The ongoing COVID-19 crisis in India has garnered global attention, with support from all corners of the world. Hollywood A-lister Drew Barrymore too has shared a personal, heartfelt message dedicated to the people of India.

Coronavirus: Actress Drew Barrymore on India's COVID crisis

Australia's COVID-19 travel ban has now been challenged in a federal court by a 73-year-old citizen who has been stranded in Bengaluru, India. The Morrison government is resisting growing pressure to lift the travel ban imposed last week until May 15.

Australian citizen sues Morrison govt over Indian flight ban

The Supreme Court of India has refused to expunge critical remarks of the Madras High Court holding the poll panel responsible for surge in COVID-19 cases in country. SC also trashed the plea that media be restrained from reporting observations of judicial proceedings, saying it will be a retrograde act.

India: Supreme Court refuses to expunge critical remarks of Madras High Court against EC

Bangladesh on Thursday handed over 10,000 vials of Remdesivir injection to India as part of its medical assistance amid deteriorating COVID-19 situation in the neighbouring country. The doses of Remdesivir were produced by Beximco, one of the biggest pharmaceutical companies of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh sends 10,000 vials of Beximco's Remdesivir to India

India's pandemic numbers are going from bad to worse. But, how did other countries fare during the second wave? WION's Palki assesses how the pandemic is playing out around the world.

Gravitas: India reports its worst pandemic numbers yet

India has recorded over 400,000 cases for second day in a row and close to 4,000 deaths. In the last 24 hours, India has recorded 414,188 cases, and 3915 deaths.

Coronavirus Update: India records highest single day case rise once again

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Friday said a lockdown to curb the rise in COVID-19 cases could be inevitable if people do not cooperate.

"People are not following the Janata Curfew properly. They are not abiding by our warnings. Hence, lockdown could be inevitable," he told reporters near Annamma Devi Temple here ahead of a crucial meeting later Friday in view of the alarming rise in coronavirus cases.

According to him, the government will finalise in a day or two about the stringent measures required to control Covid.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083">India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083</a>

"If people wish that stringent measures should not be taken, then people should cooperate by wearing masks and maintaining social distancing," the Chief Minister said.

Otherwise, strong measures will become necessary, he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night">COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night</a>

Regarding the oxygen crisis, Yediyurappa said he has been trying to resolve the issue honestly.

To a question on Covid patients and their relatives coming to the CM's house and Vidhana Soudha seeking a hospital bed, he said this was improper and people should stop it.

"I won't say it is wrong to voice their woes. I understand their sufferings and I am trying to resolve their problems because we are pro-people," the Chief Minister said.

He said people should avoid coming to CM House or Vidhana Soudha as the officials would get in touch with them.

The Chief Minister hailed Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya for exposing the hospital bed scam in which the beds reserved for Covid&nbsp;patients in private hospitals were blocked by a few people and allotted for a bribe.

"Tejasvi Surya had obtained the list (of scamsters) after much effort and brought the irregularities in allotment of bed to the Covid&nbsp;patients to the notice of the government," Yediyurappa said.

He, however, took a dig at Congress MLA and former minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan for speaking ill of Tejasvi Surya.

Yediyurappa was referring to the expose`by the young MP and BJP Yuva Morcha president Tejasvi Surya who claimed that 4,065 hospital beds were blocked and allotted for a bribe in the city.

During the live expose, Surya read out the names of 17 Muslims, who were deployed at the Covid war room, seeking their credentials.

The Basavanagudi BJP MLA Ravi Subramanya, who accompanied Surya, asked the officials whether they have converted the Covid War Room into a Madrassa.

Taking strong exception to framing only Muslims, Khan said in a video message in social media as to why Surya did not see anyone else other than Muslims.

"There were 205 employees of Crystal Company, who were deployed in the Covid&nbsp;War Room on contract basis but you singled out only 16 Muslims. How fair is this It shows how venomous you are, Tejasvi Surya," Khan said.

Khan even claimed that only one person, Mohammed Zaid was assigned with the task of bed allotment while others were given different jobs.

The Covid cases in Karnataka have increased at an alarming proportion.

The state is reporting about 50,000 cases daily and has about 5.5 lakh active cases.

The daily fatalities too were exceeding 300.

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Friday said a lockdown to curb the rise in COVID-19 cases could be inevitable if people do not cooperate. "People are not following the Janata Curfew properly.

Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa on Friday said a lockdown to curb the rise in COVID-19 cases could be inevitable if people do not cooperate. "People are not following the Janata Curfew properly. They are not abiding by our warnings. Hence, lockdown could be inevitable," he told reporters near Annamma Devi Temple here ahead of a crucial meeting later Friday in view of the alarming rise in coronavirus cases. According to him, the government will finalise in a day or two about the stringent measures required to control Covid. Also read: India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083 "If people wish that stringent measures should not be taken, then people should cooperate by wearing masks and maintaining social distancing," the Chief Minister said. Otherwise, strong measures will become necessary, he added. Also read: COVID-19: 14 days of lockdown in Karnataka starting April 27 night Regarding the oxygen crisis, Yediyurappa said he has been trying to resolve the issue honestly. To a question on Covid patients and their relatives coming to the CM's house and Vidhana Soudha seeking a hospital bed, he said this was improper and people should stop it. "I won't say it is wrong to voice their woes. I understand their sufferings and I am trying to resolve their problems because we are pro-people," the Chief Minister said. He said people should avoid coming to CM House or Vidhana Soudha as the officials would get in touch with them. The Chief Minister hailed Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya for exposing the hospital bed scam in which the beds reserved for Covid patients in private hospitals were blocked by a few people and allotted for a bribe. "Tejasvi Surya had obtained the list (of scamsters) after much effort and brought the irregularities in allotment of bed to the Covid patients to the notice of the government," Yediyurappa said. He, however, took a dig at Congress MLA and former minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan for speaking ill of Tejasvi Surya. Yediyurappa was referring to the expose`by the young MP and BJP Yuva Morcha president Tejasvi Surya who claimed that 4,065 hospital beds were blocked and allotted for a bribe in the city. During the live expose, Surya read out the names of 17 Muslims, who were deployed at the Covid war room, seeking their credentials. The Basavanagudi BJP MLA Ravi Subramanya, who accompanied Surya, asked the officials whether they have converted the Covid War Room into a Madrassa. Taking strong exception to framing only Muslims, Khan said in a video message in social media as to why Surya did not see anyone else other than Muslims. "There were 205 employees of Crystal Company, who were deployed in the Covid War Room on contract basis but you singled out only 16 Muslims. How fair is this It shows how venomous you are, Tejasvi Surya," Khan said. Khan even claimed that only one person, Mohammed Zaid was assigned with the task of bed allotment while others were given different jobs. The Covid cases in Karnataka have increased at an alarming proportion. The state is reporting about 50,000 cases daily and has about 5.5 lakh active cases. The daily fatalities too were exceeding 300.

Covid in India: Karnataka chief minister says lockdown inevitable if people do not cooperate with curbs

The CoWIN system is introducing a new feature of four-digit security code from May 8 to minimise data entry errors about vaccination status that would subsequently reduce inconvenience caused to citizens, the health ministry said.

It has been noticed in some instances that citizens who had booked their appointment for COVID-19 vaccination through the CoWIN portal but did not actually go for vaccination on the scheduled date have received SMS notification that a vaccine dose has been administered to them, it said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="13.2 million Indians register for third phase of vaccinations but unable to book slots">13.2 million Indians register for third phase of vaccinations but unable to book slots</a>

Upon examination, it has been found to occur largely on account of the vaccinator wrongly marking the citizen as vaccinated, an instance of data entry error by the vaccinator, it stated.

"In order to minimize such errors and the subsequent inconvenience caused to the citizens, the CoWIN system is introducing a new feature of four-digit security code in the CoWIN application from May 8.

"Now, after verification, if the beneficiary is been found eligible, before administering the vaccine dose, the verifier/vaccinator will ask the beneficiary about his four-digit code and then enter the same in the CoWIN system to correctly record the vaccination status," the ministry said in its statement.

This new feature will be applicable only for citizens who have done an online booking for a vaccination slot. 
The four-digit security code will be printed in the appointment acknowledgement slip and will not be known to the vaccinator. The code will also be present in the confirmation SMS sent to beneficiary after successful booking of an appointment.

The appointment acknowledgement slip can also be saved and shown from the mobile.

This will ensure that for those citizens who have booked an online appointment, the data entries regarding vaccination status of a citizen are recorded correctly, the ministry said in a statement.

This will also reduce the opportunities of impersonation and wrongful use of flexibilities provided in CoWIN for facilitating vaccination coverage.

The ministry advised the citizens must carry a digital or physical copy of their appointment slip and the registered mobile phone with appointment confirmation SMS, so that the security code can be furnished for easy completion of vaccination recording process.

Citizens must provide the security code to the vaccinator as the digital certificate will be generated only after the vaccination record has been updated with the security code. Citizen should get a confirmation SMS after the process has been successfully completed.

The confirmation SMS indicates that the vaccination process has been completed successfully and the digital certificate has been generated. If one does not get the confirmation SMS, one should get in touch with the vaccinator or the vaccination centre in-charge, the ministry said.

The CoWIN system is introducing a new feature of four-digit security code from May 8 to minimise data entry errors about vaccination status that would subsequently reduce inconvenience caused to citizens, the health ministry said.

The CoWIN system is introducing a new feature of four-digit security code from May 8 to minimise data entry errors about vaccination status that would subsequently reduce inconvenience caused to citizens, the health ministry said. It has been noticed in some instances that citizens who had booked their appointment for COVID-19 vaccination through the CoWIN portal but did not actually go for vaccination on the scheduled date have received SMS notification that a vaccine dose has been administered to them, it said. Also read: 13.2 million Indians register for third phase of vaccinations but unable to book slots Upon examination, it has been found to occur largely on account of the vaccinator wrongly marking the citizen as vaccinated, an instance of data entry error by the vaccinator, it stated. "In order to minimize such errors and the subsequent inconvenience caused to the citizens, the CoWIN system is introducing a new feature of four-digit security code in the CoWIN application from May 8. "Now, after verification, if the beneficiary is been found eligible, before administering the vaccine dose, the verifier/vaccinator will ask the beneficiary about his four-digit code and then enter the same in the CoWIN system to correctly record the vaccination status," the ministry said in its statement. This new feature will be applicable only for citizens who have done an online booking for a vaccination slot. The four-digit security code will be printed in the appointment acknowledgement slip and will not be known to the vaccinator. The code will also be present in the confirmation SMS sent to beneficiary after successful booking of an appointment. The appointment acknowledgement slip can also be saved and shown from the mobile. This will ensure that for those citizens who have booked an online appointment, the data entries regarding vaccination status of a citizen are recorded correctly, the ministry said in a statement. This will also reduce the opportunities of impersonation and wrongful use of flexibilities provided in CoWIN for facilitating vaccination coverage. The ministry advised the citizens must carry a digital or physical copy of their appointment slip and the registered mobile phone with appointment confirmation SMS, so that the security code can be furnished for easy completion of vaccination recording process. Citizens must provide the security code to the vaccinator as the digital certificate will be generated only after the vaccination record has been updated with the security code. Citizen should get a confirmation SMS after the process has been successfully completed. The confirmation SMS indicates that the vaccination process has been completed successfully and the digital certificate has been generated. If one does not get the confirmation SMS, one should get in touch with the vaccinator or the vaccination centre in-charge, the ministry said.

Covid in India: 4-digit security code in CoWIN from May 8 to minimise data entry error about vaccination status

Australia’s recent decision on border closure has attracted a lot of criticism, especially on humanitarian grounds.

However, after facing backlash about the strict punishment for the people returning from India, the Australian government has decided to lift the ban and start repatriation flights for citizens stuck in India from May 15.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-in-india-australian-state-of-victoria-sends-aid-worth-31-million-to-india-383233" hreflang="en">Coronavirus in India: Australian state of Victoria sends aid worth $31 million to India</a>

“The National Security Committee of Cabinet has confirmed that it will have done its job by then, and as a result we see no need to extend it beyond that date,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.

He also defended his decision of implementing a heavy financial penalty and jail time for anyone attempting to use a loophole in the rule by flying in from a third country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sets-yet-another-record-with-over-414000-new-covid-19-cases-death-toll-stands-at-234083-383383" hreflang="en">India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083</a>

“The order that we have put in place has been highly effective, it’s doing the job that we needed it to do, and that was to ensure that we could do everything we can to prevent a third wave of COVID-19 here in Australia,” Morrison said.

The country will send three repatriation flights to India between May 15 and May 31, which are expected to bring back nearly 900 people stuck in India during the covid crisis. The most vulnerable people will be given priority in this process, Morrison said.

Australia’s recent decision on border closure has attracted a lot of criticism, especially on humanitarian grounds. However, after facing backlash about the strict punishment for the people returning from India, the Australian government has decided to lift the ban and start repatriation flights for citizens stuck in India from May 15.

Australia’s recent decision on border closure has attracted a lot of criticism, especially on humanitarian grounds. However, after facing backlash about the strict punishment for the people returning from India, the Australian government has decided to lift the ban and start repatriation flights for citizens stuck in India from May 15. Also read | Coronavirus in India: Australian state of Victoria sends aid worth $31 million to India “The National Security Committee of Cabinet has confirmed that it will have done its job by then, and as a result we see no need to extend it beyond that date,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. He also defended his decision of implementing a heavy financial penalty and jail time for anyone attempting to use a loophole in the rule by flying in from a third country. Also read | India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083 “The order that we have put in place has been highly effective, it’s doing the job that we needed it to do, and that was to ensure that we could do everything we can to prevent a third wave of COVID-19 here in Australia,” Morrison said. The country will send three repatriation flights to India between May 15 and May 31, which are expected to bring back nearly 900 people stuck in India during the covid crisis. The most vulnerable people will be given priority in this process, Morrison said.

COVID-19: After backlash, Australia to send repatriation flights for stranded citizens in India

Oil prices slipped on Thursday, reversing early gains under pressure from rising COVID-19 infections in India and elsewhere although prices retained some support from a report the previous session that showed US crude inventories fell much more sharply than expected.

Brent crude oil futures fell by 43 cents, or 0.6 per cent, to $68.54 a barrel by 11:47 a.m. ET (1547 GMT). West Texas Intermediate (WTI) US crude futures slipped 54 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to $65.09.

"When Saudi Arabia cut their crude selling price, it was a stark reminder that there are still pockets of danger of COVID that could impact demand," said Phil Flynn, a senior analyst at Price Futures Group in Chicago.

On Wednesday, both benchmarks hit their highest since mid-March before retreating to close little changed after two days of gains.

India posted record daily COVID-19 infections and deaths, with the virus spreading from cities to villages across the world's second-most populous nation, dashing hopes that the country's deadly second wave was about to peak.

"The record numbers of new infections in India have been making the headlines and fueling fears that demand may recover more slowly," Commerzbank said.

Yet easing restrictions in Europe and falling US crude inventories supported prices.

"As the rollout of vaccines continues and a pent-up summer driving season continues to manifest, this trend should accelerate, keeping demand for motor fuels robust and boosting market confidence in the recovery story," Citi analysts said in a note.

US crude stocks fell more than expected last week as refining output rose and exports surged, the Energy Information Administration said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Crude inventories fell by 8 million barrels to 485.1 million barrels in the week to April 30, compared with expectations in a Reuters poll for a drop of 2.3 million barrels.

Commerzbank analysts cited "a massive fall in net crude oil imports to around 1.3 million barrels per day, their lowest level in at least 40 years".&nbsp;

They added that gasoline demand in the world's largest oil importer has proved disappointing, with stocks rising slightly last week.

Oil prices slipped on Thursday, reversing early gains under pressure from rising COVID-19 infections in India and elsewhere although prices retained some support from a report the previous session that showed US crude inventories fell much more sharply than expected.

Oil prices slipped on Thursday, reversing early gains under pressure from rising COVID-19 infections in India and elsewhere although prices retained some support from a report the previous session that showed US crude inventories fell much more sharply than expected. Brent crude oil futures fell by 43 cents, or 0.6 per cent, to $68.54 a barrel by 11:47 a.m. ET (1547 GMT). West Texas Intermediate (WTI) US crude futures slipped 54 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to $65.09. "When Saudi Arabia cut their crude selling price, it was a stark reminder that there are still pockets of danger of COVID that could impact demand," said Phil Flynn, a senior analyst at Price Futures Group in Chicago. On Wednesday, both benchmarks hit their highest since mid-March before retreating to close little changed after two days of gains. India posted record daily COVID-19 infections and deaths, with the virus spreading from cities to villages across the world's second-most populous nation, dashing hopes that the country's deadly second wave was about to peak. "The record numbers of new infections in India have been making the headlines and fueling fears that demand may recover more slowly," Commerzbank said. Yet easing restrictions in Europe and falling US crude inventories supported prices. "As the rollout of vaccines continues and a pent-up summer driving season continues to manifest, this trend should accelerate, keeping demand for motor fuels robust and boosting market confidence in the recovery story," Citi analysts said in a note. US crude stocks fell more than expected last week as refining output rose and exports surged, the Energy Information Administration said on Wednesday. Crude inventories fell by 8 million barrels to 485.1 million barrels in the week to April 30, compared with expectations in a Reuters poll for a drop of 2.3 million barrels. Commerzbank analysts cited "a massive fall in net crude oil imports to around 1.3 million barrels per day, their lowest level in at least 40 years". They added that gasoline demand in the world's largest oil importer has proved disappointing, with stocks rising slightly last week.

Oil prices slip on worries of pandemic surge in India

The second wave of COVID-19 in India is a tragedy, US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy has said, underlining the need for countries to help each other during the crisis.

"If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it's that we need each other to get through this pandemic."

"As a world, we need each other in terms of countries to step up to help make sure that the world has an adequate supply of vaccine, to ensure people have treatments available, supply of PPE because the threat of COVID in any part of the world is ultimately a threat to every country," Indian-American Murthy told a news channel in an interview.

To a question on the current Covid crisis in India and if the US might face a similar situation, Murthy hoped that it never happens.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083">India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083</a>

"But it is always a possibility and that we have to be mindful of. And I'm cautiously optimistic that we will do well in this country, especially if we keep up our efforts at the vaccination campaign,&nbsp;he said on Thursday.

"What's happening in India is a tragedy. And India has two challenges or has many challenges, but in terms of their variants, it has to B117 variant, which is the predominant one circulating here, which we know is at least 50 per cent or more contagious than the variant we were dealing with last year in the US,&nbsp;Murthy said.

The 617 variant of the deadly virus may or may not be more transmissible, he said, adding that doctors are still trying to understand it.

"It's just what they do. But they can't mutate, if they're not spreading, if they're not replicating within people. That's why we got to work hard. Just remember, this is not an effort that one person can take care of on their own or one country on its own," said the Indian-American surgeon general.&nbsp;

The second wave of COVID-19 in India is a tragedy, US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy has said, underlining the need for countries to help each other during the crisis.

The second wave of COVID-19 in India is a tragedy, US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy has said, underlining the need for countries to help each other during the crisis. "If COVID-19 has taught us anything, it's that we need each other to get through this pandemic." "As a world, we need each other in terms of countries to step up to help make sure that the world has an adequate supply of vaccine, to ensure people have treatments available, supply of PPE because the threat of COVID in any part of the world is ultimately a threat to every country," Indian-American Murthy told a news channel in an interview. To a question on the current Covid crisis in India and if the US might face a similar situation, Murthy hoped that it never happens. Also read: India sets yet another record with over 414,000 new COVID-19 cases; death toll stands at 234,083 "But it is always a possibility and that we have to be mindful of. And I'm cautiously optimistic that we will do well in this country, especially if we keep up our efforts at the vaccination campaign, he said on Thursday. "What's happening in India is a tragedy. And India has two challenges or has many challenges, but in terms of their variants, it has to B117 variant, which is the predominant one circulating here, which we know is at least 50 per cent or more contagious than the variant we were dealing with last year in the US, Murthy said. The 617 variant of the deadly virus may or may not be more transmissible, he said, adding that doctors are still trying to understand it. "It's just what they do. But they can't mutate, if they're not spreading, if they're not replicating within people. That's why we got to work hard. Just remember, this is not an effort that one person can take care of on their own or one country on its own," said the Indian-American surgeon general.

Covid second wave in India a tragedy, says US Surgeon General Dr Vivek Murthy

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines.

In the United States, if you received a single shot Johnson &amp; Johnson vaccine, you’re a one-doser. If you received Moderna, you part of the middle class. And if you got the Pfizer shots, you are the real deal - a double-dosed Pfizer elite, as evident on social media. In memes across social media, Pfizer is made to look like the rich man's jab. One user called it decadent and luxurious. Of course, this is all hogwash. The best vaccine is the vaccine you get.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pfizers-bumper-profit-from-vaccine-sales-383086">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-pfizers-bumper-profit-from-vaccine-sales-383086/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

How did Pfizer build&nbsp;this brand?

Pfizer is a pharmaceutical&nbsp;veteran and the company was founded way back in 1849. Almost a century later, they had their biggest breakthrough. They successfully mass-produced penicillin. Today, they are among the leading pharmaceutical&nbsp; giants in the world. Last year, they reported $9.6 billion in profits, way before the vaccine rollout.

Pfizer's first quarter report logged&nbsp;$3.5 billion in revenue. Nearly a quarter of all revenue came from the jabs. Pfizer didn't actually publish profit data, but said that it would be in the high 20 per cent range, around $900 million in three months pre-tax.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/canada-becomes-first-country-to-authorise-pfizer-covid-vaccine-for-kids-age-12-and-up-383033" hreflang="en">Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up</a>

So Pfizer is saving lives and getting rich doing it. But who is Pfizer selling to? Apparently, the world's rich. They are planning to produce 2.5 billion doses this year out of which only 40 million will go to Covax, just 2 per cent of their total output. In contrast, the much smaller Moderna are giving 500 million.

Pfizer is earning money by selling to the rich and by signing opaque deals with different price tags in each country. Some reports say the US is paying $19.5 per dose while Israel is paying $30.

What about India?

Pfizer is watching India closely. They recently donated medicines worth $70 million to India. It is being called Pfizer's largest humanitarian effort in history, and the company is in talks with the Indian government to seek speedy approval of vaccines.

Pfizer was the first to seek emergency approval for its vaccine in India last year. But in February, they pulled out. India wanted a small local safety trial but Pfizer was unwilling.

During the ongoing second wave, India continues to face vaccine shortages so regulations were relaxed. All foreign jabs approved by major regulators were fast-tracked with one condition: They had to organise a domestic trial within 30 days of approval.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/business-economy/pfizer-raises-2021-sales-forecast-for-covid-vaccines-to-26-billion-382891" hreflang="en">Pfizer raises 2021 sales forecast for Covid vaccines to $26 billion</a>

A Pfizer spokesperson was asked whether the company had sought a waiver for domestic trials. She replied that Pfizer's application was backed by overseas trial data and added that the jab was already endorsed by all major regulators.

Assuming the jab is cleared, two worries still remain - cost and storage. Pfizer has promised to deliver its vaccine at low cost to India. Pfizer jabs are stored at minus 70 degree celsius and India does not have the infrastructure for this.

The company says they could deliver the shots in specially designed containers right to the vaccination centres. And the shelf life of Pfizer vaccines can be extended by days through dry ice. So if and when the Pfizer jabs arrive, they will have to fly off the shelves. It would be much easier if Pfizer shared their formulas with Indian producers but they are big on patents.

Pfizer successfully mass-produced penicillin during World War 2. Thousands of allied soldiers lived because of Pfizer. Today, that same company is making millions from a crisis and&nbsp;India is Pfizer's shot at redemption.

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines.

When new inventions emerge, divides within society become more apparent. For instance, the television or the cell phone was owned only by a select few. The same thing is now happening with vaccines. In the United States, if you received a single shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, you’re a one-doser. If you received Moderna, you part of the middle class. And if you got the Pfizer shots, you are the real deal - a double-dosed Pfizer elite, as evident on social media. In memes across social media, Pfizer is made to look like the rich man's jab. One user called it decadent and luxurious. Of course, this is all hogwash. The best vaccine is the vaccine you get. Watch | How did Pfizer build this brand? Pfizer is a pharmaceutical veteran and the company was founded way back in 1849. Almost a century later, they had their biggest breakthrough. They successfully mass-produced penicillin. Today, they are among the leading pharmaceutical giants in the world. Last year, they reported $9.6 billion in profits, way before the vaccine rollout. Pfizer's first quarter report logged $3.5 billion in revenue. Nearly a quarter of all revenue came from the jabs. Pfizer didn't actually publish profit data, but said that it would be in the high 20 per cent range, around $900 million in three months pre-tax. Also read: Canada becomes first country to authorise Pfizer Covid vaccine for kids age 12 and up So Pfizer is saving lives and getting rich doing it. But who is Pfizer selling to? Apparently, the world's rich. They are planning to produce 2.5 billion doses this year out of which only 40 million will go to Covax, just 2 per cent of their total output. In contrast, the much smaller Moderna are giving 500 million. Pfizer is earning money by selling to the rich and by signing opaque deals with different price tags in each country. Some reports say the US is paying $19.5 per dose while Israel is paying $30. What about India? Pfizer is watching India closely. They recently donated medicines worth $70 million to India. It is being called Pfizer's largest humanitarian effort in history, and the company is in talks with the Indian government to seek speedy approval of vaccines. Pfizer was the first to seek emergency approval for its vaccine in India last year. But in February, they pulled out. India wanted a small local safety trial but Pfizer was unwilling. During the ongoing second wave, India continues to face vaccine shortages so regulations were relaxed. All foreign jabs approved by major regulators were fast-tracked with one condition: They had to organise a domestic trial within 30 days of approval. Also read: Pfizer raises 2021 sales forecast for Covid vaccines to $26 billion A Pfizer spokesperson was asked whether the company had sought a waiver for domestic trials. She replied that Pfizer's application was backed by overseas trial data and added that the jab was already endorsed by all major regulators. Assuming the jab is cleared, two worries still remain - cost and storage. Pfizer has promised to deliver its vaccine at low cost to India. Pfizer jabs are stored at minus 70 degree celsius and India does not have the infrastructure for this. The company says they could deliver the shots in specially designed containers right to the vaccination centres. And the shelf life of Pfizer vaccines can be extended by days through dry ice. So if and when the Pfizer jabs arrive, they will have to fly off the shelves. It would be much easier if Pfizer shared their formulas with Indian producers but they are big on patents. Pfizer successfully mass-produced penicillin during World War 2. Thousands of allied soldiers lived because of Pfizer. Today, that same company is making millions from a crisis and India is Pfizer's shot at redemption.

COVID-19: Why India is Pfizer's shot at redemption

India's deadly second wave of COVID-19 is making global headlines. News of death, grief and collapsing health infrastructure has become the new normal for most of us. But, it is also important to applaud those who are fighting the pandemic with great resilience. India's youth is using apps to help save lives. WION brings you more in this report.

India's youth turn to apps to save lives amid COVID-19 pandemic

Principle scientific advisor of India, KV Raghavan has warned that a third wave of Coronavirus in the country is inevitable but timing could not be predicted and the authorities should be prepared for it.

Indian government advisor warns of third Coronavirus wave

Even as India grapples with a deadly second wave, the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Indian government has now warned that a third wave of the pandemic is inevitable. WION's Palki tells you more about India's growing challenges.

Gravitas | India's Covid surge: A third wave is "inevitable"

For two weeks now, dozens of countries have been delivering foreign aid to India. But, patients are still dying due to lack of oxygen and social media remains flooded with SOS appeals. Where is the foreign aid going?

Gravitas: Shortages continue in India despite foreign aid

As countries and organisations come forward to aid India in fighting a massive wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>, the Australian state of Victoria became the latest to provide assistance.&nbsp;

Victoria on Tuesday announced aid worth AUD 41 million (approx $31 million), which includes providing 1,000 ventilators and other medical equipment to India.&nbsp;

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"We are working with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to deliver this support to India as the country works to manage the second wave of coronavirus and treat those infected," an official statement said.

"The 1,000 ICU ventilators are currently owned by the Department of Health and will be donated to India for humanitarian purposes and the state was also preparing to send a range of supporting equipment like connectors and humidifiers, with the total package valued at over 41 million Australian dollars."

The state's acting Premier James Merlino called the COVID-19 situation in India "devastating" and added that the state has a "responsibility" to help.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-will-india-benefit-from-eus-ratification-of-china-investment-deal-383066">How will India benefit from EU's ratification of China investment deal?</a>

The most number of migrants from India in Australia reside in Victoria.&nbsp;

Several countries, including the US, UK, Russia, France, and Germany are sending critical supplies to India as the country struggles to deal with oxygen, vaccine shortages to tackle the ongoing wave that has wreaked havoc in the country.&nbsp;

 
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As countries and organisations come forward to aid India in fighting a massive wave of coronavirus, the Australian state of Victoria became the latest to provide assistance.

As countries and organisations come forward to aid India in fighting a massive wave of coronavirus, the Australian state of Victoria became the latest to provide assistance. Victoria on Tuesday announced aid worth AUD 41 million (approx $31 million), which includes providing 1,000 ventilators and other medical equipment to India. Watch | "We are working with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to deliver this support to India as the country works to manage the second wave of coronavirus and treat those infected," an official statement said. "The 1,000 ICU ventilators are currently owned by the Department of Health and will be donated to India for humanitarian purposes and the state was also preparing to send a range of supporting equipment like connectors and humidifiers, with the total package valued at over 41 million Australian dollars." The state's acting Premier James Merlino called the COVID-19 situation in India "devastating" and added that the state has a "responsibility" to help. Also read | How will India benefit from EU's ratification of China investment deal? The most number of migrants from India in Australia reside in Victoria. Several countries, including the US, UK, Russia, France, and Germany are sending critical supplies to India as the country struggles to deal with oxygen, vaccine shortages to tackle the ongoing wave that has wreaked havoc in the country.

Coronavirus in India: Australian state of Victoria sends aid worth $31 million to India

The country also added 3,980 more fatalities, the deadliest day yet, taking the death toll past 2.3 lakh.

India reports biggest spike of 4.12 lakh new cases

Indian, French and Australian foreign ministers held the first in-person trilateral meet in London on Tuesday on the sidelines of the G7 summit. Indian Foreign Affairs Minister Jaishankar tweeted about the meet.

India, Australia, France, FMs held first in-person trilateral meet in London

India has allowed mobile carriers to carry out 5G trials with equipment makers including Ericsson, Nokia and Samsung's network unit, but did not name China's Huawei among the participants.

Indian government gives the nod for 5G trials, Huawei not on the list

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that it is 'highly unlikely' that anyone will be jailed for returning to Australia from India under the country’s harsh biosecurity laws, as he resists calls from the peak medical association for the penalties to be dropped.

Scott Morrison says it is ‘highly unlikely’ Australians returning from India will be jailed

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a virtual summit with his British counterpart Boris Johnson. Both leaders had substantive discussions on the entire gamut of bilateral ties and exchanged their views on regional and global issues of mutual interest.

India-UK Virtual Summit: Modi, Johnson unveil roadmap for next decade

Indian Foreign Affairs Minister Jaishankar met UK Home Secretary Priti Patel on Tuesday and signed the migration and mobility partnership agreement to facilitate legal travel and encourage talent flows.

Indian FM Jaishankar meets UK Home Secy Priti Patel, signs migration & mobility agreement

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