China has finally allowed Indian students to return to China to complete their studies after COVID-19 pandemic forced them to leave China.

China allows Indian students to return on conditional basis after pandemic forced them to leave

An extreme heatwave has gripped India and Pakistan, with no relief in sight south Asia is dealing with furnace-like temperatures. As per reports, 5 Indian states will witness their 'hottest summer ever'.

Heatwave in South Asia: 5 Indian states to witness their 'hottest summer ever'

India is the world's second-largest wheat producer and now extreme heatwave in India has impacted India's wheat harvest. This is raising questions about how will India go ahead with wheat exports.

India: Severe heatwave impacts India's wheat harvest, snags export plans

Guyana Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Hilton Todd believes that India shares a deep bond with his country and the relationship between the two nations can be beneficial for both.

In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Todd called India a ‘strategic partner’ and said that the two countries have a lot in common and increased trade relations between them will be beneficial for both nations. &nbsp;

“We have established relations with India before we got our political independence. It is only fair to say that over the years of our relations, we've been strengthening and deepening our cooperation. We have been working very closely with India and India is a strategic partner of Guyana.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/can-strategically-trust-india-says-portugal-foreign-minister-cravinho-slams-russia-china-nexus-474891" hreflang="en">Can 'strategically trust' India, says Portugal Foreign Minister Cravinho</a>

“India is well-positioned in the development goals. We have great potential in terms of oil and gas, but we don't speak much on it. We focus on diversification and the sectors which have great potential and greater sustainability so for us, we see oil and gas as a gift,” Todd explained.

Since last year, India is looking to diversify their imports of crude oil and Todd believes that with Guyana’s resources, the two countries can reach an agreement in that sector.

“India has purchased 1 million barrels of crude oil. Looking at that and also our market, that level of trade will be valuable, and it shall be beneficial for the people of Guyana as well as India.”

Guyana is home to a number of Indian-origin people who went to the Caribbean islands many years ago and India have been an ally to Guyana since the first democratic election in 1992. Todd met with Indian minister of external affairs S Jaishankar to discuss the relationship between the two nations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-rulers-fire-50-qualified-university-professors-to-replace-them-with-clerics-taliban-members-474882" hreflang="en">Taliban fire 50 university professors, to replace them with clerics</a>

“When the first democratic election happened in 1992, we were a bankrupt nation. India has been so good and kind with Guyana in terms of the social sector as well, in terms of being a partner as well even though we are geographically apart. We have closer ties in technological advancements,”

“We have paved the way in terms of policies in the ease of travel, ease of business, healthcare, education, security, etc. In terms of access, there is no challenge, and we have to do a bit more in terms of promoting Guyana in the cities here and Guyana is looking toward India not only as a regional leader but even as a global leader,” he said about their relations with India.

Todd also spoke about the number of cricketers like Keemo Paul and Shimron Hetmyer playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and how the sport connects both India and Guyana.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-regulatory-crackdown-china-to-hold-symposium-with-the-countrys-big-tech-firms-474875">End of regulatory crackdown? China to hold symposium with Big Tech firms</a>

“Cricket shows a lot of friendship. It is the most popular sport in Guyana and people from there are here in the IPL. There's a lot of activity in the cricket field and I think it’s good for the region and its good for the sportsmanship. It is also good for the cultural aspect and cricket for us is a very valuable sport. People in Guyana have stars here in India that they follow, and they respect,”

“He (India PM) spoke about cricket. He wanted to know who our star was,” he concluded.

Guyana Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Hilton Todd believes that India shares a deep bond with his country and the relationship between the two nations can be beneficial for both.

Guyana Foreign Affairs Minister Hugh Hilton Todd believes that India shares a deep bond with his country and the relationship between the two nations can be beneficial for both. In an exclusive interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, Todd called India a ‘strategic partner’ and said that the two countries have a lot in common and increased trade relations between them will be beneficial for both nations. “We have established relations with India before we got our political independence. It is only fair to say that over the years of our relations, we've been strengthening and deepening our cooperation. We have been working very closely with India and India is a strategic partner of Guyana.” Also read | Can 'strategically trust' India, says Portugal Foreign Minister Cravinho “India is well-positioned in the development goals. We have great potential in terms of oil and gas, but we don't speak much on it. We focus on diversification and the sectors which have great potential and greater sustainability so for us, we see oil and gas as a gift,” Todd explained. Since last year, India is looking to diversify their imports of crude oil and Todd believes that with Guyana’s resources, the two countries can reach an agreement in that sector. “India has purchased 1 million barrels of crude oil. Looking at that and also our market, that level of trade will be valuable, and it shall be beneficial for the people of Guyana as well as India.” Guyana is home to a number of Indian-origin people who went to the Caribbean islands many years ago and India have been an ally to Guyana since the first democratic election in 1992. Todd met with Indian minister of external affairs S Jaishankar to discuss the relationship between the two nations. Also read | Taliban fire 50 university professors, to replace them with clerics “When the first democratic election happened in 1992, we were a bankrupt nation. India has been so good and kind with Guyana in terms of the social sector as well, in terms of being a partner as well even though we are geographically apart. We have closer ties in technological advancements,” “We have paved the way in terms of policies in the ease of travel, ease of business, healthcare, education, security, etc. In terms of access, there is no challenge, and we have to do a bit more in terms of promoting Guyana in the cities here and Guyana is looking toward India not only as a regional leader but even as a global leader,” he said about their relations with India. Todd also spoke about the number of cricketers like Keemo Paul and Shimron Hetmyer playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and how the sport connects both India and Guyana. Also read | End of regulatory crackdown? China to hold symposium with Big Tech firms “Cricket shows a lot of friendship. It is the most popular sport in Guyana and people from there are here in the IPL. There's a lot of activity in the cricket field and I think it’s good for the region and its good for the sportsmanship. It is also good for the cultural aspect and cricket for us is a very valuable sport. People in Guyana have stars here in India that they follow, and they respect,” “He (India PM) spoke about cricket. He wanted to know who our star was,” he concluded.

Exclusive | Guyana is looking towards India as a global leader, says foreign minister Hugh Hilton Todd

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

The death toll climbed to 5,23,753 with 60 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated.

The active cases comprise 0.04 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. An increase of 821 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-records-more-than-3000-new-cases-and-39-deaths-474526">&nbsp;COVID-19: India records more than 3,000 new cases and 39 deaths</a>

The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.71 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.63 per cent, according to the ministry.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,30,622, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent.

The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 188.65 crore.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties

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India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year.

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The 60 new fatalities include 42 from Karnataka, 14 from Kerala, and two each from Delhi and Maharashtra.

A total of 5,23,753 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,840 from Maharashtra, 68,966 from Kerala, 40,099 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,172 from Delhi, 23,506 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,201 from West Bengal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-fourth-covid-19-wave-fears-india-reports-3303-new-cases-active-cases-increase-to-16980-474564">Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases</a>

The 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.

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday.

India logged 3,377 new COVID-19 infections taking the country's total tally of cases to 4,30,72,176, while the active cases rose to 17,801, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Friday. The death toll climbed to 5,23,753 with 60 fresh fatalities, the data updated at 8 am stated. The active cases comprise 0.04 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.74 per cent, the ministry said. An increase of 821 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. Also read | COVID-19: India records more than 3,000 new cases and 39 deaths The daily positivity rate was recorded as 0.71 per cent and the weekly positivity rate as 0.63 per cent, according to the ministry. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 4,25,30,622, while the case fatality rate was 1.22 per cent. The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 188.65 crore. Watch | Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 2020, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28, 70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19. The country crossed the grim milestone of two crore on May 4 and three crore on June 23 last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: The 60 new fatalities include 42 from Karnataka, 14 from Kerala, and two each from Delhi and Maharashtra. A total of 5,23,753 deaths have been reported so far in the country including 1,47,840 from Maharashtra, 68,966 from Kerala, 40,099 from Karnataka, 38,025 from Tamil Nadu, 26,172 from Delhi, 23,506 from Uttar Pradesh and 21,201 from West Bengal. Also read | Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases The 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.

COVID-19: India's active cases rise to 17,801

Extreme heat waves: Here is how to keep yourself protected

Covid cases around the world are rising yet again. Amidst this India has also started seeing as new surge in daily infections. India reported 3,377 new cases in the last 24 hours, this is the highest single day spike since mid-March.

India reports 3,377 fresh covid-19 cases, positivity jumps to 4.6%

On facing shortage of domestic supplies of cooking oil and soaring prices, Indonesia has imposed a complete ban on palm oil exports on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The ban has led to a huge crisis in the world as the country is the world's largest producer of the commodity, said media reports. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It may also lead to the destabilisation of global vegetable oil market, where the prices are already hitting peak. &nbsp;

The ban has also brought bad news for India, which is the world's biggest importer of palm oil. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nandan-nilekani-looking-to-help-indian-small-merchants-with-open-network-for-digital-commerce-474634" hreflang="en">Nandan Nilekani looking to help Indian small merchants with ONDC system</a>

India relies on Indonesia for nearly half of the 700,000 tonnes of this oil it imports every month. &nbsp;

At least 290,000 tonnes of the edible oil, which was going to be shipped to India, has got trapped at ports and oil mills in Indonesia, a Reuters report said citing industry officials on Thursday. &nbsp;

"Our vessel of 16,000 tonnes is stuck at Kumai port in Indonesia. We don't know when Indonesia will lift the ban, and stuck shipments will be delivered," Pradeep Chowdhry, managing director, Gemini Edibles &amp; Fats India Pvt Ltd told Reuters. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties

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The company buys around 30,000 tonnes of palm oil every month from Indonesia. &nbsp;

Sandeep Bajoria, chief executive, Sunvin Group, which is a vegetable oil brokerage and consultancy firm told Reuters that the buyers are looking to buy the oil from Malaysia, but it cannot fill the demand. &nbsp;

Palm oil is used in many things like cakes, cosmetics and cleaning products. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

On facing shortage of domestic supplies of cooking oil and soaring prices, Indonesia has imposed a complete ban on palm oil exports on Thursday. The ban has led to a huge crisis in the world as the country is the world's largest producer of the commodity, said media reports.

On facing shortage of domestic supplies of cooking oil and soaring prices, Indonesia has imposed a complete ban on palm oil exports on Thursday. The ban has led to a huge crisis in the world as the country is the world's largest producer of the commodity, said media reports. It may also lead to the destabilisation of global vegetable oil market, where the prices are already hitting peak. The ban has also brought bad news for India, which is the world's biggest importer of palm oil. Also Read: Nandan Nilekani looking to help Indian small merchants with ONDC system India relies on Indonesia for nearly half of the 700,000 tonnes of this oil it imports every month. At least 290,000 tonnes of the edible oil, which was going to be shipped to India, has got trapped at ports and oil mills in Indonesia, a Reuters report said citing industry officials on Thursday. "Our vessel of 16,000 tonnes is stuck at Kumai port in Indonesia. We don't know when Indonesia will lift the ban, and stuck shipments will be delivered," Pradeep Chowdhry, managing director, Gemini Edibles & Fats India Pvt Ltd told Reuters. Watch: Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties × The company buys around 30,000 tonnes of palm oil every month from Indonesia. Sandeep Bajoria, chief executive, Sunvin Group, which is a vegetable oil brokerage and consultancy firm told Reuters that the buyers are looking to buy the oil from Malaysia, but it cannot fill the demand. Palm oil is used in many things like cakes, cosmetics and cleaning products. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

As 290,000-tonne shipments get trapped, Indonesian palm oil export ban to hit India badly

India's insurance giant LIC has been reduced by 50 in size but it is still the biggest stake sale in India's stock listing history. As per the details announced yesterday, LIC IPO will be worth nearly 21,000 crore rupees or 2.7 billion dollars it will hit primary market on May 4.

LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

Minister of State at Germany's Federal Foreign Office Dr Tobias Lindner has said that "it is in India's&nbsp;interest" to stop the war in Ukraine.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Berlin on May 2 for talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, with the two sides co-chairing the sixth edition of the India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC).

This will be the first such government-to-government consultations of the new German government, which assumed office in December 2021.

Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi, Lindner said, "I have come to Delhi to understand the reasons and motivations and the Indian position in that conflict. I believe that it is also in Indian interest that this war stops."

Asked about India's participation in the G7 as the guest, he said there could be an announcement in Berlin.

The summit is due to take place from June 26 to June 28 June at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. Germany is the chair of the grouping for this year and holds the meeting amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

India has been consecutively invited to the G7 summit since 2019. PM Modi first participated at the G7 summit in France's Biarritz Summit in 2019.

WION: What will be the key focus of PM Modi's visit?

Tobias Lindner: The strategic partnership with Germany is key for India, especially in the region, and we will have various issues in the governmental consultations like the economy, technology, education, and security situation in the region. We believe the strategic partnership means a holistic approach in all fields of policy.

&nbsp;

WION: Will Ukraine be discussed and how do you see India's position on Ukraine?

Tobias Lindner: For sure you cannot meet these days without talking about Ukraine because it has an impact on international rules-based order, and we believe it is in the interest of all countries on the planet to uphold territorial integrity and sovereignty. For sure will have exchanges with Indian colleagues on that and we more pull than push India on that term. Also trying to talk about possible implications of that war in other regions of the world. 
&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's position on the Ukraine war?

Tobias Lindner: It is no secret that the German government welcomes every support for the resolutions in the United Nations. But I have come to Delhi to understand the reasons and motivations and the Indian position in that conflict. I believe that it is also in India's&nbsp;interest that this war stops, that we have the same goals, protecting the rules-based international order. Having an immediate stop to the war in Ukraine and in that field, we are searching for cooperation with India. 
&nbsp;

WION: And will India be invited to the G7 summit?

Tobias Lindner: I cannot make any comments on that. It is the issue of the German chancellery, but I believe during the consultations in Berlin there will be an announcement. 
&nbsp;

WION: What has been your govt's stance on Ukraine, which is at the heart of the crisis, but has also been criticized.

Tobias Lindner: This war on Ukraine is a blatant breach of international rules-based order. Russia is responsible for that. So, it is Russia's responsibility to immediately stop this war and violence in Ukraine. We are doing a lot starting from humanitarian aid, from helping the people in Ukraine, to helping refugees outside the country and also giving military assistance in terms of heavy weapons to Ukraine.

&nbsp;

Minister of State at Germany's Federal Foreign Office Dr Tobias Lindner has said that "it is in India's interest" to stop the war in Ukraine. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Berlin on May 2 for talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, with the two sides co-chairing the sixth edition of the India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC).

Minister of State at Germany's Federal Foreign Office Dr Tobias Lindner has said that "it is in India's interest" to stop the war in Ukraine. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Berlin on May 2 for talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, with the two sides co-chairing the sixth edition of the India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC). This will be the first such government-to-government consultations of the new German government, which assumed office in December 2021. Speaking to WION’s Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Delhi, Lindner said, "I have come to Delhi to understand the reasons and motivations and the Indian position in that conflict. I believe that it is also in Indian interest that this war stops." Asked about India's participation in the G7 as the guest, he said there could be an announcement in Berlin. The summit is due to take place from June 26 to June 28 June at Schloss Elmau in the Bavarian Alps. Germany is the chair of the grouping for this year and holds the meeting amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. India has been consecutively invited to the G7 summit since 2019. PM Modi first participated at the G7 summit in France's Biarritz Summit in 2019. WION: What will be the key focus of PM Modi's visit? Tobias Lindner: The strategic partnership with Germany is key for India, especially in the region, and we will have various issues in the governmental consultations like the economy, technology, education, and security situation in the region. We believe the strategic partnership means a holistic approach in all fields of policy. WION: Will Ukraine be discussed and how do you see India's position on Ukraine? Tobias Lindner: For sure you cannot meet these days without talking about Ukraine because it has an impact on international rules-based order, and we believe it is in the interest of all countries on the planet to uphold territorial integrity and sovereignty. For sure will have exchanges with Indian colleagues on that and we more pull than push India on that term. Also trying to talk about possible implications of that war in other regions of the world. WION: How do you see India's position on the Ukraine war? Tobias Lindner: It is no secret that the German government welcomes every support for the resolutions in the United Nations. But I have come to Delhi to understand the reasons and motivations and the Indian position in that conflict. I believe that it is also in India's interest that this war stops, that we have the same goals, protecting the rules-based international order. Having an immediate stop to the war in Ukraine and in that field, we are searching for cooperation with India. WION: And will India be invited to the G7 summit? Tobias Lindner: I cannot make any comments on that. It is the issue of the German chancellery, but I believe during the consultations in Berlin there will be an announcement. WION: What has been your govt's stance on Ukraine, which is at the heart of the crisis, but has also been criticized. Tobias Lindner: This war on Ukraine is a blatant breach of international rules-based order. Russia is responsible for that. So, it is Russia's responsibility to immediately stop this war and violence in Ukraine. We are doing a lot starting from humanitarian aid, from helping the people in Ukraine, to helping refugees outside the country and also giving military assistance in terms of heavy weapons to Ukraine.

Ahead of PM's visit, German minister says ‘it is in India’s interest to stop Ukrainian war’

Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar will be going on an official visit to Bangladesh and Bhutan from April 28 to 30. During his visit to Dhaka, Jaishankar will meet Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina and hold discussions with his counterpart, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen.

Indian EAM Jaishankar to visit Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties

The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a new resolution. Every time a permanent member vetoes something, they must give a reason for it- The question is how will it work?

A sham not reform? India slams UN veto resolution

The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution requiring P5 members to justify their use of veto powers. India's representative criticised the reform as a 'take it or leave it' offer that ignores the root problems at the UN. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: India slams UNSC 'reform' backed by the West

The govt of PM Narendra Modi has started a fight against obesity in India. Reports say India may soon make labelling mandatory for snacks. Brands will no longer be able to hide their salt, sugar and fat content. Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you a report.

Gravitas: India may soon make food labelling mandatory

In pics- India experiences heatwave, might get a relief in May

India is currently witnessing its ‘worst summer ever’ with parts of the country experiencing temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius along with heat waves and very little chance of rainfall. &nbsp;It has also resulted in increasing power demand and three states have already announced power cuts.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning for Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, UP and Odisha with temperatures soaring over 45 degrees Celsius and said that things can get worse in the coming days with heat waves expected to affect parts of India in the coming week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-fourth-covid-19-wave-fears-india-reports-3303-new-cases-active-cases-increase-to-16980-474564" hreflang="en">India experiences substantial growth in daily number of COVID-19 cases</a>

&nbsp;"Rise by about 2 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures very likely over most parts of Northwest India during next three days and fall by about 2 degrees Celsius thereafter," IMD announced.

"There has been no significant rainfall since February 25. In between, on April 14 and April 21, there were dust storms in Rajasthan and Haryana but there was no significant rain. Hence the long dry spell has resulted in high temperatures," senior IMD scientist R.K. Jenamani told the media.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russia-ukraine-conflict-highlights-that-being-self-reliant-is-necessary-indian-defence-minister-474611" hreflang="en">Russia-Ukraine conflict highlights that self-reliance is necessary: Def min</a>

Heat waves are expected to be the norm till at least May 2 with Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, Chattisgarh, West Bengal and Telengana getting affected in the coming days.

However, there was some good news as Jenamani said that IMD believes that the northwest and central India can receive rainfall on May 2 due to a western disturbance. IMD also said that the Western Himalayan Region can also receive isolated/scattered rainfall between May 2 and May 4.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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(With inputs from agencies)

India is currently witnessing its ‘worst summer ever’ with parts of the country experiencing temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius along with heat waves and very little chance of rainfall.

India is currently witnessing its ‘worst summer ever’ with parts of the country experiencing temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius along with heat waves and very little chance of rainfall. It has also resulted in increasing power demand and three states have already announced power cuts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a warning for Rajasthan, Delhi, Haryana, UP and Odisha with temperatures soaring over 45 degrees Celsius and said that things can get worse in the coming days with heat waves expected to affect parts of India in the coming week. Also read | India experiences substantial growth in daily number of COVID-19 cases "Rise by about 2 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures very likely over most parts of Northwest India during next three days and fall by about 2 degrees Celsius thereafter," IMD announced. "There has been no significant rainfall since February 25. In between, on April 14 and April 21, there were dust storms in Rajasthan and Haryana but there was no significant rain. Hence the long dry spell has resulted in high temperatures," senior IMD scientist R.K. Jenamani told the media. Also read | Russia-Ukraine conflict highlights that self-reliance is necessary: Def min Heat waves are expected to be the norm till at least May 2 with Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, Chattisgarh, West Bengal and Telengana getting affected in the coming days. However, there was some good news as Jenamani said that IMD believes that the northwest and central India can receive rainfall on May 2 due to a western disturbance. IMD also said that the Western Himalayan Region can also receive isolated/scattered rainfall between May 2 and May 4. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Heat wave warnings issued in five Indian states as temperatures soar over 45 degrees Celsius

India reported 3,303 new coronavirus cases on Thursday bringing the total number of cases to 4,30,68,799 cases with 16,980 active cases, as per the data released from the Union health ministry. In the last 24 hours, the active covid-19 caseload has grown by 701 cases.

The death toll has risen to 5,23,693 cases with 39 more deaths according to the data updated by the ministry this morning at 8 am. According to the ministry, the daily positivity rate was 0.66 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was 0.61 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-three-arrested-for-trafficking-arms-for-terrorists-474521">Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists</a>

The number of persons who have recovered from the sickness has risen to 4,25,28,126 with a case fatality rate of 1.22 per cent, according to the report.&nbsp;

So far, more than 188.40 crore doses of covid vaccine have been administered across the country as part of the state-wide vaccination programme.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India slams UNSC 'reform' backed by the West

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Kerala has 36 new deaths, with one each from Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;

Out of the total 5,23,693 deaths reported in the country so far, 1,47,838 people in Maharashtra, 68,952 in Kerala, 26,170 in Delhi, 23,506 in Uttar Pradesh, and 21,201 in West Bengal. Telangana registered 49 new covid cases on Wednesday, bring the total number of cases in the state to reach 7,91,906.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/to-ensure-healthy-eating-india-may-make-food-labelling-mandatory-474505">To ensure healthy eating, India may make food labelling mandatory</a>

As per the ministry, more than 70 per cent deaths have been caused by comorbidities.

The ministry said on its website, "Our data are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research,” and figures from states are being verified and reconciled.

(With inputs from agencies)

India reported 3,303 new coronavirus cases on Thursday bringing the total number of cases to 4,30,68,799 cases with 16,980 active cases, as per the data released from the Union health ministry.

India reported 3,303 new coronavirus cases on Thursday bringing the total number of cases to 4,30,68,799 cases with 16,980 active cases, as per the data released from the Union health ministry. In the last 24 hours, the active covid-19 caseload has grown by 701 cases. The death toll has risen to 5,23,693 cases with 39 more deaths according to the data updated by the ministry this morning at 8 am. According to the ministry, the daily positivity rate was 0.66 per cent and the weekly positivity rate was 0.61 per cent. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists The number of persons who have recovered from the sickness has risen to 4,25,28,126 with a case fatality rate of 1.22 per cent, according to the report. So far, more than 188.40 crore doses of covid vaccine have been administered across the country as part of the state-wide vaccination programme. Watch | Gravitas: India slams UNSC 'reform' backed by the West Kerala has 36 new deaths, with one each from Delhi, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. Out of the total 5,23,693 deaths reported in the country so far, 1,47,838 people in Maharashtra, 68,952 in Kerala, 26,170 in Delhi, 23,506 in Uttar Pradesh, and 21,201 in West Bengal. Telangana registered 49 new covid cases on Wednesday, bring the total number of cases in the state to reach 7,91,906. Also read | To ensure healthy eating, India may make food labelling mandatory As per the ministry, more than 70 per cent deaths have been caused by comorbidities. The ministry said on its website, "Our data are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research,” and figures from states are being verified and reconciled. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: India records more than 3,000 new cases and 39 deaths

India is looking to strengthen its ties with neighboring countries. Indian external affairs minister will be commencing a three-day visit to Bangladesh and Bhutan today to further boost overall bilateral ties.

Indian EAM Jaishankar on a three-day visit to Bangladesh, Bhutan to deepen ties with neighbors

In an exclusive conversation with Maldives speaker and former President Mohamed Nasheed, he said, the Maldives will never support any anti-India campaign. He also spoke to WION over India-Maldives ties and the debt crisis created by China.

Maldives speaker and former President Mohamed Nasheed speaks to WION

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health. This took the number of active cases to 16,980 and also increased the total death toll to 5,23,693.

The upward trend continues in the country as there were 701 more cases reported in comparison to Wednesday while the daily positivity rate also went up to 0.66 per cent. The growing number of cases has been a matter of concern and a lot of states have already implemented mask mandates.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-three-arrested-for-trafficking-arms-for-terrorists-474521" hreflang="en">Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists</a>

Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks mandatory in public after similar steps in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab.

According to a recent survey, one in three Indians believed that the fourth wave has already started in the country. The survey conducted by an online platform included around 36,000 participants and around 34 per cent of them said that they believe that the fourth wave has started in April.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-fight-against-cybercrime-indian-govt-makes-strenuous-efforts-to-spread-awareness-474445" hreflang="en">In fight against cybercrime, Indian govt makes efforts to spread awareness</a>

Countries like China and South Korea have seen a huge jump in cases and with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going under lockdown, the trend in India has been a worrying trend for all experts.

However, the vaccination drive is underway with all adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and government data shows that the number of doses given is around 188.4 crore. When it comes to testing, data shows that 4,97,669 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours.

WATCH |&nbsp;LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

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The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health.

The COVID-19 fourth wave fears continue to grow in India as 3,303 new cases and 39 deaths were reported on Thursday, according to the data provided by the Ministry of Health. This took the number of active cases to 16,980 and also increased the total death toll to 5,23,693. The upward trend continues in the country as there were 701 more cases reported in comparison to Wednesday while the daily positivity rate also went up to 0.66 per cent. The growing number of cases has been a matter of concern and a lot of states have already implemented mask mandates. Also read | Jammu and Kashmir: Three arrested for trafficking arms for terrorists Kerala became the latest state to make wearing masks mandatory in public after similar steps in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, and Punjab. According to a recent survey, one in three Indians believed that the fourth wave has already started in the country. The survey conducted by an online platform included around 36,000 participants and around 34 per cent of them said that they believe that the fourth wave has started in April. Also read | In fight against cybercrime, Indian govt makes efforts to spread awareness Countries like China and South Korea have seen a huge jump in cases and with Shanghai and parts of Beijing going under lockdown, the trend in India has been a worrying trend for all experts. However, the vaccination drive is underway with all adults eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine booster shot and government data shows that the number of doses given is around 188.4 crore. When it comes to testing, data shows that 4,97,669 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours. WATCH | LIC IPO: India's insurance giant has biggest stock sale in India

Amid fourth COVID-19 wave fears, India experiences substantial growth in daily number of cases

Portugal Foreign Minister Cravinho spoke to WION on the Indo-Portugal ties. Watch his full interview here.

Portugal Foreign Minister Cravinho speaks to WION on Indo-Portugal ties

The United Nations General Assembly has now adopted a resolution that will require an explanation for exercising veto powers. Under the new mandate, every time a veto has been cast in the security council the assembly will be convened automatically within 10 working days.

UN General Assembly adopts Veto draft: India calls for wider UNSC reforms

India is all set to have its biggest-ever IPO. A Mega $2.7 billion LIC IPO is to open on May 4. Watch this report to know more.

LIC IPO: India's Biggest-ever IPO to open on May 4

India's University regulator has asked students to not pursue higher education in Pakistan. Reports say, more than 200 Indians are studying in Pakistan. Most of them have received scholarships from Islamabad. Palki Sharma Upadhyay explains.

Gravitas: 'Don't study in Pakistan' says India's University Regulator

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