With a focus on increasing engagement, India and Russia on Wednesday announced the establishment of a new 2+2 dialogue at the foreign and defence minister level between the two countries. So far India has this mechanism with only three countries, United States, Japan, and Australia. But is significant is Russia is the first non-Quad member country with which New Delhi will now have this mechanism. &nbsp;

The development came after a telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The talks focused primarily on the ongoing Covid crisis in India with Russia sending assistance for New Delhi later on Wednesday. Russia is sending 20 oxygen production units, 75 lung ventilators, 150 medical monitors and 200,000 packs of medicine.&nbsp;

The PMO statement on the talks said, "Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin and noted that the prompt Russian support to India was a symbol of our enduring partnership". The Russian readout of the talks highlighted how President Vladimir Putin supported Narendra Modi during this difficult period of combatting the spread of the coronavirus and informed him of the decision to send emergency humanitarian aid to India.&nbsp;

During the talks, the focus was also on Russia's Covid vaccine Sputnik V whose first batch will arrive in India later this month. It is the third vaccine India has given approval to after Covishield and Covaxin. Indian companies will be producing 850 million doses of the vaccine, which not only be used in India, Russia but also other countries.&nbsp;

PMO release said, "Approval for emergency use of Sputnik-V vaccine in India was appreciated by President Putin. The leaders noted that the Russian vaccine will be manufactured in India for use in India, Russia and other countries."&nbsp;

Later this year, Russian President Putin will visit India for the annual India Russia bilateral summit that alternates between the two countries. 2020 was the first time the summit could not happen due to the Covid pandemic. Indian PM Modi had visited Russia' far eastern city of Vladivostok in September of 2019 for the summit. While defence being the key pillar of a partnership between the two countries, Russia trained four Indian astronauts, who are part of the Gaganyaan mission, India's first manned mission to space.&nbsp;

With a focus on increasing engagement, India and Russia on Wednesday announced the establishment of a new 2+2 dialogue at the foreign and defence minister level between the two countries.

With a focus on increasing engagement, India and Russia on Wednesday announced the establishment of a new 2+2 dialogue at the foreign and defence minister level between the two countries. So far India has this mechanism with only three countries, United States, Japan, and Australia. But is significant is Russia is the first non-Quad member country with which New Delhi will now have this mechanism. The development came after a telephonic conversation between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The talks focused primarily on the ongoing Covid crisis in India with Russia sending assistance for New Delhi later on Wednesday. Russia is sending 20 oxygen production units, 75 lung ventilators, 150 medical monitors and 200,000 packs of medicine. The PMO statement on the talks said, "Prime Minister Modi thanked President Putin and noted that the prompt Russian support to India was a symbol of our enduring partnership". The Russian readout of the talks highlighted how President Vladimir Putin supported Narendra Modi during this difficult period of combatting the spread of the coronavirus and informed him of the decision to send emergency humanitarian aid to India. During the talks, the focus was also on Russia's Covid vaccine Sputnik V whose first batch will arrive in India later this month. It is the third vaccine India has given approval to after Covishield and Covaxin. Indian companies will be producing 850 million doses of the vaccine, which not only be used in India, Russia but also other countries. PMO release said, "Approval for emergency use of Sputnik-V vaccine in India was appreciated by President Putin. The leaders noted that the Russian vaccine will be manufactured in India for use in India, Russia and other countries." Later this year, Russian President Putin will visit India for the annual India Russia bilateral summit that alternates between the two countries. 2020 was the first time the summit could not happen due to the Covid pandemic. Indian PM Modi had visited Russia' far eastern city of Vladivostok in September of 2019 for the summit. While defence being the key pillar of a partnership between the two countries, Russia trained four Indian astronauts, who are part of the Gaganyaan mission, India's first manned mission to space.

India, Russia to establish a '2+2 ministerial dialogue' between foreign, defence ministers 

In a move to counter China’s dominance of supply chain in the Indo-Pacific region, trade ministers of India, Japan and Australia launched the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI) in a virtual trilateral ministerial meeting.

India-Japan-Australia launches supply chain resilience initiative

President Joe Biden said that the United States is sending a whole series of help that India needs in its battle against COVID-19, reiterating that New Delhi had done the same when his country was in need last year.

Biden: Immediately sending a whole series of help that India needed

Assistance from European Union, The UK and the US has begun to arrive in India. Medicines, ventilators & oxygen concentrators are being flown in from around the world. WION's Palki tells you how the world is repaying India for sending life-saving drugs and vaccines.

Gravitas: Leading countries step in to pull India out of the second wave

India's second wave is driving the global surge. Out of every three positive cases detected in the world, one is from India.

Gravitas: Over 300,000 new cases for sixth day in a row

Three more countries--Russia, South Korea, and Canada announced assistance to India to deal with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">COVID-19</a> crisis as supplies continue to come from other parts of the world including Singapore.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Russian President Putin called Indian PM Modi and assured full support for India to deal with the Covid crisis. Russian foreign ministry in a statement said that the country will deliver a "large batch of medical aid" to India which includes oxygen concentrators, lung ventilators, and other necessary medical supplies and drugs in next coming days. It said, "The Russian leadership has made a decision in the spirit of friendship and especially privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and with the goal of combating a surge in the coronavirus incidence."

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/first-batch-of-vital-medical-supplies-from-uk-arrives-in-india-380763/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Last year, Russia's main defence export body Rosoboronexport made a donation for PM CARES Fund formed to deal with the COVID-19 crisis. Rosoboronexport’s Director General Alexander Mikheev had said, "In 2020, Rosoboronexport was one the first to react to the worsening of the situation, related to the spread of COVID-19 in India, and decided to make a donation to the Fund of the Prime Minister of India to support Indian citizens and assist them in emergency situations."

South Korean govt continues consultations with India on delivery of "urgent medical supplies" to deal with the pandemic, its mission in a statement saying, "Korean government will continue to closely cooperate with India, our Special Strategic Partner, in its fight against COVID-19."

Earlier in the day, Canada announced that it will be providing $10 million as "humanitarian assistance" that will be used to procure essential supplies like medicines, PPEs, oxygen cylinders for clinics and ambulances. The fund will be provided to Canadian Red Cross which will provide support to the Indian Red Cross.

A show of solidarity for India that has been seen across the world was seen in Canada as well with Canadian PM, foreign minister, envoy tweeting.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said, "Right now, the people of India are facing a tragic situation. We stand ready to donate extra medical supplies, too."

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Right now, the people of India are facing a tragic situation. To help with everything from ambulance services to buying personal protective equipment, we’re contributing $10 million to <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianRedCross?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianRedCross</a> through <a href="https://twitter.com/redcrosscanada?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RedCrossCanada</a>. We stand ready to donate extra medical supplies, too. <a href="https://t.co/YUuJTGSIoG">https://t.co/YUuJTGSIoG</a>
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) <a href="https://twitter.com/JustinTrudeau/status/1387195247738953731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The foreign minister Marc Garneau, pointing out his talks with India's External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar regarding the Covid crisis and tweeted, "We are ready to assist."

Envoy Nadir Patel also extended his country's support.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Canada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Canada</a> stands in solidarity with our friend &amp; partner <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> and offer our support as we work together to win the fight against the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID</a>-19 pandemic <a href="https://twitter.com/CanadainIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CanadainIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/96PwRi8q7H">https://t.co/96PwRi8q7H</a>
— Nadir Patel (@nadirypatel) <a href="https://twitter.com/nadirypatel/status/1387040919505932291?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Singapore sent 256 oxygen cylinders, continuing its support for New Delhi. The oxygen cylinders were brought to India on two air force planes of Singapore. The entire mission was flagged off by Singapore's Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Maliki Osman in the presence of the Indian High Commissioner to Singapore P Kumaran. Speaking at the ceremony, Osman said, "we see here today is a testament to the excellent relations between Singapore and India. This is made possible because of the existing close relationship between our two peoples, our governments, and our countries."

Supplies were brought from Hong Kong as well, with a private airline Spice Jet airlifting 1000 oxygen concentrators and bringing them to Delhi. This is the second big consignment of Oxygen concentrators being ordered from Hong Kong by the same company.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaking in the British Parliament also expressed support for India. He said, "thoughts of members across the House are with the people of India. We're supporting India with vital medical equipment and we will continue to work closely with the Indian authorities to turn in what further help they may need".

In fact, Charles, Prince of Wales, the heir apparent to the British throne in a message for India said, "As India has helped others, so now must we help India", adding, "we will win this battle".

The UK has announced that it will send 600 pieces which include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices to India. The first batch reached India on Tuesday morning and all in all nine airline container loads of supplies will be reaching the country this week. This includes 495 oxygen concentrators, that can extract oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators.

 
&nbsp;

Three more countries--Russia, South Korea, and Canada announced assistance to India to deal with the COVID-19 crisis as supplies continue to come from other parts of the world including Singapore.

Three more countries--Russia, South Korea, and Canada announced assistance to India to deal with the COVID-19 crisis as supplies continue to come from other parts of the world including Singapore. On Wednesday, Russian President Putin called Indian PM Modi and assured full support for India to deal with the Covid crisis. Russian foreign ministry in a statement said that the country will deliver a "large batch of medical aid" to India which includes oxygen concentrators, lung ventilators, and other necessary medical supplies and drugs in next coming days. It said, "The Russian leadership has made a decision in the spirit of friendship and especially privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India and with the goal of combating a surge in the coronavirus incidence." Watch | Last year, Russia's main defence export body Rosoboronexport made a donation for PM CARES Fund formed to deal with the COVID-19 crisis. Rosoboronexport’s Director General Alexander Mikheev had said, "In 2020, Rosoboronexport was one the first to react to the worsening of the situation, related to the spread of COVID-19 in India, and decided to make a donation to the Fund of the Prime Minister of India to support Indian citizens and assist them in emergency situations." South Korean govt continues consultations with India on delivery of "urgent medical supplies" to deal with the pandemic, its mission in a statement saying, "Korean government will continue to closely cooperate with India, our Special Strategic Partner, in its fight against COVID-19." Earlier in the day, Canada announced that it will be providing $10 million as "humanitarian assistance" that will be used to procure essential supplies like medicines, PPEs, oxygen cylinders for clinics and ambulances. The fund will be provided to Canadian Red Cross which will provide support to the Indian Red Cross. A show of solidarity for India that has been seen across the world was seen in Canada as well with Canadian PM, foreign minister, envoy tweeting. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said, "Right now, the people of India are facing a tragic situation. We stand ready to donate extra medical supplies, too." Right now, the people of India are facing a tragic situation. To help with everything from ambulance services to buying personal protective equipment, we’re contributing $10 million to @IndianRedCross through @RedCrossCanada. We stand ready to donate extra medical supplies, too. https://t.co/YUuJTGSIoG — Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 28, 2021 × The foreign minister Marc Garneau, pointing out his talks with India's External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar regarding the Covid crisis and tweeted, "We are ready to assist." Envoy Nadir Patel also extended his country's support. #Canada stands in solidarity with our friend & partner #India and offer our support as we work together to win the fight against the #COVID-19 pandemic @CanadainIndia https://t.co/96PwRi8q7H — Nadir Patel (@nadirypatel) April 27, 2021 × Meanwhile, Singapore sent 256 oxygen cylinders, continuing its support for New Delhi. The oxygen cylinders were brought to India on two air force planes of Singapore. The entire mission was flagged off by Singapore's Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Maliki Osman in the presence of the Indian High Commissioner to Singapore P Kumaran. Speaking at the ceremony, Osman said, "we see here today is a testament to the excellent relations between Singapore and India. This is made possible because of the existing close relationship between our two peoples, our governments, and our countries." Supplies were brought from Hong Kong as well, with a private airline Spice Jet airlifting 1000 oxygen concentrators and bringing them to Delhi. This is the second big consignment of Oxygen concentrators being ordered from Hong Kong by the same company. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaking in the British Parliament also expressed support for India. He said, "thoughts of members across the House are with the people of India. We're supporting India with vital medical equipment and we will continue to work closely with the Indian authorities to turn in what further help they may need". In fact, Charles, Prince of Wales, the heir apparent to the British throne in a message for India said, "As India has helped others, so now must we help India", adding, "we will win this battle". The UK has announced that it will send 600 pieces which include ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices to India. The first batch reached India on Tuesday morning and all in all nine airline container loads of supplies will be reaching the country this week. This includes 495 oxygen concentrators, that can extract oxygen from the air, 120 non-invasive ventilators, and 20 manual ventilators.

India's Covid crisis: Russia, South Korea, Canada announce assistance; Prince Charles, UK extend solidarity

As India battles the Covid pandemic, Taiwan will&nbsp;send&nbsp;oxygen generators to the country this week. Taipei will make formal announcements ahead of departure.

In a tweeted statement, Kolas Yotaka, Taiwan Presidential Office Spokesperson, said, "First shipment of oxygen generators from Taiwan to India is leaving this week. We are all in this together."

India is keen to procure essentials related to oxygen, like generators, concentrators, and others as many hospitals in the country are facing scarcity amid mounting Covid cases.&nbsp;Taiwan has been lauded for the way it dealt with Covid cases in its territory.&nbsp;

Spontaneous support has been seen in Taiwan for India, with the president, vice president, foreign ministry&nbsp;and others tweeting, in a show of solidarity.

President Tsai Ing-wen tweeted, "On behalf of all Taiwanese people, I would like to express my serious concern over the rapid spread of COVID-19 in India. Taiwan stands with India in this difficult time, &amp; we are ready to provide help."

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On behalf of all <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taiwanese?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taiwanese</a> people, I would like to express my serious concern over the rapid spread of COVID-19 in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. Taiwan stands with India in this difficult time, &amp; we are ready to provide help.
— 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) <a href="https://twitter.com/iingwen/status/1386938260362915842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Vice President Lai Ching-te said, "I wish to express my heartfelt solidarity with the Indian people. The global COVID crisis is far from over but we will get through it together."

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I wish to express my heartfelt solidarity with the Indian people. The global COVID crisis is far from over but we will get through it together.
— 賴清德Lai Ching-te (@ChingteLai) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChingteLai/status/1386150711671459841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Taiwan's foreign ministry said, "The government &amp; people of Taiwan are seriously concerned about the COVID19 situation in India." The ministry is monitoring the developments &amp; holding discussions to send "requisite" support to India.&nbsp;

Taiwan Member of Parliament's Wang Ting-yu said,"As India battles the worst Covid surge in the world, Taiwan should be doing more to support our Indian friends".

Since last year, increased people-to-people engagement has been seen between Taiwan and India.

Strong support was seen in India for Taiwan on its national day. This comes even as China has been aggressive with both. From the Line of Actual Control (LAC) crisis with India starting April 2020 to trying to violate the airspace of Taiwan, Beijing's aggressive posture has been a cause of concern in the region.&nbsp;

As India battles the Covid pandemic, Taiwan will send oxygen generators to the country this week. Taipei will make formal announcements ahead of departure. In a tweeted statement, Kolas Yotaka, Taiwan Presidential Office Spokesperson, said, "First shipment of oxygen generators from Taiwan to India is leaving this week.

As India battles the Covid pandemic, Taiwan will send oxygen generators to the country this week. Taipei will make formal announcements ahead of departure. In a tweeted statement, Kolas Yotaka, Taiwan Presidential Office Spokesperson, said, "First shipment of oxygen generators from Taiwan to India is leaving this week. We are all in this together." India is keen to procure essentials related to oxygen, like generators, concentrators, and others as many hospitals in the country are facing scarcity amid mounting Covid cases. Taiwan has been lauded for the way it dealt with Covid cases in its territory. Spontaneous support has been seen in Taiwan for India, with the president, vice president, foreign ministry and others tweeting, in a show of solidarity. President Tsai Ing-wen tweeted, "On behalf of all Taiwanese people, I would like to express my serious concern over the rapid spread of COVID-19 in India. Taiwan stands with India in this difficult time, & we are ready to provide help." On behalf of all #Taiwanese people, I would like to express my serious concern over the rapid spread of COVID-19 in #India. Taiwan stands with India in this difficult time, & we are ready to provide help. — 蔡英文 Tsai Ing-wen (@iingwen) April 27, 2021 × Vice President Lai Ching-te said, "I wish to express my heartfelt solidarity with the Indian people. The global COVID crisis is far from over but we will get through it together." I wish to express my heartfelt solidarity with the Indian people. The global COVID crisis is far from over but we will get through it together. — 賴清德Lai Ching-te (@ChingteLai) April 25, 2021 × Taiwan's foreign ministry said, "The government & people of Taiwan are seriously concerned about the COVID19 situation in India." The ministry is monitoring the developments & holding discussions to send "requisite" support to India. Taiwan Member of Parliament's Wang Ting-yu said,"As India battles the worst Covid surge in the world, Taiwan should be doing more to support our Indian friends". Since last year, increased people-to-people engagement has been seen between Taiwan and India. Strong support was seen in India for Taiwan on its national day. This comes even as China has been aggressive with both. From the Line of Actual Control (LAC) crisis with India starting April 2020 to trying to violate the airspace of Taiwan, Beijing's aggressive posture has been a cause of concern in the region.

Covid crisis: Taiwan to send oxygen generators to India

India's second wave is not slowing down as the country in the last 24 hours has recorded more than 332,000 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus </a>cases.&nbsp;

Yesterday, India set a world record in daily infections and today it has broken its own record.

India's total caseload has surpassed 16 million and of these 2.4 million are active cases.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-second-wave-regulators-approve-promising-drug-379602/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

More than 83 per cent of people in India have recovered from the virus.

Since last year, over 186,00 people have died, which is 1.15 per cent of the total cases.

The second wave has brought with it a crisis on every front.

Hospitals are taking to social media to complain about oxygen shortages and there's a crunch of beds and medicines too.

As many as 12 countries have imposed restrictions on travellers from India.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/13-patients-dead-in-fire-at-covid-hospital-in-maharashtras-palghar-379375">13 patients dead in fire at Covid hospital in Maharashtra's Palghar</a>

These measures include tough quarantine measures and even a ban on flights.

The UK, US, Canada, France, Australia, the UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, Israel, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia are the 12 countries that have put restrictions.&nbsp;

However, there are some positive developments too. Let's take a look.&nbsp;

India has now administered more than 130 million doses of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccines </a>with over 109 million people getting one dose and more than 17 million being fully vaccinated.

India will open up its vaccination programme on May 1 and that should dramatically scale up the numbers.

Indian regulators today gave a restricted emergency use approval to a new drug called Virafin, made by India's Cadila Healthcare.

Virafin is actually a hepatitis C drug, but trials show its effectiveness in treating the Wuhan virus too.

Reports say about 91 per cent of the patients treated with this drug tested negative within seven days.

It also reduced the need for oxygen support.

Meanwhile, a hospital in Rome has begun treating patients in a radically new way.

They are using monoclonal antibodies for treatment.

Usually, when we fall sick, our antibodies attack the virus and prevent it from spreading, and the vaccine does the same.&nbsp;

Now, monoclonal antibodies are substitute antibodies, basically, lab-produced molecules that can enhance or mimic an immune system's response.

This therapy has been rolled out in several countries, but it has not been used widely.

The Castelli Hospital in Rome believes that monoclonal antibodies can stop infected patients from becoming sicker.

&nbsp;

India's second wave is not slowing down as the country in the last 24 hours has recorded more than 332,000 coronavirus cases. Yesterday, India set a world record in daily infections and today it has broken its own record.

India's second wave is not slowing down as the country in the last 24 hours has recorded more than 332,000 coronavirus cases. Yesterday, India set a world record in daily infections and today it has broken its own record. India's total caseload has surpassed 16 million and of these 2.4 million are active cases. Watch | More than 83 per cent of people in India have recovered from the virus. Since last year, over 186,00 people have died, which is 1.15 per cent of the total cases. The second wave has brought with it a crisis on every front. Hospitals are taking to social media to complain about oxygen shortages and there's a crunch of beds and medicines too. As many as 12 countries have imposed restrictions on travellers from India. Also read | 13 patients dead in fire at Covid hospital in Maharashtra's Palghar These measures include tough quarantine measures and even a ban on flights. The UK, US, Canada, France, Australia, the UAE, Singapore, Hong Kong, Israel, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia are the 12 countries that have put restrictions. However, there are some positive developments too. Let's take a look. India has now administered more than 130 million doses of vaccines with over 109 million people getting one dose and more than 17 million being fully vaccinated. India will open up its vaccination programme on May 1 and that should dramatically scale up the numbers. Indian regulators today gave a restricted emergency use approval to a new drug called Virafin, made by India's Cadila Healthcare. Virafin is actually a hepatitis C drug, but trials show its effectiveness in treating the Wuhan virus too. Reports say about 91 per cent of the patients treated with this drug tested negative within seven days. It also reduced the need for oxygen support. Meanwhile, a hospital in Rome has begun treating patients in a radically new way. They are using monoclonal antibodies for treatment. Usually, when we fall sick, our antibodies attack the virus and prevent it from spreading, and the vaccine does the same. Now, monoclonal antibodies are substitute antibodies, basically, lab-produced molecules that can enhance or mimic an immune system's response. This therapy has been rolled out in several countries, but it has not been used widely. The Castelli Hospital in Rome believes that monoclonal antibodies can stop infected patients from becoming sicker.

As India is troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope

China's state-run Sichuan Airlines has suspended all its cargo flights to India for 15 days, causing major disruption to private traders' efforts to procure the much-needed oxygen concentrators and other medical supplies from Beijing.

China's airline suspends cargo flights with COVID-19 supplies to India

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals.

The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-angela-merkel-says-europe-allowed-india-to-become-a-pharma-hub-379603/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Usually, India's healthcare facilities consume just 15 per cent of the country's oxygen supply, but during this second wave, oxygen supply to healthcare facilities has gone up to nearly 90 per cent.

Reports say 7,500 metric tonnes of oxygen is being diverted for medical use.

But German Chancellor Angela Merkel sees this surge as an opportunity to kick an ally down.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-india-troubled-with-fresh-covid-wave-a-drug-and-therapy-bring-hope-379586">As India troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope</a>

Merkel was discussing the future of Europe today and she said Europe had not treated its pharma industry well.

Then, she pivoted to India, saying she's worried about how India's second wave will impact the delivery of "pharmaceutical products" to Germany.

Then she took a dig at India's status as a leading exporter of medical goods.

She said Europe had allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer".

"India has become a major pharmaceutical producer and we expect to honour its promises and if it can't, we will have to rethink," Merkel said.&nbsp;

The German chancellor said "Europe will have to rethink," but here's something Europe should think about first.

In 2018, India exported 229 million dollars worth of pharmaceuticals to Germany.

When Europe became the global hotspot in the pandemic last year, it was India that shared life-saving medicines and supplies.

And now when India is fighting a crushing surge, the German chancellor wants New Delhi to think of Berlin first.

It is a perfect example of Western entitlement.

But, it's not just foreign partners who are letting India down, domestic politics is hurting the fight against the virus.

Today, the Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>held a meeting with chief ministers of 11 states.

The discussions were supposed to happen behind closed doors, but one leader broke protocol.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal decided to share his discussions with the prime minister with the press.

Kejriwal's statement was beamed by the media.

When Modi was made aware of this, he interrupted Kejriwal to object.

Politics is debilitating in the best of times and in a pandemic, it can be deadly.

The second wave is taking lives and India is going to need all the help it can get.&nbsp;

And there have been some offers of help.&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron has sent this message through his ambassador in New Delhi.

"I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support," Macron said.

China's foreign ministry issued a statement today, saying: "The virus is a common enemy" and "China is willing to provide the necessary support and help".

The spokesperson didn't go into the specifics of China's offer and the Indian government hasn't issued any response.

They should think twice before accepting this offer.

Last year China offered supplies and the world was left complaining about faulty test kits and equipment.

We can't afford mistakes this time.

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals. The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals.

The biggest headline in India is oxygen shortage and it's serious as patients are being turned away from hospitals. The government has banned the supply of oxygen for industrial purposes and this stock is now being diverted to hospitals. Watch | Usually, India's healthcare facilities consume just 15 per cent of the country's oxygen supply, but during this second wave, oxygen supply to healthcare facilities has gone up to nearly 90 per cent. Reports say 7,500 metric tonnes of oxygen is being diverted for medical use. But German Chancellor Angela Merkel sees this surge as an opportunity to kick an ally down. Also read | As India troubled with fresh Covid wave, a drug and therapy bring hope Merkel was discussing the future of Europe today and she said Europe had not treated its pharma industry well. Then, she pivoted to India, saying she's worried about how India's second wave will impact the delivery of "pharmaceutical products" to Germany. Then she took a dig at India's status as a leading exporter of medical goods. She said Europe had allowed India to become "such a large pharmaceutical producer". "India has become a major pharmaceutical producer and we expect to honour its promises and if it can't, we will have to rethink," Merkel said. The German chancellor said "Europe will have to rethink," but here's something Europe should think about first. In 2018, India exported 229 million dollars worth of pharmaceuticals to Germany. When Europe became the global hotspot in the pandemic last year, it was India that shared life-saving medicines and supplies. And now when India is fighting a crushing surge, the German chancellor wants New Delhi to think of Berlin first. It is a perfect example of Western entitlement. But, it's not just foreign partners who are letting India down, domestic politics is hurting the fight against the virus. Today, the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with chief ministers of 11 states. The discussions were supposed to happen behind closed doors, but one leader broke protocol. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal decided to share his discussions with the prime minister with the press. Kejriwal's statement was beamed by the media. When Modi was made aware of this, he interrupted Kejriwal to object. Politics is debilitating in the best of times and in a pandemic, it can be deadly. The second wave is taking lives and India is going to need all the help it can get. And there have been some offers of help. French President Emmanuel Macron has sent this message through his ambassador in New Delhi. "I want to send a message of solidarity to the Indian people, facing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases. France is with you in this struggle, which spares no one. We stand ready to provide our support," Macron said. China's foreign ministry issued a statement today, saying: "The virus is a common enemy" and "China is willing to provide the necessary support and help". The spokesperson didn't go into the specifics of China's offer and the Indian government hasn't issued any response. They should think twice before accepting this offer. Last year China offered supplies and the world was left complaining about faulty test kits and equipment. We can't afford mistakes this time.

Some partners disappoint, others show solidarity when India gasps for oxygen

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a litmus test for alliances and has separated friends from partners.

A partnership is based on terms and conditions, but friendship is unconditional.

One country is treading this fine line with India.

We are talking about the United States.

Washington sees India as a key ally in the Indo-Pacific.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-the-us-testing-indias-resolve-379610">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-is-the-us-testing-indias-resolve-379610/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It turns on the charm offensive when needed.&nbsp;Like on climate change, the US needs India's support for climate action.

So it dispatched John Kerry to woo New Delhi. But when the shoe is on the other foot, Washington changes tack.

Let's look at four US actions in the last couple of months. Are these things you would expect from an ally?

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/biden-administration-applauds-india-for-stepping-up-its-climate-change-commitment-379363">Biden administration applauds India for stepping up its climate change commitment</a>

<h2>Ban on vaccine raw material exports&nbsp;</h2>

We know that India is the biggest vaccine maker in the world, but to make vaccines, you need raw materials and most of it comes from the US.

But, Washington has banned the export of these items under the US Defence Production Act, a wartime law.

It diverted all resources to America's vaccine production and so none of it was available for export.

Now Washington insists there is no explicit embargo, but the supply of 35 key ingredients has been disrupted.

India has raised this issue multiple times with the US.

Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu flagged it as soon as US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;invoked the act.

Foreign Minister S Jaishankar raised it during his phone call with his counterpart Antony Blinken.

But Washington's response has been disappointing as Biden says he understands India's needs, but in the middle of shortages and deaths, understanding doesn't count for much.

Take a look back to the hydroxychloroquine craze of 2020 when India exported 50 million tablets to the US.&nbsp;

This was America's chance to repay that favour. Instead, Washington chose vaccine nationalism.

<h2>Currency manipulator</h2>

The US has put India on the currency manipulator watch list.

India's Reserve Bank has been accused of foul play in the foreign exchange market.

The RBI purchased dollars worth 5 per cent of the GDP and the US has set the threshold at 2 per cent.&nbsp;

Most experts have called it ludicrous and India's commerce secretary said there is no economic logic to America's move.

In fact, if anyone is manipulating the currency, it is the US.&nbsp;

The Federal Reserve has kept the interest rates so low that capital is flowing out of America.

These funds are flooding the Indian markets and affecting the rupee.&nbsp;

<h2>American adventurism in India's exclusive economic zone</h2>

The US Navy sailed its warship near India's Lakshadweep island and there was neither any warning nor any diplomatic outreach.

The US Navy apparently wanted to check India's excessive maritime claims.

These were peaceful waters with no cross-claims of sovereignty.

<h2>America's overreach into India's domestic issues</h2>

Last month, the State Department published its human rights report, which said the situation in India was deteriorating.

This week they published another report on religious freedoms.

America's own record on protecting the rights of minorities is abysmal and still, it continues to give its Western allies a pass.

But when it comes to India, interference is the norm.

So what is Biden's endgame here? Why is he testing his best bet against China?

A lot of it can be attributed to domestic pressure as the Democrats are pushing Biden to pursue a more hawkish India policy.

If Biden wants to chain the dragon, he will need India's help and New Delhi has already taken the first step.

After decades of non-alliance, India is now flirting with the idea of formalising the Quad.

So India is putting its money on the US, but this confused messaging from the US is not helping.

Biden, for starters, could send over those vaccine raw materials as India needs them to hasten vaccine production.

A sign of goodwill here would smooth some of the apprehensions.

Biden has a decision to make that India is a friend or partner.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a litmus test for alliances and has separated friends from partners. A partnership is based on terms and conditions, but friendship is unconditional.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a litmus test for alliances and has separated friends from partners. A partnership is based on terms and conditions, but friendship is unconditional. One country is treading this fine line with India. We are talking about the United States. Washington sees India as a key ally in the Indo-Pacific. Watch | It turns on the charm offensive when needed. Like on climate change, the US needs India's support for climate action. So it dispatched John Kerry to woo New Delhi. But when the shoe is on the other foot, Washington changes tack. Let's look at four US actions in the last couple of months. Are these things you would expect from an ally? Also read | Biden administration applauds India for stepping up its climate change commitment Ban on vaccine raw material exports We know that India is the biggest vaccine maker in the world, but to make vaccines, you need raw materials and most of it comes from the US. But, Washington has banned the export of these items under the US Defence Production Act, a wartime law. It diverted all resources to America's vaccine production and so none of it was available for export. Now Washington insists there is no explicit embargo, but the supply of 35 key ingredients has been disrupted. India has raised this issue multiple times with the US. Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu flagged it as soon as US President Joe Biden invoked the act. Foreign Minister S Jaishankar raised it during his phone call with his counterpart Antony Blinken. But Washington's response has been disappointing as Biden says he understands India's needs, but in the middle of shortages and deaths, understanding doesn't count for much. Take a look back to the hydroxychloroquine craze of 2020 when India exported 50 million tablets to the US. This was America's chance to repay that favour. Instead, Washington chose vaccine nationalism. Currency manipulator The US has put India on the currency manipulator watch list. India's Reserve Bank has been accused of foul play in the foreign exchange market. The RBI purchased dollars worth 5 per cent of the GDP and the US has set the threshold at 2 per cent. Most experts have called it ludicrous and India's commerce secretary said there is no economic logic to America's move. In fact, if anyone is manipulating the currency, it is the US. The Federal Reserve has kept the interest rates so low that capital is flowing out of America. These funds are flooding the Indian markets and affecting the rupee. American adventurism in India's exclusive economic zone The US Navy sailed its warship near India's Lakshadweep island and there was neither any warning nor any diplomatic outreach. The US Navy apparently wanted to check India's excessive maritime claims. These were peaceful waters with no cross-claims of sovereignty. America's overreach into India's domestic issues Last month, the State Department published its human rights report, which said the situation in India was deteriorating. This week they published another report on religious freedoms. America's own record on protecting the rights of minorities is abysmal and still, it continues to give its Western allies a pass. But when it comes to India, interference is the norm. So what is Biden's endgame here? Why is he testing his best bet against China? A lot of it can be attributed to domestic pressure as the Democrats are pushing Biden to pursue a more hawkish India policy. If Biden wants to chain the dragon, he will need India's help and New Delhi has already taken the first step. After decades of non-alliance, India is now flirting with the idea of formalising the Quad. So India is putting its money on the US, but this confused messaging from the US is not helping. Biden, for starters, could send over those vaccine raw materials as India needs them to hasten vaccine production. A sign of goodwill here would smooth some of the apprehensions. Biden has a decision to make that India is a friend or partner.

US needs to decide India is a friend or partner as New Delhi is being hurt

With 3,23,144 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day India's&nbsp;total tally of COVID-19 cases has climbed to 1,76,36,307, while the national recovery rate has further dropped to 82.54 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

The death toll increased to 1,97,894 with 2,771 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 28,82,204 comprising 16.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 82.54 per cent.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,45,56,209 while the case fatality rate has further dropped to 1.12 per cent, the data stated.

India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 30 lakh on August 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and 50 lakh on September 16. It went past 60 lakh on September 28,&nbsp;70 lakh on October 11, crossed 80 lakh on October 29, 90 lakh on&nbsp;November 20 and surpassed the one-crore mark on December 19.

India crossed the grim milestone of 1.50 crore on April 19. According to the ICMR, 28,09,79,877 samples have been tested up to April 26 with 16,58,700 samples being tested on Monday.

With 3,23,144 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day India's total tally of COVID-19 cases has climbed to 1,76,36,307, while the national recovery rate has further dropped to 82.

With 3,23,144 people testing positive for coronavirus infection in a day India's total tally of COVID-19 cases has climbed to 1,76,36,307, while the national recovery rate has further dropped to 82.54 per cent, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. The death toll increased to 1,97,894 with 2,771 daily new fatalities, the data updated at 8 am showed. Registering a steady increase, the active cases have increased to 28,82,204 comprising 16.34 per cent of the total infections, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further dropped to 82.54 per cent. The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 1,45,56,209 while the case fatality rate has further dropped to 1.12 per cent, the data stated. India's COVID-19 tally had crossed the 20-lakh mark on August 7, 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. India crossed the grim milestone of 1.50 crore on April 19. According to the ICMR, 28,09,79,877 samples have been tested up to April 26 with 16,58,700 samples being tested on Monday.

India reports 323,144 new COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours

The UK is currently moving through its domestic priority lists for COVID-19 vaccines and therefore, has no surplus doses to share with countries in need such as India at this stage, Downing Street said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

In reference to India's devastating second wave of the pandemic, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesperson said the process is kept under constant review, while the country sends an assistance package made up of 495 oxygen concentrators, 120 non-invasive ventilators and 20 manual ventilators to India to meet the supply shortages over the course of the week. &nbsp;

The first tranche of 100 ventilators and 95 oxygen concentrators arrived in New Delhi early on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"We committed in February to sending excess doses from the UK's supply to the COVAX procurement pool and to countries in need, once they are available," the UK PM's spokesperson said.&nbsp;

"Right now, we are moving through the UK prioritisation list for our domestic rollout and don't have surplus doses, but we keep this under constant review. We recognise that no one is safe until we're all safe in this pandemic which is why the UK has contributed GBP 548 million to COVAX and sent vital medical supplies to India," the spokesperson said.&nbsp;

The COVAX facility refers to the COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access global initiative aimed at equitable access to vaccines led by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the World Health Organisation (WHO).&nbsp;

The latest update from Downing Street comes as it emerged that the US is to export around 60 million doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, with India expected to be among the biggest recipients of the consignment after talks between US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

With 3,23,144 people testing positive for the coronavirus in a day, India's infection tally climbed to 1,76,36,307 on Tuesday. The death toll mounted to 1,97,894 with 2,771 new fatalities.&nbsp;

Several efforts are on within the Indian diaspora in the UK to fundraise for essential supplies, such as oxygen concentrators and coordinate distribution of across India's struggling hospitals through a series of emergency appeals, including by charities such as the British Asian Trust and British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO). &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The UK is currently moving through its domestic priority lists for COVID-19 vaccines and therefore, has no surplus doses to share with countries in need such as India at this stage, Downing Street said on Tuesday.

The UK is currently moving through its domestic priority lists for COVID-19 vaccines and therefore, has no surplus doses to share with countries in need such as India at this stage, Downing Street said on Tuesday. In reference to India's devastating second wave of the pandemic, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's spokesperson said the process is kept under constant review, while the country sends an assistance package made up of 495 oxygen concentrators, 120 non-invasive ventilators and 20 manual ventilators to India to meet the supply shortages over the course of the week. The first tranche of 100 ventilators and 95 oxygen concentrators arrived in New Delhi early on Tuesday. "We committed in February to sending excess doses from the UK's supply to the COVAX procurement pool and to countries in need, once they are available," the UK PM's spokesperson said. "Right now, we are moving through the UK prioritisation list for our domestic rollout and don't have surplus doses, but we keep this under constant review. We recognise that no one is safe until we're all safe in this pandemic which is why the UK has contributed GBP 548 million to COVAX and sent vital medical supplies to India," the spokesperson said. The COVAX facility refers to the COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access global initiative aimed at equitable access to vaccines led by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), and the World Health Organisation (WHO). The latest update from Downing Street comes as it emerged that the US is to export around 60 million doses of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, with India expected to be among the biggest recipients of the consignment after talks between US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With 3,23,144 people testing positive for the coronavirus in a day, India's infection tally climbed to 1,76,36,307 on Tuesday. The death toll mounted to 1,97,894 with 2,771 new fatalities. Several efforts are on within the Indian diaspora in the UK to fundraise for essential supplies, such as oxygen concentrators and coordinate distribution of across India's struggling hospitals through a series of emergency appeals, including by charities such as the British Asian Trust and British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO). (With inputs from agencies)

No surplus vaccine doses to send to India right now, says UK 

Australia was the latest country on Tuesday to announce support for India even as it battles the Covid pandemic, reporting over 3,00,000 cases in the last days. The initial package announced by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison includes rapid deployment of 500 non-invasive ventilators, with the capacity to deploy up to a total of 3,000 ventilators. &nbsp;

Addressing a presser after the National Security Committee meeting, PM Scott said, "we recognise that this has been a very significant outbreak in India....scenes we are seeing from India, they are truly heartbreaking. We share so much in common as peoples, as democratic nations, and we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences and our support to the nation of India and the people of India and the Prime Minister of India, Prime Minister Modi." &nbsp;

Other than ventilators, Australia will supply personal protective equipment (PPE), including one million surgical masks, 500,000 P2/N95 masks, 100,000 surgical gowns, 100,000 goggles, 100,000 pairs of gloves, and 20,000 face shields. The Australian Government has also agreed to commence procurement of 100 oxygen concentrators, along with tanks and consumables. The supplies are expected to start from next week. &nbsp;

In another significant development, Australia has also announced to pause direct passenger flights between both countries till May 15. The third-country entry points into Australia from India via Dubai (United Arab Emirates), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) have also been blocked. Whenever the flights resume in the future, the passenger will have to carry a negative PCR test and a negative rapid antigen prior to boarding. &nbsp;

The Australian PM said, "We are standing with those Australians in India and recognise the very serious difficulties that they face", lauding Australian High commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell for the "great work he and all his consular team are doing in India right now". &nbsp;

19,400 Australians have returned from India since March of last year and as of now 9,000 Australians are registered in India, 650 of whom are registered as vulnerable. &nbsp;

Asked about any prioritisation for Australian cricketers, who are currently playing in the IPL in India, PM Scott said, "they’ve travelled there privately under those arrangements. This wasn't part of an Australian tour, and they're there under their own resources and they'll be using those resources to, I'm sure, to see them return to Australia in accordance with their own arrangements."&nbsp;

Australia was the latest country on Tuesday to announce support for India even as it battles the Covid pandemic, reporting over 3,00,000 cases in the last days. The initial package announced by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison includes rapid deployment of 500 non-invasive ventilators, with the capacity to deploy up to a total of 3,000 ventilators.

Australia was the latest country on Tuesday to announce support for India even as it battles the Covid pandemic, reporting over 3,00,000 cases in the last days. The initial package announced by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison includes rapid deployment of 500 non-invasive ventilators, with the capacity to deploy up to a total of 3,000 ventilators. Addressing a presser after the National Security Committee meeting, PM Scott said, "we recognise that this has been a very significant outbreak in India....scenes we are seeing from India, they are truly heartbreaking. We share so much in common as peoples, as democratic nations, and we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences and our support to the nation of India and the people of India and the Prime Minister of India, Prime Minister Modi." Other than ventilators, Australia will supply personal protective equipment (PPE), including one million surgical masks, 500,000 P2/N95 masks, 100,000 surgical gowns, 100,000 goggles, 100,000 pairs of gloves, and 20,000 face shields. The Australian Government has also agreed to commence procurement of 100 oxygen concentrators, along with tanks and consumables. The supplies are expected to start from next week. In another significant development, Australia has also announced to pause direct passenger flights between both countries till May 15. The third-country entry points into Australia from India via Dubai (United Arab Emirates), Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) have also been blocked. Whenever the flights resume in the future, the passenger will have to carry a negative PCR test and a negative rapid antigen prior to boarding. The Australian PM said, "We are standing with those Australians in India and recognise the very serious difficulties that they face", lauding Australian High commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell for the "great work he and all his consular team are doing in India right now". 19,400 Australians have returned from India since March of last year and as of now 9,000 Australians are registered in India, 650 of whom are registered as vulnerable. Asked about any prioritisation for Australian cricketers, who are currently playing in the IPL in India, PM Scott said, "they’ve travelled there privately under those arrangements. This wasn't part of an Australian tour, and they're there under their own resources and they'll be using those resources to, I'm sure, to see them return to Australia in accordance with their own arrangements."

India's Covid surge: Australia announces support, calls crisis heartbreaking

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to US President Joe Biden on the evolving COVID-19 situation in the country. PM Modi conveyed the support and discussed India's requirement and US efforts to meet them amid the ongoing pandemic.

Indian PM Modi thanks US President Joe Biden for offer of help over phone

India has an official tally of 17.31 million infections and 195,123 deaths, health ministry data showed, although health experts say the figures probably run higher.

Gilead to help India boost Remdesivir production

The Russian Direct Investment Fund will deliver the Sputnik V vaccine to India as it battles the second wave of coronavirus, RDIF CEO Kirill Dmitriev said on Monday. Dmitriev, in an interview with CNN on Monday, said that the first doses will arrive in India on May 1.

He also stated that India would be one of the key producers of Sputnik V.Meanwhile, Indian doctors are looking forward to getting access to Russia's Sputnik V vaccine soon, Senior Director of the centre for Chest and Respiratory Diseases at New Delhi`s Super Specialty Hospital Dr Sandeep Nayar told TASS Newsagency on Tuesday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="Russia says Brazil's refusal to import Sputnik V is 'political'">Russia says Brazil's refusal to import Sputnik V is 'political'</a>

"The Sputnik vaccine has a very good study and very good backup, so I'm hoping that we have that vaccine too as early as possible," Tass reported, quoting Senior Director of the Center for Chest and Respiratory Diseases, New Delhi`s Super Specialty Hospital Dr. SandeepNayar.At present, India is using two coronavirus vaccines, Covishield, developed by AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford, and Covaxinmade by India's Bharat Biotech for vaccinating its citizens.

Sputnik V, the world's first registered coronavirus vaccine, has been approved for emergency use in 60 countries across the globe. According to an interim analysis from the trial published in The Lancet, the vaccine has 91.6 per cent efficacy.&nbsp;

The Russian Direct Investment Fund will deliver the Sputnik V vaccine to India as it battles the second wave of coronavirus, RDIF CEO Kirill Dmitriev said on Monday.

The Russian Direct Investment Fund will deliver the Sputnik V vaccine to India as it battles the second wave of coronavirus, RDIF CEO Kirill Dmitriev said on Monday. Dmitriev, in an interview with CNN on Monday, said that the first doses will arrive in India on May 1. He also stated that India would be one of the key producers of Sputnik V.Meanwhile, Indian doctors are looking forward to getting access to Russia's Sputnik V vaccine soon, Senior Director of the centre for Chest and Respiratory Diseases at New Delhi`s Super Specialty Hospital Dr Sandeep Nayar told TASS Newsagency on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Russia says Brazil's refusal to import Sputnik V is 'political' "The Sputnik vaccine has a very good study and very good backup, so I'm hoping that we have that vaccine too as early as possible," Tass reported, quoting Senior Director of the Center for Chest and Respiratory Diseases, New Delhi`s Super Specialty Hospital Dr. SandeepNayar.At present, India is using two coronavirus vaccines, Covishield, developed by AstraZeneca and the University of Oxford, and Covaxinmade by India's Bharat Biotech for vaccinating its citizens. Sputnik V, the world's first registered coronavirus vaccine, has been approved for emergency use in 60 countries across the globe. According to an interim analysis from the trial published in The Lancet, the vaccine has 91.6 per cent efficacy.

India to get first doses of Sputnik V vaccine by May 1: RDIF CEO

Gilead Sciences Inc said on Monday it will give India at least 450,000 vials of its antiviral drug remdesivir and help boost production, as the world`s second-most populous country reels from surging coronavirus cases.

Remdesivir is approved in India for restricted emergency use to treat severe COVID-19 cases, but hospitals are facing supply shortages due to indiscriminate use and the drug is being sold at over 10 times its listed price in the black market.

The shortage has raised concerns about hoarding as people queue up outside clinics and hospitals to buy the drug and millions take to social media to secure supplies.

Also&nbsp;Read |&nbsp;<a href="India's Covid crisis: Bhutanese express solidarity, country to supply oxygen">India's Covid crisis: Bhutanese express solidarity, country to supply oxygen</a>

Earlier this month, India banned the export of the drug and the active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) used to make it.

Seven Indian companies have licensed the drug from Gilead, with an installed capacity of about 3.9 million units per month. Gilead said on Monday all of them were scaling up their batch sizes and adding new manufacturing facilities and local contract manufacturers.

There are doubts about the drug's effectiveness in treating COVID-19. The World Health Organization in November issued a conditional recommendation against the use of remdesivir in hospitalised patients, but India has continued to use it.

A senior Indian government health official said last week that remdesivir is only for those patients who need oxygen.

"I am appealing that the hype over this medicine should be decreased, and it should be used in a rational manner," Vinod Kumar Paul said.

On Monday, Russian pharmaceutical firm Pharmasyntez said it was ready to ship up to 1 million packs of remdesivir to India by the end-May once it received the Russian government's approval.

India has reported more than 300,000 new COVID-19 cases per day over the past six days. It has an official tally of 17.31 million infections and 195,123 deaths, health ministry data showed, although health experts say the figures likely run higher.

Nations including Britain, Germany and the United States have pledged support, while the World Health Organization termed the situation as "beyond heartbreaking".

Gilead Sciences Inc said on Monday it will give India at least 450,000 vials of its antiviral drug remdesivir and help boost production, as the world`s second-most populous country reels from surging coronavirus cases.

Gilead Sciences Inc said on Monday it will give India at least 450,000 vials of its antiviral drug remdesivir and help boost production, as the world`s second-most populous country reels from surging coronavirus cases. Remdesivir is approved in India for restricted emergency use to treat severe COVID-19 cases, but hospitals are facing supply shortages due to indiscriminate use and the drug is being sold at over 10 times its listed price in the black market. The shortage has raised concerns about hoarding as people queue up outside clinics and hospitals to buy the drug and millions take to social media to secure supplies. Also Read | India's Covid crisis: Bhutanese express solidarity, country to supply oxygen Earlier this month, India banned the export of the drug and the active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) used to make it. Seven Indian companies have licensed the drug from Gilead, with an installed capacity of about 3.9 million units per month. Gilead said on Monday all of them were scaling up their batch sizes and adding new manufacturing facilities and local contract manufacturers. There are doubts about the drug's effectiveness in treating COVID-19. The World Health Organization in November issued a conditional recommendation against the use of remdesivir in hospitalised patients, but India has continued to use it. A senior Indian government health official said last week that remdesivir is only for those patients who need oxygen. "I am appealing that the hype over this medicine should be decreased, and it should be used in a rational manner," Vinod Kumar Paul said. On Monday, Russian pharmaceutical firm Pharmasyntez said it was ready to ship up to 1 million packs of remdesivir to India by the end-May once it received the Russian government's approval. India has reported more than 300,000 new COVID-19 cases per day over the past six days. It has an official tally of 17.31 million infections and 195,123 deaths, health ministry data showed, although health experts say the figures likely run higher. Nations including Britain, Germany and the United States have pledged support, while the World Health Organization termed the situation as "beyond heartbreaking".

Gilead to help speed up Remdesivir availability in India

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against jumping to conclusions about a new coronavirus variant discovered in India, saying it had not yet classified it as worrying. 
 
A WHO spokeswoman said that it was not clear at this point to what extent the variant was responsible for the rapid increase in cases in India in recent months, DPA news agency reported. 
 
There are many factors that could have contributed to this, she said. For example, festivals and other events with many participants may have accelerated infections. 
 
The British coronavirus variant may also be affecting India`s epidemiological situation. 
 
In India, more than 350,000 infections were reported within 24 hours on Monday, more than any country has reported in that timespan. With its 1.3 billion inhabitants, India has recorded a total of more than 17 million infections. 
 
The British, South African and Brazilian variants of Covid-19 have all been classified by the WHO as "variants of concern." 
 
The newest variant was first detected in India on December 1, 2020. 
 
According to the WHO, a variant is considered worrying if it spreads more easily, causes more serious cases of the disease, bypasses the immune system or reduces the effectiveness of known treatments. 
 
Overall, the number of reported infections per week has been increasing for nine weeks, while the number of reported deaths has been increasing for six weeks, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in Geneva on Monday. 
 
"There were almost as many cases last week as in the first five months of the pandemic combined," said Tedros. In India in particular, the situation is "more than heartbreaking." 
 
The WHO did not have the latest number of infections reported within a week on its website as of Tuesday. On April 19, it reported almost 5.7 million cases worldwide within a week, some 400,000 more than the week before. 
 
On the Gisaid platform, which contains genetic sequences of influenza and the coronavirus, more than 850 sequences of Covid-19 from more than 18 countries had been uploaded by April 23. Most came from India, Britain, the US and Singapore. 
 
However, this does not give an accurate picture of the distribution, as many countries sequence significantly less, others not at all due to a lack of capacity.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against jumping to conclusions about a new coronavirus variant discovered in India, saying it had not yet classified it as worrying.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against jumping to conclusions about a new coronavirus variant discovered in India, saying it had not yet classified it as worrying. A WHO spokeswoman said that it was not clear at this point to what extent the variant was responsible for the rapid increase in cases in India in recent months, DPA news agency reported. There are many factors that could have contributed to this, she said. For example, festivals and other events with many participants may have accelerated infections. The British coronavirus variant may also be affecting India`s epidemiological situation. In India, more than 350,000 infections were reported within 24 hours on Monday, more than any country has reported in that timespan. With its 1.3 billion inhabitants, India has recorded a total of more than 17 million infections. The British, South African and Brazilian variants of Covid-19 have all been classified by the WHO as "variants of concern." The newest variant was first detected in India on December 1, 2020. According to the WHO, a variant is considered worrying if it spreads more easily, causes more serious cases of the disease, bypasses the immune system or reduces the effectiveness of known treatments. Overall, the number of reported infections per week has been increasing for nine weeks, while the number of reported deaths has been increasing for six weeks, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said in Geneva on Monday. "There were almost as many cases last week as in the first five months of the pandemic combined," said Tedros. In India in particular, the situation is "more than heartbreaking." The WHO did not have the latest number of infections reported within a week on its website as of Tuesday. On April 19, it reported almost 5.7 million cases worldwide within a week, some 400,000 more than the week before. On the Gisaid platform, which contains genetic sequences of influenza and the coronavirus, more than 850 sequences of Covid-19 from more than 18 countries had been uploaded by April 23. Most came from India, Britain, the US and Singapore. However, this does not give an accurate picture of the distribution, as many countries sequence significantly less, others not at all due to a lack of capacity.

WHO reserves judgement on Indian coronavirus variant

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to US President Joe Biden on the evolving COVID situation in the country. PM Modi conveyed the support and discussed India's requirement and US efforts to meet them amid the ongoing pandemic.

Indian PM Modi speaks with Biden over phone after US lifts unofficial embargo

In the wake of uncontrolled increase of Covid cases across the country, the Election Commission (EC) has banned all kinds of victory processions after the poll results are declared on May 2. The commission has also put a cap on the number of persons assisting the candidates at the counting halls. 
 
In view of the surge in Covid cases throughout the country, the Commission has decided to make more stringent provision to be followed during the process of counting, in addition to existing broad guidelines dated August 21, 2020 and has directed, "No victory procession after the counting on 2.5.2021 shall be permissible". 
 
The EC also said, "Not more than two persons shall be allowed to accompany the winning candidate or his/her authorised representative will receive the certificate of election from the Returning Officer concerned".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Madras High Court raps election body for political rallies during Covid second wave">Madras High Court raps election body for political rallies during Covid second wave</a> 
 
In addition to this, the commission has made an extensive arrangement for counting that will be conducted in 705 halls in Bengal with a maximum of seven tables in each of the hall to maintain physical distancing and other health protocols related with management of Covid. Mask, sanitisers and face shields will be made compulsory for all at the counting venues. 
 
"During the last assembly elections counting was held in 385 halls. We have almost doubled the counting venues that have gone up to 705. In the majority of the counting halls there will be seven tables and in some where the space is large there may be 14 tables.

The blueprint is expected to be finalised by Tuesday after holding a video conference with the district election officers (DEOs)," Aariz Aftab, state Chief Electoral Officer said. "There will be temperature check at the entry point in all the venues," he added. 
 
Meanwhile, the EC on Monday announced that voting at booth no 126 at Amtali Madhyamik Siksha Kendra at Sitalkuchi in Cooch Behar will be held on April 29 with the last phase of the ongoing election. During the fourth phase of polls held in April 10, four persons were killed in firing by central forces near the polling booth at Sitalkuchi and the Commission had declared voting at that polling station to be void.

In the wake of uncontrolled increase of Covid cases across the country, the Election Commission (EC) has banned all kinds of victory processions after the poll results are declared on May 2.

In the wake of uncontrolled increase of Covid cases across the country, the Election Commission (EC) has banned all kinds of victory processions after the poll results are declared on May 2. The commission has also put a cap on the number of persons assisting the candidates at the counting halls. In view of the surge in Covid cases throughout the country, the Commission has decided to make more stringent provision to be followed during the process of counting, in addition to existing broad guidelines dated August 21, 2020 and has directed, "No victory procession after the counting on 2.5.2021 shall be permissible". The EC also said, "Not more than two persons shall be allowed to accompany the winning candidate or his/her authorised representative will receive the certificate of election from the Returning Officer concerned". Also read: Madras High Court raps election body for political rallies during Covid second wave In addition to this, the commission has made an extensive arrangement for counting that will be conducted in 705 halls in Bengal with a maximum of seven tables in each of the hall to maintain physical distancing and other health protocols related with management of Covid. Mask, sanitisers and face shields will be made compulsory for all at the counting venues. "During the last assembly elections counting was held in 385 halls. We have almost doubled the counting venues that have gone up to 705. In the majority of the counting halls there will be seven tables and in some where the space is large there may be 14 tables. The blueprint is expected to be finalised by Tuesday after holding a video conference with the district election officers (DEOs)," Aariz Aftab, state Chief Electoral Officer said. "There will be temperature check at the entry point in all the venues," he added. Meanwhile, the EC on Monday announced that voting at booth no 126 at Amtali Madhyamik Siksha Kendra at Sitalkuchi in Cooch Behar will be held on April 29 with the last phase of the ongoing election. During the fourth phase of polls held in April 10, four persons were killed in firing by central forces near the polling booth at Sitalkuchi and the Commission had declared voting at that polling station to be void.

COVID-19: Indian election body bans all victory processions after poll results

Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar received a call from his Turkish counterpart Mevlut Cavusoglu. Jaishankar said that Turkey is going through its own COVID-19 challenges.

Indian FM Jaishankar received call from Turkish counterpart

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Pakistan would be happy to talk out differences and resolve outstanding issues through dialogue if India was willing to revisit the unilateral decisions it took on August 5, 2019, regarding the status of Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir.&nbsp;

Citing Anadolu Agency of Turkey, Dawn reported, "If India is willing to revisit some of the decisions that it took on August 5, 2019, Pakistan will be more than happy to engage, sit and talk and resolve all outstanding issues," said Qureshi during his two-day visit to&nbsp;Turkey.&nbsp;

On&nbsp;August 5, 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a bold move to scrap the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir by modifying Article 370 of the&nbsp;Constitution.&nbsp;

Same&nbsp;day, the Rajya Sabha also passed the Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;Reorganisation&nbsp;Bill, that bifurcated the state into two Union Territories-Ladakh and Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir.&nbsp;

He&nbsp;said that Pakistan had outstanding issues with India including Kashmir, Siachen, Sir Creek, water and other minor issues and the only sensible way forward was the dialogue, reported&nbsp;Dawn.&nbsp;

"We&nbsp;cannot afford to go to war, you know, it will be mutually suicidal. And no sensible person will advocate a policy of that nature. So, we need to sit and we need to talk," he&nbsp;remarked.&nbsp;

He&nbsp;said that one recent development of recommitment to ceasefire was during the conversation between Directors General of Military Operations of both sides was a positive development, reported&nbsp;Dawn.&nbsp;

The Foreign Minister also referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's messages on Pakistan's national day and a goodwill message to Prime Minister Imran Khan who also responded positively to&nbsp;it.&nbsp;

Earlier both the countries announced a ceasefire at the LoC which was followed by Indus water talks, sporting visas&nbsp;etc.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Prime Ministers of both nations pushed for regional rapprochement and exchanged salutary&nbsp;messages.&nbsp;

Despite this, Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan decided not to meet and exchange greetings at a Dushanbe conference held&nbsp;earlier.&nbsp;Moreover, recently Pakistan Cabinet decided not to import sugar and cotton from India which would affect the ties between both&nbsp;countries.&nbsp;

Any improvement in the ties will depend upon the restoration of High Commissioners in each other's capitals, commitments from Pakistan with respect to cross-border terrorism, resuming LoC trade.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Pakistan would be happy to talk out differences and resolve outstanding issues through dialogue if India was willing to revisit the unilateral decisions it took on August 5, 2019, regarding the status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Pakistan would be happy to talk out differences and resolve outstanding issues through dialogue if India was willing to revisit the unilateral decisions it took on August 5, 2019, regarding the status of Jammu and Kashmir. Citing Anadolu Agency of Turkey, Dawn reported, "If India is willing to revisit some of the decisions that it took on August 5, 2019, Pakistan will be more than happy to engage, sit and talk and resolve all outstanding issues," said Qureshi during his two-day visit to Turkey. On August 5, 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a bold move to scrap the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir by modifying Article 370 of the Constitution. Same day, the Rajya Sabha also passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, that bifurcated the state into two Union Territories-Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir. He said that Pakistan had outstanding issues with India including Kashmir, Siachen, Sir Creek, water and other minor issues and the only sensible way forward was the dialogue, reported Dawn. "We cannot afford to go to war, you know, it will be mutually suicidal. And no sensible person will advocate a policy of that nature. So, we need to sit and we need to talk," he remarked. He said that one recent development of recommitment to ceasefire was during the conversation between Directors General of Military Operations of both sides was a positive development, reported Dawn. The Foreign Minister also referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's messages on Pakistan's national day and a goodwill message to Prime Minister Imran Khan who also responded positively to it. Earlier both the countries announced a ceasefire at the LoC which was followed by Indus water talks, sporting visas etc. The Prime Ministers of both nations pushed for regional rapprochement and exchanged salutary messages. Despite this, Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan decided not to meet and exchange greetings at a Dushanbe conference held earlier. Moreover, recently Pakistan Cabinet decided not to import sugar and cotton from India which would affect the ties between both countries. Any improvement in the ties will depend upon the restoration of High Commissioners in each other's capitals, commitments from Pakistan with respect to cross-border terrorism, resuming LoC trade. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak FM Qureshi says willing to talk if India revisits its J&K decisions 

As India battles a severe second wave of coronavirus pandemic, the UK on Sunday announced sending life-saving medical equipment including ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices to the country.&nbsp;

The UK High Commission here said more than 600 pieces of vital medical equipment will be sent to India to support the country in its fight against COVID-19.&nbsp;

It said ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices are due to leave the UK on Sunday and the first shipment is expected to arrive in Delhi early on Tuesday with further consignments reaching later this week.&nbsp;

"We stand side by side with India as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against COVID-19," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said.&nbsp;

"Vital medical equipment, including hundreds of oxygen concentrators and ventilators, is now on its way from the UK to India to support efforts to prevent the tragic loss of life from this terrible virus," he is quoted as saying by the high commission.&nbsp;

It said the assistance package, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, includes ventilators and oxygen concentrators from surplus stocks.&nbsp;

"It will be used by the government of India to provide vital medical treatment to those suffering from COVID-19 in India," it said.&nbsp;

The high commission said the support follows a request from India and Prime Minister Johnson's pledge for the UK to do all it can to help the country.&nbsp;

"In total, nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, 120 non-invasive ventilators and 20 manual ventilators, will be sent to the country this week," the high commission said.&nbsp;

It said the equipment will be crucial in helping to save the lives of the most vulnerable in India.&nbsp;

"The oxygen concentrators, for example, can extract oxygen from the air in the atmosphere so that it can be provided to patients, taking the strain off hospital oxygen systems and allowing oxygen to be provided in situations where hospital oxygen supplies have run out," it said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As India battles a severe second wave of coronavirus pandemic, the UK on Sunday announced sending life-saving medical equipment including ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices to the country.

As India battles a severe second wave of coronavirus pandemic, the UK on Sunday announced sending life-saving medical equipment including ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices to the country. The UK High Commission here said more than 600 pieces of vital medical equipment will be sent to India to support the country in its fight against COVID-19. It said ventilators and oxygen concentrator devices are due to leave the UK on Sunday and the first shipment is expected to arrive in Delhi early on Tuesday with further consignments reaching later this week. "We stand side by side with India as a friend and partner during what is a deeply concerning time in the fight against COVID-19," British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said. "Vital medical equipment, including hundreds of oxygen concentrators and ventilators, is now on its way from the UK to India to support efforts to prevent the tragic loss of life from this terrible virus," he is quoted as saying by the high commission. It said the assistance package, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, includes ventilators and oxygen concentrators from surplus stocks. "It will be used by the government of India to provide vital medical treatment to those suffering from COVID-19 in India," it said. The high commission said the support follows a request from India and Prime Minister Johnson's pledge for the UK to do all it can to help the country. "In total, nine airline container loads of supplies, including 495 oxygen concentrators, 120 non-invasive ventilators and 20 manual ventilators, will be sent to the country this week," the high commission said. It said the equipment will be crucial in helping to save the lives of the most vulnerable in India. "The oxygen concentrators, for example, can extract oxygen from the air in the atmosphere so that it can be provided to patients, taking the strain off hospital oxygen systems and allowing oxygen to be provided in situations where hospital oxygen supplies have run out," it said. (With inputs from agencies)

UK sending medical devices like ventilators, oxygen concentrators to India 

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