New Delhi: Ahead of the Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry's New Delhi visit, starting Monday (April 5), the US has said that India is a "critical part of the solution to the climate crisis".

Biden's special envoy John Kerry to visit India

Delhi`s overall air quality entered the `moderate` category on Tuesday as the city`s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 173, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Yesterday, the national capital had recorded an AQI of 269, in the `poor` category. Areas near Lodhi Road (183), Pusa Road (166) reported moderate air quality today. An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe.

"The overall Delhi air quality is in the Moderate category. Surface winds are east-northeasterly and moderate. Lower-level winds are likely to be easterly-northeasterly for the next three days. A marginal decrease in surface winds is forecasted for the next 24 hrs. AQI is likely to marginally deteriorate but in the higher end of the Moderate to Poor category for the next two days. An increase in dust concentration is likely in the coming days," informed SAFAR.

Meanwhile, as per the Regional Meteorological Department in Delhi, the maximum temperature can go up to 32 degree Celsius.

"A partly cloudy sky with mist in the morning" is likely in Delhi as per the Meteorological Department.Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain is also likely in Delhi and nearby areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also informed in a tweet: "Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain would occur over adjoining areas of isolated places of West, North, Southwest Delhi, Jhajjar, Bawal during next 2 hours."&nbsp;

Delhi`s overall air quality entered the `moderate` category on Tuesday as the city`s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 173, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Delhi`s overall air quality entered the `moderate` category on Tuesday as the city`s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 173, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). Yesterday, the national capital had recorded an AQI of 269, in the `poor` category. Areas near Lodhi Road (183), Pusa Road (166) reported moderate air quality today. An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe. "The overall Delhi air quality is in the Moderate category. Surface winds are east-northeasterly and moderate. Lower-level winds are likely to be easterly-northeasterly for the next three days. A marginal decrease in surface winds is forecasted for the next 24 hrs. AQI is likely to marginally deteriorate but in the higher end of the Moderate to Poor category for the next two days. An increase in dust concentration is likely in the coming days," informed SAFAR. Meanwhile, as per the Regional Meteorological Department in Delhi, the maximum temperature can go up to 32 degree Celsius. "A partly cloudy sky with mist in the morning" is likely in Delhi as per the Meteorological Department.Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain is also likely in Delhi and nearby areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also informed in a tweet: "Thunderstorm with light to moderate intensity rain would occur over adjoining areas of isolated places of West, North, Southwest Delhi, Jhajjar, Bawal during next 2 hours."

Delhi's air quality improves, enters 'moderate' category

The Delhi Cabinet has given approval for the constitution of its own school education board - the Delhi Board of School Education, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal informed on Saturday.

"In today`s cabinet meet, we have given approval to the constitution of a Delhi Board of School Education. Our education system focuses on rote learning. This has to change. Our focus will no longer be on rote learning but on understanding," Kejriwal said at a press conference.

In the coming 2021-22 academic session, 20 to 25 schools will be under the new board, the Chief Minister added. "The Board will have a Governing Body, chaired by the Education Minister. It will also have an Executive Body for day-to-day functions and will be headed by a CEO. Both bodies will have experts - from professional industries, the education sector, principals of government and private schools, and bureaucrats," he added.

At present, there are about 1,000 government schools and 1,700 private schools in Delhi, nearly all of which are affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).In July last year, the Delhi government had constituted two committees to prepare the scheme and framework for the formation of the state education board and curriculum reforms.

The Delhi Cabinet has given approval for the constitution of its own school education board - the Delhi Board of School Education, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal informed on Saturday.

The Delhi Cabinet has given approval for the constitution of its own school education board - the Delhi Board of School Education, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal informed on Saturday. "In today`s cabinet meet, we have given approval to the constitution of a Delhi Board of School Education. Our education system focuses on rote learning. This has to change. Our focus will no longer be on rote learning but on understanding," Kejriwal said at a press conference. In the coming 2021-22 academic session, 20 to 25 schools will be under the new board, the Chief Minister added. "The Board will have a Governing Body, chaired by the Education Minister. It will also have an Executive Body for day-to-day functions and will be headed by a CEO. Both bodies will have experts - from professional industries, the education sector, principals of government and private schools, and bureaucrats," he added. At present, there are about 1,000 government schools and 1,700 private schools in Delhi, nearly all of which are affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).In July last year, the Delhi government had constituted two committees to prepare the scheme and framework for the formation of the state education board and curriculum reforms.

Delhi Cabinet approves creation of own school board

As India begins its second phase of the mega vaccination drive Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi.

India begins second phase of COVID-19 vaccination drive

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi. India is all set to begin the second phase of its mega vaccination drive.

News Alert: Indian PM Modi gets first dose of COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi

Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday.

As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan.

The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake&nbsp;of magnitude 6.3 hit&nbsp;Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India.

The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand.

There were no immediate reports of any loss of life or damage to property.

The GFZ German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) said an earthquake of magnitude 6.2 struck the Tajikistan-Xinjiang border region late on Friday.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
M5.7 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%D0%B7%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%BB%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%80%D1%8F%D1%81%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#землетрясение</a>) strikes 23 km W of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Murghob?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Murghob</a> (<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tajikistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tajikistan</a>) 17 min ago. Updated map of its effects: <a href="https://t.co/qnh7YFRx6X">pic.twitter.com/qnh7YFRx6X</a>
— EMSC (@LastQuake) <a href="https://twitter.com/LastQuake/status/1360277022153523204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Tremors were also felt in Pakistan -- capital Islamabad and major cities of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab provinces and Pakistan occupied-Kashmir.

Pakistan geologically overlaps the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates and is a earthquake-prone zone. The Chaman Fault poses the biggest threat of quakes to the country.

Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday. As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan.

Strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar on Friday. As per the India Metrological Department (IMD), the epicentre of the earthquake was in Tajikistan. The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 hit Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India. The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand. There were no immediate reports of any loss of life or damage to property. The GFZ German Research Center for Geosciences (GFZ) said an earthquake of magnitude 6.2 struck the Tajikistan-Xinjiang border region late on Friday. M5.7 #earthquake (#землетрясение) strikes 23 km W of #Murghob (#Tajikistan) 17 min ago. Updated map of its effects: pic.twitter.com/qnh7YFRx6X — EMSC (@LastQuake) February 12, 2021 × Tremors were also felt in Pakistan -- capital Islamabad and major cities of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab provinces and Pakistan occupied-Kashmir. Pakistan geologically overlaps the Eurasian and Indian tectonic plates and is a earthquake-prone zone. The Chaman Fault poses the biggest threat of quakes to the country.

Earthquake measuring 6.3 jolts Tajikistan, tremors felt in Delhi and northern India

A low-intensity blast took place on 29 January near the Israeli embassy in heart of the national capital New Delhi. This Low-intensity blast is now have been treated as an incident of terror, according to reports, an envelope has been recovered from the blast site. WION's Principal Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal talks with Israeli envoy Ron Malka.

Blast near the Israeli embassy is an incident of terror?

The Indian capital is heading towards herd immunity against COVID-19. According to a report, the latest Sero Survey has found that 50 to 60 percent of people in one district have developed antibodies to the virus.

Delhi Sero Survey indicates herd immunity against COVID-19

Anti-Terrorist Squad of Uttar Pradesh Police on Sunday said that two Chinese nationals had been arrested from Noida for their alleged role in money laundering. &nbsp;Both of them, including a woman allegedly forged documents to bank accounts. The ATS said that the money was used criminal activities.

Names of the accused are Pochnli Tengli and Xu Xunfu.

"The UP ATS had earlier issued Red Corner Notices and Blue Corner Notices against the duo. Both the Chinese nationals were arrested on Saturday on the basis of evidence following an investigation into the money laundering case,"&nbsp;it added.

A Red Corner Notice is a kind of international arrest warrant for fugitives where Interpol requests its member countries to arrest or detain them, while a Blue Corner Notice is an enquiry notice.

(With agency inputs)

Anti-Terrorist Squad of Uttar Pradesh Police on Sunday said that two Chinese nationals had been arrested from Noida for their alleged role in money laundering. Both of them, including a woman allegedly forged documents to bank accounts.

Anti-Terrorist Squad of Uttar Pradesh Police on Sunday said that two Chinese nationals had been arrested from Noida for their alleged role in money laundering. Both of them, including a woman allegedly forged documents to bank accounts. The ATS said that the money was used criminal activities. Names of the accused are Pochnli Tengli and Xu Xunfu. "The UP ATS had earlier issued Red Corner Notices and Blue Corner Notices against the duo. Both the Chinese nationals were arrested on Saturday on the basis of evidence following an investigation into the money laundering case," it added. A Red Corner Notice is a kind of international arrest warrant for fugitives where Interpol requests its member countries to arrest or detain them, while a Blue Corner Notice is an enquiry notice. (With agency inputs)

Chinese nationals arrested near Delhi for alleged money laundering

The Bangabandhu Bapu digital exhibition, jointly inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina at&nbsp;December's virtual summit has opened in Delhi. The exhibition dedicated to the lives of India's father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi and Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is currently displayed at Delhi's Vigyan Bhawan.

It will be subsequently displayed in different locations in Bangladesh, the United Nations in New York and finally culminated in Kolkata in early 2022. The exhibition has 21 walls of information and over 100 points of digital engagement.&nbsp;Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Muhammad Imran and his officers visited the exhibition as well.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION, Birad Rajaram Yajnik, the curator of the exhibition told WION, "It's a digital exhibition which speaks the language of technology. It gives out the message of the youth today of the lives of the 2 great leaders. The exhibition acts as a catalyst and you come to know interesting things about the 2 great leaders."

Key points of interest of the exhibition are a "meeting wall" that displays the only photo in the world that has both Bangabandhu and Bapu in one frame, a robotic signature of both the leaders, the favourite music of the leaders. Historical moments like Mahatma Gandhi's salt march, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman speech of&nbsp;March 7, 1971 is another noteworthy installation.

The pain and suffering endured by the Indians and Bangladeshi people during the brutal use of force by General Dyer in Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 and the genocide perpetrated by the Pakistani army in 1971 have been digitally shown. The "genocide tunnel" shows the depiction, the experiences of the many Bangladeshis who suffered in the hands of the Pakistani army in 1971 war of liberation.

The exhibition comes at a time when Bangladesh celebrates its 50 years of Independence. Indian PM Modi will be visiting Dhaka in March to be part of the Independence year celebrations. In fact, this year's republic day celebration will see a 122-member strong contingent from Bangladesh's Armed forces taking part in the grand parade. This is only the third time in India’s history that any foreign military contingent has been invited to participate. An Indian Air force's Dakota, which took part in the war, will do a flypast while Navy's tableau will be dedicated to 1971 war and how the war at sea was won.

The Bangabandhu Bapu digital exhibition, jointly inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina at December's virtual summit has opened in Delhi.

The Bangabandhu Bapu digital exhibition, jointly inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina at December's virtual summit has opened in Delhi. The exhibition dedicated to the lives of India's father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi and Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is currently displayed at Delhi's Vigyan Bhawan. It will be subsequently displayed in different locations in Bangladesh, the United Nations in New York and finally culminated in Kolkata in early 2022. The exhibition has 21 walls of information and over 100 points of digital engagement. Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Muhammad Imran and his officers visited the exhibition as well. Speaking to WION, Birad Rajaram Yajnik, the curator of the exhibition told WION, "It's a digital exhibition which speaks the language of technology. It gives out the message of the youth today of the lives of the 2 great leaders. The exhibition acts as a catalyst and you come to know interesting things about the 2 great leaders." Key points of interest of the exhibition are a "meeting wall" that displays the only photo in the world that has both Bangabandhu and Bapu in one frame, a robotic signature of both the leaders, the favourite music of the leaders. Historical moments like Mahatma Gandhi's salt march, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman speech of March 7, 1971 is another noteworthy installation. The pain and suffering endured by the Indians and Bangladeshi people during the brutal use of force by General Dyer in Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 and the genocide perpetrated by the Pakistani army in 1971 have been digitally shown. The "genocide tunnel" shows the depiction, the experiences of the many Bangladeshis who suffered in the hands of the Pakistani army in 1971 war of liberation. The exhibition comes at a time when Bangladesh celebrates its 50 years of Independence. Indian PM Modi will be visiting Dhaka in March to be part of the Independence year celebrations. In fact, this year's republic day celebration will see a 122-member strong contingent from Bangladesh's Armed forces taking part in the grand parade. This is only the third time in India’s history that any foreign military contingent has been invited to participate. An Indian Air force's Dakota, which took part in the war, will do a flypast while Navy's tableau will be dedicated to 1971 war and how the war at sea was won.

Digital exhibition dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, Mujibur Rahman opens in Delhi

The avian flu has been confirmed in eight states and the national capital. New Delhi's civic body on Wednesday issued an order directing restaurants and eateries not to serve chicken and egg preparations in light of the bird flu outbreak.

The North Delhi Municipal Corporation imposed a ban on sale and storage of poultry or processed chicken meat by shops and restaurants with immediate effect, in view of the bird flu situation in the national capital, according to an official order.

The order issued by the veterinary services department of the NDMC also said that owners of restaurants and hotels will face action if egg-based dishes or poultry meat and other products are served to customers.

The order has been issued in the public interest and should be diligently complied with, it said.

Testing of samples of crows and ducks had confirmed bird flu cases in the national capital on Monday, prompting the Delhi government to impose a ban on the sale of processed and packaged chicken brought from outside the city.

The Ghazipur poultry market has also closed by authorities.

"All meat and poultry shops and meat processing units in areas under the NDMC, are prohibited to sell, store poultry or processed or packaged chicken meat with immediate effect, till further orders," the North Corporation order said.

Several ducks at Sanjay Lake and a large number of crows across various city parks have been found dead in the last one week.

Reports of over 50 bird deaths were received on a helpline of the Delhi government's animal husbandry unit and 18 samples from different parts of the city were sent for avian flu testing on Tuesday, officials had said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The avian flu has been confirmed in eight states and the national capital. New Delhi's civic body on Wednesday issued an order directing restaurants and eateries not to serve chicken and egg preparations in light of the bird flu outbreak.

The avian flu has been confirmed in eight states and the national capital. New Delhi's civic body on Wednesday issued an order directing restaurants and eateries not to serve chicken and egg preparations in light of the bird flu outbreak. The North Delhi Municipal Corporation imposed a ban on sale and storage of poultry or processed chicken meat by shops and restaurants with immediate effect, in view of the bird flu situation in the national capital, according to an official order. The order issued by the veterinary services department of the NDMC also said that owners of restaurants and hotels will face action if egg-based dishes or poultry meat and other products are served to customers. The order has been issued in the public interest and should be diligently complied with, it said. Testing of samples of crows and ducks had confirmed bird flu cases in the national capital on Monday, prompting the Delhi government to impose a ban on the sale of processed and packaged chicken brought from outside the city. The Ghazipur poultry market has also closed by authorities. "All meat and poultry shops and meat processing units in areas under the NDMC, are prohibited to sell, store poultry or processed or packaged chicken meat with immediate effect, till further orders," the North Corporation order said. Several ducks at Sanjay Lake and a large number of crows across various city parks have been found dead in the last one week. Reports of over 50 bird deaths were received on a helpline of the Delhi government's animal husbandry unit and 18 samples from different parts of the city were sent for avian flu testing on Tuesday, officials had said. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi bird flu: Govt advisory says eat poultry product cooked at high temperature

The Centre has directed states and union territories across the country to increase surveillance around water bodies, live bird markets, zoos, and poultry farms as well as strengthen biosecurity at poultry farms amid the bird flu scare. 
 
The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying said in a statement on Sunday that the states and UTs have been asked to increase public awareness and prevent the spread of misinformation on avian influenza or bird flu. 
 
The states and UTs have also been requested to ensure proper disposal of animal/bird carcasses, the statement added. 
 
After the confirmation of avian influenza in samples taken from poultry from two farms in Panchkula district of Haryana, the state had deployed nine rapid response teams and undertaken control and containment operations at both the places, the Ministry added. 
 
Samples of crows/wild birds had confirmed avian influenza (H5) in Surat district of Gujarat as well as Sirohi district in Rajasthan. Further, reports of unusual deaths of 86 crows and 2 egrets were received from Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh. 
 
Reports of unusual mortality of wild birds were also received from Nahan, Bilaspur and Mandi in Himachal and the samples sent to a designated laboratory for testing, the Ministry said. 
 
Advisories have since been issued to the affected states to prevent further spread of the avian disease. So far, the disease has been confirmed from Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. 
 
"The test reports of samples sent to the designated laboratory from Delhi and Maharashtra are still awaited. Further, no samples have been confirmed positive for avian flu in wild birds from Balod district in Chhattisgarh," it added. 
 
The control and containment operation has been completed in two affected districts of Kerala and post-operational surveillance programme guidelines issued to the southern state. 
 
The central teams formed to monitor the situation are visiting the affected areas across the country. 
 
One of the central teams visited Kerala on January 9 and is monitoring the epicentre spots and also conducting epidemiological investigations. Another central team visited Himachal on January 10 and undertook a survey in the affected areas.

The Centre has directed states and union territories across the country to increase surveillance around water bodies, live bird markets, zoos, and poultry farms as well as strengthen biosecurity at poultry farms amid the bird flu scare.

The Centre has directed states and union territories across the country to increase surveillance around water bodies, live bird markets, zoos, and poultry farms as well as strengthen biosecurity at poultry farms amid the bird flu scare. The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying said in a statement on Sunday that the states and UTs have been asked to increase public awareness and prevent the spread of misinformation on avian influenza or bird flu. The states and UTs have also been requested to ensure proper disposal of animal/bird carcasses, the statement added. After the confirmation of avian influenza in samples taken from poultry from two farms in Panchkula district of Haryana, the state had deployed nine rapid response teams and undertaken control and containment operations at both the places, the Ministry added. Samples of crows/wild birds had confirmed avian influenza (H5) in Surat district of Gujarat as well as Sirohi district in Rajasthan. Further, reports of unusual deaths of 86 crows and 2 egrets were received from Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh. Reports of unusual mortality of wild birds were also received from Nahan, Bilaspur and Mandi in Himachal and the samples sent to a designated laboratory for testing, the Ministry said. Advisories have since been issued to the affected states to prevent further spread of the avian disease. So far, the disease has been confirmed from Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. "The test reports of samples sent to the designated laboratory from Delhi and Maharashtra are still awaited. Further, no samples have been confirmed positive for avian flu in wild birds from Balod district in Chhattisgarh," it added. The control and containment operation has been completed in two affected districts of Kerala and post-operational surveillance programme guidelines issued to the southern state. The central teams formed to monitor the situation are visiting the affected areas across the country. One of the central teams visited Kerala on January 9 and is monitoring the epicentre spots and also conducting epidemiological investigations. Another central team visited Himachal on January 10 and undertook a survey in the affected areas.

Bird flu scare: Centre asks states, UTs to increase surveillance

Delhi recorded 519 fresh COVID-19 cases on Saturday, the third time the daily incidences count stood above the 500-mark in January, even as the positivity rate remained much below one per cent. 
 
The infection tally in the city stood at 6.29 lakh and the death toll mounted to 10,666, they said. This month, 585 cases were reported on January 1 and 494 on January 2; 424 on January 3; 384 on January 4, and 442 on January 5; 654 on January 6; 486 on January 7 and 444 on January 8. 
 
Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain had earlier said that the positivity rate had been below one per cent for the past several days, indicating improvement in the pandemic situation here. On December 29 and 30, the city had recorded 703 and 677 cases, respectively. On December 31, 574 cases were recorded. 
 
These 519 new cases came out the 80,275 tests conducted the previous day, including 45,079 RT-PCR tests and 35,196 rapid antigen tests, according to the latest bulletin issued by the Delhi health department. The active cases tally on Saturday stood at 3,683, while the positivity rate was recorded at 0.65 per cent. The bulletin said that the total number of cases has climbed to 6,29,801.

Delhi recorded 519 fresh COVID-19 cases on Saturday, the third time the daily incidences count stood above the 500-mark in January, even as the positivity rate remained much below one per cent.

Delhi recorded 519 fresh COVID-19 cases on Saturday, the third time the daily incidences count stood above the 500-mark in January, even as the positivity rate remained much below one per cent. The infection tally in the city stood at 6.29 lakh and the death toll mounted to 10,666, they said. This month, 585 cases were reported on January 1 and 494 on January 2; 424 on January 3; 384 on January 4, and 442 on January 5; 654 on January 6; 486 on January 7 and 444 on January 8. Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain had earlier said that the positivity rate had been below one per cent for the past several days, indicating improvement in the pandemic situation here. On December 29 and 30, the city had recorded 703 and 677 cases, respectively. On December 31, 574 cases were recorded. These 519 new cases came out the 80,275 tests conducted the previous day, including 45,079 RT-PCR tests and 35,196 rapid antigen tests, according to the latest bulletin issued by the Delhi health department. The active cases tally on Saturday stood at 3,683, while the positivity rate was recorded at 0.65 per cent. The bulletin said that the total number of cases has climbed to 6,29,801.

Delhi registers over 500 new cases of coronavirus; positivity rate below 1%

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remained in the `very poor` category on Monday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which is the Ministry of Earth Science`s air quality monitor. 
 
There has been no relief from air pollution despite the rains in the national capital, the overall AQI stood at 349 early this morning.As per SAFAR, the concentrations of the particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 10 and 2.5 microns were recorded at 283 (`poor` category) and 183 (`very poor` category) respectively. 
 
The AQI of Delhi has been predicted to oscillate between `moderate` and `poor` category on January 4 and 5. For Tuesday (January 4), the concentration of PM10 particles is expected to be at 127 while PM2.5 is expected to be at 82, both falling under the `moderate` category.An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe. According to SAFAR estimates, most of the areas in the national capital including Delhi University, Lodhi Road, Mathura Road and IIT-Delhi recorded air quality in the `poor` category. Meanwhile, the national capital was engulfed in fog early Monday morning. 
 
India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the minimum temperature of 11.4 degrees Celsius was recorded at Delhi`s Safdarjung observatory at 8.30 am today. 
 
The minimum temperature in Delhi today will be 10 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature will be 18 degrees Celsius.It further said the minimum temperatures have increased by four to six degrees Celsius over the North West and Central India.Cold Day Conditions are very likely in isolated pockets over Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, the IMD has predicted.As per IMD prediction, the national capital is expected to receive rain along with thunderstorms today and tomorrow.&nbsp;

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remained in the `very poor` category on Monday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which is the Ministry of Earth Science`s air quality monitor.

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remained in the `very poor` category on Monday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which is the Ministry of Earth Science`s air quality monitor. There has been no relief from air pollution despite the rains in the national capital, the overall AQI stood at 349 early this morning.As per SAFAR, the concentrations of the particulate matter (PM) with a diameter of 10 and 2.5 microns were recorded at 283 (`poor` category) and 183 (`very poor` category) respectively. The AQI of Delhi has been predicted to oscillate between `moderate` and `poor` category on January 4 and 5. For Tuesday (January 4), the concentration of PM10 particles is expected to be at 127 while PM2.5 is expected to be at 82, both falling under the `moderate` category.An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe. According to SAFAR estimates, most of the areas in the national capital including Delhi University, Lodhi Road, Mathura Road and IIT-Delhi recorded air quality in the `poor` category. Meanwhile, the national capital was engulfed in fog early Monday morning. India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the minimum temperature of 11.4 degrees Celsius was recorded at Delhi`s Safdarjung observatory at 8.30 am today. The minimum temperature in Delhi today will be 10 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature will be 18 degrees Celsius.It further said the minimum temperatures have increased by four to six degrees Celsius over the North West and Central India.Cold Day Conditions are very likely in isolated pockets over Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, the IMD has predicted.As per IMD prediction, the national capital is expected to receive rain along with thunderstorms today and tomorrow.

Delhi's air quality remains in 'very poor' category

Slight relief from air pollution as Delhi`s Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to `poor` from `very poor` category on Tuesday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The national capital`s overall AQI stands at 280 said Ministry of Earth Science`s SAFAR. India Meteorological Department (IMD) Scientist RK Jenamani on Monday said that the AQI of Delhi will be in the `good` or `poor` category up to January 02.

Following the ongoing COVID-19 conditions, health experts have urged people to take extra precautions as respiratory diseases tend to worsen with a dip in temperature and a rise in pollution levels.

An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe.

According to SAFAR estimates updated at 8.29 am, most of the areas in the national capital including Delhi University, Lodhi Road, Mathura Road, and IIT-Delhi recorded air quality in the `poor` category. Pusa Road area has recorded Particulate Matter 10 at 189 which stands in the moderate category.

Slight relief from air pollution as Delhi`s Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to `poor` from `very poor` category on Tuesday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

Slight relief from air pollution as Delhi`s Air Quality Index (AQI) improved to `poor` from `very poor` category on Tuesday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). The national capital`s overall AQI stands at 280 said Ministry of Earth Science`s SAFAR. India Meteorological Department (IMD) Scientist RK Jenamani on Monday said that the AQI of Delhi will be in the `good` or `poor` category up to January 02. Following the ongoing COVID-19 conditions, health experts have urged people to take extra precautions as respiratory diseases tend to worsen with a dip in temperature and a rise in pollution levels. An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe. According to SAFAR estimates updated at 8.29 am, most of the areas in the national capital including Delhi University, Lodhi Road, Mathura Road, and IIT-Delhi recorded air quality in the `poor` category. Pusa Road area has recorded Particulate Matter 10 at 189 which stands in the moderate category.

Delhi's AQI improves to 'poor' from 'very poor' category

A cold wave is likely to grip parts of Delhi over the next four days as frosty winds from the Himalayas have started blowing towards the plains, weather department officials said on Monday.&nbsp;

The minimum temperature in the national capital settled at 5.6 degrees Celsius as against 6 degrees Celsius on Sunday. The India Meteorological Department said the mercury may drop to three degrees Celsius on New Year's Eve.

&nbsp;Cold wave conditions are predicted in parts of the city over the next four days, it said. Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the regional forecasting centre of the IMD, said a Western Disturbance led to "scattered to fairly widespread" snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

&nbsp;The wind system has withdrawn. Now, cold and dry northerly/northwesterly winds from the western Himalayas will bring the minimum temperature in north India down by three to five degrees Celsius, he said.

"Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions are likely in isolated pockets over Punjab, Haryana, UP and north Rajasthan. Ground frost and dense fog is likely in isolated pockets in the region," the IMD added. For the plains, the IMD declares a?cold?wave?when the minimum temperature is 10 degrees Celsius or below and is 4.5 notches less than normal.

&nbsp;On Sunday last, the Safdarjung Observatory, which provides representative data for the city, recorded a minimum of 3.4 degrees Celsius, the lowest this season so far.

A cold wave is likely to grip parts of Delhi over the next four days as frosty winds from the Himalayas have started blowing towards the plains, weather department officials said on Monday.

A cold wave is likely to grip parts of Delhi over the next four days as frosty winds from the Himalayas have started blowing towards the plains, weather department officials said on Monday. The minimum temperature in the national capital settled at 5.6 degrees Celsius as against 6 degrees Celsius on Sunday. The India Meteorological Department said the mercury may drop to three degrees Celsius on New Year's Eve. Cold wave conditions are predicted in parts of the city over the next four days, it said. Kuldeep Srivastava, the head of the regional forecasting centre of the IMD, said a Western Disturbance led to "scattered to fairly widespread" snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The wind system has withdrawn. Now, cold and dry northerly/northwesterly winds from the western Himalayas will bring the minimum temperature in north India down by three to five degrees Celsius, he said. "Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions are likely in isolated pockets over Punjab, Haryana, UP and north Rajasthan. Ground frost and dense fog is likely in isolated pockets in the region," the IMD added. For the plains, the IMD declares a?cold?wave?when the minimum temperature is 10 degrees Celsius or below and is 4.5 notches less than normal. On Sunday last, the Safdarjung Observatory, which provides representative data for the city, recorded a minimum of 3.4 degrees Celsius, the lowest this season so far.

Cold wave to grip Delhi for the next four days

The overall Air Quality&nbsp;Index (AQI) in Delhi remains in the `very poor` category on Sunday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The overall AQI stands at 370 in the morning hours.Meanwhile, the moderate fog has been observed in isolated parts of the national capital.

Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions are likely to re-establish over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, and West Uttar Pradesh from December 29, said IMD in its bulletin today.

Following the ongoing COVID-19 conditions, health experts have urged people to take extra precautions as respiratory diseases tend to worsen with a dip in temperature and a rise in pollution levels.An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe.

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remains in the `very poor` category on Sunday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remains in the `very poor` category on Sunday, according to System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). The overall AQI stands at 370 in the morning hours.Meanwhile, the moderate fog has been observed in isolated parts of the national capital. Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions are likely to re-establish over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, and West Uttar Pradesh from December 29, said IMD in its bulletin today. Following the ongoing COVID-19 conditions, health experts have urged people to take extra precautions as respiratory diseases tend to worsen with a dip in temperature and a rise in pollution levels.An AQI between 0-50 is marked good, 51-100 is satisfactory, 101- 200 is moderate, 201- 300 is poor, 301-400 is very poor and 401-500 is considered severe.

Delhi's AQI remains in 'very poor' category

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants. 
 
Delhi`s air quality index stood at 425 micrograms per cubic meter in severe category at noon. On Wednesday, the air quality index was 433 micrograms per cubic meter and 418 micrograms per cubic meter the previous day. 
 
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 28 out of 36 pollution monitoring stations in Delhi showed severe air quality index reading. Nehru Nagar, Anand Vihar, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and R.K. Puram areas of the national capital have the most noxious air, inching towards emergency levels. 
 
The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which comes under the aegis of the Ministry of Earth Sciences said the calm wind, cold conditions and low ventilation has halted the dispersion of the accumulated pollutants. 
 
"Surface-level winds are calm and forecasted to pick up and AQI is likely to improve during the day. Better ventilation condition is forecasted for the next two days. Hence, AQI is forecasted to improve to the higher end of the very poor category by 25th December," the weather forecasting agency said. 
 
Delhi`s neighbouring regions -- Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida recorded `severe` quality of air, leaving aside Gurugram which has slightly better AQI at 375 micrograms per cubic meter. Greater Noida and Noida have the most polluted air amongst all at 455 and 447 micrograms per cubic meter. 
 
Nationwide, as many as 12 cities have very poor air quality. Uttar Pradesh`s Greater Noida and Noida top the charts, followed by Faridabad and Delhi. Aizawl city of Mizoram recorded the cleanest air in the country at 27 micrograms per cubic meter. 
 
SAFAR has issued a stringent warning, asking everyone to avoid physical activity outdoors and consult a doctor if they experience unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue and wear masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators. 
&nbsp;

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants.

National capital`s air quality remained in the severe category for the third consecutive day on Thursday as calm winds and low ventilation halted the dispersion of accumulated pollutants. Delhi`s air quality index stood at 425 micrograms per cubic meter in severe category at noon. On Wednesday, the air quality index was 433 micrograms per cubic meter and 418 micrograms per cubic meter the previous day. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 28 out of 36 pollution monitoring stations in Delhi showed severe air quality index reading. Nehru Nagar, Anand Vihar, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium and R.K. Puram areas of the national capital have the most noxious air, inching towards emergency levels. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), which comes under the aegis of the Ministry of Earth Sciences said the calm wind, cold conditions and low ventilation has halted the dispersion of the accumulated pollutants. "Surface-level winds are calm and forecasted to pick up and AQI is likely to improve during the day. Better ventilation condition is forecasted for the next two days. Hence, AQI is forecasted to improve to the higher end of the very poor category by 25th December," the weather forecasting agency said. Delhi`s neighbouring regions -- Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Noida and Greater Noida recorded `severe` quality of air, leaving aside Gurugram which has slightly better AQI at 375 micrograms per cubic meter. Greater Noida and Noida have the most polluted air amongst all at 455 and 447 micrograms per cubic meter. Nationwide, as many as 12 cities have very poor air quality. Uttar Pradesh`s Greater Noida and Noida top the charts, followed by Faridabad and Delhi. Aizawl city of Mizoram recorded the cleanest air in the country at 27 micrograms per cubic meter. SAFAR has issued a stringent warning, asking everyone to avoid physical activity outdoors and consult a doctor if they experience unusual coughing, chest discomfort, wheezing, breathing difficulty, or fatigue and wear masks known as N-95 or P-100 respirators.

Delhi's air quality remains severe for third consecutive day

Five suspected terrorists were arrested on Monday in Delhi, India after an encounter and have revealed Pakistan spy agency ISI’s attempt to link up terror outfits in Kashmir with Khalistan operatives. Two out of them were allegedly involved in the murder of Shaurya Chakra winner Balwinder Singh in Punjab.

India: 5 terrorists arrested in Delhi, Khalistani-Kashmir terror link exposed

India's national capital Delhi's Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has ordered the private labs to slash cost of RT-PCR tests. Now the cost would be $11.

WION Fineprint: COVID-19 RT-PCR tests in Delhi to cost $11

The Delhi government on Monday ordered all private laboratories to lower the price of RT-PCR tests to Rs 800 (USD 10.81) from Rs 2,400 (USD 32.43) in the national capital.&nbsp;

"I have directed that the rates of RT-PCR tests be reduced in Delhi. Whereas tests are being conducted free of cost in government establishments, this (price cut) will help those who get their tests done in private labs," Delhi Chief Minister wrote in a tweet.&nbsp;

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I have directed that the rates of RT PCR tests be reduced in Delhi. Whereas tests are being conducted free of cost in govt establishments, however this will help those who get their tests done in pvt labs.
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1333291926687125505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, the order issued by the health department said the cost of testing for samples collected at home will be Rs 1,200 (USD 16.21).&nbsp;

Several Indian states, including Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Rajasthan have reduced the price of PCR tests, that are considered as the gold standard to test Covid-19 after nation's top medical research body ICMR said that prices need to be controlled at the state level.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-68-delhi-reports-lowest-coronavirus-toll-after-november-5-346296">At 68, Delhi reports lowest coronavirus toll after November 5</a>

The Delhi government's order also asked hospitals to display the revised rates at a prominent place within 24 hours.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Delhi on Sunday recorded 4,906 coronavirus cases, the second successive day when the city saw less than 5,000 infections.&nbsp;

As many as 68 people died of Covid-19 in the national capital on Sunday, lowest since November 5, taking the toll total death toll over 9,000.&nbsp;

According to government figures, Delhi saw the maximum number of cases in a day, 8,593 on November 11 and the highest daily death toll, 131 on November 18 due to a sharp rise in air pollution and Diwali.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Delhi government on Monday ordered all private laboratories to lower the price of RT-PCR tests to Rs 800 (USD 10.81) from Rs 2,400 (USD 32.43) in the national capital.

The Delhi government on Monday ordered all private laboratories to lower the price of RT-PCR tests to Rs 800 (USD 10.81) from Rs 2,400 (USD 32.43) in the national capital. "I have directed that the rates of RT-PCR tests be reduced in Delhi. Whereas tests are being conducted free of cost in government establishments, this (price cut) will help those who get their tests done in private labs," Delhi Chief Minister wrote in a tweet. I have directed that the rates of RT PCR tests be reduced in Delhi. Whereas tests are being conducted free of cost in govt establishments, however this will help those who get their tests done in pvt labs. — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 30, 2020 × However, the order issued by the health department said the cost of testing for samples collected at home will be Rs 1,200 (USD 16.21). Several Indian states, including Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Rajasthan have reduced the price of PCR tests, that are considered as the gold standard to test Covid-19 after nation's top medical research body ICMR said that prices need to be controlled at the state level. Also read | At 68, Delhi reports lowest coronavirus toll after November 5 The Delhi government's order also asked hospitals to display the revised rates at a prominent place within 24 hours. Meanwhile, Delhi on Sunday recorded 4,906 coronavirus cases, the second successive day when the city saw less than 5,000 infections. As many as 68 people died of Covid-19 in the national capital on Sunday, lowest since November 5, taking the toll total death toll over 9,000. According to government figures, Delhi saw the maximum number of cases in a day, 8,593 on November 11 and the highest daily death toll, 131 on November 18 due to a sharp rise in air pollution and Diwali.

Coronavirus: Now RT-PCR tests in national capital will cost about $10

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers.

Both the border points at Singhu and Tikri remained closed with the farmers rejecting the Centre's offer to hold talks over the new farm laws opposed by them.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-farmers-being-misled-calls-new-laws-historic-agriculture-reform-346468">PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'</a>

The closure of borders has also resulted in heavy traffic on other alternate routes between Delhi and Haryana.

The Delhi Traffic Police tweeted, "Singhu Border is still closed from both sides. Please take alternate route. Traffic has been diverted from Mukarba Chowk &amp; GTK road. Traffic is very very heavy. Please avoid outer ring road from signature bridge to Rohini &amp; vice versa, GTK road, NH 44 &amp; Singhu borders.?

In another tweet, it said Tikri border is also closed for traffic movement whiel Jharoda, Dhansa, Daurala Jhatikara, Badusari, Kapashera, Rajokri NH 8, Bijwasan-Bajghera, Palam vihar and Dundahera borders were open and available to Haryana.

Policemen in large numbers were deployed on the Delhi-Gurgaon border and vehicle checking was intensified.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Ingit Pratap Singh said, "We have not received any inputs on farmers coming here but as a precautionary measure, we have deployed our forces."

The Gurugram Traffic Police also alerted commuters about the congestion.

"Traffic congestion has been reported on NH-48 near Sarhol Toll towards Delhi due to slow entry of vehicles into Delhi. @TrafficGGM is on the spot to facilitate the traffic. Inconvenience caused is highly regretted," it tweeted from its official handle.

The agitating farmers demanding scrapping of the new farm laws have also warned to close all five entry points to the national capital.

After a meeting of over 30 farmer groups on Sunday, their representatives said they will not move to the Burari ground for their protest as suggested by the Centre.

They said the farmers will not accept any conditional dialogue and will block all five entry points to Delhi.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers.

Long queues of vehicles choked the roads in parts of the national capital on Monday as the Delhi Police kept the Singhu and Tikri borders closed and heightened checking at other places in the wake of the ongoing protests by farmers. Both the border points at Singhu and Tikri remained closed with the farmers rejecting the Centre's offer to hold talks over the new farm laws opposed by them. Also read | PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform' The closure of borders has also resulted in heavy traffic on other alternate routes between Delhi and Haryana. The Delhi Traffic Police tweeted, "Singhu Border is still closed from both sides. Please take alternate route. Traffic has been diverted from Mukarba Chowk & GTK road. Traffic is very very heavy. Please avoid outer ring road from signature bridge to Rohini & vice versa, GTK road, NH 44 & Singhu borders.? In another tweet, it said Tikri border is also closed for traffic movement whiel Jharoda, Dhansa, Daurala Jhatikara, Badusari, Kapashera, Rajokri NH 8, Bijwasan-Bajghera, Palam vihar and Dundahera borders were open and available to Haryana. Policemen in large numbers were deployed on the Delhi-Gurgaon border and vehicle checking was intensified. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Ingit Pratap Singh said, "We have not received any inputs on farmers coming here but as a precautionary measure, we have deployed our forces." The Gurugram Traffic Police also alerted commuters about the congestion. "Traffic congestion has been reported on NH-48 near Sarhol Toll towards Delhi due to slow entry of vehicles into Delhi. @TrafficGGM is on the spot to facilitate the traffic. Inconvenience caused is highly regretted," it tweeted from its official handle. The agitating farmers demanding scrapping of the new farm laws have also warned to close all five entry points to the national capital. After a meeting of over 30 farmer groups on Sunday, their representatives said they will not move to the Burari ground for their protest as suggested by the Centre. They said the farmers will not accept any conditional dialogue and will block all five entry points to Delhi.

Traffic woes continue in Delhi amid farmers' protest

Thousands of farmers from neighbouring states blocked major roads into the Indian capital on Saturday, in protest against recent agricultural deregulation.

On Saturday, tensions rose again in the protests over laws that farmers fear could rob them of minimum guaranteed prices for their produce -- a day after clashes ended with an agreement that the farmers could demonstrate in the capital. In response, India deployed hundreds of police and paramilitary forces at a New Delhi border.

Farmers appeared ready for a long sit-in and refused to relocate to a designated protest site, raising fears of fresh clashes between security forces and protesters.

Both security forces and farmers installed barricades to prevent a repeat of Friday's clashes.

Those gathered at the Tikri border continued to hold ground as well. A decision on whether they would head to the designated protest site is expected soon.

On Friday, hundreds of farmers entered the national capital to hold a peaceful protest at the Sant Nirankari Ground after facing teargas and water cannons and clashing with security personnel while thousands remained at border points, undecided whether to go to the demonstration site identified by police.

The day witnessed police using teargas shells, water cannons and multi-layer barriers to block the protesters and the farmers pelting stones and breaking barricades in some places in their determination to push through as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' march against the Centre's new farm laws.

Thousands of farmers from neighbouring states blocked major roads into the Indian capital on Saturday, in protest against recent agricultural deregulation. On Saturday, tensions rose again in the protests over laws that farmers fear could rob them of minimum guaranteed prices for their produce -- a day after clashes ended with an agreement that the farmers could demonstrate in the capital.

Thousands of farmers from neighbouring states blocked major roads into the Indian capital on Saturday, in protest against recent agricultural deregulation. On Saturday, tensions rose again in the protests over laws that farmers fear could rob them of minimum guaranteed prices for their produce -- a day after clashes ended with an agreement that the farmers could demonstrate in the capital. In response, India deployed hundreds of police and paramilitary forces at a New Delhi border. Farmers appeared ready for a long sit-in and refused to relocate to a designated protest site, raising fears of fresh clashes between security forces and protesters. Both security forces and farmers installed barricades to prevent a repeat of Friday's clashes. Those gathered at the Tikri border continued to hold ground as well. A decision on whether they would head to the designated protest site is expected soon. On Friday, hundreds of farmers entered the national capital to hold a peaceful protest at the Sant Nirankari Ground after facing teargas and water cannons and clashing with security personnel while thousands remained at border points, undecided whether to go to the demonstration site identified by police. The day witnessed police using teargas shells, water cannons and multi-layer barriers to block the protesters and the farmers pelting stones and breaking barricades in some places in their determination to push through as part of their 'Delhi Chalo' march against the Centre's new farm laws.

Police, protesting farmers face-off at New Delhi border

The country's coronavirus tally mounted to 92,66,705, while the death toll climbed to 1,35,223 with 524 new fatalities, the ministry data updated at 8 am showed.

With 44,489 new cases of Covid infections, India's total cases reached 92,66,705 on Thursday. It is the 19th straight day when India reported less than 50,000 cases in a day.

The last time daily new cases crossed the 50,000-threshold was on November 7.

The country's coronavirus tally mounted to 92,66,705, while the death toll climbed to 1,35,223 with 524 new fatalities, the ministry data updated at 8 am showed.

The COVID-19 active caseload has risen to 4,52,344, an increase of 7,598 cases from Wednesday, even though it remained below 5 lakh for the 16th consecutive day.

The active cases comprise 4.88 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated.

The total number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 86,79,138, pushing the national recovery rate to &nbsp;93.66 per cent, while the COVID-19 case fatality rate stands at 1.46 per cent.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23 and 40 lakh on September 5.

It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29, and surpassed 90 lakh on November 20.

According to ICMR, over 13.59 crore samples have been tested for COVID-19 till November 25, with 10,90,238 samples being tested on Wednesday.

The 524 new fatalities include 99 from Delhi, 65 from Maharashtra, 51 from West Bengal, 42 from Haryana, 31 from Punjab, 29 from Uttar Pradesh and 26 from Kerala.

A total of 1,35,223 deaths reported so far in the country includes 46,748 from Maharashtra followed by 11,714 from Karnataka, 11,655 from Tamil Nadu, 8,720 from Delhi, 8,172 from West Bengal, 7,644 from Uttar Pradesh, 6,962 from Andhra Pradesh, &nbsp; 4,684 from Punjab and 3,906 from Gujarat.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of &nbsp;Medical Research (ICMR)," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

(With inputs from agencies)

The country's coronavirus tally mounted to 92,66,705, while the death toll climbed to 1,35,223 with 524 new fatalities, the ministry data updated at 8 am showed.

The country's coronavirus tally mounted to 92,66,705, while the death toll climbed to 1,35,223 with 524 new fatalities, the ministry data updated at 8 am showed. With 44,489 new cases of Covid infections, India's total cases reached 92,66,705 on Thursday. It is the 19th straight day when India reported less than 50,000 cases in a day. The last time daily new cases crossed the 50,000-threshold was on November 7. The country's coronavirus tally mounted to 92,66,705, while the death toll climbed to 1,35,223 with 524 new fatalities, the ministry data updated at 8 am showed. The COVID-19 active caseload has risen to 4,52,344, an increase of 7,598 cases from Wednesday, even though it remained below 5 lakh for the 16th consecutive day. The active cases comprise 4.88 per cent of the total caseload, the data stated. The total number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 86,79,138, pushing the national recovery rate to 93.66 per cent, while the COVID-19 case fatality rate stands at 1.46 per cent. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23 and 40 lakh on September 5. It went past 50 lakh on September 16, 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, 80 lakh on October 29, and surpassed 90 lakh on November 20. According to ICMR, over 13.59 crore samples have been tested for COVID-19 till November 25, with 10,90,238 samples being tested on Wednesday. The 524 new fatalities include 99 from Delhi, 65 from Maharashtra, 51 from West Bengal, 42 from Haryana, 31 from Punjab, 29 from Uttar Pradesh and 26 from Kerala. A total of 1,35,223 deaths reported so far in the country includes 46,748 from Maharashtra followed by 11,714 from Karnataka, 11,655 from Tamil Nadu, 8,720 from Delhi, 8,172 from West Bengal, 7,644 from Uttar Pradesh, 6,962 from Andhra Pradesh, 4,684 from Punjab and 3,906 from Gujarat. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. (With inputs from agencies)

India's COVID-19 tally reaches 92.66 lakh, recoveries surge to 86.79 lakh

As India's capital chokes under smog, we decode how countries across the world are battling air pollution. Watch 'Fighting Air Pollution' on Wion Wideangle.

WION Wideangle: Fighting Air Pollution

Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Saturday said Punjab was ready to provide all possible help to the Delhi government to combat the COVID-19 threat.

"Delhi is fighting a tough battle, and we are there to help if needed. I have said that earlier also,"&nbsp;he said.

Singh lauded the healthcare and frontline workers of Punjab for their "excellent"&nbsp;work in handling the pandemic in the state. He assured full preparedness by his government to augment healthcare facilities to prepare for a possible second wave of the pandemic.

Singh said while nobody knew when the second wave of infection would strike Punjab, the experience of the NCR and other states and regions showed it was almost certain.

The chief minister expressed confidence that the health department will once again rise to the occasion to meet any challenge, a government release issued here said.

It was the duty of the state government to support the healthcare and other frontline workers, many of whom have got infected and some have even lost their lives to COVID-19, Singh said.

He also exhorted the people to actively help the state in the fight against the pandemic by strictly following all safety norms.

"Mask hi vaccine hai"&nbsp;(mask is the vaccine), as a resolve for the next few months till a vaccine against infection finally is available, Singh said.

The chief minister also launched 107 health and wellness centres to boost the healthcare infrastructure in the state and to provide health services to patients at their doorsteps in both rural and urban areas.

He said these new centres would take the state's health infrastructure to a new level of efficacy amid the pandemic.

Of the 3,049 centres planned in the state, 2,046 were now operational and 800 more would become operational in the next two months, with the remaining to be opened in 2021, Singh said.

He said the state government was focused on strengthening healthcare facilities, especially levels two and three, with the aim to save lives through early testing and treatment.

Urging people to avoid crowded places and not have large gatherings and social functions indoors, he stressed the need to observe all precautions, especially washing hands and wearing face masks.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Saturday said Punjab was ready to provide all possible help to the Delhi government to combat the COVID-19 threat. "Delhi is fighting a tough battle, and we are there to help if needed.

Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Saturday said Punjab was ready to provide all possible help to the Delhi government to combat the COVID-19 threat. "Delhi is fighting a tough battle, and we are there to help if needed. I have said that earlier also," he said. Singh lauded the healthcare and frontline workers of Punjab for their "excellent" work in handling the pandemic in the state. He assured full preparedness by his government to augment healthcare facilities to prepare for a possible second wave of the pandemic. Singh said while nobody knew when the second wave of infection would strike Punjab, the experience of the NCR and other states and regions showed it was almost certain. The chief minister expressed confidence that the health department will once again rise to the occasion to meet any challenge, a government release issued here said. It was the duty of the state government to support the healthcare and other frontline workers, many of whom have got infected and some have even lost their lives to COVID-19, Singh said. He also exhorted the people to actively help the state in the fight against the pandemic by strictly following all safety norms. "Mask hi vaccine hai" (mask is the vaccine), as a resolve for the next few months till a vaccine against infection finally is available, Singh said. The chief minister also launched 107 health and wellness centres to boost the healthcare infrastructure in the state and to provide health services to patients at their doorsteps in both rural and urban areas. He said these new centres would take the state's health infrastructure to a new level of efficacy amid the pandemic. Of the 3,049 centres planned in the state, 2,046 were now operational and 800 more would become operational in the next two months, with the remaining to be opened in 2021, Singh said. He said the state government was focused on strengthening healthcare facilities, especially levels two and three, with the aim to save lives through early testing and treatment. Urging people to avoid crowded places and not have large gatherings and social functions indoors, he stressed the need to observe all precautions, especially washing hands and wearing face masks.

Punjab ready to help Delhi govt to fight Covid crisis: Amarinder Singh

Delhi recorded 3,797 fresh COVID-19 cases on Monday, taking the infection tally in the national capital to over 4.89 lakh, even as 99 new fatalities pushed the toll to 7,713, authorities said.

These relatively low number of fresh cases came out of the 29,871 tests conducted the previous day, which was a Sunday, while the positivity rate stood at 12.73 per cent amid festive season and rising pollution in the city, according to the latest bulletin issued by the Delhi health department.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/countries-joined-hands-in-2020-to-combat-climate-change-covid-19-dr-harsh-vardhan-343544">Countries joined hands in 2020 to combat climate change, COVID-19: Dr Harsh Vardhan</a>

The highest single-day spike of 8,593 cases till date here was recorded on November 11 when 85 fatalities were reported.

Ninety-nine fatalities were recorded, pushing the toll in the national capital to 7,713.

The active cases tally on Monday stood at 40,128.

The bulletin said that the total number of cases has climbed to 4,89,202.

Delhi recorded 3,797 fresh COVID-19 cases on Monday, taking the infection tally in the national capital to over 4.89 lakh, even as 99 new fatalities pushed the toll to 7,713, authorities said.

Delhi recorded 3,797 fresh COVID-19 cases on Monday, taking the infection tally in the national capital to over 4.89 lakh, even as 99 new fatalities pushed the toll to 7,713, authorities said. These relatively low number of fresh cases came out of the 29,871 tests conducted the previous day, which was a Sunday, while the positivity rate stood at 12.73 per cent amid festive season and rising pollution in the city, according to the latest bulletin issued by the Delhi health department. Also read | Countries joined hands in 2020 to combat climate change, COVID-19: Dr Harsh Vardhan The highest single-day spike of 8,593 cases till date here was recorded on November 11 when 85 fatalities were reported. Ninety-nine fatalities were recorded, pushing the toll in the national capital to 7,713. The active cases tally on Monday stood at 40,128. The bulletin said that the total number of cases has climbed to 4,89,202.

Covid-19: Delhi records 3,797 cases; 99 fatalities take toll to 7,713

The city recorded an overall Air Quality Index or AQI of 414 on Saturday, which falls in the "severe" category.

Air Quality in Delhi, adjoining areas falls to severe category | Delhi AQI | WION

Delhi is in a critical situation as coronavirus spread and pollution in the city are on the peak.

Delhi's air quality improves from 'Severe' to 'Very poor'

India's pollution control board has temporarily banned some construction activity in New Delhi and called for stringent measures to stop farm fires causing air quality to plummet and leaving a toxic haze.

The Indian capital has been facing one of the worst spells of air pollution in years, which doctors and environmentalists say is worsening the health effects of a third wave of coronavirus infections.

Delhi's air quality index was "very poor" at 334 on a scale of 500 on Wednesday. That was an improvement from severe conditions in the past three days after wind picked up and dispersed pollutants. But air quality is forecast to deteriorate closer to the Hindu festival Diwali this weekend, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said in a notice.

The CPCB ordered a shutdown of asphalt mixing plants and stone crushers until Nov. 17 in the capital and satellite cities, and told city authorities to ensure stricter enforcement of dust control at all construction sites and penalise violators. Other measures included stepping up mechanised cleaning of roads and checks on rubbish burning.

Beyond the capital itself, the pollution board ordered the state governments of nearby Punjab and Haryana to take "immediate stringent actions" to curb stubble burning, which has been a major source of air pollution this season.

"These are temporary measures where the big challenge would be enforcement," said Anumita Roy Chowdhury, an executive director of research and advocacy at the Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment.

"But, the awareness level among people needs to go up dramatically this year because of COVID-19."

On Monday, India's main environment court, the National Green Tribunal, forbid the sale and use of firecrackers, a traditional part of Diwali celebrations.

India's pollution control board has temporarily banned some construction activity in New Delhi and called for stringent measures to stop farm fires causing air quality to plummet and leaving a toxic haze.

India's pollution control board has temporarily banned some construction activity in New Delhi and called for stringent measures to stop farm fires causing air quality to plummet and leaving a toxic haze. The Indian capital has been facing one of the worst spells of air pollution in years, which doctors and environmentalists say is worsening the health effects of a third wave of coronavirus infections. Delhi's air quality index was "very poor" at 334 on a scale of 500 on Wednesday. That was an improvement from severe conditions in the past three days after wind picked up and dispersed pollutants. But air quality is forecast to deteriorate closer to the Hindu festival Diwali this weekend, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) said in a notice. The CPCB ordered a shutdown of asphalt mixing plants and stone crushers until Nov. 17 in the capital and satellite cities, and told city authorities to ensure stricter enforcement of dust control at all construction sites and penalise violators. Other measures included stepping up mechanised cleaning of roads and checks on rubbish burning. Beyond the capital itself, the pollution board ordered the state governments of nearby Punjab and Haryana to take "immediate stringent actions" to curb stubble burning, which has been a major source of air pollution this season. "These are temporary measures where the big challenge would be enforcement," said Anumita Roy Chowdhury, an executive director of research and advocacy at the Delhi-based Centre for Science and Environment. "But, the awareness level among people needs to go up dramatically this year because of COVID-19." On Monday, India's main environment court, the National Green Tribunal, forbid the sale and use of firecrackers, a traditional part of Diwali celebrations.

Delhi briefly bans some construction to reduce deadly pollution

Delhi is in a critical situation as coronavirus spread and pollution in the city are on the peak. Delhi witnessed the 6th day of severe pollution after farmers from neighbouring cities set fire to their land after harvesting to start agriculture for the next season.

Air pollution doubles in Delhi amid festival season

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