEA [Ministry of External Affairs] to assist India with whatever is required. That’s what friends are about". Germany Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday announced that Germany is preparing urgent support for India. German armed forces will give India oxygen generators. Smaller units from the German private sector will also be sent. Cooperation between German top medical institute Robert Koch Institute (RKI) with Indian institutions to support sequencing of viral loads is on the anvil. Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported. Saudi Arabia 80 metric tonnes of oxygen have been procured from the country in cooperation with Adani and Linde and the Indian high commission. China The country has offered to provide assistance. A Chinese embassy spokesperson in Delhi told WION that "talks and discussions are ongoing" with the Indian side. Hong Kong 800 oxygen concentrators were airlifted for SpiceHealth, a healthcare company founded by the promoters of SpiceJet. Pakistan Has offered to provide relief support to India including ventilators, Bi PAP, digital X-ray machines, PPEs and related items. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Foreign Minister SM Qureshi extended support to India. The country's well-known NGO Edhi Foundation has written to PM Modi and has offered to send ambulances. Spontaneous support by Pakistani society, especially on social media, was seen with a lot of positive trends. Iran Iran Health Minister Dr Saeed Namaki wrote to the Indian Health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, saying, "The government and people of Iran are ready to spare no technical assistance, expertise and equipment in these difficult days and at the height of the plight of the dear citizens of India with the COVID-19 epidemic." Japan Under its grant assistance, oxygen generators will be provided with a procurement process still underway. Prime Minister Modi thanked Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga for providing assistance to India for combating the pandemic during a call on Monday. Russia Support has been offered by Russia. It is cosidering sending the drug Remdesivir to India for Covid patients.Australia Australian cabinet is likely to announce support for India. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in a tweet said, "Australia stands with our friends in India as it manages a difficult second COVID-19 wave. We know how strong and resilient the Indian nation is @narendramodi and I will keep working in partnership on this global challenge." Australia stands with our friends in India as it manages a difficult second COVID-19 wave. We know how strong and resilient the Indian nation is. @narendramodi and I will keep working in partnership on this global challenge. — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) April 23, 2021 × Canada The country has offered to send assistance. Marc Garneau, Canada's foreign minister, tweeted, "Our thoughts are with the people of India as they face a devastating new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada stands ready to assist and has reached out to Indian authorities to determine how Canada can best support India in its time of need." Our thoughts are with the people of India as they face a devastating new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada stands ready to assist and has reached out to Indian authorities to determine how Canada can best support India in its time of need. — Marc Garneau (@MarcGarneau) April 26, 2021 × Afghanistan Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar and envoy to India Farid Mamundzay all tweeted and showed solidarity for India. The Afghan president tweeted, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people & government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of COVID. On behalf of the Afghan people & government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones & wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus." Our hearts go out to the Indian people & government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of COVID. On behalf of the Afghan people & government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones & wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) April 25, 2021 × Bhutan Bhutan's Foreign Minister Tandi Dorji tweeted, "Our deepest prayers and complete solidarity to the government and people of India in this most difficult period of the pandemic. Praying and hoping for quick relief and recovery." Our deepest prayers and complete solidarity to the government and people of India in this most difficult period of the pandemic. Praying and hoping for quick relief and recovery. @GovtOfIndia_ @DrSJaishankar @RuchiraKamboj @govind — ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) April 24, 2021 × There was show of support from several other countries such as Mexico and Slovenia.

International community extends support to India amid Covid crisis

The Tamil Nadu government, with the consensus of all major political parties, has said that the Vedanta’s Sterlite plant in Tuticorin can service and operate their Oxygen plant for 4 months, using electricity provided by the state government. It has also added that based on the Covid-19 situation and the requirement of oxygen, this period may be extended.&nbsp;

This decision to permit the plant’s operation comes with several conditions - no other unit within the plant will be allowed to operate, electricity will be suspended after the stipulated period and copper or other products cannot be manufactured during these four months. Also, Sterlite will not be permitted to use its power generation unit.&nbsp;

In terms of security arrangements and confidence-building among the local population, the government has said that a team under the leadership of the district collector and police officials, along with government experts in oxygen manufacturing, local people, anti-Sterlite protestors, NGOs, and environmental experts will be deciding and monitoring oxygen production at the plant.&nbsp;

Addressing fellow political leaders at the all-party meeting, Chief Minister Palaniswami said that Vedanta had approached the Supreme Court, seeking permission to maintain its valuable assets in the Smelter plant and produce 1,050 tonne of oxygen, which can be supplied free to the nearby hospitals and other states.&nbsp;

The Tamil Nadu government, with the consensus of all major political parties, has said that the Vedanta’s Sterlite plant in Tuticorin can service and operate their Oxygen plant for 4 months, using electricity provided by the state government.

The Tamil Nadu government, with the consensus of all major political parties, has said that the Vedanta’s Sterlite plant in Tuticorin can service and operate their Oxygen plant for 4 months, using electricity provided by the state government. It has also added that based on the Covid-19 situation and the requirement of oxygen, this period may be extended. This decision to permit the plant’s operation comes with several conditions - no other unit within the plant will be allowed to operate, electricity will be suspended after the stipulated period and copper or other products cannot be manufactured during these four months. Also, Sterlite will not be permitted to use its power generation unit. In terms of security arrangements and confidence-building among the local population, the government has said that a team under the leadership of the district collector and police officials, along with government experts in oxygen manufacturing, local people, anti-Sterlite protestors, NGOs, and environmental experts will be deciding and monitoring oxygen production at the plant. Addressing fellow political leaders at the all-party meeting, Chief Minister Palaniswami said that Vedanta had approached the Supreme Court, seeking permission to maintain its valuable assets in the Smelter plant and produce 1,050 tonne of oxygen, which can be supplied free to the nearby hospitals and other states.

COVID-19: Sterlite plant shut in 2018 to turn saviour, to produce Oxygen for 4 months

Google CEO Sundar Pichai and his Microsoft counterpart Satya Nadella have assured help to India as the country grapples with a ravaging coronavirus crisis that has put enormous pressure on its hospitals due to a shortage of beds, oxygen, and medical supplies.

India logged a record of 3,52,991 new coronavirus infections in a day on Monday, taking its total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,73,13,163. The death toll increased to 1,95,123 with a record 2,812 daily new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

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Devastated to see the worsening Covid crisis in India. Google &amp; Googlers are providing Rs 135 Crore in funding to <a href="https://twitter.com/GiveIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GiveIndia</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/UNICEF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UNICEF</a> for medical supplies, orgs supporting high-risk communities, and grants to help spread critical information.<a href="https://t.co/OHJ79iEzZH">https://t.co/OHJ79iEzZH</a>
— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) <a href="https://twitter.com/sundarpichai/status/1386528938889908231?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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I am heartbroken by the current situation in India. I’m grateful the U.S. government is mobilizing to help. Microsoft will continue to use its voice, resources, and technology to aid relief efforts, and support the purchase of critical oxygen concentration devices.
— Satya Nadella (@satyanadella) <a href="https://twitter.com/satyanadella/status/1386500849740902403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have assured India and its people of providing all assistance, including urgently sending necessary medical life-saving supplies and equipment, to help the country combat the deadly coronavirus crisis.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-will-immediately-send-vaccine-components-medical-supplies-to-india-says-biden-380291">US will 'immediately' send vaccine components, medical supplies to India</a>

''Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need,''&nbsp;Biden said in a tweet.

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The U.S. is working closely with the Indian government to rapidly deploy additional support and supplies during an alarming COVID-19 outbreak. As we provide assistance, we pray for the people of India—including its courageous healthcare workers.
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) <a href="https://twitter.com/VP/status/1386407377956573186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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At the JFK Airport in New York, 318 Philips Oxygen Concentrators were loaded at the Air Indian plane headed to New Delhi.

This week, the US Chambers of Commerce has scheduled to host a CEO delegation meeting with Secretary of State Tony Blinken, followed by an industry briefing on April 27 on India's COVID-19 crisis and how the business community can help.

The US Chamber and Chamber Foundation has set up a Resources for India's COVID Crisis page, which lists urgently needed supplies and links to humanitarian organisations doing work on the ground.

"We are also working to set up a portal through which American companies can offer direct support and resources. Look out for more details shortly,? Chambers said in an email to its members on Sunday.

In this crisis period, the US Chamber of Commerce and the larger business community are stepping up to help.

Last week Chambers urged the administration to "release the millions of AstraZeneca vaccine doses in storage&nbsp;as well as other life-saving support&nbsp;for shipment to India, Brazil, and other nations hard-hit by the pandemic.?

Following a conversation between National Security Advisors Jake Sullivan and Ajit Doval on Sunday, the US pledged to provide raw materials required for manufacturing of the Covishield vaccine in India, as well as supplies of therapeutics, rapid diagnostic test kits, ventilators, and Personal Protective Equipment.

On Sunday, US Chamber President and&nbsp;CEO Suzanne Clark and SVP for International Strategy and Global Initiatives Nisha Biswal joined a call with the Business Roundtable and American CEOs on supporting India's COVID response.

Meanwhile, several Indian-American organisations have launched fundraising campaigns to fight the pandemic in India.

Indian-American Milan Vaishnav from Carnegie Endowment for International Peace think-tank said there are at least four key elements to a response.

"First, we need to see senior US leadership express solidarity with the Indian people. To Indians and Indian Americans, empathy will be welcome. Second, the US has the capacity to provide oxygen, ventilators, medication &amp; emergency supplies. The public sector can galvanise private support. If the optics of the US Defense Dept delivering relief is problematic, there are other workarounds, including via 3rd countries,''&nbsp;he said.

"Third, access to essential vaccine materials. The Defense Production Act issue is real but hardly black and white. The Government of India, US Government, Serum Institute -- their stories don't match up. Here's the good news: The Government of India has finally delivered a list of what it needs. Now the US Government can work on the problem. It's messy but doable,''&nbsp;Vaishnav said.

The goal of addressing India's DPA (&amp; related) concerns should be to ensure that future vaccine production in India (for India and for the world) is not adversely impacted in any way. From the outside, it appears that both sides agree on this," he 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 in several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.

To address the growing demand for oxygen in India, the government has reached out to various countries to procure containers and oxygen cylinders.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Google CEO Sundar Pichai and his Microsoft counterpart Satya Nadella have assured help to India as the country grapples with a ravaging coronavirus crisis that has put enormous pressure on its hospitals due to a shortage of beds, oxygen, and medical supplies.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai and his Microsoft counterpart Satya Nadella have assured help to India as the country grapples with a ravaging coronavirus crisis that has put enormous pressure on its hospitals due to a shortage of beds, oxygen, and medical supplies. India logged a record of 3,52,991 new coronavirus infections in a day on Monday, taking its total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,73,13,163. The death toll increased to 1,95,123 with a record 2,812 daily new fatalities, according to the Union Health Ministry data. Devastated to see the worsening Covid crisis in India. Google & Googlers are providing Rs 135 Crore in funding to @GiveIndia, @UNICEF for medical supplies, orgs supporting high-risk communities, and grants to help spread critical information.https://t.co/OHJ79iEzZH — Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) April 26, 2021 × I am heartbroken by the current situation in India. I’m grateful the U.S. government is mobilizing to help. Microsoft will continue to use its voice, resources, and technology to aid relief efforts, and support the purchase of critical oxygen concentration devices. — Satya Nadella (@satyanadella) April 26, 2021 × US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have assured India and its people of providing all assistance, including urgently sending necessary medical life-saving supplies and equipment, to help the country combat the deadly coronavirus crisis. Also read| US will 'immediately' send vaccine components, medical supplies to India ''Just as India sent assistance to the United States as our hospitals were strained early in the pandemic, we are determined to help India in its time of need,'' Biden said in a tweet. The U.S. is working closely with the Indian government to rapidly deploy additional support and supplies during an alarming COVID-19 outbreak. As we provide assistance, we pray for the people of India—including its courageous healthcare workers. — Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) April 25, 2021 × At the JFK Airport in New York, 318 Philips Oxygen Concentrators were loaded at the Air Indian plane headed to New Delhi. This week, the US Chambers of Commerce has scheduled to host a CEO delegation meeting with Secretary of State Tony Blinken, followed by an industry briefing on April 27 on India's COVID-19 crisis and how the business community can help. The US Chamber and Chamber Foundation has set up a Resources for India's COVID Crisis page, which lists urgently needed supplies and links to humanitarian organisations doing work on the ground. "We are also working to set up a portal through which American companies can offer direct support and resources. Look out for more details shortly,? Chambers said in an email to its members on Sunday. In this crisis period, the US Chamber of Commerce and the larger business community are stepping up to help. Last week Chambers urged the administration to "release the millions of AstraZeneca vaccine doses in storage as well as other life-saving support for shipment to India, Brazil, and other nations hard-hit by the pandemic.? Following a conversation between National Security Advisors Jake Sullivan and Ajit Doval on Sunday, the US pledged to provide raw materials required for manufacturing of the Covishield vaccine in India, as well as supplies of therapeutics, rapid diagnostic test kits, ventilators, and Personal Protective Equipment. On Sunday, US Chamber President and CEO Suzanne Clark and SVP for International Strategy and Global Initiatives Nisha Biswal joined a call with the Business Roundtable and American CEOs on supporting India's COVID response. Meanwhile, several Indian-American organisations have launched fundraising campaigns to fight the pandemic in India. Indian-American Milan Vaishnav from Carnegie Endowment for International Peace think-tank said there are at least four key elements to a response. "First, we need to see senior US leadership express solidarity with the Indian people. To Indians and Indian Americans, empathy will be welcome. Second, the US has the capacity to provide oxygen, ventilators, medication & emergency supplies. The public sector can galvanise private support. If the optics of the US Defense Dept delivering relief is problematic, there are other workarounds, including via 3rd countries,'' he said. "Third, access to essential vaccine materials. The Defense Production Act issue is real but hardly black and white. The Government of India, US Government, Serum Institute -- their stories don't match up. Here's the good news: The Government of India has finally delivered a list of what it needs. Now the US Government can work on the problem. It's messy but doable,'' Vaishnav said. The goal of addressing India's DPA (& related) concerns should be to ensure that future vaccine production in India (for India and for the world) is not adversely impacted in any way. From the outside, it appears that both sides agree on this," he 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 in several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds. To address the growing demand for oxygen in India, the government has reached out to various countries to procure containers and oxygen cylinders. (With inputs from agencies)

Google, Microsoft's Indian-American CEOs pledge support in India's fight against COVID-19

UK has sent life-saving medical equipment to India including ventilators and oxygen concentrators as the country reels from record numbers of daily COVID-19 infections and deaths. This is the first shipment of urgent delivery from the country.

UK, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Russia extends help as India battles second wave of Covid

The Madras High Court has lashed out at the Election Commission over the conduct of Assembly polls amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee reprimanded the Election Commission for failing to ensure COVID-19 safety norms during political rallies.

“You are the only institution that is responsible for the situation today. No action against political parties taking rallies despite every order of the Court. Your election commission should be put up on murder charges probably!” the Chief Justice said, as per Live Law.

"Public health is of paramount importance and it is distressing that constitutional authorities have to be reminded in such regard. It is only when a citizen survives that he'll be able to enjoy the rights that a democratic republic guarantees,” Chief Justice Banerjee said.

The chief justice also warned that the court would stop counting votes on May 2 if a blueprint to follow the COVID-19 protocol is not followed by the Election Commission. He said that ECI had not ensured the following of COVID-19 protocol during campaigning despite court orders.

The Bench of Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy made the remarks while hearing a plea from State Transport Minister MR Vijayabhaskar who sought that COVID-19 protocol be followed during the counting of votes in his constituency, Karur.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Madras High Court has lashed out at the Election Commission over the conduct of Assembly polls amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee reprimanded the Election Commission for failing to ensure COVID-19 safety norms during political rallies.

The Madras High Court has lashed out at the Election Commission over the conduct of Assembly polls amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee reprimanded the Election Commission for failing to ensure COVID-19 safety norms during political rallies. “You are the only institution that is responsible for the situation today. No action against political parties taking rallies despite every order of the Court. Your election commission should be put up on murder charges probably!” the Chief Justice said, as per Live Law. "Public health is of paramount importance and it is distressing that constitutional authorities have to be reminded in such regard. It is only when a citizen survives that he'll be able to enjoy the rights that a democratic republic guarantees,” Chief Justice Banerjee said. The chief justice also warned that the court would stop counting votes on May 2 if a blueprint to follow the COVID-19 protocol is not followed by the Election Commission. He said that ECI had not ensured the following of COVID-19 protocol during campaigning despite court orders. The Bench of Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy made the remarks while hearing a plea from State Transport Minister MR Vijayabhaskar who sought that COVID-19 protocol be followed during the counting of votes in his constituency, Karur. (With inputs from agencies)

Madras High Court raps election body for political rallies during Covid second wave

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing the 76th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on Sunday, said the Centre is standing beside the state governments to help them get through the second wave of the coronavirus.

Indian PM Modi's addresses the nation in 76th 'Mann Ki Baat' amid COVID-19 surge

Noting that the second wave of COVID-19 is testing people's patience and their limit to bear pain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that this "toofan" (storm) has shaken the country after it was full of spirit and self-confidence after successfully tackling the first wave.

In his monthly Mann Ki Baat broadcast, Modi spoke to doctors, nurses and frontline workers, who shared their experience and views on the disease, and expressed confidence that people will soon come out of this crisis.

The over 30-minute broadcast was entirely focussed on the pandemic, which has been rampaging across the country for weeks, with Modi asserting that defeating the disease is the biggest priority.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-deeply-concerned-about-covid-outbreak-in-india-379971">US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic</a>

He urged countrymen to go for vaccination against the disease and cautioned them against rumours about it. 
The Centre, he said, will continue to provide jabs free of cost to the eligible people (those over 45 years of age) and has been helping states in their efforts to deal with the disease with its full might.

"We have to give priority to the expert and scientific advice at this time to win this battle," he said.

While people are getting affected by the disease, they are also recovering from it in big numbers, he said.

Noting that the second wave of COVID-19 is testing people's patience and their limit to bear pain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that this "toofan" (storm) has shaken the country after it was full of spirit and self-confidence after successfully tackling the first wave.

Noting that the second wave of COVID-19 is testing people's patience and their limit to bear pain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that this "toofan" (storm) has shaken the country after it was full of spirit and self-confidence after successfully tackling the first wave. In his monthly Mann Ki Baat broadcast, Modi spoke to doctors, nurses and frontline workers, who shared their experience and views on the disease, and expressed confidence that people will soon come out of this crisis. The over 30-minute broadcast was entirely focussed on the pandemic, which has been rampaging across the country for weeks, with Modi asserting that defeating the disease is the biggest priority. Also Read | US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic He urged countrymen to go for vaccination against the disease and cautioned them against rumours about it. The Centre, he said, will continue to provide jabs free of cost to the eligible people (those over 45 years of age) and has been helping states in their efforts to deal with the disease with its full might. "We have to give priority to the expert and scientific advice at this time to win this battle," he said. While people are getting affected by the disease, they are also recovering from it in big numbers, he said.

Mann Ki Baat: We will soon come out of Covid crisis, says PM Modi

Amid reports of shortage of oxygen in the hospitals during the second wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> across the country, four cryogenic oxygen containers are being transported from Singapore to India via Air Force transport plane."We stand with India in its fight against Covid-19.

"Through a bilateral and multi-agency effort, an @IAF_MCC transport plane picked up 4 cryogenic oxygen containers at Changi Airport in Singapore this morning," the Singapore embassy in India tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Pakistan PM expresses solidarity with India over COVID-19 crisis ">Pakistan PM expresses solidarity with India over COVID-19 crisis</a>

On Friday, the Defence Ministry informed that 23 mobile oxygen generation plants are being airlifted from Germany. These will be deployed in Armed Forces Medical Sciences (AFMS) hospitals catering to COVID patients. These oxygen-generating plants are expected within a week, the ministry said.

Amid the record rise in COVID-19 cases, leaders from around the world have expressed their support to India. Earlier today, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison expressed their solidarity with the people of India.

India on Saturday recorded 3,46,786 new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19 </a>cases, the highest single-day spike since the pandemic broke out last year. According to the official data issued by the government, the country recorded 2,624 new deaths due to COVID-19 in the last 24 hours.

So far, 1,66,10,481 COVID-19 cases have been reported in India while 1,89,544 people have succumbed to the viral infection. Currently, there are 25,52,940 active cases of COVID-19 in the country.

Amid reports of shortage of oxygen in the hospitals during the second wave of COVID-19 across the country, four cryogenic oxygen containers are being transported from Singapore to India via Air Force transport plane.

Amid reports of shortage of oxygen in the hospitals during the second wave of COVID-19 across the country, four cryogenic oxygen containers are being transported from Singapore to India via Air Force transport plane."We stand with India in its fight against Covid-19. "Through a bilateral and multi-agency effort, an @IAF_MCC transport plane picked up 4 cryogenic oxygen containers at Changi Airport in Singapore this morning," the Singapore embassy in India tweeted. Also read | Pakistan PM expresses solidarity with India over COVID-19 crisis On Friday, the Defence Ministry informed that 23 mobile oxygen generation plants are being airlifted from Germany. These will be deployed in Armed Forces Medical Sciences (AFMS) hospitals catering to COVID patients. These oxygen-generating plants are expected within a week, the ministry said. Amid the record rise in COVID-19 cases, leaders from around the world have expressed their support to India. Earlier today, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison expressed their solidarity with the people of India. India on Saturday recorded 3,46,786 new COVID-19 cases, the highest single-day spike since the pandemic broke out last year. According to the official data issued by the government, the country recorded 2,624 new deaths due to COVID-19 in the last 24 hours. So far, 1,66,10,481 COVID-19 cases have been reported in India while 1,89,544 people have succumbed to the viral infection. Currently, there are 25,52,940 active cases of COVID-19 in the country.

COVID-19: Indian Air Force transports four cryogenic oxygen containers from Singapore

The Indian High Commission on Saturday issued an open appeal through social media for help to meet the rising demand for oxygen and medical supplies in India's devastating second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

It listed the required items as refillable oxygen cylinders, concentrators and the drug Remdesivir, used to treat severe COVID-19 cases. India has recorded nearly a million infections in three days, with 346,786 new cases on Saturday.&nbsp;

"@HCILondon thanks all who have come forward to help in COVID19 situation. India needs: (i) Empty, refillable Oxygen cylinders with 10 litres and 45 litres LMO (liquid medical oxygen) capacity (ii) Oxygen concentrators (iii) in situ Oxygen manufacturing plants for hospitals &amp; (iv) Remdesivir," reads the appeal on Twitter.&nbsp;

It comes as several diaspora organisations have also been coordinating efforts to provide assistance and support, amid news of oxygen supply shortages at hospitals in New Delhi and other regions.&nbsp;

"The Indian diaspora has huge confidence in Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi and stand ready to help the government of India in any form they need," said Kuldeep Shekhawat, President of the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) diaspora group, which held a virtual meeting to consider a donation drive for the Prime Minister's Relief Fund if required.&nbsp;

On Friday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK is looking at ways to help and support India through the crisis.&nbsp;

"We're looking at what we can do to help and support the people of India, possibly with ventilators," he told reporters when asked about the pandemic crisis in India on the local election campaign trail.&nbsp;

"Thanks to the ventilator challenge, the huge efforts of British manufacturers, we're better able now to deliver ventilators to other countries. But also possibly with therapeutics, dexamethasone, other things, we'll look at what we can do to help," he said.&nbsp;

The Indian High Commission on Saturday issued an open appeal through social media for help to meet the rising demand for oxygen and medical supplies in India's devastating second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Indian High Commission on Saturday issued an open appeal through social media for help to meet the rising demand for oxygen and medical supplies in India's devastating second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. It listed the required items as refillable oxygen cylinders, concentrators and the drug Remdesivir, used to treat severe COVID-19 cases. India has recorded nearly a million infections in three days, with 346,786 new cases on Saturday. "@HCILondon thanks all who have come forward to help in COVID19 situation. India needs: (i) Empty, refillable Oxygen cylinders with 10 litres and 45 litres LMO (liquid medical oxygen) capacity (ii) Oxygen concentrators (iii) in situ Oxygen manufacturing plants for hospitals & (iv) Remdesivir," reads the appeal on Twitter. It comes as several diaspora organisations have also been coordinating efforts to provide assistance and support, amid news of oxygen supply shortages at hospitals in New Delhi and other regions. "The Indian diaspora has huge confidence in Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi and stand ready to help the government of India in any form they need," said Kuldeep Shekhawat, President of the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) diaspora group, which held a virtual meeting to consider a donation drive for the Prime Minister's Relief Fund if required. On Friday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK is looking at ways to help and support India through the crisis. "We're looking at what we can do to help and support the people of India, possibly with ventilators," he told reporters when asked about the pandemic crisis in India on the local election campaign trail. "Thanks to the ventilator challenge, the huge efforts of British manufacturers, we're better able now to deliver ventilators to other countries. But also possibly with therapeutics, dexamethasone, other things, we'll look at what we can do to help," he said.

Indian High Commission in UK appeals for oxygen, medical supplies  

Bharat Biotech has fixed the price of its Covid-19 vaccine, Covaxin, at Rs 600 per dose for state governments and at Rs 1,200 per dose for private hospitals, the vaccine maker announced on Saturday.&nbsp;

In a statement, Bharat Biotech Chairman and Managing Director Krishna M Ella said the company is supplying the vaccine to the Central Government at Rs 150 per dosage.&nbsp;

"We would like to state that more than 50 per cent of our capacities have been reserved for Central Government supplies," Ella said.&nbsp;

Recovering cost is essential in the journey of innovation towards other vaccines, such as intranasal Covid-19, Chikungunya, Zika, Cholera and others, he added.&nbsp;

The company has tagged the vaccine between USD 15-20 for export markets.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Serum Institute of India (SII) had announced a price of Rs 400 per dose for 'Covishield' for state governments and Rs 600 per dose for private hospitals.&nbsp;

The company also said for the next two months, it will address the issue of limited capacity by scaling up vaccine production.&nbsp;

"Going ahead, 50 per cent of our capacities will be served to the Government of India's vaccination programme, and the remaining 50 per cent of the capacity will be for the state governments and private hospitals," Serum Institute of India had said in a statement.&nbsp;

American vaccines in the private market cost more than Rs 1,500 per dose, while Russian and Chinese vaccines cost greater than Rs 750 per dose, it had noted.&nbsp;

Covishield comprises over 90 per cent of the 12.76 crore COVID-19 vaccines administered across the country so far, according to government data on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Of the 127,605,870 COVID-19 vaccination jabs administered till now, 11,60,65,107 are of Covishield, while 1,15,40,763 are Covaxin, according to the government's CO-WIN portal.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the government waived customs duty on the import of COVID vaccines as well as medical grade oxygen and related equipment as the nation battled its worst health crisis with a 'tsunami' of infections setting a new world record for cases for the third consecutive day.&nbsp;

The decision to exempt customs duty was taken at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to boost oxygen availability in the country.&nbsp;

Customs duty waiver on imported vaccines would help to keep the cost of overseas vaccines low, that are being eyed to supplement domestically made shots ahead of the opening of COVID-19 vaccination to all citizens over 18 years of age.&nbsp;

The government had previously waived customs duty on imported Remdesivir injections and the drug's active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) to boost supplies.&nbsp;

India reported a record 346,786 new infections on Saturday, bringing its total to 1.66 crore. Deaths also rose by a record 2,624 to total 189,544.&nbsp;

Bharat Biotech has fixed the price of its Covid-19 vaccine, Covaxin, at Rs 600 per dose for state governments and at Rs 1,200 per dose for private hospitals, the vaccine maker announced on Saturday.

Bharat Biotech has fixed the price of its Covid-19 vaccine, Covaxin, at Rs 600 per dose for state governments and at Rs 1,200 per dose for private hospitals, the vaccine maker announced on Saturday. In a statement, Bharat Biotech Chairman and Managing Director Krishna M Ella said the company is supplying the vaccine to the Central Government at Rs 150 per dosage. "We would like to state that more than 50 per cent of our capacities have been reserved for Central Government supplies," Ella said. Recovering cost is essential in the journey of innovation towards other vaccines, such as intranasal Covid-19, Chikungunya, Zika, Cholera and others, he added. The company has tagged the vaccine between USD 15-20 for export markets. Earlier this week, Serum Institute of India (SII) had announced a price of Rs 400 per dose for 'Covishield' for state governments and Rs 600 per dose for private hospitals. The company also said for the next two months, it will address the issue of limited capacity by scaling up vaccine production. "Going ahead, 50 per cent of our capacities will be served to the Government of India's vaccination programme, and the remaining 50 per cent of the capacity will be for the state governments and private hospitals," Serum Institute of India had said in a statement. American vaccines in the private market cost more than Rs 1,500 per dose, while Russian and Chinese vaccines cost greater than Rs 750 per dose, it had noted. Covishield comprises over 90 per cent of the 12.76 crore COVID-19 vaccines administered across the country so far, according to government data on Wednesday. Of the 127,605,870 COVID-19 vaccination jabs administered till now, 11,60,65,107 are of Covishield, while 1,15,40,763 are Covaxin, according to the government's CO-WIN portal. Earlier in the day, the government waived customs duty on the import of COVID vaccines as well as medical grade oxygen and related equipment as the nation battled its worst health crisis with a 'tsunami' of infections setting a new world record for cases for the third consecutive day. The decision to exempt customs duty was taken at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to boost oxygen availability in the country. Customs duty waiver on imported vaccines would help to keep the cost of overseas vaccines low, that are being eyed to supplement domestically made shots ahead of the opening of COVID-19 vaccination to all citizens over 18 years of age. The government had previously waived customs duty on imported Remdesivir injections and the drug's active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) to boost supplies. India reported a record 346,786 new infections on Saturday, bringing its total to 1.66 crore. Deaths also rose by a record 2,624 to total 189,544.

Bharat Biotech prices Covaxin at Rs 600 for states, Rs 1,200 for pvt hospitals  

With a record single-day rise of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases climbed to 1,69,60,172, while the number of active cases crossed the 2,60,000 mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

According to the data updated at 8 am, the death toll increased to 1,92,311 with&nbsp;a record 2,767&nbsp;daily new fatalities.

Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 26,82,751, this figure comprises&nbsp;about 15.82 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has now further dropped to 83.05 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-deeply-concerned-about-covid-outbreak-in-india-379971">US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic</a>

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,40,85,110, while the case fatality rate has further dropped to 1.13 per cent, the data stated.&nbsp;

Taking a look at last year's figures, India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2,00,000&nbsp;mark on August 7, 3,00,000&nbsp;on August 23, 4,00,000 on September 5 and 500,000 on September 16. It went past 600,000 on September 28, 7,00,000 on October 11, crossed 8,00,000 on October 29, 9,00,000 on November 20 and surpassed the 10 Million&nbsp;mark on December 19.

India crossed the grim milestone of 15 Million on April 19. According to the ICMR, 27,79,18,810 samples have been tested up to April 25 with 17,19,588 samples being tested on Saturday.&nbsp;

With a record single-day rise of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases climbed to 1,69,60,172, while the number of active cases crossed the 2,60,000 mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday.

With a record single-day rise of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections, India's total tally of COVID-19 cases climbed to 1,69,60,172, while the number of active cases crossed the 2,60,000 mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Sunday. According to the data updated at 8 am, the death toll increased to 1,92,311 with a record 2,767 daily new fatalities. Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 26,82,751, this figure comprises about 15.82 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has now further dropped to 83.05 per cent. Also read | US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,40,85,110, while the case fatality rate has further dropped to 1.13 per cent, the data stated. Taking a look at last year's figures, India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2,00,000 mark on August 7, 3,00,000 on August 23, 4,00,000 on September 5 and 500,000 on September 16. It went past 600,000 on September 28, 7,00,000 on October 11, crossed 8,00,000 on October 29, 9,00,000 on November 20 and surpassed the 10 Million mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of 15 Million on April 19. According to the ICMR, 27,79,18,810 samples have been tested up to April 25 with 17,19,588 samples being tested on Saturday.

India adds record over 349,000 new COVID-19 cases in single day

The Biden administration has come under criticism from several quarters, including from members and supporters of the Democratic party, for not releasing surplus COVID-19 vaccines to India when the country is experiencing its worst-ever public health crisis.&nbsp;

Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi urged the Biden administration to release doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine to countries currently experiencing the deadly surge in COVID-19 cases. &nbsp;

"We are currently sitting on close to 40 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine in the US stockpile, a stockpile which we're not using and which we've already opened to combat COVID-19 in Mexico and Canada," he said.&nbsp;

To curb the spread of this virus internationally and to protect public health and the international economy, the US needs to get these vaccines out the door now, he said.&nbsp;

"I respectfully but strongly call on the Biden administration to release millions of AstraZeneca vaccine doses to countries hardest hit by the spread of COVID-19, including India, Argentina, and potentially others, he added.&nbsp;

Indian-American Congressman from California Ro Khanna said that the leadership of the influential Congressional India Caucus will discuss with the government officials and the Indian envoy in the US to send urgent health supplies to help India fight its battle against coronavirus.&nbsp;

"The US-India caucus leadership will be discussing with government officials and Indian Ambassador on a bipartisan basis to send AZ vaccines we will never use, PPE, oxygen and other immediate aid. Time is of the essence to mobilise," Khanna said on Sunday.&nbsp;

India logged a record of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections in a day on Sunday, taking its total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,69,60,172. The death toll increased to 1,92,311 with a record 2,767 daily new fatalities, according to the official data.&nbsp;

The Biden administration has come under criticism from several quarters, including from members and supporters of the Democratic party, for not releasing surplus COVID-19 vaccines to India when the country is experiencing its worst-ever public health crisis.

The Biden administration has come under criticism from several quarters, including from members and supporters of the Democratic party, for not releasing surplus COVID-19 vaccines to India when the country is experiencing its worst-ever public health crisis. Indian-American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi urged the Biden administration to release doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine to countries currently experiencing the deadly surge in COVID-19 cases. "We are currently sitting on close to 40 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine in the US stockpile, a stockpile which we're not using and which we've already opened to combat COVID-19 in Mexico and Canada," he said. To curb the spread of this virus internationally and to protect public health and the international economy, the US needs to get these vaccines out the door now, he said. "I respectfully but strongly call on the Biden administration to release millions of AstraZeneca vaccine doses to countries hardest hit by the spread of COVID-19, including India, Argentina, and potentially others, he added. Indian-American Congressman from California Ro Khanna said that the leadership of the influential Congressional India Caucus will discuss with the government officials and the Indian envoy in the US to send urgent health supplies to help India fight its battle against coronavirus. "The US-India caucus leadership will be discussing with government officials and Indian Ambassador on a bipartisan basis to send AZ vaccines we will never use, PPE, oxygen and other immediate aid. Time is of the essence to mobilise," Khanna said on Sunday. India logged a record of 3,49,691 new coronavirus infections in a day on Sunday, taking its total tally of COVID-19 cases to 1,69,60,172. The death toll increased to 1,92,311 with a record 2,767 daily new fatalities, according to the official data.

Biden admin criticised for not releasing surplus COVID-19 vaccines to India  

Air India will bring around 600 oxygen concentrators on its two US-India flights in the next two days, aviation industry sources said on Sunday.&nbsp;

These oxygen concentrators have been ordered by private entities, the sources mentioned.&nbsp;

Various hospitals across the country continue to grapple with a severe shortage of medical oxygen on Sunday even after receiving emergency supplies.&nbsp;

Twenty people died at Delhi's Jaipur Golden Hospital on Saturday, amid a shortage of oxygen.&nbsp;

Sources said Air India plans to bring around 10,000 oxygen concentrators for private entities in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

When asked about this matter, Air India spokesperson said the airline is prepared to shoulder the responsibility of carrying oxygen concentrators or any consignment into India.&nbsp;

"Obviously, Air India with its experience of international operations and wide-body fleet is fully capable of carrying a large volume of cargo consignments," the spokesperson mentioned.&nbsp;

"It goes without saying that we will continue to play a major role in transporting oxygen (equipment) and serve our nation in whatever role assigned to us," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

A record single-day rise of 3,46,786 coronavirus cases pushed India's tally of infection to 1,66,10,481, while active cases crossed the 25-lakh mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday.&nbsp;

The death toll rose to 1,89,544 with a record 2,624 more fatalities in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Air India will bring around 600 oxygen concentrators on its two US-India flights in the next two days, aviation industry sources said on Sunday. These oxygen concentrators have been ordered by private entities, the sources mentioned.

Air India will bring around 600 oxygen concentrators on its two US-India flights in the next two days, aviation industry sources said on Sunday. These oxygen concentrators have been ordered by private entities, the sources mentioned. Various hospitals across the country continue to grapple with a severe shortage of medical oxygen on Sunday even after receiving emergency supplies. Twenty people died at Delhi's Jaipur Golden Hospital on Saturday, amid a shortage of oxygen. Sources said Air India plans to bring around 10,000 oxygen concentrators for private entities in the coming weeks. When asked about this matter, Air India spokesperson said the airline is prepared to shoulder the responsibility of carrying oxygen concentrators or any consignment into India. "Obviously, Air India with its experience of international operations and wide-body fleet is fully capable of carrying a large volume of cargo consignments," the spokesperson mentioned. "It goes without saying that we will continue to play a major role in transporting oxygen (equipment) and serve our nation in whatever role assigned to us," the spokesperson said. A record single-day rise of 3,46,786 coronavirus cases pushed India's tally of infection to 1,66,10,481, while active cases crossed the 25-lakh mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday. The death toll rose to 1,89,544 with a record 2,624 more fatalities in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Air India to bring 600 oxygen concentrators from US in next two days for private entities 

The Centre on Sunday barred the use of liquid oxygen for any non-medical purpose and asked manufacturing units to maximise its production and make it available to the government for medical use.&nbsp;

The order by Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla came amid a scarcity of medical oxygen in many parts of the country, particularly in Delhi, that have been hit by a fresh wave of the coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

After reviewing the oxygen supply situation, the government decided that no exception will be allowed to any industry on the use of liquid oxygen, modifying its earlier order that exempted a few select industries.&nbsp;

Exercising the powers conferred under the Disaster Management Act, the union home secretary directed the state and union territory governments to ensure that "use of liquid oxygen is not allowed for any non-medical purpose and all manufacturing units may maximise their production of liquid oxygen, and make it available to the government for use for medical purposes only, with immediate effect and until further orders."&nbsp;

Further, Bhalla directed that all stocks of liquid oxygen should also be made available to the government for use for medical purposes and no exception is allowed to any industry with regard to use of liquid oxygen.&nbsp;

The home secretary referred to various measures taken so far to ensure uninterrupted supply of medical oxygen across the country.&nbsp;

He said it was considered necessary to restrict industrial usage of oxygen for ensuring availability of adequate and uninterrupted supply of medical oxygen across the country for management of COVID-19 patients and necessary order in this regard was issued on April 22 to restrict the use of industrial oxygen.&nbsp;

The central government has reviewed the oxygen supply situation and has decided that with immediate effect, use of liquid oxygen, including the existing stock, will be allowed for medical purposes only, and that all manufacturing units may be allowed to maximise their production of liquid oxygen, and make it available to the government, for use for medical purposes only, the order said.&nbsp;

The Centre on Sunday barred the use of liquid oxygen for any non-medical purpose and asked manufacturing units to maximise its production and make it available to the government for medical use.

The Centre on Sunday barred the use of liquid oxygen for any non-medical purpose and asked manufacturing units to maximise its production and make it available to the government for medical use. The order by Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla came amid a scarcity of medical oxygen in many parts of the country, particularly in Delhi, that have been hit by a fresh wave of the coronavirus pandemic. After reviewing the oxygen supply situation, the government decided that no exception will be allowed to any industry on the use of liquid oxygen, modifying its earlier order that exempted a few select industries. Exercising the powers conferred under the Disaster Management Act, the union home secretary directed the state and union territory governments to ensure that "use of liquid oxygen is not allowed for any non-medical purpose and all manufacturing units may maximise their production of liquid oxygen, and make it available to the government for use for medical purposes only, with immediate effect and until further orders." Further, Bhalla directed that all stocks of liquid oxygen should also be made available to the government for use for medical purposes and no exception is allowed to any industry with regard to use of liquid oxygen. The home secretary referred to various measures taken so far to ensure uninterrupted supply of medical oxygen across the country. He said it was considered necessary to restrict industrial usage of oxygen for ensuring availability of adequate and uninterrupted supply of medical oxygen across the country for management of COVID-19 patients and necessary order in this regard was issued on April 22 to restrict the use of industrial oxygen. The central government has reviewed the oxygen supply situation and has decided that with immediate effect, use of liquid oxygen, including the existing stock, will be allowed for medical purposes only, and that all manufacturing units may be allowed to maximise their production of liquid oxygen, and make it available to the government, for use for medical purposes only, the order said.

Indian Govt bars use of liquid oxygen for non-medical purposes, asks plants to maximise production 

Singapore on Saturday became the first country from which India procured essentials four oxygen tanks. India has been witnessing a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases, leading to shortage of oxygen supply across various states.

Indian Air Force flies in 4 oxygen tanks from Singapore

EU, US, Denmark have extended support to India with UK sending more than 600 pieces of vital medical equipment to deal with the surging covid cases. The 600 pieces include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices sent from the UK today and will be arriving in India early on Tuesday morning.&nbsp;

“We stand side by side with India" UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, "as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against Covid-19", adding, “Vital medical equipment, including hundreds of oxygen concentrators and ventilators, is now on its way from the UK to India to support efforts to prevent the tragic loss of life from this terrible virus."&nbsp;

In all, UK will send nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, that can extract Oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators this week.&nbsp;

UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, “We are supporting our Indian friends with vital medical equipment at a difficult time for them in this pandemic". &nbsp;

India has reported over three lakh Covid cases in the last few days, with cities like Delhi and Mumbai badly impacted. Several hospitals in the national capital have been sending SOS as oxygen supplies deplete putting the lives of patients in danger. &nbsp;

Earlier in the day, the European Union announced that it is activating its 'civil protection mechanism' to provide assistance to India like Oxygen and medicine. "Upon request for assistance by India", Janez Lenarčič European Commissioner for Crisis Management said," We have activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (ERCC). The EU will do its utmost to mobilise assistance to support people of India". &nbsp;

President of the European commission Ursula von der Leyen seconded that tweeting, "The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people."&nbsp;

Other countries in Europe like Denmark, France, Germany are also extending support. Denmark's envoy to Delhi Freddy Svane tells WION, "We are working closely with MEA to assist India with whatever is required. That’s what friends are about”.&nbsp;

Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday announced that her country is preparing urgent support for India to deal with the ongoing Covid pandemic. She said, "To the people of India, I want to express my sympathy on the terrible suffering that COVID-19 has again brought over your communities. Germany stands in solidarity with India and is urgently preparing a mission of support."&nbsp;

Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported. &nbsp;

After much criticism over not allowing the import of raw material for manufacturing of covid vaccines in India, top officials of the US Govt also extended support to India. US secretary of state Antony Blinken in a tweet-statement said, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's healthcare heroes." &nbsp;

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, in a near-simultaneous tweet, said, "The US is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic. More very soon."&nbsp;

US is expected to announce its support to India soon, though a big focus remains on when it lifts a ban on the export of covid vaccine raw material. India is the largest producer of vaccines globally, but manufacturing is being hampered due to the lack of raw material. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, India's neighbours, Afghanistan and Iran, have also extended support to New Delhi. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, foreign minister Atmar and envoy to India Farid Mamundzay all tweeted and showed solidarity for India. Afghan President said, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people and government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of Covid. On behalf of the Afghan people and government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus."&nbsp;

Iran's health minister Dr Saeed Namaki in a letter to India's health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan extended support, saying, "The government and people of Iran are ready to spare no technical assistance, expertise and equipment in these difficult days and at the height of the plight of the dear citizens of India with the COVID-19 epidemic."&nbsp;

A whole host of countries have extended solidarity with India. These are China, Pakistan, Bhutan, Solvenia, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Singapore. So far, India has been able to get four tankers from Singapore and liquid Oxygen from Saudi Arabia. More medicines from Singapore will arrive tonight.&nbsp;

EU, US, Denmark have extended support to India with UK sending more than 600 pieces of vital medical equipment to deal with the surging covid cases. The 600 pieces include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices sent from the UK today and will be arriving in India early on Tuesday morning.

EU, US, Denmark have extended support to India with UK sending more than 600 pieces of vital medical equipment to deal with the surging covid cases. The 600 pieces include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices sent from the UK today and will be arriving in India early on Tuesday morning. “We stand side by side with India" UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, "as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against Covid-19", adding, “Vital medical equipment, including hundreds of oxygen concentrators and ventilators, is now on its way from the UK to India to support efforts to prevent the tragic loss of life from this terrible virus." In all, UK will send nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, that can extract Oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators this week. UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, “We are supporting our Indian friends with vital medical equipment at a difficult time for them in this pandemic". India has reported over three lakh Covid cases in the last few days, with cities like Delhi and Mumbai badly impacted. Several hospitals in the national capital have been sending SOS as oxygen supplies deplete putting the lives of patients in danger. Earlier in the day, the European Union announced that it is activating its 'civil protection mechanism' to provide assistance to India like Oxygen and medicine. "Upon request for assistance by India", Janez Lenarčič European Commissioner for Crisis Management said," We have activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (ERCC). The EU will do its utmost to mobilise assistance to support people of India". President of the European commission Ursula von der Leyen seconded that tweeting, "The EU is pooling resources to respond rapidly to India’s request for assistance via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. We stand in full solidarity with the Indian people." Other countries in Europe like Denmark, France, Germany are also extending support. Denmark's envoy to Delhi Freddy Svane tells WION, "We are working closely with MEA to assist India with whatever is required. That’s what friends are about”. Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday announced that her country is preparing urgent support for India to deal with the ongoing Covid pandemic. She said, "To the people of India, I want to express my sympathy on the terrible suffering that COVID-19 has again brought over your communities. Germany stands in solidarity with India and is urgently preparing a mission of support." Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported. After much criticism over not allowing the import of raw material for manufacturing of covid vaccines in India, top officials of the US Govt also extended support to India. US secretary of state Antony Blinken in a tweet-statement said, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's healthcare heroes." US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, in a near-simultaneous tweet, said, "The US is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic. More very soon." US is expected to announce its support to India soon, though a big focus remains on when it lifts a ban on the export of covid vaccine raw material. India is the largest producer of vaccines globally, but manufacturing is being hampered due to the lack of raw material. Meanwhile, India's neighbours, Afghanistan and Iran, have also extended support to New Delhi. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, foreign minister Atmar and envoy to India Farid Mamundzay all tweeted and showed solidarity for India. Afghan President said, "Our hearts go out to the Indian people and government as they fight the horrendous outbreak of Covid. On behalf of the Afghan people and government, we send our condolences to the families who lost their loved ones and wish a quick recovery to those who are suffering from the virus." Iran's health minister Dr Saeed Namaki in a letter to India's health minister Dr Harsh Vardhan extended support, saying, "The government and people of Iran are ready to spare no technical assistance, expertise and equipment in these difficult days and at the height of the plight of the dear citizens of India with the COVID-19 epidemic." A whole host of countries have extended solidarity with India. These are China, Pakistan, Bhutan, Solvenia, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Singapore. So far, India has been able to get four tankers from Singapore and liquid Oxygen from Saudi Arabia. More medicines from Singapore will arrive tonight.

Covid Crisis: EU, UK, US, Denmark pitch in to assist India 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Sunday pledged support to India as it battled the latest spike in the number of Covid infections. Sullivan said that US was "deeply concerned" about the latest Covid outbreak in India&nbsp;and that it was working "round the clock" to help India drag itself out of the situation.

"The U.S. is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic," tweeted Sullivan.

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The U.S. is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic. More very soon.
— Jake Sullivan (@JakeSullivan46) <a href="https://twitter.com/JakeSullivan46/status/1386154975668080644?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's health care heroes," tweeted Antony Blinken

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Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's health care heroes.
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1386148447179493380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Reuters quoted a White House spokesperson to say that US was planning to quickly deploy additional support to Indian government.

"We are in active conversations at high levels and plan to quickly deploy additional support to the Government of India and Indian health care workers as they battle this latest severe outbreak. We will have more to share very soon," the spokeswoman told Reuters via email.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Sunday pledged support to India as it battled the latest spike in the number of Covid infections.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Sunday pledged support to India as it battled the latest spike in the number of Covid infections. Sullivan said that US was "deeply concerned" about the latest Covid outbreak in India and that it was working "round the clock" to help India drag itself out of the situation. "The U.S. is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic," tweeted Sullivan. The U.S. is deeply concerned by the severe COVID outbreak in India. We are working around the clock to deploy more supplies and support to our friends and partners in India as they bravely battle this pandemic. More very soon. — Jake Sullivan (@JakeSullivan46) April 25, 2021 × "Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's health care heroes," tweeted Antony Blinken Our hearts go out to the Indian people in the midst of the horrific COVID-19 outbreak. We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government, and we will rapidly deploy additional support to the people of India and India's health care heroes. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) April 25, 2021 × Reuters quoted a White House spokesperson to say that US was planning to quickly deploy additional support to Indian government. "We are in active conversations at high levels and plan to quickly deploy additional support to the Government of India and Indian health care workers as they battle this latest severe outbreak. We will have more to share very soon," the spokeswoman told Reuters via email. (With inputs from agencies)

US to support India in its fight against coronavirus pandemic

The Indian vaccine manufacturer Bharat Biotech has released its amended prices as the country aims to open up vaccination drive to all adults from 1 May.

Bharat Biotech releases Covaxin's price ahead of India's phase 3 of vaccination

The Indian government has issued guidelines to all states on effective implementation of new vaccine strategy. India's third phase of vaccination begins from the 1 May.

Ahead of May 1 vaccination phase, Indian government issues guidelines to states

Getting registered on the CoWIN web portal and taking an appointment to get a COVID-19 vaccine jab would be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years as walk-ins will not be allowed initially, official sources said on Sunday.&nbsp;

Those above 45 years can still avail the facility of on-site registration to get vaccinated, they said.&nbsp;

As India witnesses a sudden surge in coronavirus cases, it has decided to allow everyone above 18 years of age to get vaccinated from May 1.&nbsp;

"An increased demand is expected once the vaccination is opened for all. For the purpose of crowd control, registering on CoWIN portal and making an appointment to get a vaccine will be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years. Walks-in will not be allowed in the beginning so that there is no chaos," an official said.&nbsp;

Registration for vaccination for all those aged above 18 will begin on the CoWIN platform and Aarogya Setu App from April 28. The inoculation process and documents to be provided to get the jab remains the same.&nbsp;

From May 1, the present system of private COVID-19 vaccination centres receiving doses from the government and charging up to Rs 250 per dose from people will cease to exist and private hospitals will procure directly from vaccine manufacturers.&nbsp;

According to the Liberalised Pricing and Accelerated National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy, COVID-19 vaccination will continue to be free for eligible population groups comprising healthcare workers, frontline workers and population above 45 years of age in government vaccination centres that receive doses from the Centre.&nbsp;

Vaccine manufacturers would make an advance declaration of the price for 50 per cent supply that would be available to state governments in the open market before May 1. Based on this price, states, private hospitals, industrial establishments may procure vaccine doses from manufacturers.&nbsp;

Private hospitals would have to procure their supplies of COVID-19 vaccine exclusively from the 50 per cent supply earmarked, other than the Government of India channel.&nbsp;

"While the Centre has liberalised the vaccination policy, it does not mean that vaccines will be sold in pharmacists or chemist shops in the open market," Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan had clarified on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The price charged for vaccination by private hospitals would be monitored, he said, adding, "The present dispensation where private Covid vaccination centres receive doses from the government and can charge up to Rs 250 per dose will cease to exist."&nbsp;

Vaccine manufacturers would supply 50 per cent of their monthly Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) released doses to the Centre and would be free to supply the rest to state governments.&nbsp;

All immunisations will be part of the National Vaccination Programme, will be captured on CoWIN platform along with stocks and price per vaccination applicable in all vaccination centres, will comply with adverse event following immunization management and reporting, and all other prescribed norms.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Getting registered on the CoWIN web portal and taking an appointment to get a COVID-19 vaccine jab would be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years as walk-ins will not be allowed initially, official sources said on Sunday.

Getting registered on the CoWIN web portal and taking an appointment to get a COVID-19 vaccine jab would be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years as walk-ins will not be allowed initially, official sources said on Sunday. Those above 45 years can still avail the facility of on-site registration to get vaccinated, they said. As India witnesses a sudden surge in coronavirus cases, it has decided to allow everyone above 18 years of age to get vaccinated from May 1. "An increased demand is expected once the vaccination is opened for all. For the purpose of crowd control, registering on CoWIN portal and making an appointment to get a vaccine will be mandatory for those aged between 18 and 45 years. Walks-in will not be allowed in the beginning so that there is no chaos," an official said. Registration for vaccination for all those aged above 18 will begin on the CoWIN platform and Aarogya Setu App from April 28. The inoculation process and documents to be provided to get the jab remains the same. From May 1, the present system of private COVID-19 vaccination centres receiving doses from the government and charging up to Rs 250 per dose from people will cease to exist and private hospitals will procure directly from vaccine manufacturers. According to the Liberalised Pricing and Accelerated National COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy, COVID-19 vaccination will continue to be free for eligible population groups comprising healthcare workers, frontline workers and population above 45 years of age in government vaccination centres that receive doses from the Centre. Vaccine manufacturers would make an advance declaration of the price for 50 per cent supply that would be available to state governments in the open market before May 1. Based on this price, states, private hospitals, industrial establishments may procure vaccine doses from manufacturers. Private hospitals would have to procure their supplies of COVID-19 vaccine exclusively from the 50 per cent supply earmarked, other than the Government of India channel. "While the Centre has liberalised the vaccination policy, it does not mean that vaccines will be sold in pharmacists or chemist shops in the open market," Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan had clarified on Wednesday. The price charged for vaccination by private hospitals would be monitored, he said, adding, "The present dispensation where private Covid vaccination centres receive doses from the government and can charge up to Rs 250 per dose will cease to exist." Vaccine manufacturers would supply 50 per cent of their monthly Central Drugs Laboratory (CDL) released doses to the Centre and would be free to supply the rest to state governments. All immunisations will be part of the National Vaccination Programme, will be captured on CoWIN platform along with stocks and price per vaccination applicable in all vaccination centres, will comply with adverse event following immunization management and reporting, and all other prescribed norms. (With inputs from agencies)

CoWIN registration must for those between 18 and 45 years to get vaccine shot 

The government on Sunday said it has directed all major ports to waive all charges for ships carrying oxygen and related equipment amid a massive surge in COVID-19 infections across the country.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said it has directed all major ports to accord the highest priority in the berthing sequence to the vessels carrying consignments of medical grade oxygen, oxygen tanks, oxygen bottles, portable oxygen generators and oxygen concentrators.&nbsp;

"In view of the excessive requirement of oxygen and related equipment in the country, the Government of India has directed all major ports, including the Kamarajar Port Limited, to waive-off all charges levied by major port trusts (including vessel-related charges, storage charges, etc)," the statement said.&nbsp;

Port chairpersons have been asked to personally supervise logistic operations to ensure unhindered movement of such consignments for berthing of such vessel on top priority in the port, unloading of oxygen-related cargo, coordination with customs and other authorities for speedy clearance, documentation and expeditious evacuation, it further said.&nbsp;

"We are facing an emergency situation due to the second wave of COVID-19. The major ports will start implementing the direction from today onwards," a senior government official said.&nbsp;

In case, the vessel is carrying other cargo or containers in addition to the said oxygen-related cargo, waiver of charges on a pro-rata basis, considering the overall cargo or containers handled at the port, should be provided for oxygen-related cargo to such vessels, the statement said.&nbsp;

The Ports Ministry will monitor the details of such vessels, cargo and time taken in the port from the time vessel entered in the port limits to exit of cargo from port gate.&nbsp;

The government on Saturday had waived customs duty on the import of vaccines as well as medical-grade oxygen and related equipment.&nbsp;

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 in several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The government on Sunday said it has directed all major ports to waive all charges for ships carrying oxygen and related equipment amid a massive surge in COVID-19 infections across the country.

The government on Sunday said it has directed all major ports to waive all charges for ships carrying oxygen and related equipment amid a massive surge in COVID-19 infections across the country. In a statement, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said it has directed all major ports to accord the highest priority in the berthing sequence to the vessels carrying consignments of medical grade oxygen, oxygen tanks, oxygen bottles, portable oxygen generators and oxygen concentrators. "In view of the excessive requirement of oxygen and related equipment in the country, the Government of India has directed all major ports, including the Kamarajar Port Limited, to waive-off all charges levied by major port trusts (including vessel-related charges, storage charges, etc)," the statement said. Port chairpersons have been asked to personally supervise logistic operations to ensure unhindered movement of such consignments for berthing of such vessel on top priority in the port, unloading of oxygen-related cargo, coordination with customs and other authorities for speedy clearance, documentation and expeditious evacuation, it further said. "We are facing an emergency situation due to the second wave of COVID-19. The major ports will start implementing the direction from today onwards," a senior government official said. In case, the vessel is carrying other cargo or containers in addition to the said oxygen-related cargo, waiver of charges on a pro-rata basis, considering the overall cargo or containers handled at the port, should be provided for oxygen-related cargo to such vessels, the statement said. The Ports Ministry will monitor the details of such vessels, cargo and time taken in the port from the time vessel entered in the port limits to exit of cargo from port gate. The government on Saturday had waived customs duty on the import of vaccines as well as medical-grade oxygen and related equipment. 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 in several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds. (With inputs from agencies)

Govt asks major ports to waive all charges for ships carrying oxygen, related equipment  

India, in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic, is trying to get as many cryogenic oxygen containers as possible globally, the country's envoy said on Sunday, after the Indian government airlifted four containers from Singapore on Saturday.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force on Saturday brought four cryogenic tanks, to be used for transporting oxygen, from Singapore as the country scrambles to meet the spike in demand for medical oxygen amid a surge in COVID-19 infections.&nbsp;

The containers were airlifted from Singapore by C17 heavy-lift aircraft of the IAF.&nbsp;

India's High Commissioner to Singapore P Kumaran said that there will be more consignments in the coming days.&nbsp;

"We are trying to get as many cryogenic oxygen containers as we can from any part of the world," said Kumaran, adding that oxygen plants and concentrators are being contacted.&nbsp;

Acting swiftly to meet the high demand of oxygen requirements, India procured four containers of cryogenic O2 tanks from Singapore on Saturday.&nbsp;

The transfer of four containers of cryogenic oxygen tanks donated by Tata Group was moved from Singapore by the Indian Air Force, Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Singapore (MINDEF), Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, LINDE GAS (Singapore) and the Changi Airport and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, the Indian mission said in a Facebook post.&nbsp;

According to observers, Indian corporations with international network are supporting the Government of India's call in getting the cryogenic oxygen containers at the highest priority.&nbsp;

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 in several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds.&nbsp;

Since Friday, the IAF has been airlifting empty oxygen tankers and containers to various filling stations across the country to speed up the distribution of the much-needed medical oxygen in treating COVID-19 patients.&nbsp;

On Friday, the Union Home Ministry said it was in talks for the import of high-capacity oxygen-carrying tankers from Singapore and the UAE. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

India, in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic, is trying to get as many cryogenic oxygen containers as possible globally, the country's envoy said on Sunday, after the Indian government airlifted four containers from Singapore on Saturday.

India, in its fight against the coronavirus pandemic, is trying to get as many cryogenic oxygen containers as possible globally, the country's envoy said on Sunday, after the Indian government airlifted four containers from Singapore on Saturday. The Indian Air Force on Saturday brought four cryogenic tanks, to be used for transporting oxygen, from Singapore as the country scrambles to meet the spike in demand for medical oxygen amid a surge in COVID-19 infections. The containers were airlifted from Singapore by C17 heavy-lift aircraft of the IAF. India's High Commissioner to Singapore P Kumaran said that there will be more consignments in the coming days. "We are trying to get as many cryogenic oxygen containers as we can from any part of the world," said Kumaran, adding that oxygen plants and concentrators are being contacted. Acting swiftly to meet the high demand of oxygen requirements, India procured four containers of cryogenic O2 tanks from Singapore on Saturday. The transfer of four containers of cryogenic oxygen tanks donated by Tata Group was moved from Singapore by the Indian Air Force, Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Singapore (MINDEF), Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore, LINDE GAS (Singapore) and the Changi Airport and Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, the Indian mission said in a Facebook post. According to observers, Indian corporations with international network are supporting the Government of India's call in getting the cryogenic oxygen containers at the highest priority. 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 in several states are reeling under a shortage of medical oxygen and beds. Since Friday, the IAF has been airlifting empty oxygen tankers and containers to various filling stations across the country to speed up the distribution of the much-needed medical oxygen in treating COVID-19 patients. On Friday, the Union Home Ministry said it was in talks for the import of high-capacity oxygen-carrying tankers from Singapore and the UAE. (With inputs from agencies)

India trying to get as many cryogenic oxygen containers as possible, says envoy in Singapore  

Italy has joined other countries by imposing restrictions on travel from India to avert the spread of a COVID-19 variant as the Asian nation struggles with a surge in infections.&nbsp;

Italy's Health Minister Roberto Speranza said on Twitter,&nbsp;he had signed an order barring foreign&nbsp;travellers, who have been in India in the past 14 days from entering the country.&nbsp;

India, which is facing a health crisis, is battling a 'double mutant' strain of COVID-19. On Sunday, the country posted the world's highest single-day increase in cases for a fourth day.&nbsp;

Italian residents will be allowed to return from India with a negative test result at their departure and one at their arrival and then have to go into quarantine, the minister said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those already in Italy and who travelled from India in the past 14 days were requested to undergo a swab.&nbsp;"Our scientists are at work to study the new Indian variant," Speranza said.&nbsp;

Earlier,&nbsp;Germany’s Health Minister Jens Spahn said, the country will shut out all&nbsp;travellers&nbsp;arriving from India apart from its own citizens as a new variant has made the South Asian country the latest coronavirus hotspot.&nbsp;

"We're very worried about the new mutation of the virus discovered in India. So as not to endanger our vaccination&nbsp;programme, India travel has to be significantly limited," Spahn told the Funke newspaper group.&nbsp;

Only German citizens will be allowed to enter the country when arriving from India, he added.&nbsp;

As Spahn plans to designate India a ‘virus variant zone’,&nbsp;travellers&nbsp;will have to be tested before departure for Germany and immediately enter a 14-day quarantine on arrival.&nbsp;

Berlin had already dubbed India a 'zone with particularly high risk of infection'.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Italy has joined other countries by imposing restrictions on travel from India to avert the spread of a COVID-19 variant as the Asian nation struggles with a surge in infections.

Italy has joined other countries by imposing restrictions on travel from India to avert the spread of a COVID-19 variant as the Asian nation struggles with a surge in infections. Italy's Health Minister Roberto Speranza said on Twitter, he had signed an order barring foreign travellers, who have been in India in the past 14 days from entering the country. India, which is facing a health crisis, is battling a 'double mutant' strain of COVID-19. On Sunday, the country posted the world's highest single-day increase in cases for a fourth day. Italian residents will be allowed to return from India with a negative test result at their departure and one at their arrival and then have to go into quarantine, the minister said. Those already in Italy and who travelled from India in the past 14 days were requested to undergo a swab. "Our scientists are at work to study the new Indian variant," Speranza said. Earlier, Germany’s Health Minister Jens Spahn said, the country will shut out all travellers arriving from India apart from its own citizens as a new variant has made the South Asian country the latest coronavirus hotspot. "We're very worried about the new mutation of the virus discovered in India. So as not to endanger our vaccination programme, India travel has to be significantly limited," Spahn told the Funke newspaper group. Only German citizens will be allowed to enter the country when arriving from India, he added. As Spahn plans to designate India a ‘virus variant zone’, travellers will have to be tested before departure for Germany and immediately enter a 14-day quarantine on arrival. Berlin had already dubbed India a 'zone with particularly high risk of infection'. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy imposes travel ban from India over COVID-19 variant 

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal extended lockdown in the national capital by a week due to the massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the city.

"We had imposed a 6-day lockdown in Delhi. The lockdown is being extended to next Monday (May 3) till 5 am," said the Chief Minister while addressing the press conference on Sunday.

The national capital has recorded the highest single-day toll with 24,103 cases of coronavirus for the city since the outbreak of the pandemic.Kejriwal had last week announced a week-long complete `lockdown` from April 19, 10 pm till April 26 at 5 am.

Prior to that, the Delhi government had announced a weekend curfew in the national capital from 10 pm on April 16 till 6 am on April 19, and the closure of malls, gymnasiums and auditoriums till April 30 amid the surge in COVID-19 cases.Delhi on Saturday reported 24,103 new COVID-19 cases and 357 deaths, the highest single-day toll for the city since the outbreak of the pandemic.&nbsp;

This is the third successive day the national capital has seen the highest daily fatalities due to coronavirus.The city now has 93,080 active cases.

A Delhi Health Department bulletin said the total coronavirus cases count in the city has gone up to 10,04,782 and death toll has gone up to 13,898.The positivity rate in Delhi is 32.27 per cent and the case fatality rate is 1.38 per cent. A total of 22,695 patients also recovered from the disease taking the total number of recoveries to 897,805.&nbsp;

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal extended lockdown in the national capital by a week due to the massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the city. "We had imposed a 6-day lockdown in Delhi.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal extended lockdown in the national capital by a week due to the massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the city. "We had imposed a 6-day lockdown in Delhi. The lockdown is being extended to next Monday (May 3) till 5 am," said the Chief Minister while addressing the press conference on Sunday. The national capital has recorded the highest single-day toll with 24,103 cases of coronavirus for the city since the outbreak of the pandemic.Kejriwal had last week announced a week-long complete `lockdown` from April 19, 10 pm till April 26 at 5 am. Prior to that, the Delhi government had announced a weekend curfew in the national capital from 10 pm on April 16 till 6 am on April 19, and the closure of malls, gymnasiums and auditoriums till April 30 amid the surge in COVID-19 cases.Delhi on Saturday reported 24,103 new COVID-19 cases and 357 deaths, the highest single-day toll for the city since the outbreak of the pandemic. This is the third successive day the national capital has seen the highest daily fatalities due to coronavirus.The city now has 93,080 active cases. A Delhi Health Department bulletin said the total coronavirus cases count in the city has gone up to 10,04,782 and death toll has gone up to 13,898.The positivity rate in Delhi is 32.27 per cent and the case fatality rate is 1.38 per cent. A total of 22,695 patients also recovered from the disease taking the total number of recoveries to 897,805.

Lockdown in Delhi extended by a week amid COVID-19 spike

Kuwait's directorate general of civil aviation said early on Saturday in a tweet that it had suspended all direct commercial flights coming from India, effective April 24 and until further notice.

The move was on the instructions of health authorities after an evaluation of the global coronavirus status. All passengers arriving from India either directly or via another country will be banned from entering unless they have spent at least 14 days out of India, the statement said.

Kuwaiti citizens, their first-degree relatives and their domestic workers will be allowed to enter. Cargo is unaffected.

Kuwait is not the first country to impose travel restrictions on India. This past week Singapore health ministry also said that it will not allow entry to long-term visa holders and short-term visitors with recent&nbsp;travel&nbsp;history to&nbsp;India, which is battling a second wave of COVID-19 infections.

The government said&nbsp;travel&nbsp;restrictions&nbsp;with&nbsp;India&nbsp;will help curb potential cases in the dormitories because many of the labourers arrive from the South Asian nation.

On April 22, Australia has also announced that it will reduce the number of its citizens able to return from&nbsp;India&nbsp;and other red zone countries to contain the risk of more virulent strains of COVID-19, the government. These changes will affect direct flights from&nbsp;India&nbsp;to Sydney and chartered flights that land in the Northern Territory.

Indonesia has also stated that it will stop issuing visas for foreigners who have been in&nbsp;India&nbsp;in the past 14 days to prevent the spread of different coronavirus strains. Indonesians arriving from&nbsp;India&nbsp;will be allowed to enter, however, but must follow stricter health protocols and quarantine.

Kuwait's directorate general of civil aviation said early on Saturday in a tweet that it had suspended all direct commercial flights coming from India, effective April 24 and until further notice.

Kuwait's directorate general of civil aviation said early on Saturday in a tweet that it had suspended all direct commercial flights coming from India, effective April 24 and until further notice. The move was on the instructions of health authorities after an evaluation of the global coronavirus status. All passengers arriving from India either directly or via another country will be banned from entering unless they have spent at least 14 days out of India, the statement said. Kuwaiti citizens, their first-degree relatives and their domestic workers will be allowed to enter. Cargo is unaffected. Kuwait is not the first country to impose travel restrictions on India. This past week Singapore health ministry also said that it will not allow entry to long-term visa holders and short-term visitors with recent travel history to India, which is battling a second wave of COVID-19 infections. The government said travel restrictions with India will help curb potential cases in the dormitories because many of the labourers arrive from the South Asian nation. On April 22, Australia has also announced that it will reduce the number of its citizens able to return from India and other red zone countries to contain the risk of more virulent strains of COVID-19, the government. These changes will affect direct flights from India to Sydney and chartered flights that land in the Northern Territory. Indonesia has also stated that it will stop issuing visas for foreigners who have been in India in the past 14 days to prevent the spread of different coronavirus strains. Indonesians arriving from India will be allowed to enter, however, but must follow stricter health protocols and quarantine.

Following a rise in India's Covid numbers, Kuwait suspends commercial flights from India

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