At least 15 people have died after a blaze swept through a sanitiser factory in the western Indian city of Pune on Monday, police said.

"We have recovered 15 bodies so far," an officer in Pune's rural police control room, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP.

"The fire broke out around 4:15 pm at a sanitiser factory, we still don't know what sparked the fire."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vaccine-supply-will-be-increasing-in-the-coming-days-says-pm-modi-389960" hreflang="en">Vaccine supply will be increasing in the coming days, says PM Modi</a>

The officer could not say if there were any injured or missing.

The plant was located on the outskirts of Pune in a village, the Times of India reported.

Those killed were trapped in the factory when the fire broke out after an explosion inside a machine, the newspaper added, citing local revenue officials.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-madras-alumni-contribute-2-million-for-covid-19-relief-efforts-in-india-389935" hreflang="en">IIT Madras alumni contribute $2 million for COVID-19 relief efforts in India</a>

Video footage aired by local media showed huge plumes of smoke billowing from the top of a building.

India is frequently rocked by industrial disasters that experts blame on poor planning and lax enforcement of safety rules.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his condolences, and tweeted that financial compensation would be provided to the families of the victims as well as those injured.

At least 15 people have died after a blaze swept through a sanitiser factory in the western Indian city of Pune on Monday, police said. "We have recovered 15 bodies so far," an officer in Pune's rural police control room, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP.

At least 15 people have died after a blaze swept through a sanitiser factory in the western Indian city of Pune on Monday, police said. "We have recovered 15 bodies so far," an officer in Pune's rural police control room, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told AFP. "The fire broke out around 4:15 pm at a sanitiser factory, we still don't know what sparked the fire." Also read | Vaccine supply will be increasing in the coming days, says PM Modi The officer could not say if there were any injured or missing. The plant was located on the outskirts of Pune in a village, the Times of India reported. Those killed were trapped in the factory when the fire broke out after an explosion inside a machine, the newspaper added, citing local revenue officials. Also read | IIT Madras alumni contribute $2 million for COVID-19 relief efforts in India Video footage aired by local media showed huge plumes of smoke billowing from the top of a building. India is frequently rocked by industrial disasters that experts blame on poor planning and lax enforcement of safety rules. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his condolences, and tweeted that financial compensation would be provided to the families of the victims as well as those injured.

At least 15 dead in India sanitiser factory fire

According to the Institute of Technology Madras, their alumni based out of India and abroad have donated over $2 million (nearly Rs.14.56cr) towards Covid-19 relief efforts in India.

According to the Institute of Technology Madras, their alumni based out of India and abroad have donated over $2 million (nearly Rs.14.56cr) towards Covid-19 relief efforts in India. The fundraising was coordinated by the office Of Alumni and Corporate Relations (ACR), IIT Madras, in association with IIT Madras Alumni Association of North America and IITM Foundation in the US. In line with this effort, Prof. Bhaskar Ramamurthi, Director, IIT Madras and other officials handed over 200 Oxygen concentrators of 10 litres capacity each and handed them over to the Chennai Civic body. In addition to this, representatives of the institute handed over 74 BiPAP machines to Chennai Corporation Officials recently. IIT Madras Alumni have also donated 200 Oxygen Concentrators of 5 litres capacity each to the Telangana Government. Anand Rajaraman, an IIT alumnus and partner at a Silicon Valley-based Venture Capital firm said that it was a duty of the Indian diaspora to help the country get through these darkest hours. According to the institute, IIT Madras alumni working as senior executives with reputed MNCs were actively involved in evaluating and finalising the options available at various stages throughout the process. IIT Madras will continue to contribute to the Covid relief measures in the months to come, as the social commitment has always been a topmost priority for the Institute. “It has been an amazing experience to contribute to this campaign with fellow alumni from IIT Madras. So many people stepped forward to source equipment, raise funds and ensure delivery of the equipment” It is gratifying to know that we could make a difference at a very challenging time in India, said Kamal Duggirala, Chairman IITM Foundation-US. Besides these efforts to aid the Government, IIT Madras has formed a Covid Relief Fund to support students and faculty who are in distress due to pandemic related medical issues. In the last financial year, IIT Madras raised Rs 9.6 million to cater to the Covid relief requirements of students and employees of IIT Madras. There is also a proposal to upgrade the medical infrastructure within the campus. This is meant to cater to any potential requirements that may arise when the campus re-opens and receives students when the lockdown restrictions are relaxed.

IIT Madras alumni contribute $2 million for COVID-19 relief efforts in India

Pictures: Homecoming to Israel for 'lost' Jews in India delayed by COVID-19

India will be marking a national day of mourning on Saturday, June 05 as a mark of respect for the former Prime Minister of Mauritius Anerood Jugnauth.

The national flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of mourning throughout India and there will be no official entertainment.

"As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, the Government of India has decided that there will be one day’s State Mourning tomorrow throughout India,"&nbsp;a statement from the Indian government read.

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Padma Vibhushan Sir Anerood Jugnauth, a tall leader &amp; statesman, was the architect of modern Mauritius. A proud Pravasi Bharatiya, he helped forge the special bilateral relationship that will benefit from his legacy. Condolences to his family &amp; the people of Mauritius. Om Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/CktEnK4XMn">pic.twitter.com/CktEnK4XMn</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1400514980655599618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Anerood Jugnauth was a key figure in Mauritius and had served as the country's President and Prime minister many times and has been credited for the country's economic success.

Indian-origin Jugnauth has been honored by India with Padma Vibhushan and Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. His grandfather had migrated to the country from the Indian state of Bihar.

In a strong show of solidarity, India's top leadership — President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar — had condoled his death. Tweeting about him, the Indian President called him a "global statesman, a visionary leader" and recalled his "landmark contributions to India- Mauritius relations".

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Deeply saddened to know about the demise of Sir Anerood Jugnauth. A global statesman, a visionary leader, a Padma Vibhushan and an extraordinary friend of India, his landmark contributions to India- Mauritius relations will always be remembered. Om Shanti.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1400737140598722560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi also called Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth to convey condolences for the demise of his father Anerood Jugnauth. During the telephonic conversation, PM recalled his long public life in the country and highlighted the "deep respect" he enjoyed in India.&nbsp;

A PMO statement said, "Prime Minister appreciated the seminal role he played in the evolution of India's very special friendship with Mauritius" with both leaders committing "themselves to further strengthening and deepening of the special bilateral relationship, in commemoration of Sir Anerood's abiding legacy."

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Deeply grieved to learn about the passing away of Sir Anerood Jugnauth, former President &amp; Prime Minister of Mauritius. A towering leader and a special friend of India. Still recall his warmth and graciousness the last time I called on him. <a href="https://t.co/w6WC4XWjq2">pic.twitter.com/w6WC4XWjq2</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1400517132727853057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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EAM in his message on Twitter called him a "towering leader and a special friend of India. Important to recall, Mauritian national flags were flown at half-mast in the country as a tribute to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee after his death in 2018. PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth had even written a letter to PM Modi back then calling Vajpayee a "man who stood tall not only for India but also for Mauritius".

In 2015, India had declared a day of national mourning for Singapore's former PM Lee Kuan Yew.

India will be marking a national day of mourning on Saturday, June 05 as a mark of respect for the former Prime Minister of Mauritius Anerood Jugnauth. The national flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of mourning throughout India and there will be no official entertainment.

India will be marking a national day of mourning on Saturday, June 05 as a mark of respect for the former Prime Minister of Mauritius Anerood Jugnauth. The national flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of mourning throughout India and there will be no official entertainment. "As a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, the Government of India has decided that there will be one day’s State Mourning tomorrow throughout India," a statement from the Indian government read. Padma Vibhushan Sir Anerood Jugnauth, a tall leader & statesman, was the architect of modern Mauritius. A proud Pravasi Bharatiya, he helped forge the special bilateral relationship that will benefit from his legacy. Condolences to his family & the people of Mauritius. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/CktEnK4XMn — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 3, 2021 × Anerood Jugnauth was a key figure in Mauritius and had served as the country's President and Prime minister many times and has been credited for the country's economic success. Indian-origin Jugnauth has been honored by India with Padma Vibhushan and Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. His grandfather had migrated to the country from the Indian state of Bihar. In a strong show of solidarity, India's top leadership — President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar — had condoled his death. Tweeting about him, the Indian President called him a "global statesman, a visionary leader" and recalled his "landmark contributions to India- Mauritius relations". Deeply saddened to know about the demise of Sir Anerood Jugnauth. A global statesman, a visionary leader, a Padma Vibhushan and an extraordinary friend of India, his landmark contributions to India- Mauritius relations will always be remembered. Om Shanti. — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) June 4, 2021 × Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi also called Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth to convey condolences for the demise of his father Anerood Jugnauth. During the telephonic conversation, PM recalled his long public life in the country and highlighted the "deep respect" he enjoyed in India. A PMO statement said, "Prime Minister appreciated the seminal role he played in the evolution of India's very special friendship with Mauritius" with both leaders committing "themselves to further strengthening and deepening of the special bilateral relationship, in commemoration of Sir Anerood's abiding legacy." Deeply grieved to learn about the passing away of Sir Anerood Jugnauth, former President & Prime Minister of Mauritius. A towering leader and a special friend of India. Still recall his warmth and graciousness the last time I called on him. pic.twitter.com/w6WC4XWjq2 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 3, 2021 × EAM in his message on Twitter called him a "towering leader and a special friend of India. Important to recall, Mauritian national flags were flown at half-mast in the country as a tribute to former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee after his death in 2018. PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth had even written a letter to PM Modi back then calling Vajpayee a "man who stood tall not only for India but also for Mauritius". In 2015, India had declared a day of national mourning for Singapore's former PM Lee Kuan Yew.

Anerood Jugnauth's demise: India to mark national day of mourning on Saturday

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position. The comment came a day after it emerged that Palestinian foreign minister had written a strong letter to India's external affairs minister (EAM) over the issue.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to questions during weekly virtual press conference said, "I understand Palestine has written a similar letter to all countries who abstained during UNHRC vote. The position we took is not a new position and we have abstained on the previous occasions."

In the letter, Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Riad Malki had expressed concerns over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. In the letter seen by WION, Malki said, "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point" both "crucial and long overdue on the path to accountability, justice and peace".

The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo &amp; Ukraine. The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the 30th of May, 3 days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC.&nbsp;

The resolution--"Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor, 9 against at the 47-member strong Geneva headquartered UN Body. WION was the first new channel to break the story on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position.

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position. The comment came a day after it emerged that Palestinian foreign minister had written a strong letter to India's external affairs minister (EAM) over the issue. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to questions during weekly virtual press conference said, "I understand Palestine has written a similar letter to all countries who abstained during UNHRC vote. The position we took is not a new position and we have abstained on the previous occasions." In the letter, Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Riad Malki had expressed concerns over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. In the letter seen by WION, Malki said, "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point" both "crucial and long overdue on the path to accountability, justice and peace". The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo & Ukraine. The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the 30th of May, 3 days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC. The resolution--"Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor, 9 against at the 47-member strong Geneva headquartered UN Body. WION was the first new channel to break the story on Wednesday.

Our position not new, says India after Palestine FM writes to EAM

India added 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections, taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday.

The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths. The active cases were recorded below 20,00,000&nbsp;for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also, 20,19,773 tests were conducted on Tuesday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 35,00,57,330, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.57 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for nine consecutive days, the ministry said.

The weekly positivity rate has declined to 8.21 per cent. The active cases have reduced to 17,93,645 comprising 6.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.48 per cent. A net decline of 1,01,875 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for the 20th consecutive day. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,61,79,085, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.18 per cent, the data stated.

The 3,207 new fatalities include 854 from Maharashtra, 490 from Tamil Nadu, 464 from Karnataka, 194 from Kerala, 175 from Uttar Pradesh, 137 from West Bengal and 104 from Andhra Pradesh.

A total of 3,35,102 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 96,198 from Maharashtra, 29,554 from Karnataka, 24,722 from Tamil Nadu, 24,299 from Delhi, 20,672 from Uttar Pradesh, 15,678 from West Bengal, 14,649 from Punjab and 13,077 from Chhattisgarh.

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," 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 added 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections, taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.

India added 1,32,788 new coronavirus infections, taking the country's tally of COVID-19 cases to 2,83,07,832, while the daily positivity rate has further dropped to 6.57 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Wednesday. The COVID-19 death toll climbed to 3,35,102 with 3,207 fresh deaths. The active cases were recorded below 20,00,000 for the second consecutive day, the data updated at 8 am showed. Also, 20,19,773 tests were conducted on Tuesday taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far for detection of COVID-19 in the country to 35,00,57,330, while the daily positivity was recorded at 6.57 per cent. It has been less than 10 per cent for nine consecutive days, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has declined to 8.21 per cent. The active cases have reduced to 17,93,645 comprising 6.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 92.48 per cent. A net decline of 1,01,875 cases has been recorded in the COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Recoveries continue to outnumber daily new cases for the 20th consecutive day. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 2,61,79,085, while the case fatality rate stands at 1.18 per cent, the data stated. The 3,207 new fatalities include 854 from Maharashtra, 490 from Tamil Nadu, 464 from Karnataka, 194 from Kerala, 175 from Uttar Pradesh, 137 from West Bengal and 104 from Andhra Pradesh. A total of 3,35,102 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 96,198 from Maharashtra, 29,554 from Karnataka, 24,722 from Tamil Nadu, 24,299 from Delhi, 20,672 from Uttar Pradesh, 15,678 from West Bengal, 14,649 from Punjab and 13,077 from Chhattisgarh. 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," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India logs 1,32,788 fresh cases, 3,207 new fatalities

Global airlines association IATA has urged governments to make data-driven decisions to give freedom to travel for those tested and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccinated</a>. 
 
It has called upon governments to manage the risks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> when reopening borders to international travel. 
 
According to IATA, strategies with&nbsp;quarantine measures can enable international travel to restart with&nbsp;low risk of the introduction of COVID-19 to the travel destination.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/iata-set-to-rollout-covid-19-passport-to-support-safe-reopening-of-borders-345099">IATA set to rollout 'COVID-19 passport' to support 'safe reopening of borders'</a>

"Data can and should drive policies on restarting global travel that manages COVID-19 risks to protect populations, revive livelihoods and boost economies," its Director-General Willie Walsh said. 
 
"We call on the G7 governments meeting later this month to agree on the use of data to safely plan and coordinate the return of the freedom to travel which is so important to people, livelihoods and businesses." 
 
As per IATA, the challenge is the potential of barriers to travel for unvaccinated people which would create an unacceptable exclusion.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/air-travellers-gaining-confidence-time-to-plan-for-restart-iata-369438">Air travellers gaining confidence, time to plan for restart: IATA</a> 
 
"Data from the UK NHS regarding international travellers arriving in the UK (with no reference to vaccination status) shows that the vast majority of travellers pose no risk for the introduction of COVID-19 cases after arrival." 
 
Furthermore, IATA teamed up with Airbus and Boeing to demonstrate potential methodologies to manage the risks of COVID-19 to keep populations safe while restarting global connectivity. 
 
Both Airbus and Boeing have developed data-driven risk-management models to understand the impact of various options.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/give-us-priority-covid-19-vaccination-foreign-bound-students-to-tamil-nadu-govt-388954">Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt</a>&nbsp; 
 
In the Airbus model, more than 50 variables were considered focusing on risks across the whole journey. 
 
"The Airbus model, designed to support government stakeholders to reopen air travel, demonstrates that the risk of virus transmission and translocation can be significantly reduced by adopting data-driven screening and protection measures." 
 
Besides, Boeing modelled the efficacy of testing strategies.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-second-wave-rendered-10-million-indians-jobless-97-households-incomes-declined-report-388779">Covid second wave rendered 10 million Indians jobless; 97% households' incomes declined: Report</a> 
 
"Boeing modelling and analysis shows screening protocols offer an alternative to mandatory quarantines for many travel scenarios." 
 
"The model evaluates the effectiveness of passenger screenings and quarantines in countries around the world. It accounts for various factors including COVID-19 prevalence rates between origin and destination countries, the efficacy of PCR and rapid antigen tests, and the disease timeline (how the disease progresses) for passengers travelling with COVID-19," the IATA said.

Global airlines association IATA has urged governments to make data-driven decisions to give freedom to travel for those tested and vaccinated. It has called upon governments to manage the risks of COVID-19 when reopening borders to international travel.

Global airlines association IATA has urged governments to make data-driven decisions to give freedom to travel for those tested and vaccinated. It has called upon governments to manage the risks of COVID-19 when reopening borders to international travel. According to IATA, strategies with quarantine measures can enable international travel to restart with low risk of the introduction of COVID-19 to the travel destination. Also Read | IATA set to rollout 'COVID-19 passport' to support 'safe reopening of borders' "Data can and should drive policies on restarting global travel that manages COVID-19 risks to protect populations, revive livelihoods and boost economies," its Director-General Willie Walsh said. "We call on the G7 governments meeting later this month to agree on the use of data to safely plan and coordinate the return of the freedom to travel which is so important to people, livelihoods and businesses." As per IATA, the challenge is the potential of barriers to travel for unvaccinated people which would create an unacceptable exclusion. Also Read | Air travellers gaining confidence, time to plan for restart: IATA "Data from the UK NHS regarding international travellers arriving in the UK (with no reference to vaccination status) shows that the vast majority of travellers pose no risk for the introduction of COVID-19 cases after arrival." Furthermore, IATA teamed up with Airbus and Boeing to demonstrate potential methodologies to manage the risks of COVID-19 to keep populations safe while restarting global connectivity. Both Airbus and Boeing have developed data-driven risk-management models to understand the impact of various options. Also Read | Give us priority COVID-19 vaccination: Foreign-bound students to Tamil Nadu govt In the Airbus model, more than 50 variables were considered focusing on risks across the whole journey. "The Airbus model, designed to support government stakeholders to reopen air travel, demonstrates that the risk of virus transmission and translocation can be significantly reduced by adopting data-driven screening and protection measures." Besides, Boeing modelled the efficacy of testing strategies. Also Read | Covid second wave rendered 10 million Indians jobless; 97% households' incomes declined: Report "Boeing modelling and analysis shows screening protocols offer an alternative to mandatory quarantines for many travel scenarios." "The model evaluates the effectiveness of passenger screenings and quarantines in countries around the world. It accounts for various factors including COVID-19 prevalence rates between origin and destination countries, the efficacy of PCR and rapid antigen tests, and the disease timeline (how the disease progresses) for passengers travelling with COVID-19," the IATA said.

Allow freedom to travel for tested, vaccinated persons: IATA

Google on Wednesday clarified that its search engine is not classified to be part of the new IT intermediary guidelines 2021, urging the Delhi High Court to set aside an order that puts Google Search as part of the new IT rules. 
 
The single judge order on April 20 came in a case where a woman`s images were uploaded on a pornographic website and despite court orders, the objectionable content could not be removed in entirety from the internet.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatsapp-goes-to-court-over-indian-governments-new-it-rules-387479">WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules</a> 
 
A Google spokesperson told IANS that Search engines are a reflection of the content and information that is available on the internet. 
 
"While we maintain a consistent policy over removal of objectionable content from search results, the Delhi High Court order has cast certain obligations that would wrongly classify Google search as a social media intermediary," a Google spokesperson told IANS.

"We`ve filed an appeal against this part of the order and look forward to explaining the steps we take to remove objectionable content from Google search results," the company spokesperson added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-new-it-rules-set-to-come-into-effect-will-us-big-tech-comply-387359">India's new IT rules set to come into effect, will US big tech comply?</a>

A bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh has issued notice to the Union government, Delhi government, Facebook, the pornographic site and Internet Service Providers Association of India, seeking their responses to Google`s plea by July 25. 
 
The Google spokesperson said that the "direction also requires proactively identifying and globally disabling access to any content which may be similar to the offending content, that may appear on any other websites/online platforms, or in any other context".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/seven-social-media-platforms-comply-with-some-it-rules-twitter-drags-feet-388125">Seven social media platforms comply with some IT rules; Twitter drags feet</a> 
 
The new rules notified in the gazette of India on February 25 under the Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, came into effect from May 26. 
 
While Facebook, WhatsApp, Google, Telegram, LinkedIn etc have either fully or partially complied with the new IT rules, Twitter has reiterated to comply with the new IT intermediary guidelines in India as the Delhi High Court issued notice on a plea against the non-compliance by Twitter India and Twitter Inc.

Google on Wednesday clarified that its search engine is not classified to be part of the new IT intermediary guidelines 2021, urging the Delhi High Court to set aside an order that puts Google Search as part of the new IT rules.

Google on Wednesday clarified that its search engine is not classified to be part of the new IT intermediary guidelines 2021, urging the Delhi High Court to set aside an order that puts Google Search as part of the new IT rules. The single judge order on April 20 came in a case where a woman`s images were uploaded on a pornographic website and despite court orders, the objectionable content could not be removed in entirety from the internet. Also Read | WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules A Google spokesperson told IANS that Search engines are a reflection of the content and information that is available on the internet. "While we maintain a consistent policy over removal of objectionable content from search results, the Delhi High Court order has cast certain obligations that would wrongly classify Google search as a social media intermediary," a Google spokesperson told IANS. "We`ve filed an appeal against this part of the order and look forward to explaining the steps we take to remove objectionable content from Google search results," the company spokesperson added. Also Read | India's new IT rules set to come into effect, will US big tech comply? A bench of Chief Justice D N Patel and Justice Jyoti Singh has issued notice to the Union government, Delhi government, Facebook, the pornographic site and Internet Service Providers Association of India, seeking their responses to Google`s plea by July 25. The Google spokesperson said that the "direction also requires proactively identifying and globally disabling access to any content which may be similar to the offending content, that may appear on any other websites/online platforms, or in any other context". Also Read | Seven social media platforms comply with some IT rules; Twitter drags feet The new rules notified in the gazette of India on February 25 under the Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, came into effect from May 26. While Facebook, WhatsApp, Google, Telegram, LinkedIn etc have either fully or partially complied with the new IT rules, Twitter has reiterated to comply with the new IT intermediary guidelines in India as the Delhi High Court issued notice on a plea against the non-compliance by Twitter India and Twitter Inc.

Google says its search engine not classified as part of new IT rules in India

Australian batsman David Warner led Sunrisers Hyderabad for most of IPL 2021 in India amidst a raging coronavirus pandemic. Warner talked about his 'terrifying' experience in India as the virus wreaked havoc across the nation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/happy-birthday-steve-smith-the-batting-virtuoso-388979" hreflang="en">Happy Birthday Steve Smith - The batting virtuoso</a>

David Warner said that it was 'upsetting' to see what was happening in the country. "I think it really hit home when everyone saw that piece on the TV about what was happening in India with the oxygen," Warner told Nova's Fitzy &amp; Wippa. "You know, people on the streets lining up to cremate their family members and we did see that a couple of times going to and from the grounds. Open fields and stuff. You know, it was terrifying. And it was just really upsetting from a humanitarian point of view."

The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League was suspended after several cases emerged inside the bio-secure bubble.&nbsp;

"I think the right decision was made (to suspend the IPL). Got into the bubble, which was obviously going to be a challenge once we started moving, getting on and off aircraft. But look, they did their best to try and put it (the IPL) on there and we know in India that everyone loves cricket, and half the population would do anything to put a smile on their face and just watch that," he said.

"It was challenging. We had to get out of there ASAP. We were there (in the Maldives) with other people and they were there for the same reasons — getting out of India, trying to get to their countries as well because pretty much everyone was locked out of their country who had been into India."

Australian batsman David Warner led Sunrisers Hyderabad for most of IPL 2021 in India amidst a raging coronavirus pandemic. Warner talked about his 'terrifying' experience in India as the virus wreaked havoc across the nation.

Australian batsman David Warner led Sunrisers Hyderabad for most of IPL 2021 in India amidst a raging coronavirus pandemic. Warner talked about his 'terrifying' experience in India as the virus wreaked havoc across the nation. ALSO READ: Happy Birthday Steve Smith - The batting virtuoso David Warner said that it was 'upsetting' to see what was happening in the country. "I think it really hit home when everyone saw that piece on the TV about what was happening in India with the oxygen," Warner told Nova's Fitzy & Wippa. "You know, people on the streets lining up to cremate their family members and we did see that a couple of times going to and from the grounds. Open fields and stuff. You know, it was terrifying. And it was just really upsetting from a humanitarian point of view." The 14th edition of the Indian Premier League was suspended after several cases emerged inside the bio-secure bubble. "I think the right decision was made (to suspend the IPL). Got into the bubble, which was obviously going to be a challenge once we started moving, getting on and off aircraft. But look, they did their best to try and put it (the IPL) on there and we know in India that everyone loves cricket, and half the population would do anything to put a smile on their face and just watch that," he said. "It was challenging. We had to get out of there ASAP. We were there (in the Maldives) with other people and they were there for the same reasons — getting out of India, trying to get to their countries as well because pretty much everyone was locked out of their country who had been into India."

Cricket- 'Terrifying': David Warner recalls experience of COVID-19 situation in India

India's economic growth picked up in the January-March quarter from the previous three months, but economists have grown pessimistic about this quarter after a huge second wave of COVID-19 infections hit the country last month.

Gross domestic product grew 1.6% in January-March compared with the same period a year earlier, mainly driven by manufacturing sector growth, data from the statistics ministry showed on Monday.

That compared with revised growth of 0.5% in the previous three months and 1.0% according to a Reuters poll of economists.

India also revised its annual GDP estimates for the fiscal year, predicting a 7.3% contraction, less than its earlier estimate of -8.0%.

A slow vaccination drive and local restrictions after a massive second wave of infections and deaths across the country have hit economic activities like retail, transport and construction while putting millions out of work.

India has recorded 28 million COVID-19 infections, behind only the United States, and 329,100 deaths as of Monday, although the rise has begun to slow.

Economists said the economy, which was facing a slowdown even before the pandemic, may now see a collapse in consumer demand, which accounts for more than 55% of the economy, as household incomes and jobs have declined.

Garima Kapoor, economist at Institutional Equities, Elara Capital Mumbai, said the March GDP numbers reflected the impact of the unlocking of the economy before the second wave hit.

"The rebound in consumer spending would hence be more gradual than the first wave, with vaccination being the key driver."

The central bank, which has kept monetary policy loose while boosting liquidity to the economy, said last week the prospects will depend on how fast India can arrest infections.

Analysts warn that the slow rollout could pose medium-term risks to growth, especially if the country were to experience a third wave of COVID-19.

Unemployment soared to a near one-year high of 14.7% in the week ending May 23, according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, a Mumbai-based private think tank.

India's economic growth picked up in the January-March quarter from the previous three months, but economists have grown pessimistic about this quarter after a huge second wave of COVID-19 infections hit the country last month.

India's economic growth picked up in the January-March quarter from the previous three months, but economists have grown pessimistic about this quarter after a huge second wave of COVID-19 infections hit the country last month. Gross domestic product grew 1.6% in January-March compared with the same period a year earlier, mainly driven by manufacturing sector growth, data from the statistics ministry showed on Monday. That compared with revised growth of 0.5% in the previous three months and 1.0% according to a Reuters poll of economists. India also revised its annual GDP estimates for the fiscal year, predicting a 7.3% contraction, less than its earlier estimate of -8.0%. A slow vaccination drive and local restrictions after a massive second wave of infections and deaths across the country have hit economic activities like retail, transport and construction while putting millions out of work. India has recorded 28 million COVID-19 infections, behind only the United States, and 329,100 deaths as of Monday, although the rise has begun to slow. Economists said the economy, which was facing a slowdown even before the pandemic, may now see a collapse in consumer demand, which accounts for more than 55% of the economy, as household incomes and jobs have declined. Garima Kapoor, economist at Institutional Equities, Elara Capital Mumbai, said the March GDP numbers reflected the impact of the unlocking of the economy before the second wave hit. "The rebound in consumer spending would hence be more gradual than the first wave, with vaccination being the key driver." The central bank, which has kept monetary policy loose while boosting liquidity to the economy, said last week the prospects will depend on how fast India can arrest infections. Analysts warn that the slow rollout could pose medium-term risks to growth, especially if the country were to experience a third wave of COVID-19. Unemployment soared to a near one-year high of 14.7% in the week ending May 23, according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, a Mumbai-based private think tank.

India's economic growth picks up in Jan-March, before huge COVID-19 wave

Corporate India's business confidence sharply deteriorated due to the devastating second COVID-19 wave, with nearly three-fourths of the participants reporting weak demand conditions, according to a leading industry group`s latest survey. 
 
The steep drop from a decade-high reading in the previous round follows a record surge in infections in April and May, which has seen many states reintroduce limited lockdowns and multiple brokerages cutting economic growth expectations. 
 
The overall Business Confidence Index nosedived to 51.5 in the current round compared with 74.2 in the previous round, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) said on Monday. 
 
"Since a much larger proportion of the population has been impacted in the current wave, measures to support demand revival will be crucial for the economy to recover from the latest pandemic induced shock," FICCI said. 
 
The survey, which gauged expectations of the respondents for the period April to September, drew responses from about 180 companies across a wide array of sectors with a turnover ranging from 10 million rupees to 600 billion rupees ($137,839.78-$8.27 billion). 
 
India`s earnings season for the fourth quarter ended March 31 has been a mixed bag, with only 18 of the 42 Nifty 50 companies that have reported so far beating estimates, according to Refinitiv Eikon data. 
 
However, rating agency Fitch on Monday said it expects the impact of the second wave to be less severe on corporates than in 2020, with most companies` credit profiles being supported by their strong market positions. 
 
India is set to announce gross domestic product data for the January-to-March quarter at 1200 GMT on Monday.

Corporate India's business confidence sharply deteriorated due to the devastating second COVID-19 wave, with nearly three-fourths of the participants reporting weak demand conditions, according to a leading industry group`s latest survey.

Corporate India's business confidence sharply deteriorated due to the devastating second COVID-19 wave, with nearly three-fourths of the participants reporting weak demand conditions, according to a leading industry group`s latest survey. The steep drop from a decade-high reading in the previous round follows a record surge in infections in April and May, which has seen many states reintroduce limited lockdowns and multiple brokerages cutting economic growth expectations. The overall Business Confidence Index nosedived to 51.5 in the current round compared with 74.2 in the previous round, the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) said on Monday. "Since a much larger proportion of the population has been impacted in the current wave, measures to support demand revival will be crucial for the economy to recover from the latest pandemic induced shock," FICCI said. The survey, which gauged expectations of the respondents for the period April to September, drew responses from about 180 companies across a wide array of sectors with a turnover ranging from 10 million rupees to 600 billion rupees ($137,839.78-$8.27 billion). India`s earnings season for the fourth quarter ended March 31 has been a mixed bag, with only 18 of the 42 Nifty 50 companies that have reported so far beating estimates, according to Refinitiv Eikon data. However, rating agency Fitch on Monday said it expects the impact of the second wave to be less severe on corporates than in 2020, with most companies` credit profiles being supported by their strong market positions. India is set to announce gross domestic product data for the January-to-March quarter at 1200 GMT on Monday.

India's second COVID-19 wave rattles business confidence: Survey

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>-induced suspension of scheduled international passenger flights has been extended till June 30, aviation regulator DGCA said on Friday.

"However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation added.

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Scheduled international passenger services have been suspended in India since March 23, 2020, due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus pandemic</a>. But special international flights have been operating under the Vande Bharat Mission since May 2020, and under bilateral "air bubble" arrangements with select countries since July 2020.

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India has formed air bubble pacts with around 27 countries including the US, the UAE, Kenya, Bhutan and France. Under an air bubble pact between two countries, special international flights can be operated by their airlines between their territories.

The DGCA's Friday circular also said that the suspension does not affect international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by it.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-announces-graded-relaxation-on-international-travel-337089">Indian government announces graded relaxation on international travel</a>

The decision to extend the suspension on scheduled international passenger flights comes as India battles a second wave of coronavirus, even though daily cases have seen a steady decline over the past several days.

The coronavirus-induced suspension of scheduled international passenger flights has been extended till June 30, aviation regulator DGCA said on Friday. "However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation added.

The coronavirus-induced suspension of scheduled international passenger flights has been extended till June 30, aviation regulator DGCA said on Friday. "However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis," the Directorate General of Civil Aviation added. Also Read | Coronavirus: India extends ban on international passenger flights till April 14 Scheduled international passenger services have been suspended in India since March 23, 2020, due to the coronavirus pandemic. But special international flights have been operating under the Vande Bharat Mission since May 2020, and under bilateral "air bubble" arrangements with select countries since July 2020. Also Read | India establishes 'air bubbles' with US, France; international flights from July 17 India has formed air bubble pacts with around 27 countries including the US, the UAE, Kenya, Bhutan and France. Under an air bubble pact between two countries, special international flights can be operated by their airlines between their territories. The DGCA's Friday circular also said that the suspension does not affect international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by it. Also Read | Indian government announces graded relaxation on international travel The decision to extend the suspension on scheduled international passenger flights comes as India battles a second wave of coronavirus, even though daily cases have seen a steady decline over the past several days.

International flights suspension extended till June 30: Indian aviation body

The government on Thursday slammed as "baseless and false" a statement by Twitter that had alleged intimidation by police over the 'manipulated media' tags issue and threat to freedom of expression, with IT Ministry terming the company's stance as an attempt to dictate terms to the world's largest democracy.

The ministry asserted that representatives of social media companies, including Twitter, "are and will always remain safe in India", and that there is "no threat to their personal safety and security".

In a hard-hitting statement, the ministry said India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries.

"Protecting free speech in India is not the prerogative of only a private, for-profit, foreign entity like Twitter, but it is the commitment of the world's largest democracy and its robust institutions," it said.

Twitter's statement is an attempt to "dictate its terms" to the world's largest democracy, the ministry said, adding that through its actions and deliberate defiance, the company is seeking to undermine India's legal system.

Twitter refuses to comply with the very regulations in the Intermediary Guidelines on the basis of which it is claiming a safe harbour protection from any criminal liability in India, the ministry contended.

It questioned Twitter on why it did not set up a robust mechanism of its own in India, and said the company's officials in India routinely claimed that they have no authority and that "they and the people of India need to escalate everything to Twitter headquarter in USA".

The purported commitment of Twitter to its Indian user base thus not only sounds hollow but completely self serving, the ministry said.

Despite having a large user base in India and earning significant revenue from its operations here, Twitter is "most reluctant" to appoint India-based grievance redressal officer and mechanism, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom its own users can complain when they are subjected to offesive tweets, the ministry argued.

The government said it respects the right of people to ask questions and also criticise on these social media platforms, including Twitter. The government equally respects the right of privacy, it said.

"The only instance of scuttling free speech on Twitter is Twitter itself and its opaque policies, as a result of which people's accounts are suspended and tweets deleted arbitrarily without recourse," the ministry pointed out.

It asked Twitter to "stop beating around the bush" and comply with laws of the land.

"Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what India's legal policy framework should be," the ministry said.

The government said although Twitter claimed that it is committed to people of India, that commitment has been "most invisible in recent times".

Flagging some instances, it said Twitter chose to show the geo-locations of certain locations in Union&nbsp; 
Territory of Ladakh as part of China, and took several days to rectify "this blatant disrespect to India's sensitivity and territorial integrity".

The ministry also called out Twitter for delay in taking action on its order to block provocative content that could impact public law and order, even though the company had been quick to act on similar instance during violence at US Capitol Hill.

The ministry said that Twitter's "lack of responsibility" had led to rampant proliferation of fake and harmful content against India and Indians.

"Twitter Inc., a USA based private company, in its communique says that it seeks 'constructive dialogue', 'collaborative approach' from the Government of a sovereign democratic republic to 'safeguard interests of the public'. It is time that Twitter disabuses itself of this grandiosity and comply with laws of India," it said. 
Earlier on Thursday, Twitter had called the recent visit by Delhi Police to its offices a form of "intimidation" and said it was concerned about its employees and the potential threat to freedom of expression.

Twitter had marked tweets by ruling BJP leaders on the alleged strategy document of Opposition to target the government over COVID as containing 'manipulated media', which prompted the police to visit its offices late on Monday. Opposition Congress has disputed the document, calling it fake.

In its first official statement after the Delhi Police visited the company's offices in Delhi and in Gurugram to serve notice to its country managing director as part of its investigation into the 'manipulated media' tag, Twitter said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression.

"Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve," Twitter said in the statement.

"We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT rules," Twitter had said.

The government on Thursday slammed as "baseless and false" a statement by Twitter that had alleged intimidation by police over the 'manipulated media' tags issue and threat to freedom of expression, with IT Ministry terming the company's stance as an attempt to dictate terms to the world's largest democracy.

The government on Thursday slammed as "baseless and false" a statement by Twitter that had alleged intimidation by police over the 'manipulated media' tags issue and threat to freedom of expression, with IT Ministry terming the company's stance as an attempt to dictate terms to the world's largest democracy. The ministry asserted that representatives of social media companies, including Twitter, "are and will always remain safe in India", and that there is "no threat to their personal safety and security". In a hard-hitting statement, the ministry said India has a glorious tradition of free speech and democratic practices dating back centuries. "Protecting free speech in India is not the prerogative of only a private, for-profit, foreign entity like Twitter, but it is the commitment of the world's largest democracy and its robust institutions," it said. Twitter's statement is an attempt to "dictate its terms" to the world's largest democracy, the ministry said, adding that through its actions and deliberate defiance, the company is seeking to undermine India's legal system. Twitter refuses to comply with the very regulations in the Intermediary Guidelines on the basis of which it is claiming a safe harbour protection from any criminal liability in India, the ministry contended. It questioned Twitter on why it did not set up a robust mechanism of its own in India, and said the company's officials in India routinely claimed that they have no authority and that "they and the people of India need to escalate everything to Twitter headquarter in USA". The purported commitment of Twitter to its Indian user base thus not only sounds hollow but completely self serving, the ministry said. Despite having a large user base in India and earning significant revenue from its operations here, Twitter is "most reluctant" to appoint India-based grievance redressal officer and mechanism, chief compliance officer and nodal officer to whom its own users can complain when they are subjected to offesive tweets, the ministry argued. The government said it respects the right of people to ask questions and also criticise on these social media platforms, including Twitter. The government equally respects the right of privacy, it said. "The only instance of scuttling free speech on Twitter is Twitter itself and its opaque policies, as a result of which people's accounts are suspended and tweets deleted arbitrarily without recourse," the ministry pointed out. It asked Twitter to "stop beating around the bush" and comply with laws of the land. "Law making and policy formulations is the sole prerogative of the sovereign and Twitter is just a social media platform and it has no locus in dictating what India's legal policy framework should be," the ministry said. The government said although Twitter claimed that it is committed to people of India, that commitment has been "most invisible in recent times". Flagging some instances, it said Twitter chose to show the geo-locations of certain locations in Union Territory of Ladakh as part of China, and took several days to rectify "this blatant disrespect to India's sensitivity and territorial integrity". The ministry also called out Twitter for delay in taking action on its order to block provocative content that could impact public law and order, even though the company had been quick to act on similar instance during violence at US Capitol Hill. The ministry said that Twitter's "lack of responsibility" had led to rampant proliferation of fake and harmful content against India and Indians. "Twitter Inc., a USA based private company, in its communique says that it seeks 'constructive dialogue', 'collaborative approach' from the Government of a sovereign democratic republic to 'safeguard interests of the public'. It is time that Twitter disabuses itself of this grandiosity and comply with laws of India," it said. Earlier on Thursday, Twitter had called the recent visit by Delhi Police to its offices a form of "intimidation" and said it was concerned about its employees and the potential threat to freedom of expression. Twitter had marked tweets by ruling BJP leaders on the alleged strategy document of Opposition to target the government over COVID as containing 'manipulated media', which prompted the police to visit its offices late on Monday. Opposition Congress has disputed the document, calling it fake. In its first official statement after the Delhi Police visited the company's offices in Delhi and in Gurugram to serve notice to its country managing director as part of its investigation into the 'manipulated media' tag, Twitter said it will continue to be strictly guided by principles of transparency and protecting freedom of expression. "Right now, we are concerned by recent events regarding our employees in India and the potential threat to freedom of expression for the people we serve," Twitter said in the statement. "We, alongside many in civil society in India and around the world, have concerns with regards to the use of intimidation tactics by the police in response to enforcement of our global Terms of Service, as well as with core elements of the new IT rules," Twitter had said.

India slams Twitter's concerns over threat to free speech

India on Wednesday reported 208,921 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 27,157,795, as the country conducted 2,217,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data.

The death toll also climbed to 311,388 with 4,157 fatalities reported in a 24-hour period, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-linked-agency-hires-influencers-to-spread-fake-news-about-pfizer-vaccine-387419" hreflang="en">Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine</a>

A total of 2,217,320 tests, the highest in a day, were conducted on Tuesday taking the cumulative number so far in the country to 334,811,496, while the daily positivity declined to 9.42 per cent, the ministry said.

This is the second day in a row that the case positivity rate has remained below 10 per cent, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has also declined to 11.45 per cent. The updated data showed that the number of active cases have further come down to 2,495,591, with a net decline of 91,191 in a span of 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-gets-a-new-drug-to-treat-wuhan-virus-387376">WATCH |</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-gets-a-new-drug-to-treat-wuhan-virus-387376/embed" width="560"></iframe>

The active cases now constituting 9.19 per cent of the total infections. The data also showed that 295,955 patients recovered from the virus in a span of 24 hours, pushing the total recoveries so far to 24,350,816. The national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 89.66 per cent, it showed. The case fatality rate was 1.15 per cent, the data showed.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the two million&nbsp;mark on August 7, three&nbsp;million on August 23, four&nbsp;million on September 5 and five&nbsp;million on September 16. The country crossed the grim milestone of 20 million cases on May 4.

The 4,157 new fatalities include 1,137 from Maharashtra, 588 from Karnataka, 468 from Tamil Nadu, 177 from Kerala, 174 from Punjab, 157 each from Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, 156 from Delhi, 128 from Haryana, 106 from Andhra Pradesh, 105 from Rajasthan and 104 from Bihar, according to the ministry data.

A total of 311,388 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 90,349 from Maharashtra, 26,399 from Karnataka, 23,565 from Delhi, 21,340 from Tamil Nadu, 19,519 from Uttar Pradesh, 14,674 from West Bengal, 13,642 from Punjab and 12,723 from Chhattisgarh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities or preexisting health conditions. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that the state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India on Wednesday reported 208,921 COVID-19 infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 27,157,795, as the country conducted 2,217,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data.

India on Wednesday reported 208,921 COVID-19 infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 27,157,795, as the country conducted 2,217,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data. The death toll also climbed to 311,388 with 4,157 fatalities reported in a 24-hour period, the data updated at 8 am showed. Also read | Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine A total of 2,217,320 tests, the highest in a day, were conducted on Tuesday taking the cumulative number so far in the country to 334,811,496, while the daily positivity declined to 9.42 per cent, the ministry said. This is the second day in a row that the case positivity rate has remained below 10 per cent, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has also declined to 11.45 per cent. The updated data showed that the number of active cases have further come down to 2,495,591, with a net decline of 91,191 in a span of 24 hours. WATCH | The active cases now constituting 9.19 per cent of the total infections. The data also showed that 295,955 patients recovered from the virus in a span of 24 hours, pushing the total recoveries so far to 24,350,816. The national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 89.66 per cent, it showed. The case fatality rate was 1.15 per cent, the data showed. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the two million mark on August 7, three million on August 23, four million on September 5 and five million on September 16. The country crossed the grim milestone of 20 million cases on May 4. The 4,157 new fatalities include 1,137 from Maharashtra, 588 from Karnataka, 468 from Tamil Nadu, 177 from Kerala, 174 from Punjab, 157 each from Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, 156 from Delhi, 128 from Haryana, 106 from Andhra Pradesh, 105 from Rajasthan and 104 from Bihar, according to the ministry data. A total of 311,388 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 90,349 from Maharashtra, 26,399 from Karnataka, 23,565 from Delhi, 21,340 from Tamil Nadu, 19,519 from Uttar Pradesh, 14,674 from West Bengal, 13,642 from Punjab and 12,723 from Chhattisgarh. The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities or preexisting health conditions. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that the state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

India reports 208,921 COVID-19 infections; positivity rate stays below 10%

India on Wednesday reported 208,921 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> infections, pushing the overall tally of cases to 27,157,795, as the country conducted 2,217,320 coronavirus tests, its highest-ever in a day, according to Union Health Ministry data.

The death toll also climbed to 311,388 with 4,157 fatalities reported in a 24-hour period, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-linked-agency-hires-influencers-to-spread-fake-news-about-pfizer-vaccine-387419" hreflang="en">Russia-linked agency hires influencers to spread fake news about Pfizer vaccine</a>

A total of 2,217,320 tests, the highest in a day, were conducted on Tuesday taking the cumulative number so far in the country to 334,811,496, while the daily positivity declined to 9.42 per cent, the ministry said.

This is the second day in a row that the case positivity rate has remained below 10 per cent, the ministry said. The weekly positivity rate has also declined to 11.45 per cent. The updated data showed that the number of active cases have further come down to 2,495,591, with a net decline of 91,191 in a span of 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-gets-a-new-drug-to-treat-wuhan-virus-387376">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-india-gets-a-new-drug-to-treat-wuhan-virus-387376/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The active cases now constituting 9.19 per cent of the total infections. The data also showed that 295,955 patients recovered from the virus in a span of 24 hours, pushing the total recoveries so far to 24,350,816. The national COVID-19 recovery rate has improved to 89.66 per cent, it showed. The case fatality rate was 1.15 per cent, the data showed.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the two million&nbsp;mark on August 7, three&nbsp;million on August 23, four&nbsp;million on September 5 and five&nbsp;million on September 16. The country crossed the grim milestone of 20 million cases on May 4.

The 4,157 new fatalities include 1,137 from Maharashtra, 588 from Karnataka, 468 from Tamil Nadu, 177 from Kerala, 174 from Punjab, 157 each from Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, 156 from Delhi, 128 from Haryana, 106 from Andhra Pradesh, 105 from Rajasthan and 104 from Bihar, according to the ministry data.

A total of 311,388 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 90,349 from Maharashtra, 26,399 from Karnataka, 23,565 from Delhi, 21,340 from Tamil Nadu, 19,519 from Uttar Pradesh, 14,674 from West Bengal, 13,642 from Punjab and 12,723 from Chhattisgarh.

The health ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities or preexisting health conditions. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that the state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

The government on Wednesday staunchly defended its new digital rules, saying the requirement of messaging platforms like WhatsApp to disclose the origin of flagged messages does not violate privacy and went on to seek a compliance report from large social media firms.

A day after WhatsApp filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court challenging the new digital rules on grounds that the requirement for the company to provide access to encrypted messages will break privacy protections, IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the new norms will not impact the normal functioning of the popular free-messaging platform.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/whatsapp-goes-to-court-over-indian-governments-new-it-rules-387479">WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules</a>

The requirement of tracing the origin of messages under new IT rules is for prevention and investigation of "very serious offences" related to sovereignty and integrity of India and security of the state, a statement from his ministry said.

Separately, the ministry asked all significant social media companies such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and WhatsApp to report their status on compliance with the new rules, which kicked in from Wednesday. 
The companies did not respond to emailed queries on the issue.

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The new rules, announced on February 25, require large social media platforms, defined as those with over 50 lakh users in the country, to follow additional due diligence, including the appointment of a chief compliance officer, nodal contact person and resident grievance officer.

Non-compliance with rules would result in these platforms losing the intermediary status that provides them immunity from liabilities over any third-party data hosted by them. In other words, they could be liable for criminal action in case of complaints.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-new-it-rules-set-to-come-into-effect-will-us-big-tech-comply-387359">India's new IT rules set to come into effect, will US big tech comply?</a>

Sources with knowledge of the matter said large social media companies have been asked to immediately provide details and contact information of the three officials mandated under the new rules.

The ministry in the statement termed WhatsApp's last moment challenge to the IT rules as an unfortunate attempt to prevent the norms from coming into effect.

The UK, the US, Australia, New Zealand and Canada require social media firms to allow for the legal interception, it said, adding "What India is asking for is significantly much less than what some of the other countries have demanded".

"Therefore, WhatsApp's attempt to portray the Intermediary Guidelines of India as contrary to the right to privacy is misguided," the official statement said, adding that the government recognises that 'Right to Privacy" is a fundamental right.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/tensions-high-between-indian-govt-and-twitter-387331/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The statement quoted Prasad as saying that the government "is committed to ensure the Right of Privacy to all its citizens but at the same time, it is also the responsibility of the government to maintain law and order and ensure national security."

"The Government respects the Right of Privacy and has no intention to violate it when WhatsApp is required to disclose the origin of a particular message.

"Such requirements are only in case when the message is required for prevention, investigation or punishment of very serious offences related to the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, or public order, or of incitement to an offence relating to the above or in relation with rape, sexually explicit material or child sexual abuse material," the statement said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/working-hard-to-meet-indian-it-rules-for-social-media-facebook-387238">Working hard to meet Indian IT rules for social media: Facebook</a>

It added that while WhatsApp had generally sought an extension in the timeline for enforcement of guidelines, no formal reference was made on traceability not being possible.

"Any operations being run in India are subject to the law of the land. WhatsApp's refusal to comply with the guidelines is a clear act of defiance of a measure whose intent can certainly not be doubted," the statement said.

The government said that on one hand, WhatsApp had sought to mandate a privacy policy that will allow it to share the data of all its user with its parent company, Facebook, for marketing and advertising purposes, even as the platform was making "every effort" to refuse the enactment of norms necessary to uphold law and order.

"...In a befuddling act, they seek to avoid responsibility and refuse to enact the very steps which permit them a safe harbour provision," the statement pointed out.

The Centre's strong response comes after WhatsApp filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court challenging the new digital rules, arguing that the requirement to provide access to encrypted messages will break privacy protections.

In the note to the social media companies, seen by PTI, the ministry has asked these large digital entities about their compliance status and directed them to revert with their response at the earliest "and preferably today itself".

Meanwhile, the official statement said that information on the originator of the message can only be sought as per a process sanctioned by the law, thereby incorporating sufficient legal safeguards.

Tracing the origin of flagged messages would be the last resort, "only in scenarios where other remedies have proven to be ineffective".

It emphasised that detection and punishment of the person who started the mischief leading to a serious crime are in the public interest and therefore, the role of the originator is very important.

Prasad said it is WhatsApp's responsibility to find a technical solution, whether through encryption or otherwise.

The government on Wednesday staunchly defended its new digital rules, saying the requirement of messaging platforms like WhatsApp to disclose the origin of flagged messages does not violate privacy and went on to seek a compliance report from large social media firms.

The government on Wednesday staunchly defended its new digital rules, saying the requirement of messaging platforms like WhatsApp to disclose the origin of flagged messages does not violate privacy and went on to seek a compliance report from large social media firms. A day after WhatsApp filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court challenging the new digital rules on grounds that the requirement for the company to provide access to encrypted messages will break privacy protections, IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said the new norms will not impact the normal functioning of the popular free-messaging platform. Also Read | WhatsApp goes to court over Indian government's new IT rules The requirement of tracing the origin of messages under new IT rules is for prevention and investigation of "very serious offences" related to sovereignty and integrity of India and security of the state, a statement from his ministry said. Separately, the ministry asked all significant social media companies such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and WhatsApp to report their status on compliance with the new rules, which kicked in from Wednesday. The companies did not respond to emailed queries on the issue. The new rules, announced on February 25, require large social media platforms, defined as those with over 50 lakh users in the country, to follow additional due diligence, including the appointment of a chief compliance officer, nodal contact person and resident grievance officer. Non-compliance with rules would result in these platforms losing the intermediary status that provides them immunity from liabilities over any third-party data hosted by them. In other words, they could be liable for criminal action in case of complaints. Also Read | India's new IT rules set to come into effect, will US big tech comply? Sources with knowledge of the matter said large social media companies have been asked to immediately provide details and contact information of the three officials mandated under the new rules. The ministry in the statement termed WhatsApp's last moment challenge to the IT rules as an unfortunate attempt to prevent the norms from coming into effect. The UK, the US, Australia, New Zealand and Canada require social media firms to allow for the legal interception, it said, adding "What India is asking for is significantly much less than what some of the other countries have demanded". "Therefore, WhatsApp's attempt to portray the Intermediary Guidelines of India as contrary to the right to privacy is misguided," the official statement said, adding that the government recognises that 'Right to Privacy" is a fundamental right. The statement quoted Prasad as saying that the government "is committed to ensure the Right of Privacy to all its citizens but at the same time, it is also the responsibility of the government to maintain law and order and ensure national security." "The Government respects the Right of Privacy and has no intention to violate it when WhatsApp is required to disclose the origin of a particular message. "Such requirements are only in case when the message is required for prevention, investigation or punishment of very serious offences related to the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, or public order, or of incitement to an offence relating to the above or in relation with rape, sexually explicit material or child sexual abuse material," the statement said. Also Read | Working hard to meet Indian IT rules for social media: Facebook It added that while WhatsApp had generally sought an extension in the timeline for enforcement of guidelines, no formal reference was made on traceability not being possible. "Any operations being run in India are subject to the law of the land. WhatsApp's refusal to comply with the guidelines is a clear act of defiance of a measure whose intent can certainly not be doubted," the statement said. The government said that on one hand, WhatsApp had sought to mandate a privacy policy that will allow it to share the data of all its user with its parent company, Facebook, for marketing and advertising purposes, even as the platform was making "every effort" to refuse the enactment of norms necessary to uphold law and order. "...In a befuddling act, they seek to avoid responsibility and refuse to enact the very steps which permit them a safe harbour provision," the statement pointed out. The Centre's strong response comes after WhatsApp filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court challenging the new digital rules, arguing that the requirement to provide access to encrypted messages will break privacy protections. In the note to the social media companies, seen by PTI, the ministry has asked these large digital entities about their compliance status and directed them to revert with their response at the earliest "and preferably today itself". Meanwhile, the official statement said that information on the originator of the message can only be sought as per a process sanctioned by the law, thereby incorporating sufficient legal safeguards. Tracing the origin of flagged messages would be the last resort, "only in scenarios where other remedies have proven to be ineffective". It emphasised that detection and punishment of the person who started the mischief leading to a serious crime are in the public interest and therefore, the role of the originator is very important. Prasad said it is WhatsApp's responsibility to find a technical solution, whether through encryption or otherwise.

Govt says new digital rules don't violate privacy; seeks compliance report from large social media

New epidemic on rise: Indian states with highest number of Black Fungus cases

Colombia has barred non-resident arrivals from India through the end of June in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 variant B.1.617, the health ministry said on Friday.

The restrictions came into force on Thursday, although travellers who were already in the air or on their journey to Colombia are exempt.

The variant's potentially higher rates of transmission motivated Colombia's decision, the ministry in a statement.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-bans-travellers-from-india-imposes-virus-curbs-386101">Sudan bans travellers from India, imposes virus curbs</a>

The B.1.617 variant is believed by some experts to be even more transmissible than the B.1.1.7 variant first detected in Britain.

India's hospitals and crematoria have been overwhelmed by the second wave in coronavirus cases.

It is widely accepted official figures of more than 25 million cases in the Asian country grossly underestimate the real impact of the epidemic, with some experts saying infections and deaths could be up to 10 times higher.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/inflatable-rooms-for-covid-19-patients-in-columbia-364481">Inflatable rooms for Covid 19 patients in Columbia</a>

Colombia's restrictions apply to travellers who have been in India within the last 14 days or who had a connecting flight there, the statement said.

Travellers who are exempt from the ban, including diplomats and those with work visas, must present a negative PCR test upon entry, take an additional test within 24 hours of arrival and a third on the seventh day after entry.

They should also be in strict quarantine for 14 days, the statement said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-bans-south-asia-travellers-as-virus-cases-soar-384606">Maldives bans South Asia travellers as virus cases soar</a>

"Combined with Colombia's confrontation of a third peak in the pandemic, the advisory committee for confronting the COVID-19 pandemic recommended the suspension of entrance to the country of non-resident travelers from the Republic of India," the ministry's director of epidemiology Julian Fernandez said.

Colombia's major cities are weathering the third peak of infections expected to last through the end of May, with large anti-government protests blamed for extending high case numbers.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-bans-travellers-from-india-with-immediate-effect-383172">Sri Lanka bans travellers from India with immediate effect</a>

The Andean country has confirmed nearly 3.2 million infections and over 83,000 deaths over the course of the pandemic. It has so far administered 8 million doses of coronavirus vaccines.

Colombia has barred non-resident arrivals from India through the end of June in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 variant B.1.617, the health ministry said on Friday.

Colombia has barred non-resident arrivals from India through the end of June in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 variant B.1.617, the health ministry said on Friday. The restrictions came into force on Thursday, although travellers who were already in the air or on their journey to Colombia are exempt. The variant's potentially higher rates of transmission motivated Colombia's decision, the ministry in a statement. Also Read | Sudan bans travellers from India, imposes virus curbs The B.1.617 variant is believed by some experts to be even more transmissible than the B.1.1.7 variant first detected in Britain. India's hospitals and crematoria have been overwhelmed by the second wave in coronavirus cases. It is widely accepted official figures of more than 25 million cases in the Asian country grossly underestimate the real impact of the epidemic, with some experts saying infections and deaths could be up to 10 times higher. Also Read | Inflatable rooms for Covid 19 patients in Columbia Colombia's restrictions apply to travellers who have been in India within the last 14 days or who had a connecting flight there, the statement said. Travellers who are exempt from the ban, including diplomats and those with work visas, must present a negative PCR test upon entry, take an additional test within 24 hours of arrival and a third on the seventh day after entry. They should also be in strict quarantine for 14 days, the statement said. Also Read | Maldives bans South Asia travellers as virus cases soar "Combined with Colombia's confrontation of a third peak in the pandemic, the advisory committee for confronting the COVID-19 pandemic recommended the suspension of entrance to the country of non-resident travelers from the Republic of India," the ministry's director of epidemiology Julian Fernandez said. Colombia's major cities are weathering the third peak of infections expected to last through the end of May, with large anti-government protests blamed for extending high case numbers. Also Read | Sri Lanka bans travellers from India with immediate effect The Andean country has confirmed nearly 3.2 million infections and over 83,000 deaths over the course of the pandemic. It has so far administered 8 million doses of coronavirus vaccines.

Colombia bars travellers from India over coronavirus variant

Former Australian batsman Michael Hussey feels that it would be difficult to play T20 World Cup in India this year due to the raging COVID-19 crisis that is wreaking havoc across the nation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/root-will-be-enjoying-this-michael-vaughan-on-cameron-bancrofts-statement-over-sandpaper-gate-386099" hreflang="en">'Root will be enjoying this': Michael Vaughan on Cameron Bancroft's statement over Sandpaper gate</a>

"I think it's going to be very difficult in my view to play T20 World Cup in India. We're talking about eight teams in the IPL. I think there are probably a similar number, maybe more teams coming in from overseas for the T20 World Cup, there'd be more venues. As I said earlier, if they're playing in different cities, that is when the risk goes up," Hussey told Fox Cricket.

"I think they'll have to look some pretty big contingency plans, perhaps looking at the UAE or somewhere like that that could host the World T20. I think there will be a lot of cricket boards around the world that'd be pretty nervous about going back to India for a cricket tournament," he added.

Mike Hussey was part of the Indian Premier League 2021, which later was suspended due to a surge in cases inside the bio-secure bubble. The CSK batting coach himself tested positive for the virus, however, he has recovered and has returned to Australia.&nbsp;

The Indian cricket board (BCCI) has called for a Special General Meeting (SGM) that will be conducted virtually on May 29 ahead of the meeting with ICC (that is on June 1).&nbsp;

"The ICC will have the meeting on June 1 and before that, we will have our own meeting on May 29 to discuss the COVID-19 situation and what all measures need to be taken with an eye on the T20 World Cup which is slated to be held in India in October-November," the source told ANI.&nbsp;

Former Australian batsman Michael Hussey feels that it would be difficult to play T20 World Cup in India this year due to the raging COVID-19 crisis that is wreaking havoc across the nation.

Former Australian batsman Michael Hussey feels that it would be difficult to play T20 World Cup in India this year due to the raging COVID-19 crisis that is wreaking havoc across the nation. ALSO READ: 'Root will be enjoying this': Michael Vaughan on Cameron Bancroft's statement over Sandpaper gate "I think it's going to be very difficult in my view to play T20 World Cup in India. We're talking about eight teams in the IPL. I think there are probably a similar number, maybe more teams coming in from overseas for the T20 World Cup, there'd be more venues. As I said earlier, if they're playing in different cities, that is when the risk goes up," Hussey told Fox Cricket. "I think they'll have to look some pretty big contingency plans, perhaps looking at the UAE or somewhere like that that could host the World T20. I think there will be a lot of cricket boards around the world that'd be pretty nervous about going back to India for a cricket tournament," he added. Mike Hussey was part of the Indian Premier League 2021, which later was suspended due to a surge in cases inside the bio-secure bubble. The CSK batting coach himself tested positive for the virus, however, he has recovered and has returned to Australia. The Indian cricket board (BCCI) has called for a Special General Meeting (SGM) that will be conducted virtually on May 29 ahead of the meeting with ICC (that is on June 1). "The ICC will have the meeting on June 1 and before that, we will have our own meeting on May 29 to discuss the COVID-19 situation and what all measures need to be taken with an eye on the T20 World Cup which is slated to be held in India in October-November," the source told ANI.

'Going to be very difficult': Mike Hussey on India hosting T20 World Cup

India is among the guest countries invited to join virtually at the 2021 G7 Health Ministers' Meeting to be held at Oxford University on June 3 and 4 to bring together the world's leading democracies to agree on life-saving action in critical areas of global health, the UK government announced on Thursday.

The University of Oxford has been chosen for its role at the heart of the global fight against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a>, with world-leading clinical trials and its not-for-profit partnership with AstraZeneca on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccines</a>.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uk-invites-india-for-g7-fms-meet-in-london-in-may-379064">UK invites India for G7 FMs meet in London in May</a>

Attendees will come together to address the issues of global health security, antimicrobial resistance, clinical trials, and digital health and the discussions will inform the G7 Leaders' Summit in Cornwall a week later between June 11 and 13.

"Oxford is the birthplace of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine and at the heart of British life sciences. Oxford is a perfect location to stage pivotal meetings on how the world readies itself to combat future health threats," said UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock.

"Collectively we can build back better from this virus and, as I gather with my Ministerial counterparts from the major democratic nations, we have an opportunity to learn from this pandemic and take measures that will develop global health security," he said.

The summit forms part of the UK's 2021 presidency of the Group of Seven, which includes the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the US and the European Union, and will bring together health ministers from these nations in a physical setting.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/g7-meet-in-uk-could-witness-first-in-person-quad-meet-370276">G7 meet in UK could witness first in-person Quad meet</a>

However, the UK government said that the two-day talks will also engage virtually with the G7 Presidency's guest countries;&nbsp;India, South Korea, Australia and South Africa.

"Oxford University is honoured to host the G7 Health Ministers. This past year has demonstrated just how much can be accomplished when universities, business and government work together to advance global health," said Professor Louise Richardson, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford.

"We hope that in the course of this meeting insights and information will be shared, ideas generated, and lasting partnerships forged. In particular, we hope that as a result of this meeting plans will be developed to ensure that we are never again caught unprepared for a pandemic," she said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-jaishankars-participation-at-g7-summit-goes-virtual-over-covid-worries-383017">External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's participation at G7 summit goes virtual over Covid worries</a>

There will be a working ministerial dinner on the evening of June 3 attended by senior representatives from the life sciences industry, who are planning to convene concurrently in Oxford to discuss the themes under the UK Prime Minister's Pandemic Preparedness Partnership between public and private sectors and key issues on the health agenda for the summit.

"As a county with a world-class reputation for cutting-edge research and innovation in life sciences and healthcare, we look forward to welcoming our guests and hope that their time here contributes to strengthening partnerships and boosting collaboration in managing current and future global health threats," said Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council Leader.

Oxford City Council Leader, Councillor Susan Brown, added: "Our city has rightly become synonymous with excellence in life science research and manufacturing. We are proud that Oxford's name is carried by the vaccine used most widely across the world.

"There is a real opportunity for those gathered to step up international support for the vaccination programmes still only in their early stages in many developing countries, particularly in Africa."

G7 countries account for two thirds of the world's pharmaceutical markets and the three vaccines licensed for use in the UK were all developed in G7 nations;&nbsp;the UK, US and Germany.

As host of this year's G7 Presidency, the UK says it is determined to work with its partners to "build back better" from coronavirus and strengthen global preparedness for potential future pandemics.

India is among the guest countries invited to join virtually at the 2021 G7 Health Ministers' Meeting to be held at Oxford University on June 3 and 4 to bring together the world's leading democracies to agree on life-saving action in critical areas of global health, the UK government announced on Thursday.

India is among the guest countries invited to join virtually at the 2021 G7 Health Ministers' Meeting to be held at Oxford University on June 3 and 4 to bring together the world's leading democracies to agree on life-saving action in critical areas of global health, the UK government announced on Thursday. The University of Oxford has been chosen for its role at the heart of the global fight against COVID-19, with world-leading clinical trials and its not-for-profit partnership with AstraZeneca on COVID-19 vaccines. Also Read | UK invites India for G7 FMs meet in London in May Attendees will come together to address the issues of global health security, antimicrobial resistance, clinical trials, and digital health and the discussions will inform the G7 Leaders' Summit in Cornwall a week later between June 11 and 13. "Oxford is the birthplace of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine and at the heart of British life sciences. Oxford is a perfect location to stage pivotal meetings on how the world readies itself to combat future health threats," said UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock. "Collectively we can build back better from this virus and, as I gather with my Ministerial counterparts from the major democratic nations, we have an opportunity to learn from this pandemic and take measures that will develop global health security," he said. The summit forms part of the UK's 2021 presidency of the Group of Seven, which includes the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the US and the European Union, and will bring together health ministers from these nations in a physical setting. Also Read | G7 meet in UK could witness first in-person Quad meet However, the UK government said that the two-day talks will also engage virtually with the G7 Presidency's guest countries; India, South Korea, Australia and South Africa. "Oxford University is honoured to host the G7 Health Ministers. This past year has demonstrated just how much can be accomplished when universities, business and government work together to advance global health," said Professor Louise Richardson, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford. "We hope that in the course of this meeting insights and information will be shared, ideas generated, and lasting partnerships forged. In particular, we hope that as a result of this meeting plans will be developed to ensure that we are never again caught unprepared for a pandemic," she said. Also Read | External Affairs Minister Jaishankar's participation at G7 summit goes virtual over Covid worries There will be a working ministerial dinner on the evening of June 3 attended by senior representatives from the life sciences industry, who are planning to convene concurrently in Oxford to discuss the themes under the UK Prime Minister's Pandemic Preparedness Partnership between public and private sectors and key issues on the health agenda for the summit. "As a county with a world-class reputation for cutting-edge research and innovation in life sciences and healthcare, we look forward to welcoming our guests and hope that their time here contributes to strengthening partnerships and boosting collaboration in managing current and future global health threats," said Councillor Liz Leffman, Oxfordshire County Council Leader. Oxford City Council Leader, Councillor Susan Brown, added: "Our city has rightly become synonymous with excellence in life science research and manufacturing. We are proud that Oxford's name is carried by the vaccine used most widely across the world. "There is a real opportunity for those gathered to step up international support for the vaccination programmes still only in their early stages in many developing countries, particularly in Africa." G7 countries account for two thirds of the world's pharmaceutical markets and the three vaccines licensed for use in the UK were all developed in G7 nations; the UK, US and Germany. As host of this year's G7 Presidency, the UK says it is determined to work with its partners to "build back better" from coronavirus and strengthen global preparedness for potential future pandemics.

UK invites India to join G7 Health Ministers' Summit virtually

The Union health ministry on Sunday clarified that already booked online appointments for the second dose of Covishield <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine</a> will remain valid and the same will not be cancelled on Co-WIN platform.

It, however, said requisite changes have now been done in the Co-WIN digital portal, as a result of which further online or on-site appointments will not be possible if the period after the first dose date for a beneficiary is less than 84 days.

The Centre had on May 13 extended the gap between the first and second doses of Covishield vaccine to 12-16 weeks based on the recommendations by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID</a> Working Group chaired by N K Arora.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/extended-gap-between-two-doses-of-covishield-reasonable-approach-says-anthony-fauci-384926">Extended gap between two doses of Covishield reasonable approach, says Anthony Fauci</a>

"The Government of India has communicated this change to states and UTs. The Co-WIN digital portal has also been reconfigured to reflect this extension of interval for two doses of Covishield, manufactured by Serum Institute of India (SII) to 12-16 weeks,"&nbsp;the ministry said.

"However, there have been reports in a section of the media suggesting that people who had pre-booked their appointments for the second dose in less than 84 days on Co-WIN are being turned back from vaccination centres without getting the second dose of Covishield,"&nbsp;it said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/003-contracted-covid-19-after-receiving-second-jab-of-covishield-004-post-covaxin-379059">0.03% contracted Covid-19 after receiving second jab of Covishield; 0.04% post Covaxin</a>

"Additionally, already booked online appointments for second dose of Covishield will remain valid and are not being cancelled by Co-WIN. Further, the beneficiaries are advised to reschedule their appointments for a later date beyond the 84th day from the date of first dose of vaccination," the ministry added.

The Union government has reiterated to the states/UTs that online appointments booked for the second dose of Covishield prior to this change of the interval between the two doses of Covishield, must be honoured.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covishield-vaccination-will-go-on-with-full-vigour-india-371323">Covishield vaccination will go on with full vigour: India</a>

It advised the states/UTs that the field staff may be instructed that, if such beneficiaries do come for vaccination, "the second Covishield dose must be administered and they must not be turned away".

They have also been asked to undertake awareness activities to inform the beneficiaries about this change.

The Union health ministry on Sunday clarified that already booked online appointments for the second dose of Covishield vaccine will remain valid and the same will not be cancelled on Co-WIN platform.

The Union health ministry on Sunday clarified that already booked online appointments for the second dose of Covishield vaccine will remain valid and the same will not be cancelled on Co-WIN platform. It, however, said requisite changes have now been done in the Co-WIN digital portal, as a result of which further online or on-site appointments will not be possible if the period after the first dose date for a beneficiary is less than 84 days. The Centre had on May 13 extended the gap between the first and second doses of Covishield vaccine to 12-16 weeks based on the recommendations by the COVID Working Group chaired by N K Arora. Also read | Extended gap between two doses of Covishield reasonable approach, says Anthony Fauci "The Government of India has communicated this change to states and UTs. The Co-WIN digital portal has also been reconfigured to reflect this extension of interval for two doses of Covishield, manufactured by Serum Institute of India (SII) to 12-16 weeks," the ministry said. "However, there have been reports in a section of the media suggesting that people who had pre-booked their appointments for the second dose in less than 84 days on Co-WIN are being turned back from vaccination centres without getting the second dose of Covishield," it said. Also read | 0.03% contracted Covid-19 after receiving second jab of Covishield; 0.04% post Covaxin "Additionally, already booked online appointments for second dose of Covishield will remain valid and are not being cancelled by Co-WIN. Further, the beneficiaries are advised to reschedule their appointments for a later date beyond the 84th day from the date of first dose of vaccination," the ministry added. The Union government has reiterated to the states/UTs that online appointments booked for the second dose of Covishield prior to this change of the interval between the two doses of Covishield, must be honoured. Also read | Covishield vaccination will go on with full vigour: India It advised the states/UTs that the field staff may be instructed that, if such beneficiaries do come for vaccination, "the second Covishield dose must be administered and they must not be turned away". They have also been asked to undertake awareness activities to inform the beneficiaries about this change.

Already booked online appointments for 2nd Covishield dose to remain valid: Govt

At least four people have died in torrential rain and winds as virus-hit India braces for a powerful cyclone, officials said Sunday, with tens of thousands set to be evacuated from their homes.

Cyclone Tauktae, India's first major tropical storm this season, is moving northwards in parallel with the country's western coast, bringing heavy rains, thunderstorms and strong winds to several states, the meteorological department said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coast-guard-issues-cyclone-warning-to-fishermen-in-south-tamil-nadu-arabian-sea-coast-384630">Coast guard issues cyclone warning to fishermen in south Tamil Nadu, Arabian Sea coast</a>

It is expected to make land in coastal Gujarat as early as Monday night, bringing wind speeds of around 150-160 kilometres per hour (93-99 miles per hour), the weather bureau added.

Four people lost their lives on Saturday as torrential rain and winds battered Karnataka state, the disaster management authority said Sunday.

Several towns and villages were flooded and properties damaged, officials added.&nbsp;

Two others were reported dead and 23 fishermen were feared missing in the neighbouring state of Kerala, local media said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-tauktae-to-hit-southern-india-heavy-rains-predicted-in-3-states-384979">Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states</a>

Up to 75,000 people are set to be evacuated from coastal districts in Gujarat, where the ongoing COVID-19 vaccination rollout will be suspended on Monday and Tuesday, officials told AFP.

Hospitals with coronavirus patients in the affected districts were also backing up their power supply, local district development officer Varunkumar Baranwal told AFP.&nbsp;

Oxygen and power supply to hospitals in the state would be uninterrupted, Maharashtra said, while hundreds of virus patients will be moved from field hospitals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-tauktae-mumbai-civic-body-moves-580-covid-19-patients-385373">Cyclone Tauktae: Mumbai civic body moves 580 COVID-19 patients</a>&nbsp;

India is already battling a deadly wave of infections that has pushed its healthcare system to breaking point, leading to severe shortages of hospital beds, oxygen and medicines.

The vast nation of 1.3 billion people reported just over 311,170 new infections on Sunday, taking the total tally to nearly 24.7 million.&nbsp;

The death toll rose to more than 270,000 after 4,077 deaths were officially recorded over the past 24 hours. Experts say the actual toll could be significantly higher.

Last May, more than 110 people died after "super cyclone" Amphan ravaged eastern India and Bangladesh, flattening villages, destroying farms and leaving millions without electricity.

At least four people have died in torrential rain and winds as virus-hit India braces for a powerful cyclone, officials said Sunday, with tens of thousands set to be evacuated from their homes.

At least four people have died in torrential rain and winds as virus-hit India braces for a powerful cyclone, officials said Sunday, with tens of thousands set to be evacuated from their homes. Cyclone Tauktae, India's first major tropical storm this season, is moving northwards in parallel with the country's western coast, bringing heavy rains, thunderstorms and strong winds to several states, the meteorological department said. Also read | Coast guard issues cyclone warning to fishermen in south Tamil Nadu, Arabian Sea coast It is expected to make land in coastal Gujarat as early as Monday night, bringing wind speeds of around 150-160 kilometres per hour (93-99 miles per hour), the weather bureau added. Four people lost their lives on Saturday as torrential rain and winds battered Karnataka state, the disaster management authority said Sunday. Several towns and villages were flooded and properties damaged, officials added. Two others were reported dead and 23 fishermen were feared missing in the neighbouring state of Kerala, local media said. Also read | Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states Up to 75,000 people are set to be evacuated from coastal districts in Gujarat, where the ongoing COVID-19 vaccination rollout will be suspended on Monday and Tuesday, officials told AFP. Hospitals with coronavirus patients in the affected districts were also backing up their power supply, local district development officer Varunkumar Baranwal told AFP. Oxygen and power supply to hospitals in the state would be uninterrupted, Maharashtra said, while hundreds of virus patients will be moved from field hospitals. Also read | Cyclone Tauktae: Mumbai civic body moves 580 COVID-19 patients India is already battling a deadly wave of infections that has pushed its healthcare system to breaking point, leading to severe shortages of hospital beds, oxygen and medicines. The vast nation of 1.3 billion people reported just over 311,170 new infections on Sunday, taking the total tally to nearly 24.7 million. The death toll rose to more than 270,000 after 4,077 deaths were officially recorded over the past 24 hours. Experts say the actual toll could be significantly higher. Last May, more than 110 people died after "super cyclone" Amphan ravaged eastern India and Bangladesh, flattening villages, destroying farms and leaving millions without electricity.

Four dead as powerful cyclone heads for India

Indian authorities launched a probe Friday into the deaths of at least&nbsp;18&nbsp;elephants, as a leading conservationist raised doubts that the animals were killed by&nbsp;lightning.

The dead herd was found in the hilly Kandali Proposed Reserve Forest in the northeastern&nbsp;India&nbsp;state of Assam on Thursday.

Forest officials and a local lawmaker, Jitu Goswami, told AFP they believed the&nbsp;elephants&nbsp;died after&nbsp;lightning&nbsp;struck the forest.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-tauktae-to-hit-southern-india-heavy-rains-predicted-in-3-states-384979" hreflang="en">Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states</a>

But prominent conservationist Soumyadeep Datta, from environmental activist group Nature's Beckon, said that was unlikely based on social media images.

"Poisoning could be behind the&nbsp;death&nbsp;of the&nbsp;elephants," Datta told AFP. "We have to wait for the autopsy report, which the forest department will do soon."

A team of vets and officials headed to the site on Friday together with Parimal Shuklabaidya, Assam's forests and environment minister.

India&nbsp;is home to nearly 30,000&nbsp;elephants, around 60 per cent of the wild Asian elephant population.&nbsp;

In recent years there have been rising incidents of&nbsp;elephants&nbsp;killed by locals, and vice-versa,&nbsp;as humans encroach further into the forest area

Indian authorities launched a probe Friday into the deaths of at least 18 elephants, as a leading conservationist raised doubts that the animals were killed by lightning.

Indian authorities launched a probe Friday into the deaths of at least 18 elephants, as a leading conservationist raised doubts that the animals were killed by lightning. The dead herd was found in the hilly Kandali Proposed Reserve Forest in the northeastern India state of Assam on Thursday. Forest officials and a local lawmaker, Jitu Goswami, told AFP they believed the elephants died after lightning struck the forest. Also read | Cyclone Tauktae to hit southern India, heavy rains predicted in 3 states But prominent conservationist Soumyadeep Datta, from environmental activist group Nature's Beckon, said that was unlikely based on social media images. "Poisoning could be behind the death of the elephants," Datta told AFP. "We have to wait for the autopsy report, which the forest department will do soon." A team of vets and officials headed to the site on Friday together with Parimal Shuklabaidya, Assam's forests and environment minister. India is home to nearly 30,000 elephants, around 60 per cent of the wild Asian elephant population. In recent years there have been rising incidents of elephants killed by locals, and vice-versa, as humans encroach further into the forest area

India probes death of 18 elephants 'hit by lightning'

Two men were arrested in separate incidents for allegedly duping people on the pretext of supplying oxygen cylinders for COVID-19 patients in the national capital, police said.

In the first case, Dheeraj Kumar Jangid (22) was arrested from his native place in Rajasthan fo duping people on the pretext of providing them oxygen cylinders.

To make easy money, he took advantage of the scarcity of oxygen cylinders in Delhi and planned to cheat those in need, they said.

With his arrest, two mobile phones were seized from his possession, police said.

The probe was initiated after a woman approached the police with her complaint on March 28 at Govindpuri police station and said that her mother was suffering from COVID-19. As her condition deteriorated, there was a need for oxygen cylinders.

According to the complainant, she came across an advertisement on social media for sale and delivery of oxygen cylinders. When she contacted the given number, she was asked by the accused to transfer Rs 13,000 in advance for two oxygen cylinders. After she made the payment, the delivery was not made in time, and when she called him repeatedly, she was blocked and her money was not refunded.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast) R P Meena said that based on electronic surveillance and analysis of Call Detail Records of the suspected persons, the police team obtained details of the account where the money was being transferred.

Later, the account holder was identified as Dheeraj Jangid, a resident of Sikar, Rajasthan. The team raided his native place and subsequently arrested him, he said.

The bank account of the accused was frozen, he added.

In the second case, a man identified as Manish Seth (52), a resident of Rohini, who works at a medicare company in Gurgaon was arrested by a team of Dwarka South police station after one of his victims approached the police with a complaint on May 8.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Santosh Kumar Meena said that on the basis of technical surveillance of the accused, a raid was conducted at sector-9, Rohini and he was arrested.

The used SIM and mobile number containing the chats and payments proof were seized, he said.&nbsp;

Two men were arrested in separate incidents for allegedly duping people on the pretext of supplying oxygen cylinders for COVID-19 patients in the national capital, police said.

Two men were arrested in separate incidents for allegedly duping people on the pretext of supplying oxygen cylinders for COVID-19 patients in the national capital, police said. In the first case, Dheeraj Kumar Jangid (22) was arrested from his native place in Rajasthan fo duping people on the pretext of providing them oxygen cylinders. To make easy money, he took advantage of the scarcity of oxygen cylinders in Delhi and planned to cheat those in need, they said. With his arrest, two mobile phones were seized from his possession, police said. The probe was initiated after a woman approached the police with her complaint on March 28 at Govindpuri police station and said that her mother was suffering from COVID-19. As her condition deteriorated, there was a need for oxygen cylinders. According to the complainant, she came across an advertisement on social media for sale and delivery of oxygen cylinders. When she contacted the given number, she was asked by the accused to transfer Rs 13,000 in advance for two oxygen cylinders. After she made the payment, the delivery was not made in time, and when she called him repeatedly, she was blocked and her money was not refunded. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southeast) R P Meena said that based on electronic surveillance and analysis of Call Detail Records of the suspected persons, the police team obtained details of the account where the money was being transferred. Later, the account holder was identified as Dheeraj Jangid, a resident of Sikar, Rajasthan. The team raided his native place and subsequently arrested him, he said. The bank account of the accused was frozen, he added. In the second case, a man identified as Manish Seth (52), a resident of Rohini, who works at a medicare company in Gurgaon was arrested by a team of Dwarka South police station after one of his victims approached the police with a complaint on May 8. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Santosh Kumar Meena said that on the basis of technical surveillance of the accused, a raid was conducted at sector-9, Rohini and he was arrested. The used SIM and mobile number containing the chats and payments proof were seized, he said.

India: Two held in separate cases for duping people on pretext of supplying Oxygen cylinders

India is perhaps facing the biggest humanitarian challenge after the Independence because of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic and the Indian Navy will collectively rise to confront the adversity facing the nation, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

In a message to Navy personnel, Admiral Singh said the Navy will step up its outreach in extending medical assistance as the pandemic is spreading to rural India and people residing in those areas are in need of help.

"This is an unprecedented situation for us. This is perhaps the biggest humanitarian challenge to the country to date since independence," he said.

"I think, possibly, there is no one among us, who doesn't have someone in the family, or someone very close to us, who has not been COVID positive, or hospitalised, or worse still, succumbed to the disease," the Navy chief said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/second-wave-in-india-death-toll-rises-as-active-cases-dip-384608">Second wave in India: Death toll rises as active cases dip</a>&nbsp;

The chief of naval staff said that the force has to contribute back to the nation with its "full might" in these "difficult times".

"No one knows when the pandemic will end. But I can say, with utmost confidence that our courage, our determination, will never end. We will collectively rise as 'Team Navy' in this adversity, and do our best for the nation, for the Navy and for our communities," Admiral Singh said.

"I am proud of what has been achieved in the last few weeks, especially by our healthcare teams and our operational units. I look forward to continuing this effort and supporting our country in these difficult times," he said.

The Navy chief said all the Navy teams are putting their shoulder to the wheel to support the national effort.

"At this time, I see two priorities for the Navy; first, to contribute fully to the national effort, and second, to protect our communities, our defence civilians, our ex-servicemen, and all their families in every way," he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-covid-crisis-international-assistance-delivered-at-aiims-safdarjung-lady-harding-itbp-drdo-383784">India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO</a>

The Navy has been vigorously supporting civilian authorities in several states to deal with the fast-spreading coronavirus cases, including through setting up of dedicated health facilities to treat people with COVID-19.

The Navy has already launched a mega operation to bring liquid medical oxygen from several countries in Persian Gulf and south-east Asia.

"The pandemic is spreading to rural areas and they are in need of help. Our outlying units could adopt a village and render assistance just like INS Chilka has done," he said.

India is perhaps facing the biggest humanitarian challenge after the Independence because of the coronavirus pandemic and the Indian Navy will collectively rise to confront the adversity facing the nation, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh said on Wednesday.

India is perhaps facing the biggest humanitarian challenge after the Independence because of the coronavirus pandemic and the Indian Navy will collectively rise to confront the adversity facing the nation, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh said on Wednesday. In a message to Navy personnel, Admiral Singh said the Navy will step up its outreach in extending medical assistance as the pandemic is spreading to rural India and people residing in those areas are in need of help. "This is an unprecedented situation for us. This is perhaps the biggest humanitarian challenge to the country to date since independence," he said. "I think, possibly, there is no one among us, who doesn't have someone in the family, or someone very close to us, who has not been COVID positive, or hospitalised, or worse still, succumbed to the disease," the Navy chief said. Also read | Second wave in India: Death toll rises as active cases dip The chief of naval staff said that the force has to contribute back to the nation with its "full might" in these "difficult times". "No one knows when the pandemic will end. But I can say, with utmost confidence that our courage, our determination, will never end. We will collectively rise as 'Team Navy' in this adversity, and do our best for the nation, for the Navy and for our communities," Admiral Singh said. "I am proud of what has been achieved in the last few weeks, especially by our healthcare teams and our operational units. I look forward to continuing this effort and supporting our country in these difficult times," he said. The Navy chief said all the Navy teams are putting their shoulder to the wheel to support the national effort. "At this time, I see two priorities for the Navy; first, to contribute fully to the national effort, and second, to protect our communities, our defence civilians, our ex-servicemen, and all their families in every way," he said. Also read | India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO The Navy has been vigorously supporting civilian authorities in several states to deal with the fast-spreading coronavirus cases, including through setting up of dedicated health facilities to treat people with COVID-19. The Navy has already launched a mega operation to bring liquid medical oxygen from several countries in Persian Gulf and south-east Asia. "The pandemic is spreading to rural areas and they are in need of help. Our outlying units could adopt a village and render assistance just like INS Chilka has done," he said.

Will contribute with 'full might' in difficult times: Navy chief on COVID-19

As India's government scrambles for supplies of oxygen and other emergency aid to control the raging coronavirus outbreak, donors around the world have come to the rescue including a Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates.

On Monday, volunteers from the country's Hindu community gathered at the Jebel Ali Port, here at the northern end of Dubai, to haul hundreds of cylinders of liquid oxygen and massive containers of compressed oxygen onto a ship, where it will head to crisis-wracked India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO">India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO</a>

The organisers, Indian owners of a Dubai helium factory, shifted production to oxygen when the latest surge in virus cases hit India.

As calls for help back home grew, the factory enlisted the help of the main Hindu temple based in the UAE's capital of Abu Dhabi, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, to send oxygen supplies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge">Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge</a>

COVID-19 patients are suffocating in India's capital, New Delhi, and other cities because of the shortage.

Hindu spiritual leaders, dressed in saffron robes, came to bless the oxygen before sending it out, showering rose petals on the shipment and marking the cylinders with traditional orange dye.

The UAE's economy is powered by millions of foreign workers from Southeast Asia. Indian citizens make up nearly 30 per cent of the population.&nbsp;

As India's government scrambles for supplies of oxygen and other emergency aid to control the raging coronavirus outbreak, donors around the world have come to the rescue including a Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates.

As India's government scrambles for supplies of oxygen and other emergency aid to control the raging coronavirus outbreak, donors around the world have come to the rescue including a Hindu temple in the United Arab Emirates. On Monday, volunteers from the country's Hindu community gathered at the Jebel Ali Port, here at the northern end of Dubai, to haul hundreds of cylinders of liquid oxygen and massive containers of compressed oxygen onto a ship, where it will head to crisis-wracked India. Also read | India covid crisis: International assistance delivered at AIIMS, Safdarjung, Lady Harding, ITBP, DRDO The organisers, Indian owners of a Dubai helium factory, shifted production to oxygen when the latest surge in virus cases hit India. As calls for help back home grew, the factory enlisted the help of the main Hindu temple based in the UAE's capital of Abu Dhabi, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, to send oxygen supplies. Also read | Private jets in demand: Indians flee the country, fly to UAE to escape Covid surge COVID-19 patients are suffocating in India's capital, New Delhi, and other cities because of the shortage. Hindu spiritual leaders, dressed in saffron robes, came to bless the oxygen before sending it out, showering rose petals on the shipment and marking the cylinders with traditional orange dye. The UAE's economy is powered by millions of foreign workers from Southeast Asia. Indian citizens make up nearly 30 per cent of the population.

Hindu community, temple in UAE help ship oxygen containers to Covid-hit India

This may sound alarmist. But a third wave is coming in India. The principal scientific advisor to the prime minister&nbsp;says it's inevitable. But the exact time of its arrival cannot be predicted.

What we do know is that this wave could go beyond cities. Travel to towns and villages. It could also cross age groups, putting children at the same risk as adults.

We need to mask up and prepare. We also need to introspect. Draw the right lessons from the past. Fix the lapses not the narrative.&nbsp;

When india was on the path to normalcy, we saw the lowest new cases in eight months. The lowest death count in almost a year. Vaccinations had begun. Hospitalisations had fallen. It appeared as if the worst was behind us, that it was time to open up.

But the virus was evolving and mutating. The warnings were there.&nbsp;In February, reports say several experts voiced fears of an impending second wave, of a 'Covid tsunami'. The message didn't reach the top brass.

Then in March, a forum of scientific advisers set up by the Government of India issued warnings that a new and more contagious variant was spreading. But no significant containment measures were taken.

Instead, it was declared that we were in the 'end game' of the pandemic and should trust the science behind vaccines. The real task of preparing for this wave was lost in the din.

The result was this:&nbsp;On March 15th, India reported 24,000 new cases. This figure increased to 53,000 on March 30th.

100,000 by April 4th. Nearly 200,000 by April 14th.&nbsp;

And despite this colossal spike in cases. Two mass public events went as per plan. Five states and union territories went to polls.&nbsp;

Pretty much every political leader, from union ministers to opposition leaders, from chief ministers to the prime minister, all of them drew thousands of people at their rallies.

The Kumbh Mela in Haridwar was attended by more than 4.8 million devotees. There were no masks or social distancing. Both these events, the dip and the ballot, ended up being super-spreaders. The figures tell you the story.&nbsp;

Between April 10th and 14th, nearly 2,000 devotees tested positive at the Kumbh. When the congregation began. Daily cases in Uttarakhand stood at 500.

By the time it was finally called off on April 17th. The daily cases had grown to 2,700 plus.

In Madhya Pradesh, 99 per cent of the Kumbh returnees tested positive. And atleast 22 couldn't be traced.

The elections had a similar outcome. In West Bengal, each phase of election saw a spike in daily cases.

They went from 812 on March 27th. To 16,403 by April 27th.

In Tamil Nadu, the daily cases went from 474 on March 1st to nearly 8,500 on April 16th.

In Kerala, the cases went from 2,500 on April 2nd&nbsp;to 10,000 on April 16th.

And in Assam, they went from 92 on April 6th to over 1600 on April 21st.

It was said at the time that election rallies didn't contribute to the spike in cases. We have a lot to say.

On March 1st, the growth rate of daily number of new cases in non-election states was 6.09 per cent. In states witnessing elections, it was 6.13 per cent.

By 15th April, this figure had come down to 3.01% in non-election states and risen to 7.99% in states that were holding rallies.

Yes, this is partly due to the unpredictability of the virus. But it is equal parts complacency and politics.

It didn't have to be this way. This situation could have been avoided.&nbsp;

The heart-breaking scenes outside hospitals, the desperate run for oxygen. The SOS calls for medical aid, the waiting list for last rites. The sight of burning pyres, of overwhelmed burial grounds.

All of this could have been contained.

India was always the perfect place for a virus like this to run wild.&nbsp;We are a vast country, We have 1.3 billion people, high rates of diseases and an under-developed health infrastructure.

India's healthcare spending, in both public and private sector, has been 3.6 per cent of the GDP for the past six years.

This is among the lowest in both the developed and the developing world. The&nbsp;US spends 16.9 per cent of its GDP on healthcare.

Germany spends 11.2 per cent, Brazil 9.2 per cent, South Africa spends 8.1 per cent while Russia and Thailand spend 5.3 and 3.79 per cent respectively.

India is called the land of engineers and doctors. But we have fewer than 10 doctors per 10,000 people. In some states the figure is less than five.

It's true that this cannot be changed overnight. But we had several months to make arrangements to fix the shortcomings.

One year ago, When the first wave had just arrived, the empowered group of officers set by the centre for an effective pandemic response, had red-flagged oxygen shortage in the months to come.

The group said we needed to produce more. Or cut down supply to industries. But very few warning bells rang.

Then in November 2020. A parliamentary standing committee on health had flagged the same concerns. That there was an inadequate supply of oxygen. Yet, it was only on April 22nd this year.

That the supply of oxygen to industries was prohibited. By this time. The demand for medical oxygen had reached about 60 per cent of the total daily oxygen production.

Today, the oxygen shortage is proving to be deadly.

The only saving grace has been India's diplomatic record. India provided the world with vaccines.&nbsp;Now the world is returning the favour. Several countries have pledged critical aid to New Delhi.

India has been getting planeloads of oxygen, ventilators, testing kits, masks, anti-viral drugs.

But are the people getting it? This is the second issue we've got to address.

We are also facing logistical nightmare. We are getting oxygen from abroad, yet struggling to transport it within the country.

Last month, a lot of foreign consignments had to sit at airport hangars for several hours as hospitals across india gasped for breath.

Why?

Because until now we didn't really have a mechanism in place to distribute these supplies. The work began only on April 26th. And it was on the 2nd of May, after one long week, that the health ministry issued a 'Standard Operating Procedure'.

SOP guidelines! For the distribution of foreign aid. Do you know how many Indians died in these seven days?&nbsp;

And even with these guidelines in place, the distribution remains complex. It keep getting delayed.

Because it has to go through unnecessary bureaucracy, time-consuming protocols and paperwork.

Right now for many, vaccination has become the last hope.

But where are the vaccines? India, the world's largest vaccine producer, is running short of vaccines.

Critics say it's because we shared vaccines with the world.

We provided 60 million doses to 70 countries. But we must remember that Vaccine Maitri is the reason we are seeing the kind of global support that we are.

Vaccine Maitri is not india's problem right now.

Government negligence, unclear messaging, corporate profiteering, opaque contracting, differential pricing, patchy record-keeping and inequities in the global pharma market.

These are India's problems.

Who should take the blame for these problems? We're told that health is a state subject. That the primary responsibility for healthcare lies on state governments.

But disaster is a federal subject!

The second wave is the biggest disaster that we've ever faced. The centre cannot escape the blame. If credit is taken for every positive outcome, blame too should be shouldered.

It's another matter that a blame game won't save lives. But we need to rethink how we organise our politics.

Elections cannot be given more priority than economic, security and health policy. We cannot have a system, where the centre and the state don't even see eye to eye. We are suffering due to bureaucracy and protocols. We're also suffering due to&nbsp;lack of political coordination.

So we've put together some challenges. The centre and states must address immediately. And preferably together!

One...

Proper estimation and communication of vaccine procurement...

Long queues outside vaccine centres are not helping anyone. They're only making things worse.

Two...

A crisis management team.

We don't have one. We need a team of public health and management experts. A task force that can be replicated at state and district levels. How long will we depend on social media for supplies?

Challenge number three

Breaking the transmission chain. We need regional, local and phased lockdowns. A complete ban on any religious and political gathering.

Four...

Black-marketing and hoarding of medicines. We need stricter punishment for both of them. Or perhaps a state-level committee. The govt of odisha has formed one. Other states can do the same.

The fifth challenge

Precaution...

We need to mask up. And keep it on.

The sixth and last challenge...

End the city-centric approach!

We don't even know what's happening in rural India. A large part of the suffering in small towns is going unchronicled. We've all been overwhelmed by this pandemic. We have to be more cautious than we've been.

As a community, as a society and as a government. We've got be to be more tough. It can't be business as usual. We need to take lessons from our past. India has always been a country with a strong sense of community. And it reflects in today's digital world. We have come together as a community on social media.

Individuals across political ideologies, religious belief, class barriers are rallying their network and resources to help those in need

Only if this sense of community could reflect in our political system.

This may sound alarmist. But a third wave is coming in India. The principal scientific advisor to the prime minister says it's inevitable. But the exact time of its arrival cannot be predicted.

This may sound alarmist. But a third wave is coming in India. The principal scientific advisor to the prime minister says it's inevitable. But the exact time of its arrival cannot be predicted. What we do know is that this wave could go beyond cities. Travel to towns and villages. It could also cross age groups, putting children at the same risk as adults. We need to mask up and prepare. We also need to introspect. Draw the right lessons from the past. Fix the lapses not the narrative. When india was on the path to normalcy, we saw the lowest new cases in eight months. The lowest death count in almost a year. Vaccinations had begun. Hospitalisations had fallen. It appeared as if the worst was behind us, that it was time to open up. But the virus was evolving and mutating. The warnings were there. In February, reports say several experts voiced fears of an impending second wave, of a 'Covid tsunami'. The message didn't reach the top brass. Then in March, a forum of scientific advisers set up by the Government of India issued warnings that a new and more contagious variant was spreading. But no significant containment measures were taken. Instead, it was declared that we were in the 'end game' of the pandemic and should trust the science behind vaccines. The real task of preparing for this wave was lost in the din. The result was this: On March 15th, India reported 24,000 new cases. This figure increased to 53,000 on March 30th. 100,000 by April 4th. Nearly 200,000 by April 14th. And despite this colossal spike in cases. Two mass public events went as per plan. Five states and union territories went to polls. Pretty much every political leader, from union ministers to opposition leaders, from chief ministers to the prime minister, all of them drew thousands of people at their rallies. The Kumbh Mela in Haridwar was attended by more than 4.8 million devotees. There were no masks or social distancing. Both these events, the dip and the ballot, ended up being super-spreaders. The figures tell you the story. Between April 10th and 14th, nearly 2,000 devotees tested positive at the Kumbh. When the congregation began. Daily cases in Uttarakhand stood at 500. By the time it was finally called off on April 17th. The daily cases had grown to 2,700 plus. In Madhya Pradesh, 99 per cent of the Kumbh returnees tested positive. And atleast 22 couldn't be traced. The elections had a similar outcome. In West Bengal, each phase of election saw a spike in daily cases. They went from 812 on March 27th. To 16,403 by April 27th. In Tamil Nadu, the daily cases went from 474 on March 1st to nearly 8,500 on April 16th. In Kerala, the cases went from 2,500 on April 2nd to 10,000 on April 16th. And in Assam, they went from 92 on April 6th to over 1600 on April 21st. It was said at the time that election rallies didn't contribute to the spike in cases. We have a lot to say. On March 1st, the growth rate of daily number of new cases in non-election states was 6.09 per cent. In states witnessing elections, it was 6.13 per cent. By 15th April, this figure had come down to 3.01% in non-election states and risen to 7.99% in states that were holding rallies. Yes, this is partly due to the unpredictability of the virus. But it is equal parts complacency and politics. It didn't have to be this way. This situation could have been avoided. The heart-breaking scenes outside hospitals, the desperate run for oxygen. The SOS calls for medical aid, the waiting list for last rites. The sight of burning pyres, of overwhelmed burial grounds. All of this could have been contained. India was always the perfect place for a virus like this to run wild. We are a vast country, We have 1.3 billion people, high rates of diseases and an under-developed health infrastructure. India's healthcare spending, in both public and private sector, has been 3.6 per cent of the GDP for the past six years. This is among the lowest in both the developed and the developing world. The US spends 16.9 per cent of its GDP on healthcare. Germany spends 11.2 per cent, Brazil 9.2 per cent, South Africa spends 8.1 per cent while Russia and Thailand spend 5.3 and 3.79 per cent respectively. India is called the land of engineers and doctors. But we have fewer than 10 doctors per 10,000 people. In some states the figure is less than five. It's true that this cannot be changed overnight. But we had several months to make arrangements to fix the shortcomings. One year ago, When the first wave had just arrived, the empowered group of officers set by the centre for an effective pandemic response, had red-flagged oxygen shortage in the months to come. The group said we needed to produce more. Or cut down supply to industries. But very few warning bells rang. Then in November 2020. A parliamentary standing committee on health had flagged the same concerns. That there was an inadequate supply of oxygen. Yet, it was only on April 22nd this year. That the supply of oxygen to industries was prohibited. By this time. The demand for medical oxygen had reached about 60 per cent of the total daily oxygen production. Today, the oxygen shortage is proving to be deadly. The only saving grace has been India's diplomatic record. India provided the world with vaccines. Now the world is returning the favour. Several countries have pledged critical aid to New Delhi. India has been getting planeloads of oxygen, ventilators, testing kits, masks, anti-viral drugs. But are the people getting it? This is the second issue we've got to address. We are also facing logistical nightmare. We are getting oxygen from abroad, yet struggling to transport it within the country. Last month, a lot of foreign consignments had to sit at airport hangars for several hours as hospitals across india gasped for breath. Why? Because until now we didn't really have a mechanism in place to distribute these supplies. The work began only on April 26th. And it was on the 2nd of May, after one long week, that the health ministry issued a 'Standard Operating Procedure'. SOP guidelines! For the distribution of foreign aid. Do you know how many Indians died in these seven days? And even with these guidelines in place, the distribution remains complex. It keep getting delayed. Because it has to go through unnecessary bureaucracy, time-consuming protocols and paperwork. Right now for many, vaccination has become the last hope. But where are the vaccines? India, the world's largest vaccine producer, is running short of vaccines. Critics say it's because we shared vaccines with the world. We provided 60 million doses to 70 countries. But we must remember that Vaccine Maitri is the reason we are seeing the kind of global support that we are. Vaccine Maitri is not india's problem right now. Government negligence, unclear messaging, corporate profiteering, opaque contracting, differential pricing, patchy record-keeping and inequities in the global pharma market. These are India's problems. Who should take the blame for these problems? We're told that health is a state subject. That the primary responsibility for healthcare lies on state governments. But disaster is a federal subject! The second wave is the biggest disaster that we've ever faced. The centre cannot escape the blame. If credit is taken for every positive outcome, blame too should be shouldered. It's another matter that a blame game won't save lives. But we need to rethink how we organise our politics. Elections cannot be given more priority than economic, security and health policy. We cannot have a system, where the centre and the state don't even see eye to eye. We are suffering due to bureaucracy and protocols. We're also suffering due to lack of political coordination. So we've put together some challenges. The centre and states must address immediately. And preferably together! One... Proper estimation and communication of vaccine procurement... Long queues outside vaccine centres are not helping anyone. They're only making things worse. Two... A crisis management team. We don't have one. We need a team of public health and management experts. A task force that can be replicated at state and district levels. How long will we depend on social media for supplies? Challenge number three Breaking the transmission chain. We need regional, local and phased lockdowns. A complete ban on any religious and political gathering. Four... Black-marketing and hoarding of medicines. We need stricter punishment for both of them. Or perhaps a state-level committee. The govt of odisha has formed one. Other states can do the same. The fifth challenge Precaution... We need to mask up. And keep it on. The sixth and last challenge... End the city-centric approach! We don't even know what's happening in rural India. A large part of the suffering in small towns is going unchronicled. We've all been overwhelmed by this pandemic. We have to be more cautious than we've been. As a community, as a society and as a government. We've got be to be more tough. It can't be business as usual. We need to take lessons from our past. India has always been a country with a strong sense of community. And it reflects in today's digital world. We have come together as a community on social media. Individuals across political ideologies, religious belief, class barriers are rallying their network and resources to help those in need Only if this sense of community could reflect in our political system.

Third Covid wave is inevitable, says principal scientific adviser to Indian PM

India appreciated the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators by Thailand as well as the donation by the Indian community of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Saturday.

"A valued maritime partner in our extended neighborhood. Appreciate the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators from our ASEAN partner Thailand. Also, value donation by the Indian community in of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators," Bagchi said.

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🇮🇳🇹🇭 
A valued maritime partner in our extended neighbourhood. Appreciate gift of 200 oxygen cylinders &amp; 10 oxygen concentrators from our ASEAN partner Thailand. Also value donation by Indian community in 🇹🇭 of another 100 oxygen cylinders &amp; 60 oxygen concentrators. <a href="https://t.co/CdRMzBwq7D">pic.twitter.com/CdRMzBwq7D</a>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1390897619652595718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this month Arindam Bagchi welcomed the gift of 15 oxygen concentrators from the ASEAN partner and friend Thailand. He thanked the Indian community who have donated another 15 oxygen concentrators.

Several countries have come forward to help India as the country fights the second wave of Covid-19.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/first-shipment-of-covid-19-aid-from-us-arrives-in-india-381556/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India has received medical help and assistance from the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, in the form of oxygen concentrators, ventilators, raw materials for vaccines, PPE kits. 318 oxygen concentrators were received from the US on Tuesday.

Canada offered 10 million USD to Indian Red Cross to facilitate essential goods and medical equipment to India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-ontario-province-to-send-3000-ventilators-to-india-amid-covid-crisis-382606">Canada's Ontario province to send 3,000 ventilators to India amid Covid crisis</a>

India reported 4,01,078 fresh COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, according to the union health ministry. With this, the country has recorded over 4 lakh daily cases for the third consecutive day.

The cumulative number of cases in the country has now gone up to 2,18,92,676.&nbsp;

India appreciated the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators by Thailand as well as the donation by the Indian community of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Saturday.

India appreciated the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators by Thailand as well as the donation by the Indian community of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Saturday. "A valued maritime partner in our extended neighborhood. Appreciate the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators from our ASEAN partner Thailand. Also, value donation by the Indian community in of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators," Bagchi said. 🇮🇳🇹🇭 A valued maritime partner in our extended neighbourhood. Appreciate gift of 200 oxygen cylinders & 10 oxygen concentrators from our ASEAN partner Thailand. Also value donation by Indian community in 🇹🇭 of another 100 oxygen cylinders & 60 oxygen concentrators. pic.twitter.com/CdRMzBwq7D — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) May 8, 2021 × Earlier this month Arindam Bagchi welcomed the gift of 15 oxygen concentrators from the ASEAN partner and friend Thailand. He thanked the Indian community who have donated another 15 oxygen concentrators. Several countries have come forward to help India as the country fights the second wave of Covid-19. India has received medical help and assistance from the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, in the form of oxygen concentrators, ventilators, raw materials for vaccines, PPE kits. 318 oxygen concentrators were received from the US on Tuesday. Canada offered 10 million USD to Indian Red Cross to facilitate essential goods and medical equipment to India. Also read | Canada's Ontario province to send 3,000 ventilators to India amid Covid crisis India reported 4,01,078 fresh COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, according to the union health ministry. With this, the country has recorded over 4 lakh daily cases for the third consecutive day. The cumulative number of cases in the country has now gone up to 2,18,92,676.

India appreciates gift of 200 oxygen cylinders, 10 oxygen concentrators by Thailand: MEA

Emirates airline said on Sunday it will fly medical supplies from Dubai to nine cities in India free of charge from this week to help battle a devastating upsurge in the coronavirus.

International aid has poured in for India, where record infection rates have overwhelmed hospitals, depleting medicines, oxygen tanks and other supplies.

Earlier this month, Qatar Airways also airlifted 300 tonnes of aid free of charge from Doha to India.

Emirates will provide free spare capacity to transport supplies from charities based in Dubai, divisional senior vice president Nabil Sultan told reporters, saying the mechanism could later be extended to bring aid from other parts.

"We are absolutely committed to helping India," he said.

The supplies will be organised through Dubai's International Humanitarian City, a hub used by many non-governmental organisations to transport aid globally. Supplies would be flown for free until further notice, Sultan said.

The first flight under the new "airbridge" is scheduled to depart for New Delhi on May 13 carrying 12.6 tonnes of multi-purpose tents from the World Health Organization (WHO).

India reported 4,092 new deaths from the virus on Sunday, bringing the total to 242,362. Infections in the last 24 hours rose to 403,738, a near-record, increasing the total since the pandemic started to 22.3 million.

Emirates operates 95 weekly flights to nine Indian cities: New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad and Trivandrum. Those flights offer about 5,000 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity.

Emirates airline said on Sunday it will fly medical supplies from Dubai to nine cities in India free of charge from this week to help battle a devastating upsurge in the coronavirus.

Emirates airline said on Sunday it will fly medical supplies from Dubai to nine cities in India free of charge from this week to help battle a devastating upsurge in the coronavirus. International aid has poured in for India, where record infection rates have overwhelmed hospitals, depleting medicines, oxygen tanks and other supplies. Earlier this month, Qatar Airways also airlifted 300 tonnes of aid free of charge from Doha to India. Emirates will provide free spare capacity to transport supplies from charities based in Dubai, divisional senior vice president Nabil Sultan told reporters, saying the mechanism could later be extended to bring aid from other parts. "We are absolutely committed to helping India," he said. The supplies will be organised through Dubai's International Humanitarian City, a hub used by many non-governmental organisations to transport aid globally. Supplies would be flown for free until further notice, Sultan said. The first flight under the new "airbridge" is scheduled to depart for New Delhi on May 13 carrying 12.6 tonnes of multi-purpose tents from the World Health Organization (WHO). India reported 4,092 new deaths from the virus on Sunday, bringing the total to 242,362. Infections in the last 24 hours rose to 403,738, a near-record, increasing the total since the pandemic started to 22.3 million. Emirates operates 95 weekly flights to nine Indian cities: New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Cochin, Hyderabad and Trivandrum. Those flights offer about 5,000 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity.

Emirates to fly medical aid to India for free

A Singapore-based education foundation has dispatched more than 500 oxygen concentrators to India to save the lives of coronavirus patients in the remotest corner of the country.&nbsp;

Global Schools Foundation (GSF) reached out to Sewa International, a huge network of social initiatives across India, to tap their deep local resources and get these oxygen concentrators to the small towns and villages deep inside the country. &nbsp;

These concentrators are in addition to the first shipment of 200 oxygen cylinders sent on an urgent basis as part of a larger consignment on board the Indian Navy warship Airavat. &nbsp;

"We are saving lives in India by sending life-saving equipment, such as Oxygen concentrators and cylinders. They can be used within hospitals or at venues of social organisations or community centres," said Atul Temurnikar, Chairman of GSF. &nbsp;

"It is our duty to ensure we reach this benefit to the remotest corner of India and GSF would do whatever it can to assist in Covid-relief measures," he said on Saturday.&nbsp;

India has been dealing with shortages of Oxygen tanks as the second wave of COVID-19 hit the country hard. &nbsp;

India on Sunday reported 4,03,738 fresh COVID-19 cases, which pushed the tally to 2,22,96,414, according to the Union health ministry data.&nbsp;

The death toll climbed to 2,42,362 with 4,092 daily deaths.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

GSF runs 23 international schools under its aegis. &nbsp;

A Singapore-based education foundation has dispatched more than 500 oxygen concentrators to India to save the lives of coronavirus patients in the remotest corner of the country.

A Singapore-based education foundation has dispatched more than 500 oxygen concentrators to India to save the lives of coronavirus patients in the remotest corner of the country. Global Schools Foundation (GSF) reached out to Sewa International, a huge network of social initiatives across India, to tap their deep local resources and get these oxygen concentrators to the small towns and villages deep inside the country. These concentrators are in addition to the first shipment of 200 oxygen cylinders sent on an urgent basis as part of a larger consignment on board the Indian Navy warship Airavat. "We are saving lives in India by sending life-saving equipment, such as Oxygen concentrators and cylinders. They can be used within hospitals or at venues of social organisations or community centres," said Atul Temurnikar, Chairman of GSF. "It is our duty to ensure we reach this benefit to the remotest corner of India and GSF would do whatever it can to assist in Covid-relief measures," he said on Saturday. India has been dealing with shortages of Oxygen tanks as the second wave of COVID-19 hit the country hard. India on Sunday reported 4,03,738 fresh COVID-19 cases, which pushed the tally to 2,22,96,414, according to the Union health ministry data. The death toll climbed to 2,42,362 with 4,092 daily deaths. GSF runs 23 international schools under its aegis.

Singapore-based education foundation sends over 500 oxygen concentrators to India  

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom.

Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia on Twitter on Friday. He thanked Saudi energy minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud.

In addition to the LMO, Saudi Arabia has also indicated willingness to supply ISO containers to India for the next six months.

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6. My deep appreciation to HRH Abdulaziz, HE Dr Sultan Jaber, HE Sherida al-Kaabi for their extended support &amp; special gesture of solidarity with India through the offer of ISO Containers for the next 6 months.Assurance of steady commercial supply of LMO to India is also welcomed <a href="https://t.co/PRZMNChT7f">pic.twitter.com/PRZMNChT7f</a>
— Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) <a href="https://twitter.com/dpradhanbjp/status/1390690145079218184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India is still in the clutches of the pandemic. Government data available on Saturday (May 8) showed that a record 4187 fatalities had occurred in a single day. This took the total death toll to 238,270.

401,078 new infections were reported in a day, pushing the tally to 21,892,676.

Hospitals in many parts of the country are still facing shortage of medical Oxygen. Although vaccination drive has started and every Indian above the age of 18 is eligible, many states have been forced to temporarily stop the vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage.

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom.

Saudi Arabia on Friday came ahead and assured supply of medical oxygen to India which is witnessing a massive second wave of the deadly pandemic. India has got assurance of liquid medical Oxygen (LMO) supply from the kingdom. Indian oil minister Dharmendra Pradhan thanked Saudi Arabia on Twitter on Friday. He thanked Saudi energy minister and member of the royal family Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud. In addition to the LMO, Saudi Arabia has also indicated willingness to supply ISO containers to India for the next six months. 6. My deep appreciation to HRH Abdulaziz, HE Dr Sultan Jaber, HE Sherida al-Kaabi for their extended support & special gesture of solidarity with India through the offer of ISO Containers for the next 6 months.Assurance of steady commercial supply of LMO to India is also welcomed pic.twitter.com/PRZMNChT7f — Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) May 7, 2021 × India is still in the clutches of the pandemic. Government data available on Saturday (May 8) showed that a record 4187 fatalities had occurred in a single day. This took the total death toll to 238,270. 401,078 new infections were reported in a day, pushing the tally to 21,892,676. Hospitals in many parts of the country are still facing shortage of medical Oxygen. Although vaccination drive has started and every Indian above the age of 18 is eligible, many states have been forced to temporarily stop the vaccination drive due to vaccine shortage.

Saudi Arabia steps up, assures supply of medical Oxygen to India

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