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India is battling the deadly wave of the Coronavirus. The country is said to procure essential supplies from Remdevisir to oxygen from a host of other nations.

India to get Remdevisir, oxygen from other nations

A record single-day rise of 346,786 coronavirus cases pushed India's tally of infection to 16,610,481, while active cases crossed the 25-lakh mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday.

The death toll rose to 189,544 with a record 2,624 more fatalities in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed. 
With a steady increase, active cases in the country reached 25,52,940 and comprise 15.37 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 83.49 per cent.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease rose to 13,867,997, while the case fatality rate has dropped to 1.14 per cent, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2 million&nbsp;mark on August 7, 3 million&nbsp;on August 23 last year, 4 million&nbsp;on September 5 and 5 million&nbsp;on September 16. It went past 6 million&nbsp;on September 28, 7 million&nbsp;on October 11, crossed 8 million&nbsp;on October 29, 9 million&nbsp;on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

India crossed the grim milestone of a total of 1.5 million&nbsp;COVID-19 on April 19 this year.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 27,61,99,222 samples have been tested for COVID-19 till April 23 with 1753,569 of them being examined on Friday.

A record single-day rise of 346,786 coronavirus cases pushed India's tally of infection to 16,610,481, while active cases crossed the 25-lakh mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday.

A record single-day rise of 346,786 coronavirus cases pushed India's tally of infection to 16,610,481, while active cases crossed the 25-lakh mark, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday. The death toll rose to 189,544 with a record 2,624 more fatalities in a day, the data updated at 8 am showed. With a steady increase, active cases in the country reached 25,52,940 and comprise 15.37 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 83.49 per cent. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease rose to 13,867,997, while the case fatality rate has dropped to 1.14 per cent, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 2 million mark on August 7, 3 million on August 23 last year, 4 million on September 5 and 5 million on September 16. It went past 6 million on September 28, 7 million on October 11, crossed 8 million on October 29, 9 million on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. India crossed the grim milestone of a total of 1.5 million COVID-19 on April 19 this year. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 27,61,99,222 samples have been tested for COVID-19 till April 23 with 1753,569 of them being examined on Friday.

India witnesses record 346,786 COVID-19 cases, 2,624 deaths in a day

People are dying across the world because they are not being vaccinated against COVID-19, they are not being tested and not being treated, World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Friday. 
 
He said he was concerned about the growing caseload in India. 
 
"The situation in India is a devastating reminder of what the virus can do," he told a virtual briefing in Geneva. 
Over one year into the Covid-19 pandemic, about 90 per cent of the world`s 105 countries surveyed still report disruptions to their essential health services, the World Health Organization (WHO) said.

Disruptions 
 
A recent WHO survey has found that about 66 per cent of countries continue to report health workforce-related reasons as the most common cause of service disruptions, and in nearly one-third of countries supply chains are also still disrupted, affecting the availability of essential medicines, diagnostics and the personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to safely and effectively provide care, Xinhua news agency reported on Friday. 
 
More than half of the countries surveyed reported service disruptions due to patients not seeking care, because of community mistrust and fears of becoming infected, while 43 per cent cited financial challenges as a major cause of disruption. 
 
Most extensively affected are the health services for mental, neurological and substance use disorders; neglected tropical diseases; tuberculosis; HIV and hepatitis B and C; cancer screening; and services for other non-communicable diseases, including hypertension and diabetes; family planning and contraception; urgent dental care; and malnutrition, according to the survey.

People are dying across the world because they are not being vaccinated against COVID-19, they are not being tested and not being treated, World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Friday.

People are dying across the world because they are not being vaccinated against COVID-19, they are not being tested and not being treated, World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Friday. He said he was concerned about the growing caseload in India. "The situation in India is a devastating reminder of what the virus can do," he told a virtual briefing in Geneva. Over one year into the Covid-19 pandemic, about 90 per cent of the world`s 105 countries surveyed still report disruptions to their essential health services, the World Health Organization (WHO) said. Disruptions A recent WHO survey has found that about 66 per cent of countries continue to report health workforce-related reasons as the most common cause of service disruptions, and in nearly one-third of countries supply chains are also still disrupted, affecting the availability of essential medicines, diagnostics and the personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to safely and effectively provide care, Xinhua news agency reported on Friday. More than half of the countries surveyed reported service disruptions due to patients not seeking care, because of community mistrust and fears of becoming infected, while 43 per cent cited financial challenges as a major cause of disruption. Most extensively affected are the health services for mental, neurological and substance use disorders; neglected tropical diseases; tuberculosis; HIV and hepatitis B and C; cancer screening; and services for other non-communicable diseases, including hypertension and diabetes; family planning and contraception; urgent dental care; and malnutrition, according to the survey.

India a 'devastating reminder' of damage COVID-19 can wreak, says WHO chief

At least eight people have died and 384 rescued after a glacier broke and triggered an avalanche close to the Indo-China border in the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Friday.

8 dead, 348 rescued after an avalanche hit Indian state of Uttarakhand

Indian pharmaceutical firm Zydus Cadila announced that it has received emergency use approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DGCI) for its antiviral drug Virafin.

India: New COVID drug gets regulator's nod

LIVERPOOL, England (Reuters) -Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes. Liverpool had opened the scoring at Anfield inside three minutes when Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark failed to clear a cross, allowing forward Mohamed Salah to control the ball and fire a left-footed half-volley into the roof of the net. But despite dominating the ball possession and making 22 attempts on goal, Liverpool failed to extend their advantage. Newcastle forward Callum Wilson had a strike ruled out for offside in the 90th minute but Steve Bruce`s side continued to pile on the pressure. They were rewarded in the 95th minute when Willock found the net for the third league match in a row with virtually the last kick of the match. "We pushed hard in the second half. Apart from the sloppy goal we gave away, I thought the boys did really well," Willock, who is on loan from Arsenal, told BT Sport. "Hopefully, it is more the performance we need to keep up. I don`t feel like we were showing what we can earlier. What we are showing now is brilliant, and if we continue like that we will be safe for sure." The result left Liverpool in sixth place, one point behind both top-four rivals West Ham United and Chelsea who meet at the London Stadium later in the day. Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara said the team must show hunger to deserve a place in next season`s Champions League. "We have no words to explain the disappointment we have," he said. "We had a lot of chances to win in the first half. "It doesn`t change that we want to win and want to be in the Champions League but for that we have to deserve to be there." Newcastle stay 15th in the table but they are now nine points clear of the relegation zone. (Reporting by Hardik Vyas in Bengaluru; Editing by Hugh Lawson)

LIVERPOOL, England (Reuters) -Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes.

LIVERPOOL, England (Reuters) -Newcastle United substitute Joe Willock equalised in the dying seconds of stoppage time to earn his side a precious point in a 1-1 draw away at Liverpool on Saturday that dented the home side`s Champions League qualification hopes. Liverpool had opened the scoring at Anfield inside three minutes when Newcastle defender Ciaran Clark failed to clear a cross, allowing forward Mohamed Salah to control the ball and fire a left-footed half-volley into the roof of the net. But despite dominating the ball possession and making 22 attempts on goal, Liverpool failed to extend their advantage. Newcastle forward Callum Wilson had a strike ruled out for offside in the 90th minute but Steve Bruce`s side continued to pile on the pressure. They were rewarded in the 95th minute when Willock found the net for the third league match in a row with virtually the last kick of the match. "We pushed hard in the second half. Apart from the sloppy goal we gave away, I thought the boys did really well," Willock, who is on loan from Arsenal, told BT Sport. "Hopefully, it is more the performance we need to keep up. I don`t feel like we were showing what we can earlier. What we are showing now is brilliant, and if we continue like that we will be safe for sure." The result left Liverpool in sixth place, one point behind both top-four rivals West Ham United and Chelsea who meet at the London Stadium later in the day. Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara said the team must show hunger to deserve a place in next season`s Champions League. "We have no words to explain the disappointment we have," he said. "We had a lot of chances to win in the first half. "It doesn`t change that we want to win and want to be in the Champions League but for that we have to deserve to be there." Newcastle stay 15th in the table but they are now nine points clear of the relegation zone. (Reporting by Hardik Vyas in Bengaluru; Editing by Hugh Lawson)

Soccer-Late Willock strike earns Newcastle 1-1 draw against wasteful Liverpool

Foreseeing higher demand for medical oxygen, as active COVID-19 cases in the state near the 100,000 mark, the Tamil Nadu government is gearing up to meet the requirements.

The state government has said that oxygen manufacturing industries have been instructed to explore methods to increase production.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/four-month-pregnant-nurse-earns-praise-for-helping-covid-patients-379880" hreflang="en">Four month pregnant nurse earns praise for helping Covid patients</a>

To ensure smooth logistics, tankers carrying medical oxygen would be provided a Green Corridor along with Police Patrol, as necessary.

Authorities also emphasised the round-the-clock helpline number ’104’, which hospitals/nursing homes can dial when faced with a shortage of medical oxygen. This helpline is established under the State Drug Controller.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indian-air-force-transports-four-cryogenic-oxygen-containers-from-singapore-379855" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Indian Air Force transports four cryogenic oxygen containers from Singapore</a>

As the shortage of medical oxygen is affecting the treatment being offered to patients and hindering the smooth functioning of hospitals in several parts of the country, India is importing medical oxygen and related equipment for friendly foreign countries.

Amid the shortfall, the Vedanta-owned Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin has also made an offer of providing 1050 tonnes of medical oxygen.&nbsp;

Following a state government order and litigation the Apex court, the Sterlite Copper Smelter has been sealed and the decision on granting permission for oxygen production is being deliberated in the court. Experts believe it would take a little over a week for the plant to be ready for functioning and start oxygen production.&nbsp;

Foreseeing higher demand for medical oxygen, as active COVID-19 cases in the state near the 100,000 mark, the Tamil Nadu government is gearing up to meet the requirements.

Foreseeing higher demand for medical oxygen, as active COVID-19 cases in the state near the 100,000 mark, the Tamil Nadu government is gearing up to meet the requirements. The state government has said that oxygen manufacturing industries have been instructed to explore methods to increase production. Also read | Four month pregnant nurse earns praise for helping Covid patients To ensure smooth logistics, tankers carrying medical oxygen would be provided a Green Corridor along with Police Patrol, as necessary. Authorities also emphasised the round-the-clock helpline number ’104’, which hospitals/nursing homes can dial when faced with a shortage of medical oxygen. This helpline is established under the State Drug Controller. Also read | COVID-19: Indian Air Force transports four cryogenic oxygen containers from Singapore As the shortage of medical oxygen is affecting the treatment being offered to patients and hindering the smooth functioning of hospitals in several parts of the country, India is importing medical oxygen and related equipment for friendly foreign countries. Amid the shortfall, the Vedanta-owned Sterlite Copper Smelter Plant in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin has also made an offer of providing 1050 tonnes of medical oxygen. Following a state government order and litigation the Apex court, the Sterlite Copper Smelter has been sealed and the decision on granting permission for oxygen production is being deliberated in the court. Experts believe it would take a little over a week for the plant to be ready for functioning and start oxygen production.

TN govt to hospitals: Dial 104 for help, when in need of medical oxygen

Kuwait and Iran restricted flights and passengers from India until further notice after the south Asian giant recorded its highest daily Covid death toll and some hospitals ran out of oxygen.

The region's busiest international air hub, the United Arab Emirates, had already announced on Thursday that it would suspend flights to and from India from Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Germany restricts travel from 'high-risk' India">Germany restricts travel from 'high-risk' India</a>

"In view of the health situation, it has been decided to suspend direct commercial air links with India until further notice," the Kuwaiti government tweeted late Friday.

It said Kuwait residents would only be allowed to return to the emirate via third countries if they stopped over for at least 14 days.

Expatriate workers make up some 70 percent of Kuwait's population and include hundreds of thousands of Indians.

The Iranian authorities said on Saturday that they were suspending air arrivals from India and Pakistan.

"Flights to and from the two countries of India and Pakistan will be banned" from midnight, aviation authority spokesman Mohammad Hassan Zibakhsh said, quoted by state news agency IRNA.

"There are no scheduled flights between Iran and India. Nevertheless, accepting connecting passengers from the noted countries will be banned."

As the clock ticked down to the shutdown of the air corridor between India and the UAE -- one of the world's busiest -- fares soared as Indians who could afford it scrambled to escape the Covid surge.

Price comparison websites showed one-way commercial flights from Mumbai to Dubai on Friday and Saturday costing as much as 80,000 rupees ($1,000) -- around 10 times the usual rate.

No tickets were on offer from Sunday when the 10-day flight suspension comes into force.

The UAE is home to roughly 3.3 million Indians who make up a third of the population -- most of them in Dubai.

Beyond the Gulf, Canada suspended flights from both India and Pakistan for 30 days, while the US State Department urged Americans to avoid travel to India, even if they are vaccinated.

Concern has focussed on one new strain of the virus in particular that has spread rapidly in India and has already been detected in Europe.

Iran said later that it was also suspending flights and passengers from India over the health crisis.

Kuwait and Iran restricted flights and passengers from India until further notice after the south Asian giant recorded its highest daily Covid death toll and some hospitals ran out of oxygen.

Kuwait and Iran restricted flights and passengers from India until further notice after the south Asian giant recorded its highest daily Covid death toll and some hospitals ran out of oxygen. The region's busiest international air hub, the United Arab Emirates, had already announced on Thursday that it would suspend flights to and from India from Sunday. Also read: Germany restricts travel from 'high-risk' India "In view of the health situation, it has been decided to suspend direct commercial air links with India until further notice," the Kuwaiti government tweeted late Friday. It said Kuwait residents would only be allowed to return to the emirate via third countries if they stopped over for at least 14 days. Expatriate workers make up some 70 percent of Kuwait's population and include hundreds of thousands of Indians. The Iranian authorities said on Saturday that they were suspending air arrivals from India and Pakistan. "Flights to and from the two countries of India and Pakistan will be banned" from midnight, aviation authority spokesman Mohammad Hassan Zibakhsh said, quoted by state news agency IRNA. "There are no scheduled flights between Iran and India. Nevertheless, accepting connecting passengers from the noted countries will be banned." As the clock ticked down to the shutdown of the air corridor between India and the UAE -- one of the world's busiest -- fares soared as Indians who could afford it scrambled to escape the Covid surge. Price comparison websites showed one-way commercial flights from Mumbai to Dubai on Friday and Saturday costing as much as 80,000 rupees ($1,000) -- around 10 times the usual rate. No tickets were on offer from Sunday when the 10-day flight suspension comes into force. The UAE is home to roughly 3.3 million Indians who make up a third of the population -- most of them in Dubai. Beyond the Gulf, Canada suspended flights from both India and Pakistan for 30 days, while the US State Department urged Americans to avoid travel to India, even if they are vaccinated. Concern has focussed on one new strain of the virus in particular that has spread rapidly in India and has already been detected in Europe. Iran said later that it was also suspending flights and passengers from India over the health crisis.

Kuwait, Iran restrict India flights over Covid

Helping someone in this tough time of this coronavirus pandemic is a morally correct thing to do, and a nurse in India has kept aside all personal inconvenience to help people in need.

A four-month pregnant nurse has come out as a mark of selflessness as she is dedicating her time to the patients suffering from the deadly coronavirus.

Nancy Ayeza Mistry is in the fourth month of her pregnancy and has been observing fasts for the holy month of Ramadan.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-indian-air-force-transports-four-cryogenic-oxygen-containers-from-singapore-379855" hreflang="en">COVID-19: Indian Air Force transports four cryogenic oxygen containers from Singapore</a>

"I have a child in my womb, but my duty is important to me. By the grace of God, I have the opportunity to serve the patients in the holy month of Ramadan," she told India Today.

Irrespective of her pain and the risk she faces, Mistry has been working her daily hospital shifts without any hesitation and efficiently.

Her service has gained her blessings and praise as people are thanking her for taking care of people at a time when the country is struggling with an alarming surge of coronavirus.

Helping someone in this tough time of this coronavirus pandemic is a morally correct thing to do, and a nurse in India has kept aside all personal inconvenience to help people in need.

Helping someone in this tough time of this coronavirus pandemic is a morally correct thing to do, and a nurse in India has kept aside all personal inconvenience to help people in need. A four-month pregnant nurse has come out as a mark of selflessness as she is dedicating her time to the patients suffering from the deadly coronavirus. Nancy Ayeza Mistry is in the fourth month of her pregnancy and has been observing fasts for the holy month of Ramadan. Also read | COVID-19: Indian Air Force transports four cryogenic oxygen containers from Singapore "I have a child in my womb, but my duty is important to me. By the grace of God, I have the opportunity to serve the patients in the holy month of Ramadan," she told India Today. Irrespective of her pain and the risk she faces, Mistry has been working her daily hospital shifts without any hesitation and efficiently. Her service has gained her blessings and praise as people are thanking her for taking care of people at a time when the country is struggling with an alarming surge of coronavirus.

Four month pregnant nurse earns praise for helping Covid patients

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday expressed solidarity with the people of India battling the deadly wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying, "We must fight this global challenge confronting humanity together".&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, according to the data.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Khan said: "Our prayers for a speedy recovery go to all those suffering from the pandemic in our neighbourhood and the world".&nbsp;

"I want to express our solidarity with the people of India as they battle a dangerous wave of COVID-19. We must fight this global challenge confronting humanity together," he said on Twitter.&nbsp;

His tweet came after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed support to the people of India in the wake of a massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the country and extended his sympathies to the affected families.&nbsp;

Qureshi said the COVID-19 crisis is yet another reminder that humanitarian issues require responses beyond political consideration.&nbsp;

"We express our support to the people of India in the wake of the current wave of #COVID19 infections that has hit our region hard. On behalf of the people of Pakistan, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to the affected families in #India," Qureshi tweeted.&nbsp;

Pakistan continues to work with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries to foster cooperation to tackle the pandemic, he said.&nbsp;

Pakistan has reported 157 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours, the highest since last year, while the new number of cases recorded were 5,908, the health ministry said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry also expressed similar sentiments for the people of India.&nbsp;

"In these difficult times our prayers are with people of #India may God be kind and may these difficult times get over soon. #coronavirus," he tweeted.&nbsp;

The tweets from the Pakistani leaders came amidst some signs of rapprochement in the relations between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday expressed solidarity with the people of India battling the deadly wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying, "We must fight this global challenge confronting humanity together".

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday expressed solidarity with the people of India battling the deadly wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying, "We must fight this global challenge confronting humanity together". 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, according to the data. In a tweet, Khan said: "Our prayers for a speedy recovery go to all those suffering from the pandemic in our neighbourhood and the world". "I want to express our solidarity with the people of India as they battle a dangerous wave of COVID-19. We must fight this global challenge confronting humanity together," he said on Twitter. His tweet came after Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed support to the people of India in the wake of a massive surge in COVID-19 cases in the country and extended his sympathies to the affected families. Qureshi said the COVID-19 crisis is yet another reminder that humanitarian issues require responses beyond political consideration. "We express our support to the people of India in the wake of the current wave of #COVID19 infections that has hit our region hard. On behalf of the people of Pakistan, I extend our heartfelt sympathies to the affected families in #India," Qureshi tweeted. Pakistan continues to work with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries to foster cooperation to tackle the pandemic, he said. Pakistan has reported 157 coronavirus deaths in the last 24 hours, the highest since last year, while the new number of cases recorded were 5,908, the health ministry said on Saturday. Pakistan's Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry also expressed similar sentiments for the people of India. "In these difficult times our prayers are with people of #India may God be kind and may these difficult times get over soon. #coronavirus," he tweeted. The tweets from the Pakistani leaders came amidst some signs of rapprochement in the relations between India and Pakistan over the Kashmir issue. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan PM expresses solidarity with India over COVID-19 crisis  

French energy group EDF on Friday said it had filed a binding offer to help build the world's biggest nuclear power plant in India. The project has been blocked for years by nuclear events and local opposition. The binding agreement is about supply of engineeering studies and equipment to build six, third-generation EPR reactors in Jaitapur, western India.

Once finished, the facility would provide 10 gigawatts (GW) of electricity, roughly enough for 70 million households.

Construction is expected to take 15 years, but the site should be able to start generating electricity before its completion.

Finalisation of the contract was expected "in the coming months", an EDF statement said.

EDF, which is in exclusive talks with Indian officials, would not build the power plant itself, but would provide the nuclear reactors in a deal that includes US partner GE Steam Power.

The state-owned PSU Nuclear Power Corporation of India controls the national nuclear energy sector, and the EDF offer was submitted to the country's nuclear operator NPCIL.

Although no financial details have been released, the contract is estimated to be worth in the tens of billions of euros (dollars).

It faced opposition however from local inhabitants since the idea was first floated around 20 years ago, and was delayed after the 2011 nuclear disaster in Fukushima, Japan.&nbsp;

But Xavier Ursat, head of EDF's nuclear division, told AFP that the company estimates that the site's&nbsp; 
"geological conditions are excellent and fully comparable to what we find in a country such as France."

India already has several agreements for exchange of nuclear technologies and expertise with countries like US, France, Russia and Japan.

Russia –- India's traditional ally -– supplies nuclear fuel and has built reactors in the country, for example.

At present, there are 22 functioning nuclear reactors in India, most of them pressurized heavy water reactors, providing about three percent of the country's power.

(With inputs from agencies)

French energy group EDF on Friday said it had filed a binding offer to help build the world's biggest nuclear power plant in India. The project has been blocked for years by nuclear events and local opposition.

French energy group EDF on Friday said it had filed a binding offer to help build the world's biggest nuclear power plant in India. The project has been blocked for years by nuclear events and local opposition. The binding agreement is about supply of engineeering studies and equipment to build six, third-generation EPR reactors in Jaitapur, western India. Once finished, the facility would provide 10 gigawatts (GW) of electricity, roughly enough for 70 million households. Construction is expected to take 15 years, but the site should be able to start generating electricity before its completion. Finalisation of the contract was expected "in the coming months", an EDF statement said. EDF, which is in exclusive talks with Indian officials, would not build the power plant itself, but would provide the nuclear reactors in a deal that includes US partner GE Steam Power. The state-owned PSU Nuclear Power Corporation of India controls the national nuclear energy sector, and the EDF offer was submitted to the country's nuclear operator NPCIL. Although no financial details have been released, the contract is estimated to be worth in the tens of billions of euros (dollars). It faced opposition however from local inhabitants since the idea was first floated around 20 years ago, and was delayed after the 2011 nuclear disaster in Fukushima, Japan. But Xavier Ursat, head of EDF's nuclear division, told AFP that the company estimates that the site's "geological conditions are excellent and fully comparable to what we find in a country such as France." India already has several agreements for exchange of nuclear technologies and expertise with countries like US, France, Russia and Japan. Russia –- India's traditional ally -– supplies nuclear fuel and has built reactors in the country, for example. At present, there are 22 functioning nuclear reactors in India, most of them pressurized heavy water reactors, providing about three percent of the country's power. (With inputs from agencies)

India one step closer to building world's biggest nuclear plant: EDF

At least eight people died and 384 were rescued after a glacier broke triggering an avalanche close to the Indo-China border in the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Friday, a government official said. 
 
"Eight bodies have been recovered. Rescue operations are in progress," a defence ministry official told reporters on Saturday, adding that six of those rescued were in critical condition. 
 
The road access was cut off at 4-5 locations due to multiple landslides, after an avalanche struck in Uttarakhand`s Chamoli district on Friday evening, the official said. 
 
A state official also confirmed that at least 8 persons had died and more than 300 were rescued by the army personnel. 
 
Efforts are being made to revive communication network as roads are closed due to heavy snowfall, Tirath Singh Rawat, chief minister of the state said in a Tweet after an aerial survey of the area. 
 
A glacier breaking up and landslides in the state in February resulted in a flash flood that left more than 200 dead and swept away two state hydro-electric projects.

At least eight people died and 384 were rescued after a glacier broke triggering an avalanche close to the Indo-China border in the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Friday, a government official said.

At least eight people died and 384 were rescued after a glacier broke triggering an avalanche close to the Indo-China border in the Indian state of Uttarakhand on Friday, a government official said. "Eight bodies have been recovered. Rescue operations are in progress," a defence ministry official told reporters on Saturday, adding that six of those rescued were in critical condition. The road access was cut off at 4-5 locations due to multiple landslides, after an avalanche struck in Uttarakhand`s Chamoli district on Friday evening, the official said. A state official also confirmed that at least 8 persons had died and more than 300 were rescued by the army personnel. Efforts are being made to revive communication network as roads are closed due to heavy snowfall, Tirath Singh Rawat, chief minister of the state said in a Tweet after an aerial survey of the area. A glacier breaking up and landslides in the state in February resulted in a flash flood that left more than 200 dead and swept away two state hydro-electric projects.

Uttarakhand: At least 8 dead in glacier avalanche

Indian Navy on Thursday pitched in to locate the missing Indonesian submarine KRI Nanggala-402. The submarine went missing on Wednesday, 60 miles off the coast of Bali with 53 people on board.

Indian Navy has sent its Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV), which departed from Visakhapatnam to support the Indonesian Navy in search and rescue efforts for KRI Nanggala.

Equipped with the latest technology and capabilities, DSRV has a Side Scan Sonar to locate the position of any submarine in distress. It can provide immediate relief by posting Emergency Life Support Containers with the help of Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).

Indian Defence ‌Minister Rajnath Singh held a telephonic conversation with his Indonesian counterpart Gen Prabowo Subianto.

&nbsp;“I am extremely pained to hear about the missing Indonesian Submarine Nanggala with 53 crew on board. As a well wisher and a defence Minister myself I can feel the pain and anguish. At this point I would like to extend the full support of the Indian Armed Forces to the Indonesian Rescue effort,” Singh said, according to a release from the Indian Navy.

“I have also tasked the Indian Air Force to see the feasibility of induction of the DSRV intervention system by air. India is committed to assist our strategic partners during times of necessity. Please accept my concern and best wishes to a successful rescue,” he said.

Gen Subianto acknowledged and appreciated India’s support to Indonesia, the release said.

India is among the few countries in the world capable of undertaking Search and Rescue of a disabled submarine through a DSRV, the Navy release said.

Indian Navy’s DSRV system can locate a submarine upto 1,000 metre depth utilising its state-of-the art Side Scan Sonar (SSS) and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). After the submarine is successfully located, another sub module of DSRV- the Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) - mates with the submarine to rescue the trapped personnel. The SRV can also be used to provide emergency supplies to the submarine.

Indian Navy and Indonesian Navy share a strong partnership of operational cooperation. The two navies have been exercising regularly in the past and have developed synergy and interoperability which is considered important for the present mission.

The Indian effort comes even as both countries have been engaging on several fronts from defence to maritime collaboration.&nbsp;

Indian Navy has been providing support in the region in several ways, including by providing medicine, food supplies amid the Covid pandemic. Under its Sagar missions 1, 2 and 3, it reached out to more than 10 countries in the Indian Ocean region, Africa and ASEAN with supplies to deal with the Covid crisis.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, other countries in the region, namely Singapore and Malaysia, have dispatched vessels to support Indonesia.&nbsp;

Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen in a statement said, "The Republic of Singapore Navy’s MV Swift Rescue – our submarine rescue vessel – was dispatched expeditiously...as fast as she could get ready after our navy chief received a request for assistance from his Indonesian counterpart."

Indian Navy on Thursday pitched in to locate the missing Indonesian submarine KRI Nanggala-402. The submarine went missing on Wednesday, 60 miles off the coast of Bali with 53 people on board.

Indian Navy on Thursday pitched in to locate the missing Indonesian submarine KRI Nanggala-402. The submarine went missing on Wednesday, 60 miles off the coast of Bali with 53 people on board. Indian Navy has sent its Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV), which departed from Visakhapatnam to support the Indonesian Navy in search and rescue efforts for KRI Nanggala. Equipped with the latest technology and capabilities, DSRV has a Side Scan Sonar to locate the position of any submarine in distress. It can provide immediate relief by posting Emergency Life Support Containers with the help of Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Indian Defence ‌Minister Rajnath Singh held a telephonic conversation with his Indonesian counterpart Gen Prabowo Subianto. “I am extremely pained to hear about the missing Indonesian Submarine Nanggala with 53 crew on board. As a well wisher and a defence Minister myself I can feel the pain and anguish. At this point I would like to extend the full support of the Indian Armed Forces to the Indonesian Rescue effort,” Singh said, according to a release from the Indian Navy. “I have also tasked the Indian Air Force to see the feasibility of induction of the DSRV intervention system by air. India is committed to assist our strategic partners during times of necessity. Please accept my concern and best wishes to a successful rescue,” he said. Gen Subianto acknowledged and appreciated India’s support to Indonesia, the release said. India is among the few countries in the world capable of undertaking Search and Rescue of a disabled submarine through a DSRV, the Navy release said. Indian Navy’s DSRV system can locate a submarine upto 1,000 metre depth utilising its state-of-the art Side Scan Sonar (SSS) and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). After the submarine is successfully located, another sub module of DSRV- the Submarine Rescue Vehicle (SRV) - mates with the submarine to rescue the trapped personnel. The SRV can also be used to provide emergency supplies to the submarine. Indian Navy and Indonesian Navy share a strong partnership of operational cooperation. The two navies have been exercising regularly in the past and have developed synergy and interoperability which is considered important for the present mission. The Indian effort comes even as both countries have been engaging on several fronts from defence to maritime collaboration. Indian Navy has been providing support in the region in several ways, including by providing medicine, food supplies amid the Covid pandemic. Under its Sagar missions 1, 2 and 3, it reached out to more than 10 countries in the Indian Ocean region, Africa and ASEAN with supplies to deal with the Covid crisis. Meanwhile, other countries in the region, namely Singapore and Malaysia, have dispatched vessels to support Indonesia. Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen in a statement said, "The Republic of Singapore Navy’s MV Swift Rescue – our submarine rescue vessel – was dispatched expeditiously...as fast as she could get ready after our navy chief received a request for assistance from his Indonesian counterpart."

Indian Navy pitches in to find missing Indonesian submarine

All of the Indian Navy's personnel have got the first dose of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus&nbsp;vaccine</a>, according to Navy officials.

The second dose of vaccine has been given to 70 per cent of personnel with progress being made rapidly. "Almost 100 per cent of Indian Navy personnel have got the first covid doses," Officials speaking to WION said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-world-struggle-with-covid-19-infections-and-concerns-are-endless-379345" hreflang="en">India, world struggle with COVID-19 infections and concerns are endless</a>

The focus has been to vaccinate navy personnel's depends, ex-service, defense civilians, and their families. So far vaccination centers of the navy across the country have vaccinated around 10,000 of the listed groups.

According to data shared by the defense ministry&nbsp;in the Indian Parliament earlier this year, 3,604 covid cases were reported in the navy. The force has reported two deaths due to covid — the lowest among the three services.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cumulative-vaccination-in-india-crosses-130-million-mark-379113" hreflang="en">Cumulative vaccination in India crosses 130 million mark</a>

Amid the second wave of the pandemic, the navy has identified spare capacity which will be extended to civil authorities. Navy medical personnel are already providing services at covid hospitals in New Delhi, Patna, and Muzzafarpur.&nbsp;

Navy ships and assets remain on standby to supply essentials such as medicines and oxygen to islands territories.

Last year, amid the first wave, navy establishments provided quarantine facilities. Not only domestically, but under its Mission Sagar 1,2&nbsp; and 3, the navy sent medicines, food, and other essential supplies to over 10 countries in the Indian Ocean region, Africa, and ASEAN to deal with the covid crisis.

All of the Indian Navy's personnel have got the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine, according to Navy officials. The second dose of vaccine has been given to 70 per cent of personnel with progress being made rapidly.

All of the Indian Navy's personnel have got the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine, according to Navy officials. The second dose of vaccine has been given to 70 per cent of personnel with progress being made rapidly. "Almost 100 per cent of Indian Navy personnel have got the first covid doses," Officials speaking to WION said. Also read | India, world struggle with COVID-19 infections and concerns are endless The focus has been to vaccinate navy personnel's depends, ex-service, defense civilians, and their families. So far vaccination centers of the navy across the country have vaccinated around 10,000 of the listed groups. According to data shared by the defense ministry in the Indian Parliament earlier this year, 3,604 covid cases were reported in the navy. The force has reported two deaths due to covid — the lowest among the three services. Also read | Cumulative vaccination in India crosses 130 million mark Amid the second wave of the pandemic, the navy has identified spare capacity which will be extended to civil authorities. Navy medical personnel are already providing services at covid hospitals in New Delhi, Patna, and Muzzafarpur. Navy ships and assets remain on standby to supply essentials such as medicines and oxygen to islands territories. Last year, amid the first wave, navy establishments provided quarantine facilities. Not only domestically, but under its Mission Sagar 1,2 and 3, the navy sent medicines, food, and other essential supplies to over 10 countries in the Indian Ocean region, Africa, and ASEAN to deal with the covid crisis.

First dose of covid vaccine given to all navy personnel: Officials

At least 13 COVID-19 patients have so far been killed in Maharashtra after a fire that broke in a hospital located near Mumbai. The fire broke out inside the ICU ward of the hospital, where 17 patients were admitted.

India: 13 COVID-19 patients die as fire breaks out at Maharashtra hospital

French energy major EDF on Friday said it has submitted a binding techno-commercial offer to build six pressurised water reactors at Maharashtra's Jaitapur to Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL).

The energy major termed this as a major milestone, which will enable discussions aimed at converging towards a binding framework agreement in the coming months.

The offer is the culmination of the work carried out jointly with NPCIL further to the signature of the Industrial Way Forward Agreement on March 10, 2018, which was followed by a non-binding offer submitted later in the same year, a statement said.

"This key milestone has been achieved thanks to the trust-based relationship built over time with our Indian partner, and the excellent collaboration and continuous efforts of the EDF and NPCIL teams," EDF Group's chairman and chief executive Jean Bernard Levy said.

He called it a step towards the materialization of the flagship project, and the establishment of a long-term partnership in the civil nuclear field between both our leading nuclear industries.

The binding offer was submitted on Thursday, and includes the detailed technical configuration of the reactors, taking into account the information provided by NPCIL on the Jaitapur site conditions and the joint comprehensive work performed by EDF and NPCIL, and the comprehensive commercial terms and conditions for the supply of engineering studies and equipment for the six EPR reactors.

The statement from the French company said the offer is based on the complementary skills of EDF and NPCIL, and aims to build a long-term partnership between the French and Indian nuclear industries.

The main principles for the offer involves EDF providing the EPR technology, which includes getting the know-how from its subsidiary Framatome for engineering studies and supply for six nuclear steam supply systems and partners with its historical partner GE Steam Power for the supply of the engineering studies and equipment of the six conventional islands, the statement said.

EDF has also guaranteed the performance of each of the six EPR units under specific conditions and for a predefined period of time and will also offer training services for NPCIL's future operating teams, the statement said, making it clear that the French company is neither an investor in the project nor in charge of the construction.

The second principle of the offer includes NPCIL being responsible for the construction and the commissioning of each of the six units of the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant, as well as for obtaining all necessary permits and consents in India, including the certification of the EPR technology by the Indian safety regulator, as the owner and future operator of the plant.

During the construction phase, NPCIL may benefit from EDF and its partners' assistance, notably regarding the sharing of other EPR project-related lessons learned, it added.

In order to promote Indian interests, EDF will be identifying Indian companies that can act as suppliers for the project, it said, adding that about 200 entities have already been pre-qualified.

It will also launch a pre-feasibility study, conducted by EDF, I2EN (International Institute of Nuclear Energy) and VJTI (Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute), for the establishment of a centre of excellence in India aiming to train engineers and technicians, and to support the development of the necessary set of skills for the project.

The six reactors will create 25,000 jobs during the construction phase and 2,700 permanent jobs, it said, adding that the French industry will also be benefited during the 15 year long project.&nbsp;

French energy major EDF on Friday said it has submitted a binding techno-commercial offer to build six pressurised water reactors at Maharashtra's Jaitapur to Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL).

French energy major EDF on Friday said it has submitted a binding techno-commercial offer to build six pressurised water reactors at Maharashtra's Jaitapur to Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL). The energy major termed this as a major milestone, which will enable discussions aimed at converging towards a binding framework agreement in the coming months. The offer is the culmination of the work carried out jointly with NPCIL further to the signature of the Industrial Way Forward Agreement on March 10, 2018, which was followed by a non-binding offer submitted later in the same year, a statement said. "This key milestone has been achieved thanks to the trust-based relationship built over time with our Indian partner, and the excellent collaboration and continuous efforts of the EDF and NPCIL teams," EDF Group's chairman and chief executive Jean Bernard Levy said. He called it a step towards the materialization of the flagship project, and the establishment of a long-term partnership in the civil nuclear field between both our leading nuclear industries. The binding offer was submitted on Thursday, and includes the detailed technical configuration of the reactors, taking into account the information provided by NPCIL on the Jaitapur site conditions and the joint comprehensive work performed by EDF and NPCIL, and the comprehensive commercial terms and conditions for the supply of engineering studies and equipment for the six EPR reactors. The statement from the French company said the offer is based on the complementary skills of EDF and NPCIL, and aims to build a long-term partnership between the French and Indian nuclear industries. The main principles for the offer involves EDF providing the EPR technology, which includes getting the know-how from its subsidiary Framatome for engineering studies and supply for six nuclear steam supply systems and partners with its historical partner GE Steam Power for the supply of the engineering studies and equipment of the six conventional islands, the statement said. EDF has also guaranteed the performance of each of the six EPR units under specific conditions and for a predefined period of time and will also offer training services for NPCIL's future operating teams, the statement said, making it clear that the French company is neither an investor in the project nor in charge of the construction. The second principle of the offer includes NPCIL being responsible for the construction and the commissioning of each of the six units of the Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant, as well as for obtaining all necessary permits and consents in India, including the certification of the EPR technology by the Indian safety regulator, as the owner and future operator of the plant. During the construction phase, NPCIL may benefit from EDF and its partners' assistance, notably regarding the sharing of other EPR project-related lessons learned, it added. In order to promote Indian interests, EDF will be identifying Indian companies that can act as suppliers for the project, it said, adding that about 200 entities have already been pre-qualified. It will also launch a pre-feasibility study, conducted by EDF, I2EN (International Institute of Nuclear Energy) and VJTI (Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute), for the establishment of a centre of excellence in India aiming to train engineers and technicians, and to support the development of the necessary set of skills for the project. The six reactors will create 25,000 jobs during the construction phase and 2,700 permanent jobs, it said, adding that the French industry will also be benefited during the 15 year long project.

India: French energy giant submits binding techno-commercial offer to build six nuclear reactors

Amidst of battling second wave of Coronavirus Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair three high-levels meeting today to take stock of COVID-19 situation in the country.

Indian PM Modi to chair 3 high-level meetings today on COVID-19 situation

Hospitals across India are reporting shortage of oxygen cylinders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high level meeting in order to review oxygen crisis across the country and discussed ways to boost availability.

Indian PM Modi chairs high-level meeting amid oxygen crisis

By Alan Baldwin LONDON (Reuters) - Red Bull have hired Ben Hodgkinson from Formula One rivals Mercedes as technical director of their own engine company, the team said on Friday. Hodgkinson is head of mechanical engineering at Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP), the company whose engines have dominated Formula One since the start of the V6 turbo hybrid era in 2014. Red Bull said Hodgkinson would be "heading up all technical aspects with a key focus on developing Red Bull’s inaugural power unit, to comply with the new Formula One regulations currently planned for 2025." No starting date was given. Mercedes, the team of seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton, have won the last seven drivers` and constructors` titles. Red Bull, with Dutch youngster Max Verstappen tipped as Hamilton`s likely successor as champion, appear to have closed the gap and are pushing hard this season for a first championship since they dominated from 2010-13. Hamilton and Verstappen are separated by just one point after two races. Red Bull announced in February they had formed a powertrain company to build engines using technology from partners Honda, who are leaving the sport at the end of this year. The agreement with Honda covers the duration of a Formula One engine `freeze`, which will run until the sport introduces a new power unit in 2025 whose specification has yet to be finalised. Team boss Christian Horner has said the new facility at Milton Keynes will be "fully capable" of designing and operating the next generation of engines. "He comes to this hugely exciting project as a proven race winner and as an innovator capable of leading a like-minded team of highly skilled engineers," said Horner of Hodgkinson. "When Red Bull announced the creation of Red Bull Powertrains it was also announcing a new phase of the company’s ambition in Formula One -- to bring every aspect of car design in-house and to put our destiny in our own hands. "The ultimate expression of that is the development of a Red Bull power unit to meet the next generation of Formula One engine regulations. Ben’s appointment signals our long-term intent..." Hodgkinson said it had not been an easy decision to leave HPP after almost 20 years at Brixworth but he was excited by the challenge. "Red Bull is a serious player in Formula One and have been our biggest rival in the hybrid era, so I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together in this new phase of the company’s journey," he said. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Toby Davis)

By Alan Baldwin LONDON (Reuters) - Red Bull have hired Ben Hodgkinson from Formula One rivals Mercedes as technical director of their own engine company, the team said on Friday.

By Alan Baldwin LONDON (Reuters) - Red Bull have hired Ben Hodgkinson from Formula One rivals Mercedes as technical director of their own engine company, the team said on Friday. Hodgkinson is head of mechanical engineering at Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (HPP), the company whose engines have dominated Formula One since the start of the V6 turbo hybrid era in 2014. Red Bull said Hodgkinson would be "heading up all technical aspects with a key focus on developing Red Bull’s inaugural power unit, to comply with the new Formula One regulations currently planned for 2025." No starting date was given. Mercedes, the team of seven times world champion Lewis Hamilton, have won the last seven drivers` and constructors` titles. Red Bull, with Dutch youngster Max Verstappen tipped as Hamilton`s likely successor as champion, appear to have closed the gap and are pushing hard this season for a first championship since they dominated from 2010-13. Hamilton and Verstappen are separated by just one point after two races. Red Bull announced in February they had formed a powertrain company to build engines using technology from partners Honda, who are leaving the sport at the end of this year. The agreement with Honda covers the duration of a Formula One engine `freeze`, which will run until the sport introduces a new power unit in 2025 whose specification has yet to be finalised. Team boss Christian Horner has said the new facility at Milton Keynes will be "fully capable" of designing and operating the next generation of engines. "He comes to this hugely exciting project as a proven race winner and as an innovator capable of leading a like-minded team of highly skilled engineers," said Horner of Hodgkinson. "When Red Bull announced the creation of Red Bull Powertrains it was also announcing a new phase of the company’s ambition in Formula One -- to bring every aspect of car design in-house and to put our destiny in our own hands. "The ultimate expression of that is the development of a Red Bull power unit to meet the next generation of Formula One engine regulations. Ben’s appointment signals our long-term intent..." Hodgkinson said it had not been an easy decision to leave HPP after almost 20 years at Brixworth but he was excited by the challenge. "Red Bull is a serious player in Formula One and have been our biggest rival in the hybrid era, so I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together in this new phase of the company’s journey," he said. (Reporting by Alan Baldwin, editing by Toby Davis)

Motor racing-Red Bull hire Mercedes engine expert for own F1 project

Indian Air Force (IAF) has administered first dose of Covid vaccine to all of its personnel. In addition to this, 90 per cent of them have received second dose as well. The IAF has reported 8,159 coronavirus cases and 36 deaths.

Indian armed forces have always been at the forefront to help countrymen. The IAF has pitched in to supply oxygen containers to several parts of the country amid rising Covid cases. IAF's &nbsp;C-17 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted cryogenic oxygen containers from Air Force Station Hindon to Panagarh in West Bengal for refilling. Earlier, DRDO's oxygen containers were airlifted by IAF from Bengaluru for Covid centres in New Delhi.

Moreover, IAF has also brought doctors and nursing staff from Kochi, Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru to Delhi to set up DRDO Covid hospital. Even last year, during the first wave of the pandemic, the IAF had pitched in to supply essentials across the country.

In addition to IAF, Indian Navy has administered first dose of the vaccine to its personnel. In case of the Indian Army, the number is at 95 per cent currently.

Indian Air Force (IAF) has administered first dose of Covid vaccine to all of its personnel. In addition to this, 90 per cent of them have received second dose as well.

Indian Air Force (IAF) has administered first dose of Covid vaccine to all of its personnel. In addition to this, 90 per cent of them have received second dose as well. The IAF has reported 8,159 coronavirus cases and 36 deaths. Indian armed forces have always been at the forefront to help countrymen. The IAF has pitched in to supply oxygen containers to several parts of the country amid rising Covid cases. IAF's C-17 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted cryogenic oxygen containers from Air Force Station Hindon to Panagarh in West Bengal for refilling. Earlier, DRDO's oxygen containers were airlifted by IAF from Bengaluru for Covid centres in New Delhi. Moreover, IAF has also brought doctors and nursing staff from Kochi, Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru to Delhi to set up DRDO Covid hospital. Even last year, during the first wave of the pandemic, the IAF had pitched in to supply essentials across the country. In addition to IAF, Indian Navy has administered first dose of the vaccine to its personnel. In case of the Indian Army, the number is at 95 per cent currently.

Indian Air Force administers first dose of Covid vaccine to all personnel 

India's Cadila Healthcare Ltd has received restricted emergency use approval from local regulators to use a Hepatitis C drug as a treatment for moderate COVID-19 in adults, the drugmaker said on Friday.

The approval follows promising results from a late-stage study of the drug and comes in the middle of a massive wave of COVID-19 cases in India, which has overwhelmed its health system and left many hospitals short of critical oxygen supplies.

Cadila said patients given its therapy in clinical trials had shown a lesser need for supplemental oxygen, which is given to seriously ill COVID-19 patients to increase its supply in the blood and lungs.

About 91 per cent of patients treated with the drug, branded Virafin, tested negative for COVID-19 in standard RT-PCR tests by day seven, compared to nearly 79 per cent who were given the standard of care, the company said earlier this month.

"The fact that we are able to offer a therapy which significantly reduces the viral load when given early on can help in better disease management," Cadila Managing Director Sharvil Patel said. "It comes at a much-needed time for patients."

India reported the world's highest daily tally of coronavirus infections for a second day on Friday, surpassing 330,000 new cases.

Cadila's drug, known as Pegylated Interferon alpha-2b, was originally approved for liver disease Hepatitis C and launched in India 10 years ago. It is being repurposed to treat COVID-19.

The company's shares reversed course following the news and were last up 3.2 per cent at 570 rupees in afternoon trading on the National Stock Exchange.

India's Cadila Healthcare Ltd has received restricted emergency use approval from local regulators to use a Hepatitis C drug as a treatment for moderate COVID-19 in adults, the drugmaker said on Friday.

India's Cadila Healthcare Ltd has received restricted emergency use approval from local regulators to use a Hepatitis C drug as a treatment for moderate COVID-19 in adults, the drugmaker said on Friday. The approval follows promising results from a late-stage study of the drug and comes in the middle of a massive wave of COVID-19 cases in India, which has overwhelmed its health system and left many hospitals short of critical oxygen supplies. Cadila said patients given its therapy in clinical trials had shown a lesser need for supplemental oxygen, which is given to seriously ill COVID-19 patients to increase its supply in the blood and lungs. About 91 per cent of patients treated with the drug, branded Virafin, tested negative for COVID-19 in standard RT-PCR tests by day seven, compared to nearly 79 per cent who were given the standard of care, the company said earlier this month. "The fact that we are able to offer a therapy which significantly reduces the viral load when given early on can help in better disease management," Cadila Managing Director Sharvil Patel said. "It comes at a much-needed time for patients." India reported the world's highest daily tally of coronavirus infections for a second day on Friday, surpassing 330,000 new cases. Cadila's drug, known as Pegylated Interferon alpha-2b, was originally approved for liver disease Hepatitis C and launched in India 10 years ago. It is being repurposed to treat COVID-19. The company's shares reversed course following the news and were last up 3.2 per cent at 570 rupees in afternoon trading on the National Stock Exchange.

Cadila gets approval to repurpose Hepatitis C drug for COVID-19 treatment

Even as the Covid crisis wreaks havoc in India, the country is all set to get essential supplies from Remdesivir to oxygen to containers from a whole host of countries.

WION has learnt&nbsp;that quite a few will be sending supplies, starting with Russians who have offered to help in any way possible.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-update-india-records-332730-cases-and-2263-deaths-in-24-hours-379467/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

India is also looking towards its east to Singapore for supplies, and trying to source oxygen and ISO containers from the South East Asian Country. ISO containers are large standardised shipping containers that can be used across different modes of transport.

Earlier on Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron sent a "message of solidarity to the Indian people&nbsp;facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases".

He said, "France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support."

The European Union has also extended support during a conversation between Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and India's External Affairs Minister&nbsp;S Jaishankar.

Jaishankar, after the meet, tweeted, "Appreciated the support offered by EU on Covid challenges currently faced by India. Confident that EU will help strengthen our capabilities at this critical juncture."

Charles Michel, President of the European Council in a tweet said, "the EU stands in solidarity with Indian people amidst resurgent COVID-19 pandemic. The fight against the virus is a common fight." EU's support to India will be discussed during the EU-India Leaders’ meeting on May 8.&nbsp;

In the fray are countries like Germany, Australia as well. Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants&nbsp;which are expected to come to the country within a week and will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported.&nbsp;

When it comes to Japan, under its grant assistance, oxygen generators will be provided with a procurement process still underway. Tokyo has in the past extended 50 billion yen Covid emergency assistance and 1 billion yen grant assistance.

Even as the Covid crisis wreaks havoc in India, the country is all set to get essential supplies from Remdesivir to oxygen to containers from a whole host of countries.

Even as the Covid crisis wreaks havoc in India, the country is all set to get essential supplies from Remdesivir to oxygen to containers from a whole host of countries. WION has learnt that quite a few will be sending supplies, starting with Russians who have offered to help in any way possible. Watch | India is also looking towards its east to Singapore for supplies, and trying to source oxygen and ISO containers from the South East Asian Country. ISO containers are large standardised shipping containers that can be used across different modes of transport. Earlier on Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron sent a "message of solidarity to the Indian people facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases". He said, "France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support." The European Union has also extended support during a conversation between Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Jaishankar, after the meet, tweeted, "Appreciated the support offered by EU on Covid challenges currently faced by India. Confident that EU will help strengthen our capabilities at this critical juncture." Charles Michel, President of the European Council in a tweet said, "the EU stands in solidarity with Indian people amidst resurgent COVID-19 pandemic. The fight against the virus is a common fight." EU's support to India will be discussed during the EU-India Leaders’ meeting on May 8. In the fray are countries like Germany, Australia as well. Armed Forces Medical Services or AFMS will be importing 23 mobile oxygen generation plants from Germany. These plants which are expected to come to the country within a week and will be deployed in AFMS hospitals catering to Covid patients. From Germany, containers are also being imported. When it comes to Japan, under its grant assistance, oxygen generators will be provided with a procurement process still underway. Tokyo has in the past extended 50 billion yen Covid emergency assistance and 1 billion yen grant assistance.

Amid Covid surge, India looking to get Remdesivir, oxygen from several countries 

India&nbsp;recorded the&nbsp;world's highest daily tally of 3,32,730&nbsp;COVID-19 infections in the past 24 hours on Thursday.

The previous&nbsp;record&nbsp;rise in&nbsp;cases&nbsp;was in the United States, which had 297,430 new&nbsp;cases&nbsp;on one day in January, though its infection rate has since fallen sharply.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-made-in-india-vaccine-neutralises-deadly-mutations-379131/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the&nbsp;Ministry of Health&nbsp;and&nbsp;Family Welfare,&nbsp;2,263&nbsp;people died in the space of a day, taking&nbsp;India's cumulative toll to&nbsp;1,86,920. Meanwhile,&nbsp;1,93,279 people were discharged from the hospital in a single day.

With&nbsp;13,54,78,420 people being vaccinated in the world's largest inoculation drive,&nbsp;1,36,48,159 have recovered from the novel virus.

New, more infectious variants of the virus, in particular a "double mutant" variant that originated in&nbsp;India, have helped accelerate the surge.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government ordered an extensive lockdown in the early stages of the pandemic.

This week, Modi urged state governments to use lockdowns as a last resort. He asked people to stay indoors and said the government was working to expand&nbsp;oxygen&nbsp;and vaccine supplies. He cancelled a visit to West Bengal scheduled for Friday.

(With inputs from agencies)

India recorded the world's highest daily tally of 3,32,730 COVID-19 infections in the past 24 hours on Thursday. The previous record rise in cases was in the United States, which had 297,430 new cases on one day in January, though its infection rate has since fallen sharply.

India recorded the world's highest daily tally of 3,32,730 COVID-19 infections in the past 24 hours on Thursday. The previous record rise in cases was in the United States, which had 297,430 new cases on one day in January, though its infection rate has since fallen sharply. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 2,263 people died in the space of a day, taking India's cumulative toll to 1,86,920. Meanwhile, 1,93,279 people were discharged from the hospital in a single day. With 13,54,78,420 people being vaccinated in the world's largest inoculation drive, 1,36,48,159 have recovered from the novel virus. New, more infectious variants of the virus, in particular a "double mutant" variant that originated in India, have helped accelerate the surge. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government ordered an extensive lockdown in the early stages of the pandemic. This week, Modi urged state governments to use lockdowns as a last resort. He asked people to stay indoors and said the government was working to expand oxygen and vaccine supplies. He cancelled a visit to West Bengal scheduled for Friday. (With inputs from agencies)

India posts world record COVID-19 cases with 3,32,730 infections

India on Friday recorded as many as the world's highest single-day spike with 332,730 fresh COVID-19 new cases. This record breaking rise in Coronavirus infections has overwhelmed hospitals and led to extreme shortages of beds and oxygen.

Coronavirus Update: India records 332,730 cases and 2,263 deaths in 24-hours

Canada has said it would ban all flights from India and Pakistan for 30 days due to the growing wave of COVID-19 cases in that region.

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said the ban would start late Thursday, speaking hours after India reported a global record of more than 314,000 new infections in the previous 24-hours.

The center-left Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acted after prominent right-leaning politicians complained Ottawa had not done enough to combat a third wave of infections ripping through Canada.

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The ban, which takes effect at 11.30 p.m. (0330 GMT Friday), does not affect cargo flights.

India on Thursday recorded the world's highest daily tally of 314,835 COVID-19 infections amid fears about the ability of crumbling health services to cope.

Canadian Health Minister Patty Hajdu said that while Indian citizens accounted for 20 per cent&nbsp;of all international arrivals, they represented over 50 per cent&nbsp;of the positive tests conducted by Canadian airport officials.

"By eliminating direct travel from these countries, public health experts will have the time to evaluate the ongoing epidemiology of that region and to reassess the situation," she told a news conference.

The conservative premiers of Ontario and Quebec - the most populous of Canada's 10 provinces - wrote to Trudeau earlier on Thursday urging him to crack down on international travel.

Britain said earlier that India would be added to its "red-list" of locations from which most travel is banned due to a high number of COVID-19 cases.

In addition, France is imposing a 10-day quarantine for travelers from Brazil, Chile, Argentina, South Africa and India, while the United Arab Emirates has suspended all flights from India.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada has said it would ban all flights from India and Pakistan for 30 days due to the growing wave of COVID-19 cases in that region. Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said the ban would start late Thursday, speaking hours after India reported a global record of more than 314,000 new infections in the previous 24-hours.

Canada has said it would ban all flights from India and Pakistan for 30 days due to the growing wave of COVID-19 cases in that region. Transport Minister Omar Alghabra said the ban would start late Thursday, speaking hours after India reported a global record of more than 314,000 new infections in the previous 24-hours. The center-left Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acted after prominent right-leaning politicians complained Ottawa had not done enough to combat a third wave of infections ripping through Canada. The ban, which takes effect at 11.30 p.m. (0330 GMT Friday), does not affect cargo flights. India on Thursday recorded the world's highest daily tally of 314,835 COVID-19 infections amid fears about the ability of crumbling health services to cope. Canadian Health Minister Patty Hajdu said that while Indian citizens accounted for 20 per cent of all international arrivals, they represented over 50 per cent of the positive tests conducted by Canadian airport officials. "By eliminating direct travel from these countries, public health experts will have the time to evaluate the ongoing epidemiology of that region and to reassess the situation," she told a news conference. The conservative premiers of Ontario and Quebec - the most populous of Canada's 10 provinces - wrote to Trudeau earlier on Thursday urging him to crack down on international travel. Britain said earlier that India would be added to its "red-list" of locations from which most travel is banned due to a high number of COVID-19 cases. In addition, France is imposing a 10-day quarantine for travelers from Brazil, Chile, Argentina, South Africa and India, while the United Arab Emirates has suspended all flights from India. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada to suspend passenger flights from India, Pakistan over COVID-19 fears

At least 13 patients died on Friday after a fire broke out at an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a Covid hospital in the Virar area of Maharashtra`s Palghar district.The incident took place around 3:30 am on the second floor of the facility, the Corona Control Room, Vasai Virar Municipal Corporation informed.&nbsp;

Three fire tenders of the Virar Fire Brigade reached the spot to douse the fire. It was extinguished by 5:20 am.&nbsp;

Other COVID-19 patients are being shifted to nearby hospitals.

This tragic incident comes just days after 24 COVID-19 patients lost their lives after an oxygen tanker leaked outside Dr Zakir Hussain Hospital in Nashik, Maharashtra.

At least 13 patients died on Friday after a fire broke out at an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a Covid hospital in the Virar area of Maharashtra`s Palghar district.

At least 13 patients died on Friday after a fire broke out at an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a Covid hospital in the Virar area of Maharashtra`s Palghar district.The incident took place around 3:30 am on the second floor of the facility, the Corona Control Room, Vasai Virar Municipal Corporation informed. Three fire tenders of the Virar Fire Brigade reached the spot to douse the fire. It was extinguished by 5:20 am. Other COVID-19 patients are being shifted to nearby hospitals. This tragic incident comes just days after 24 COVID-19 patients lost their lives after an oxygen tanker leaked outside Dr Zakir Hussain Hospital in Nashik, Maharashtra.

13 patients dead in fire at Covid hospital in Maharashtra's Palghar

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India posts world record COVID-19 cases with 3,32,730 infections