Traffic has been a reason for a lot of problems but has it also been a reason for divorce?

Indian state Maharashtra's former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' wife Amruta Fadnavis has claimed that Mumbai's traffic is the cause of three per cent of divorces in the city.&nbsp;

“Whenever I say anything, I say it as a common citizen. Whenever I go out, I see several issues including potholes and traffic which concern us. I go out as a common woman. Do you know how many divorces are happening due to the traffic jam? 3 per cent divorces happen because people cannot give time to their families. When will you address these issues?" claimed Amruta.&nbsp;

Her remarks went viral on social media and garnered tons of reactions.&nbsp;

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Shiv Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi, without naming Ms Fadnavis, took a dig at her statement. She called it, "Best (il)logic of the day."

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Best (il)logic of the day award goes to the lady who claims 3% Mumbaikars are divorcing due to traffic on roads. Please take a holiday break rather than having a mind on brake.. 
Bengaluru families please avoid reading this , can prove fatal for your marriages 😂
— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) <a href="https://twitter.com/priyankac19/status/1489867339159977984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 5, 2022</a></blockquote>
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She further said that Bengaluru families should avoid reading this as it can prove to be fatal for marriages.&nbsp;

Potholes have always been a problem in this Indian city. Earlier in&nbsp;September,&nbsp;the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had claimed that it had fixed over 31,000 potholes on city roads.

Traffic has been a reason for a lot of problems but has it also been a reason for divorce? Indian state Maharashtra's former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' wife Amruta Fadnavis has claimed that Mumbai's traffic is the cause of three per cent of divorces in the city.

Traffic has been a reason for a lot of problems but has it also been a reason for divorce? Indian state Maharashtra's former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis' wife Amruta Fadnavis has claimed that Mumbai's traffic is the cause of three per cent of divorces in the city. “Whenever I say anything, I say it as a common citizen. Whenever I go out, I see several issues including potholes and traffic which concern us. I go out as a common woman. Do you know how many divorces are happening due to the traffic jam? 3 per cent divorces happen because people cannot give time to their families. When will you address these issues?" claimed Amruta. Her remarks went viral on social media and garnered tons of reactions. Also read | India calls off Musk's request for tax breaks on Tesla cars Shiv Sena leader Priyanka Chaturvedi, without naming Ms Fadnavis, took a dig at her statement. She called it, "Best (il)logic of the day." Best (il)logic of the day award goes to the lady who claims 3% Mumbaikars are divorcing due to traffic on roads. Please take a holiday break rather than having a mind on brake.. Bengaluru families please avoid reading this , can prove fatal for your marriages 😂 — Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) February 5, 2022 × She further said that Bengaluru families should avoid reading this as it can prove to be fatal for marriages. Potholes have always been a problem in this Indian city. Earlier in September, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had claimed that it had fixed over 31,000 potholes on city roads.

Traffic leading to divorces in this Indian city, claims ex-chief minister's wife

Schools resumed physical sessions for classes 1 to 12 in India's Maharashtra on Monday and the state government expressed hope that students would enjoy being back to their classrooms in a safe atmosphere.

Last week, the Maharashtra government allowed the offline classes to resume from January 24 after Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray approved a proposal to this effect that was sent to him by the school education department.

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Schools across the state were closed in the first week of January due to a spike in the coronavirus cases and in the wake of the emergence of the highly infectious Omicron variant. However, a number of parents, activists in the field as well as teachers had strongly opposed the move to shut the schools, saying it would adversely affect the students.

In Mumbai, the local civic body had earlier announced the closure of schools for Classes 1 to 9 till January 31. 
But, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) assessment later indicated that the cases of Omicron infection were not on the rise, and it had said the curve was flattening. It had prompted officials to propose the reopening of schools for physical attendance.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-tally-dips-marginally-logs-over-300000-new-infections-447059">India’s Covid tally dips marginally, logs over 3,00,000 new infections</a>

On Monday morning, Maharashtra School Education Minister Varsha Gaikwad greeted students and parents on the reopening of physical classes.

"Wishing all parents and students the very best as physical classes reopen today onwards. We hope you enjoy your day back in a safe atmosphere. #BackToSchool. @scertmaha @CMOMaharashtra @msbshse," Gaikwad tweeted.

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Wishing all parents and students the very best as physical classes reopen today onwards. We hope you enjoy your day back in a safe atmosphere. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackToSchool?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackToSchool</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/scertmaha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@scertmaha</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CMOMaharashtra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CMOMaharashtra</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/msbshse?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@msbshse</a>
— Prof. Varsha Eknath Gaikwad (@VarshaEGaikwad) <a href="https://twitter.com/VarshaEGaikwad/status/1485449220828299267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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In Mumbai also, various schools resumed offline classes in the morning.

Last week, BMC Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal had said that in-person or offline classes will resume in pre-primary schools too.

While allowing the schools to resume physical classes, the state government has asked them to strictly adhere to COVID-19 protocols and guidelines.

Watch |&nbsp;Has India weathered the third wave of covid-19 infections?

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On Sunday, Maharashtra reported 40,805 COVID-19 cases, taking its tally to 75,07,225, while 44 fatalities pushed the toll to 1,42,115, a health department official earlier said.

No Omicron case was detected in the state on Sunday, keeping the tally of those affected by the new variant to 2,759, of whom 1,437 have been discharged so far, the official said.

Schools resumed physical sessions for classes 1 to 12 in India's Maharashtra on Monday and the state government expressed hope that students would enjoy being back to their classrooms in a safe atmosphere.

Schools resumed physical sessions for classes 1 to 12 in India's Maharashtra on Monday and the state government expressed hope that students would enjoy being back to their classrooms in a safe atmosphere. Last week, the Maharashtra government allowed the offline classes to resume from January 24 after Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray approved a proposal to this effect that was sent to him by the school education department. Also read | Rare feat: Indian student in UAE makes history, bags perfect score of 1600 in SAT Schools across the state were closed in the first week of January due to a spike in the coronavirus cases and in the wake of the emergence of the highly infectious Omicron variant. However, a number of parents, activists in the field as well as teachers had strongly opposed the move to shut the schools, saying it would adversely affect the students. In Mumbai, the local civic body had earlier announced the closure of schools for Classes 1 to 9 till January 31. But, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) assessment later indicated that the cases of Omicron infection were not on the rise, and it had said the curve was flattening. It had prompted officials to propose the reopening of schools for physical attendance. Also read | India’s Covid tally dips marginally, logs over 3,00,000 new infections On Monday morning, Maharashtra School Education Minister Varsha Gaikwad greeted students and parents on the reopening of physical classes. "Wishing all parents and students the very best as physical classes reopen today onwards. We hope you enjoy your day back in a safe atmosphere. #BackToSchool. @scertmaha @CMOMaharashtra @msbshse," Gaikwad tweeted. Wishing all parents and students the very best as physical classes reopen today onwards. We hope you enjoy your day back in a safe atmosphere. #BackToSchool. @scertmaha @CMOMaharashtra @msbshse — Prof. Varsha Eknath Gaikwad (@VarshaEGaikwad) January 24, 2022 × In Mumbai also, various schools resumed offline classes in the morning. Last week, BMC Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal had said that in-person or offline classes will resume in pre-primary schools too. While allowing the schools to resume physical classes, the state government has asked them to strictly adhere to COVID-19 protocols and guidelines. Watch | Has India weathered the third wave of covid-19 infections? On Sunday, Maharashtra reported 40,805 COVID-19 cases, taking its tally to 75,07,225, while 44 fatalities pushed the toll to 1,42,115, a health department official earlier said. No Omicron case was detected in the state on Sunday, keeping the tally of those affected by the new variant to 2,759, of whom 1,437 have been discharged so far, the official said.

Schools reopen in India's Maharashtra, physical sessions resume for classes 1 to 12

At least 6 people have died and at least 23 have been injured due to a massive fire that broke out inside a multi-storey building in Mumbai. The massive blaze broke out on the 18th floor of a high-rise building.

At least 6 people killed in massive fire outbreak in Mumbai

At least six people were killed and more than 20 were injured in a building fire in an Indian city Mumbai on Saturday (January 22), an official of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) informed.&nbsp;

The incident happened at dawn when a major blaze engulfed the 18th floor of a building in Tardeo, South Mumbai. The densely populated city is in the western state of the country, Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Emergency services were alerted by people in neighbouring buildings when they noticed the fire at the top part of the 20-storied Kamla Building at around 7.30am (local time).&nbsp;

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News agencies reported that the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) rushed with 13 fire tenders as the flames quickly spread to the two upper floors sparking panic among the building residents.

The MFB managed to rescue at least 23 injured persons from the inferno that raged in the top three floors, and the firemen continued to battle the blaze in the afternoon.

As per reports, the injured persons were rushed to various private and public hospitals and seven were given first aid and allowed to go. The remaining 16 with grievous burns of various degrees, have been admitted to different hospitals.&nbsp;

BMC Disaster Control said that four critically injured people succumbed to their burns after two deaths were reported earlier. They also informed that another five are still critical. &nbsp;

President of the country&nbsp;Ram Nath Kovind condoled the deaths as he said, "Saddened to learn about the fire incident in a building in Mumbai. My deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate accident. I wish the injured a speedy recovery."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and announced on Twitter that ex-gratia assistance of Rs 2 lakh would be provided to the family members of each deceased from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF), and the injured would be given Rs 50,000 each.

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An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to the building fire in Tardeo, Mumbai. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000 each: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1484814560347394048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Maharashtra Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray visited the site and said the state government will provide a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the family members of each deceased.

Devendra Fadnavis, who is the Bharatiya Janata Party leader of the opposition, condoled the deaths and said he was shocked to learn that some nearby hospitals refused to admit the injured leading to a spike in the deaths.

"If this is true, then the state government and BMC must fix the responsibility for the deaths and take action against those responsible," demanded Fadnavis.&nbsp;

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If it is true then, BMC &amp; State administration should fix the responsibility for these deaths &amp; take action against those responsible.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiFire?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiFire</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tardeo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tardeo</a>
— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis/status/1484785873342582786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

At least six people were killed and more than 20 were injured in a building fire in an Indian city Mumbai on Saturday (January 22), an official of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) informed.

At least six people were killed and more than 20 were injured in a building fire in an Indian city Mumbai on Saturday (January 22), an official of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) informed. The incident happened at dawn when a major blaze engulfed the 18th floor of a building in Tardeo, South Mumbai. The densely populated city is in the western state of the country, Maharashtra. Emergency services were alerted by people in neighbouring buildings when they noticed the fire at the top part of the 20-storied Kamla Building at around 7.30am (local time). ALSO READ | Two LeT terrorists killed in Shopian encounter News agencies reported that the Mumbai Fire Brigade (MFB) rushed with 13 fire tenders as the flames quickly spread to the two upper floors sparking panic among the building residents. The MFB managed to rescue at least 23 injured persons from the inferno that raged in the top three floors, and the firemen continued to battle the blaze in the afternoon. As per reports, the injured persons were rushed to various private and public hospitals and seven were given first aid and allowed to go. The remaining 16 with grievous burns of various degrees, have been admitted to different hospitals. BMC Disaster Control said that four critically injured people succumbed to their burns after two deaths were reported earlier. They also informed that another five are still critical. President of the country Ram Nath Kovind condoled the deaths as he said, "Saddened to learn about the fire incident in a building in Mumbai. My deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones in this unfortunate accident. I wish the injured a speedy recovery." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and announced on Twitter that ex-gratia assistance of Rs 2 lakh would be provided to the family members of each deceased from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF), and the injured would be given Rs 50,000 each. An ex-gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from PMNRF would be given to the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to the building fire in Tardeo, Mumbai. The injured would be given Rs. 50,000 each: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) January 22, 2022 × Maharashtra Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray visited the site and said the state government will provide a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the family members of each deceased. Devendra Fadnavis, who is the Bharatiya Janata Party leader of the opposition, condoled the deaths and said he was shocked to learn that some nearby hospitals refused to admit the injured leading to a spike in the deaths. "If this is true, then the state government and BMC must fix the responsibility for the deaths and take action against those responsible," demanded Fadnavis. If it is true then, BMC & State administration should fix the responsibility for these deaths & take action against those responsible.#MumbaiFire #tardeo — Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) January 22, 2022 ×

India: Six people dead, more than 20 injured in fire at Mumbai high-rise

The national capital Delhi and financial hub Mumbai have reported a big fall in COVID-19 infections in the past two days and most of those who contracted the virus have recovered at home, authorities said on Monday.

Mumbai's daily new infections fell below 10,000 on Sunday for the first time since early this month, after touching an all-time high of 20,971 on January&nbsp;7. It reported 7,895 infections late on Sunday, Mumbai's municipal corporation said.

Delhi's cases have fallen consistently since hitting a peak of 28,867 on Jan. 13 and is expected to be fewer than 15,000 on Monday, for the first time since early January, the city government's health minister told reporters.

Both cities have said more than 80% of their COVID-19 hospital beds have remained unoccupied since the fast-transmitting Omicron variant led to a massive surge in cases from the start of the year.

"With very large numbers of sub-clinical, asymptomatic and undetected cases, it is difficult to pinpoint a peak by new cases," Rajib Dasgupta, head of the Centre of Social Medicine &amp; Community Health at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said in an email.

"In this situation, monitoring hospitalisation is more prudent; today's case can be next week's hospitalisation."

Other epidemiologists say a national peak in cases could come by early- or mid-February.

Experts have attributed the low hospitalisations to high levels of previous infections and vaccination. India has fully vaccinated about 70% of its 939 million adults and hopes to give the primary two doses to another 70 million or so teenagers by next month.

The government has advised states to mainly ask only people with symptoms of COVID-19 to get tested instead of random checks like earlier that badly stretched resources, especially in the last major wave in April and May when millions were infected and tens of thousands died.

India's COVID-19 infections rose by 2,58,089 in the past 24 hours, the health ministry said on Monday, taking the tally to 37.38 million - the most in the world after the United States.

Deaths rose by 385 - nearly 40% of them due to a delayed recording of previous fatalities in Kerala - for a count of 486,451. Only the United States and Brazil have reported more total COVID-19 deaths.

The national capital Delhi and financial hub Mumbai have reported a big fall in COVID-19 infections in the past two days and most of those who contracted the virus have recovered at home, authorities said on Monday.

The national capital Delhi and financial hub Mumbai have reported a big fall in COVID-19 infections in the past two days and most of those who contracted the virus have recovered at home, authorities said on Monday. Mumbai's daily new infections fell below 10,000 on Sunday for the first time since early this month, after touching an all-time high of 20,971 on January 7. It reported 7,895 infections late on Sunday, Mumbai's municipal corporation said. Delhi's cases have fallen consistently since hitting a peak of 28,867 on Jan. 13 and is expected to be fewer than 15,000 on Monday, for the first time since early January, the city government's health minister told reporters. Both cities have said more than 80% of their COVID-19 hospital beds have remained unoccupied since the fast-transmitting Omicron variant led to a massive surge in cases from the start of the year. "With very large numbers of sub-clinical, asymptomatic and undetected cases, it is difficult to pinpoint a peak by new cases," Rajib Dasgupta, head of the Centre of Social Medicine & Community Health at Jawaharlal Nehru University, said in an email. "In this situation, monitoring hospitalisation is more prudent; today's case can be next week's hospitalisation." Other epidemiologists say a national peak in cases could come by early- or mid-February. Experts have attributed the low hospitalisations to high levels of previous infections and vaccination. India has fully vaccinated about 70% of its 939 million adults and hopes to give the primary two doses to another 70 million or so teenagers by next month. The government has advised states to mainly ask only people with symptoms of COVID-19 to get tested instead of random checks like earlier that badly stretched resources, especially in the last major wave in April and May when millions were infected and tens of thousands died. India's COVID-19 infections rose by 2,58,089 in the past 24 hours, the health ministry said on Monday, taking the tally to 37.38 million - the most in the world after the United States. Deaths rose by 385 - nearly 40% of them due to a delayed recording of previous fatalities in Kerala - for a count of 486,451. Only the United States and Brazil have reported more total COVID-19 deaths.

India’s main cities record sharp fall in Covid infections

In a bid to check the spread of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) has been imposed in India’s financial capital, Mumbai, for December 11 and 12. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The measure looks to prevent large gatherings, such as rallies, processions, morchas, etc and in turn, mass outbreak. The people, who will violate the order, will be punished under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).&nbsp;

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This comes as a 35-year-old man has tested positive for Omicron variant in national capital, New Delhi. It is the second case of the new variant in the city. The man had travel history to South Africa and Zimbabwe. &nbsp;

The patient has been admitted to the LNJP Hospital and just has weakness, the officials said. &nbsp;

On Friday, India’s state Maharashtra reported seven new cases of Omicron. It included a one-and-a-half-year-old toddler. Out of the seven cases, three have been reported in Mumbai while four have come from Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-govt-alarmed-over-declining-mask-usage-in-country-asks-people-to-follow-covid-rules-435878" hreflang="en">Indian govt alarmed over declining mask usage in country, asks people to follow Covid rules</a>

Around 7,992 people have been tested positive for the coronavirus in 24 hours. &nbsp;

India's Covid tally has climbed to 3,46,682,736. The number of active cases has also reduced to 93,277. It is the lowest in 559 days, as per Union health ministry data. With the addition of 393 fatalities, the death toll rose to 4,75,128. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a bid to check the spread of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) has been imposed in India’s financial capital, Mumbai, for December 11 and 12.

In a bid to check the spread of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) has been imposed in India’s financial capital, Mumbai, for December 11 and 12. The measure looks to prevent large gatherings, such as rallies, processions, morchas, etc and in turn, mass outbreak. The people, who will violate the order, will be punished under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Also Read: India to send humanitarian aid to Afghanistan on Saturday This comes as a 35-year-old man has tested positive for Omicron variant in national capital, New Delhi. It is the second case of the new variant in the city. The man had travel history to South Africa and Zimbabwe. The patient has been admitted to the LNJP Hospital and just has weakness, the officials said. On Friday, India’s state Maharashtra reported seven new cases of Omicron. It included a one-and-a-half-year-old toddler. Out of the seven cases, three have been reported in Mumbai while four have come from Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation. Also Read: Indian govt alarmed over declining mask usage in country, asks people to follow Covid rules Around 7,992 people have been tested positive for the coronavirus in 24 hours. India's Covid tally has climbed to 3,46,682,736. The number of active cases has also reduced to 93,277. It is the lowest in 559 days, as per Union health ministry data. With the addition of 393 fatalities, the death toll rose to 4,75,128. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant in India: Section 144 imposed in Mumbai; second confirmed case in Delhi

Team India and New Zealand will lock horns with each other in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (December 3). The series opener lived upto expectations in the Green Park, Kanpur as the match went down to the wire where the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis denied a win to Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India, being 165/9 in pursuit of 284 on the last day.

The action will now take place in Mumbai, where the unseasonal rains have surprised one and all. Nonetheless, the weather is expected to get better as the game would progress ahead. Barring Day One, where there can be some interruptions on the cards, the match is expected to go on without delays.&nbsp;

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Talking about Team India, they will be strengthened by the addition of regular captain Virat Kohli. Kohli was rested for the three T20Is and the Test series opener, hence, the 33-year-old will like return in style and lead his side to a series victory. His own form is a concern,&nbsp;thus, Kohli will be eager to break his century drought in the Mumbai Test.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-2nd-test-will-mumbai-rains-dent-proceedings-and-play-spoilsport-to-series-finale-433455">Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Will Mumbai rains dent proceedings and play spoilsport to series finale?</a>

Match prediction: The red soil at the Wankhede Stadium is expected to aid the spinners as the match would go on. Spin is sure to play a huge role in the second and final Test. Taking that into consideration, India will start as favourites due to their spin quality and low returns from NZ's middle and lower-order. Batters are expected to cherish the surface after settling in but batting won't remain easy during the last few days of the contest.&nbsp;

While it is always tough to make a prediction against the Kiwis in the longest format, India will still start as favourites as they came close to a win in the first Test. Their superior record at the venue, winning 11 and losing seven, will keep them in good stead.&nbsp;

Team India and New Zealand will lock horns with each other in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (December 3). The series opener lived upto expectations in the Green Park, Kanpur as the match went down to the wire where the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis denied a win to Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India, being 165/9 in pursuit of 284 on the last day.

Team India and New Zealand will lock horns with each other in the second and final Test at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Friday (December 3). The series opener lived upto expectations in the Green Park, Kanpur as the match went down to the wire where the Kane Williamson-led Kiwis denied a win to Ajinkya Rahane-led Team India, being 165/9 in pursuit of 284 on the last day. The action will now take place in Mumbai, where the unseasonal rains have surprised one and all. Nonetheless, the weather is expected to get better as the game would progress ahead. Barring Day One, where there can be some interruptions on the cards, the match is expected to go on without delays. ALSO READ | India tour of SA under dark clouds amid Omicron scare, likely to be pushed back by a week : Report Talking about Team India, they will be strengthened by the addition of regular captain Virat Kohli. Kohli was rested for the three T20Is and the Test series opener, hence, the 33-year-old will like return in style and lead his side to a series victory. His own form is a concern, thus, Kohli will be eager to break his century drought in the Mumbai Test. ALSO READ | Ind vs NZ, 2nd Test: Will Mumbai rains dent proceedings and play spoilsport to series finale? Match prediction: The red soil at the Wankhede Stadium is expected to aid the spinners as the match would go on. Spin is sure to play a huge role in the second and final Test. Taking that into consideration, India will start as favourites due to their spin quality and low returns from NZ's middle and lower-order. Batters are expected to cherish the surface after settling in but batting won't remain easy during the last few days of the contest. While it is always tough to make a prediction against the Kiwis in the longest format, India will still start as favourites as they came close to a win in the first Test. Their superior record at the venue, winning 11 and losing seven, will keep them in good stead.

IND vs NZ, 2nd Test prediction: Who will win series finale between India and New Zealand in Mumbai?

13 years ago, on 26/11, India was attacked by 10 terrorists from Pakistan. The 8 coordinated attacks in Mumbai killed 166 people. It's a day India will never forget, never forgive. Palki Sharma tells you all about it.

Gravitas: 13 years of 26/11 attacks

Passengers coming to Mumbai from South Africa will be quarantined and tested for the new coronavirus variant, Omicron—which has been described the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a variant of concern.

Moreover, the test samples collected would be sent for genome sequencing to check if the passengers are infected with the new Covid variant.

"There are concerns in Mumbai about the new variant of coronavirus. Genome sequencing of (positive) passengers coming from South Africa will be done. There is no restriction on outbound flights in any way. But this decision has been taken keeping in view past experience," Mumbai city’s mayor Kishori Pednekar said on Saturday.

“There is an increased risk of COVID-19 in other nations, so those coming from abroad will have to undergo genome test. I request everyone to maintain social distancing and wear masks so that this new menace can be stopped,” she added.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/neither-nu-nor-xi-who-skips-two-greek-letters-for-naming-new-covid-variant-omicron-432328">Neither Nu nor Xi: WHO skips two Greek letters for naming new Covid variant Omicron &nbsp;</a>

On Friday, the WHO classified the new variant that was first identified in southern Africa as a “variant of concern.”

In a&nbsp;statement, WHO said preliminary evidence suggested “an increased risk of reinfection with this variant” as it added the new discovery to the list of variants of concern, giving it the name "omicron."

Also Read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-travel-curbs-due-to-new-variant-says-closely-monitoring-432286" hreflang="en">WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring'</a>

WHO said the number of cases of the variant appeared to be rising in almost all provinces in South Africa.

It also said the variant had been detected “at faster rates than previous surges in infection, suggesting that this variant may have a growth advantage.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Passengers coming to Mumbai from South Africa will be quarantined and tested for the new coronavirus variant, Omicron—which has been described the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a variant of concern.

Passengers coming to Mumbai from South Africa will be quarantined and tested for the new coronavirus variant, Omicron—which has been described the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a variant of concern. Moreover, the test samples collected would be sent for genome sequencing to check if the passengers are infected with the new Covid variant. "There are concerns in Mumbai about the new variant of coronavirus. Genome sequencing of (positive) passengers coming from South Africa will be done. There is no restriction on outbound flights in any way. But this decision has been taken keeping in view past experience," Mumbai city’s mayor Kishori Pednekar said on Saturday. “There is an increased risk of COVID-19 in other nations, so those coming from abroad will have to undergo genome test. I request everyone to maintain social distancing and wear masks so that this new menace can be stopped,” she added. Also read | Neither Nu nor Xi: WHO skips two Greek letters for naming new Covid variant Omicron On Friday, the WHO classified the new variant that was first identified in southern Africa as a “variant of concern.” In a statement, WHO said preliminary evidence suggested “an increased risk of reinfection with this variant” as it added the new discovery to the list of variants of concern, giving it the name "omicron." Also Read | WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring' WHO said the number of cases of the variant appeared to be rising in almost all provinces in South Africa. It also said the variant had been detected “at faster rates than previous surges in infection, suggesting that this variant may have a growth advantage.” (With inputs from agencies)

Quarantine, genome sequencing for passengers coming from South Africa to Mumbai, says city’s mayor

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the Indian Railways have introduced the “pod concept” of bed-sized rooms at the Mumbai Central railway station. The rooms aim at making people's journey "comfortable and easy," said the Ministry of Railways.&nbsp;

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Travelling by train on a short business trip or taking a group of students on a tour, POD rooms at Mumbai Central station are here to make your journey comfortable and easy. <a href="https://t.co/7yfbSfeZ9g">pic.twitter.com/7yfbSfeZ9g</a>
— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RailMinIndia/status/1460852148636303362?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Sneak Peek! 
Welcome to the new-age Pod retiring rooms by <a href="https://twitter.com/RailMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RailMinIndia</a> at Mumbai Central. <a href="https://t.co/NR7OCsxYeg">pic.twitter.com/NR7OCsxYeg</a>
— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw/status/1460994254923128836?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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A pod hotel comprises various small capsule-like rooms. The aim is to provide affordable overnight accommodation for those who cannot afford it otherwise. "Travelling by train on a short business trip or taking a group of students on a tour, POD rooms at Mumbai Central station are here to make your journey comfortable and easy," the Ministry of Railways wrote on Twitter.&nbsp;

The facility at Mumbai Central has a total of 48 pods, which are further divided into three categories - 30 classics, 7 ladies only, 10 private. One is for the differently-abled.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-unruly-us-tourists-break-into-colosseum-get-eu800-fine-for-enjoying-beer-430160">Also read |&nbsp;Two unruly US tourists break into Colosseum, get €800 fine for ‘enjoying’ beer</a>

As per IRCTC, the tariffs will vary, based on requirements. It will be around ₹999 per person for 12 hours, going up to ₹1,999 per person for 24 hours.

The first pod hotel on the Indian Railways was inaugurated virtually by the Union minister of state for Railways Raosaheb Danve from the Churchgate station in south Mumbai. The minister also inaugurated various passenger amenities.

The concept of a pod hotel originates from Japan. They include various facilities like WiFi, air conditioning, key card access, washrooms and CCTV surveillance.&nbsp;

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the Indian Railways have introduced the “pod concept” of bed-sized rooms at the Mumbai Central railway station.

The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and the Indian Railways have introduced the “pod concept” of bed-sized rooms at the Mumbai Central railway station. The rooms aim at making people's journey "comfortable and easy," said the Ministry of Railways. Travelling by train on a short business trip or taking a group of students on a tour, POD rooms at Mumbai Central station are here to make your journey comfortable and easy. pic.twitter.com/7yfbSfeZ9g — Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) November 17, 2021 × Sneak Peek! Welcome to the new-age Pod retiring rooms by @RailMinIndia at Mumbai Central. pic.twitter.com/NR7OCsxYeg — Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) November 17, 2021 × A pod hotel comprises various small capsule-like rooms. The aim is to provide affordable overnight accommodation for those who cannot afford it otherwise. "Travelling by train on a short business trip or taking a group of students on a tour, POD rooms at Mumbai Central station are here to make your journey comfortable and easy," the Ministry of Railways wrote on Twitter. The facility at Mumbai Central has a total of 48 pods, which are further divided into three categories - 30 classics, 7 ladies only, 10 private. One is for the differently-abled. Also read | Two unruly US tourists break into Colosseum, get €800 fine for ‘enjoying’ beer As per IRCTC, the tariffs will vary, based on requirements. It will be around ₹999 per person for 12 hours, going up to ₹1,999 per person for 24 hours. The first pod hotel on the Indian Railways was inaugurated virtually by the Union minister of state for Railways Raosaheb Danve from the Churchgate station in south Mumbai. The minister also inaugurated various passenger amenities. The concept of a pod hotel originates from Japan. They include various facilities like WiFi, air conditioning, key card access, washrooms and CCTV surveillance.

'Comfortable and easy': First 'pod hotel' inaugurated at Mumbai Central railway station

Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan today visited Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail to meet his son Aryan Khan, who was denied bail yesterday and has been in jail since October 8 in connection with the drugs-on-cruise case.

Indian Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan meets son Aryan Khan in Mumbai Jail

Birthdays are special and everyone has their own unique ways of celebrating their special day. Some people opt for an over-the-top party and some choose three-tiered cakes. An Indian man, however, decided to take it to a whole another level.<o:p></o:p>

A man from Mumbai, Maharashtra, became popular on social media after a video of him cutting 550 birthday cakes surfaced.<o:p></o:p>

In a video doing rounds on the social media platforms in India, a man from Mumbai, Surya Raturi, can be seen cutting 550 cakes to celebrate his birthday. Cakes of different shapes, sizes and flavours were kept on three long tables, making a train of cakes for one man’s birthday.

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मुंबई के युवक ने जन्मदिन पर काटे 550 केक, आप भी देखिए<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%A4%AE%E0%A5%81%E0%A4%82%E0%A4%AC%E0%A4%88?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#मुंबई</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/birthday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#birthday</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/birthdayboy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#birthdayboy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cake</a> <a href="https://t.co/H5pRk0wdJS">pic.twitter.com/H5pRk0wdJS</a>
— Avinash Pandey (@Pandey4Avinash) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pandey4Avinash/status/1448190450855075842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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With knives in both hands, Surya, dressed in a white shirt, can be seen going on a cake-cutting spree as he rushes to cut 550 cakes quickly.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

This video is reported to be from the Kandivali area of Mumbai. Locals can also be seen cheering as Surya rushes to cut all cakes in the 2.5-minute-long video. Locals also motivated him and celebrated his big day by bursting party poppers, which were placed in middle of cakes.<o:p></o:p>

Surya’s birthday cake addiction comes almost a year after another man in India, last year, used a sword to cut his birthday cake. His photo went viral on the internet, which ultimately led to his arrest and a raid at his home address.<o:p></o:p>

Similarly, another man had used a gun to shoot his birthday in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat district. In the video, which went viral, he could be seen shooting at his birthday cake, which was placed in the middle of a road.<o:p></o:p>

Birthdays are special and everyone has their own unique ways of celebrating their special day. Some people opt for an over-the-top party and some choose three-tiered cakes.

Birthdays are special and everyone has their own unique ways of celebrating their special day. Some people opt for an over-the-top party and some choose three-tiered cakes. An Indian man, however, decided to take it to a whole another level. A man from Mumbai, Maharashtra, became popular on social media after a video of him cutting 550 birthday cakes surfaced. In a video doing rounds on the social media platforms in India, a man from Mumbai, Surya Raturi, can be seen cutting 550 cakes to celebrate his birthday. Cakes of different shapes, sizes and flavours were kept on three long tables, making a train of cakes for one man’s birthday. मुंबई के युवक ने जन्मदिन पर काटे 550 केक, आप भी देखिए#मुंबई #Mumbai #birthday #birthdayboy #cake pic.twitter.com/H5pRk0wdJS — Avinash Pandey (@Pandey4Avinash) October 13, 2021 × With knives in both hands, Surya, dressed in a white shirt, can be seen going on a cake-cutting spree as he rushes to cut 550 cakes quickly. This video is reported to be from the Kandivali area of Mumbai. Locals can also be seen cheering as Surya rushes to cut all cakes in the 2.5-minute-long video. Locals also motivated him and celebrated his big day by bursting party poppers, which were placed in middle of cakes. Surya’s birthday cake addiction comes almost a year after another man in India, last year, used a sword to cut his birthday cake. His photo went viral on the internet, which ultimately led to his arrest and a raid at his home address. Similarly, another man had used a gun to shoot his birthday in Uttar Pradesh's Baghpat district. In the video, which went viral, he could be seen shooting at his birthday cake, which was placed in the middle of a road.

Watch: Indian man cuts 550 cakes in Mumbai for his birthday

Several Indian coastal cities will be submerged by up to 2.7 feet by the end of the century, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the US has predicted.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report was utilised by NASA to analyse changes in sea levels throughout the world. 
 
Since 1988, the IPCC has published global climate assessments every five to seven years, concentrating on changes in temperature and ice cover, greenhouse gas emissions, and sea levels throughout the world. 
 
Data from satellites and ground equipment, as well as analysis and computer simulations, are used to make their sea-level forecasts.&nbsp;

<img alt="Sea Level Projections" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcabcd19-f5c9-4634-99b5-f38a52a4c2de" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/water-level.JPG" />

IPCC 6th Assessment Report Sea Level Projections (Picture courtesy: NASA) 
 
Kandla, Okha, Bhavnagar, Mumbai, Mormugao, Mangalore, Cochin, Paradip, Khidirpur, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, and Tuticorin are among the cities and towns.&nbsp;

NASA’s Sea Level Change Team has created a sea-level projection tool that makes extensive data on future sea-level rise from the IPCC easily accessible to the public – and to everyone with a stake in planning for the changes to come.

According to a landmark UN report on the state of climate science, modern society's continued reliance on fossil fuels is warming the world at a rate unprecedented in the past 2,000 years — and its effects are already visible as record droughts, wildfires, and floods devastate communities around the world.&nbsp;

The average global surface temperature has risen by about 1.1 degrees Celsius between 1850–1900, a level not seen since 125,000 years ago, before the most recent ice age.

This is only one of the stark truths contained in a summary issued alongside the IPCC report and aimed at policymakers.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Several Indian coastal cities will be submerged by up to 2.7 feet by the end of the century, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the US has predicted.

Several Indian coastal cities will be submerged by up to 2.7 feet by the end of the century, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of the US has predicted. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report was utilised by NASA to analyse changes in sea levels throughout the world. Since 1988, the IPCC has published global climate assessments every five to seven years, concentrating on changes in temperature and ice cover, greenhouse gas emissions, and sea levels throughout the world. Data from satellites and ground equipment, as well as analysis and computer simulations, are used to make their sea-level forecasts. IPCC 6th Assessment Report Sea Level Projections (Picture courtesy: NASA) Kandla, Okha, Bhavnagar, Mumbai, Mormugao, Mangalore, Cochin, Paradip, Khidirpur, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, and Tuticorin are among the cities and towns. NASA’s Sea Level Change Team has created a sea-level projection tool that makes extensive data on future sea-level rise from the IPCC easily accessible to the public – and to everyone with a stake in planning for the changes to come. According to a landmark UN report on the state of climate science, modern society's continued reliance on fossil fuels is warming the world at a rate unprecedented in the past 2,000 years — and its effects are already visible as record droughts, wildfires, and floods devastate communities around the world. The average global surface temperature has risen by about 1.1 degrees Celsius between 1850–1900, a level not seen since 125,000 years ago, before the most recent ice age. This is only one of the stark truths contained in a summary issued alongside the IPCC report and aimed at policymakers. (With inputs from agencies)

Many Indian cities including Mumbai will likely be underwater by 2100: NASA

Indian cricketers and brothers Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya have reportedly moved into a luxury 8(4+4)BHK apartment that is filled with over-the-top amenities.

Indian cricketers and brothers Hardik Pandya and Krunal Pandya have reportedly moved into a luxury 8(4+4)BHK apartment that is filled with over-the-top amenities. Located in a splendid residential area in Mumbai that is also considered celebrities' favourite, Rustomjee Paramount in Khar West offers a lavish lifestyle with magnificent views of the Arabian Sea. As per reports, the estimated cost of the unit that Pandya bothers have purchased is Rs 28 to 30 crores. It is spread over a 3838sqft area. The official website of Rustomjee Paramount details the amenities as it offers an array of ways to live a life surrounded by luxuries. The property boasts of shaded boulevards and quiet nooks on one hand, and the finest restaurants, cafes, nightclubs and luxury boutiques on the other. The builders also stated that being a gated community, the property offers safety and privacy as outsiders have limited and controlled access to communities. Corporate heads and CXOs are some of the neighbours and Bollywood's rumoured couple Disha Patani and Tiger Shroff also live there. See some of the pictures here, where the Pandya brothers can be seen spending quality time: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hardik Himanshu Pandya (@hardikpandya93) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hardik Himanshu Pandya (@hardikpandya93) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Krunal himanshu Pandya (@krunalpandya_official) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Krunal himanshu Pandya (@krunalpandya_official) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Krunal himanshu Pandya (@krunalpandya_official) × Here are the details and inside of the complex where the Pandya brothers moving in. Mini theatre: The community has to offer a private theatre for entertainment, that too in an elite way. The theatre at Rustomjee Paramount has been custom-designed, to provide a world-class cinematic experience. Gym and swimming pool: The gated community also has a well-equipped gymnasium for all the fitness freaks. It also has a swimming pool. Spa and salon: A luxury, in-house spa is also built to re-discover the fine art of breathing. Apart from the above mentioned, the community also offers a play area for toddlers, senior citizens zone, banquet hall, lounge, business centre, etc.

Hardik Pandya, Krunal Pandya's luxurious 8-BHK apartment has over-the-top amenities - see pics

India rescuers hunt for survivors as monsoon toll hits 79

After the pandemic shut offices and put Mumbai's renowned lunchbox deliverymen out of work, the 130-year-old "dabbawala" network has tied up with a trendy restaurant chain to take on India's billion-dollar start-ups.

India's pandemic-hit lunchbox men battle food delivery start-ups

Heavy downpours overnight have caused severe water logging in India's financial capital Mumbai. Apart from disrupting local trains and traffic, the rains have also caused a wall collapse resulting in deaths of over 15 people.

India: Heavy downpour causes water logging

At least 25 people died in three Mumbai suburbs when several houses collapsed after landslides triggered by heavy rain, local officials said on Sunday. 
 
Rescuers were seen digging up the ground to retrieve bodies, local television showed, and authorities said more victims could be trapped inside the debris. Rescuers were also shown carrying the injured on makeshift stretchers. 
 
Within the last 24 hours authorities have so far reported 11 incidents of houses or walls collapsing in the Mumbai area, officials said. 
 
In one neighbourhood, about half a dozen shacks located at the base of a hill collapsed on top of each other, officials said. 
 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences in a tweet and announced aid for the victims. 
 
Several areas in the city were flooded after heavy rainfall over the last 24 hours and suburban train services were disrupted, crippling India's financial capital. 
 
Mumbai and the coast of India's industrial Maharashtra state are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next four days, the weather department said on Sunday. 
 
Torrential rain, especially during India's July-September monsoon, often triggers the collapse of buildings, especially older or illegally built structures.

At least 25 people died in three Mumbai suburbs when several houses collapsed after landslides triggered by heavy rain, local officials said on Sunday. Rescuers were seen digging up the ground to retrieve bodies, local television showed, and authorities said more victims could be trapped inside the debris.

At least 25 people died in three Mumbai suburbs when several houses collapsed after landslides triggered by heavy rain, local officials said on Sunday. Rescuers were seen digging up the ground to retrieve bodies, local television showed, and authorities said more victims could be trapped inside the debris. Rescuers were also shown carrying the injured on makeshift stretchers. Within the last 24 hours authorities have so far reported 11 incidents of houses or walls collapsing in the Mumbai area, officials said. In one neighbourhood, about half a dozen shacks located at the base of a hill collapsed on top of each other, officials said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences in a tweet and announced aid for the victims. Several areas in the city were flooded after heavy rainfall over the last 24 hours and suburban train services were disrupted, crippling India's financial capital. Mumbai and the coast of India's industrial Maharashtra state are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next four days, the weather department said on Sunday. Torrential rain, especially during India's July-September monsoon, often triggers the collapse of buildings, especially older or illegally built structures.

Landslides kill at least 25 in Mumbai after heavy rains

At least 11 people, including eight children, died after a Mumbai residential building collapsed on top of another building late on Wednesday, local officials said.

The incident occurred close to midnight in a northern suburb of Mumbai, officials said, adding that more people could be trapped inside the debris. Eight people were injured and have been moved to nearby hospitals, officials said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/monsoon-arrives-in-pandemic-hit-mumbai-imd-issues-orange-alert-for-pune-390407">Also Read |&nbsp;Monsoon arrives in pandemic-hit Mumbai; IMD issues orange alert for Pune</a>

Local television showed pictures of rescue workers pulling out debris in a narrow lane, as relatives and onlookers milled about. 
 
Incidents of building collapses become more common in India's financial capital of Mumbai during the monsoon. Wednesday was the first day of heavy rains in the city.

At least 11 people, including eight children, died after a Mumbai residential building collapsed on top of another building late on Wednesday, local officials said.

At least 11 people, including eight children, died after a Mumbai residential building collapsed on top of another building late on Wednesday, local officials said. The incident occurred close to midnight in a northern suburb of Mumbai, officials said, adding that more people could be trapped inside the debris. Eight people were injured and have been moved to nearby hospitals, officials said. Also Read | Monsoon arrives in pandemic-hit Mumbai; IMD issues orange alert for Pune Local television showed pictures of rescue workers pulling out debris in a narrow lane, as relatives and onlookers milled about. Incidents of building collapses become more common in India's financial capital of Mumbai during the monsoon. Wednesday was the first day of heavy rains in the city.

Eleven dead, including eight children, in Mumbai building collapse

Veteran Bollywood Dilip Kumar, who is in the hospital and getting treating for bilateral pleural effusion, is on oxygen support but not on ventilator.&nbsp; 
 
The actor's doctor on Monday denied rumours that stated that the actor was kept on ventilator support at Mumbai's PD Hinduja Hospital.&nbsp;

"Veteran actor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-dilip-kumar-diagnosed-with-bilateral-pleural-effusion-doctors-assure-he-is-stable-389851">Dilip Kumar is on oxygen support</a>, not on a ventilator. He is stable. We are waiting for few test results to perform pleural aspiration," Dr Jalil Parkar, the pulmonologist treating the actor informed. 
 
For the unversed, a ventilator is used to help people breathe when they can`t breathe on their own. It is a type of life support.&nbsp; 
Dilip Kumarm, 98, was admitted to hospital on Sunday after having breathing issues for the past few days.&nbsp; 
 
Ever since his hospitalisation, rumours have been doing that rounds that the actor was in critical condition. 
 
A spokesperson for the actor&nbsp;has even urged the media not to believe in hoax news, assuring the actor will be back home soon.

"Request to media: Millions of Dilip Saab`s fans look upto you for update on his health. You have always done a great job. Please verify from this twitter handle instead of calling anybody who may not have direct knowledge," a tweet read on the official Twitter account of Dilip Kumar, who has been hospitalised several times in recent years. 
&nbsp;

Veteran Bollywood Dilip Kumar, who is in the hospital and getting treating for bilateral pleural effusion, is on oxygen support but not on ventilator. The actor's doctor on Monday denied rumours that stated that the actor was kept on ventilator support at Mumbai's PD Hinduja Hospital.

Veteran Bollywood Dilip Kumar, who is in the hospital and getting treating for bilateral pleural effusion, is on oxygen support but not on ventilator. The actor's doctor on Monday denied rumours that stated that the actor was kept on ventilator support at Mumbai's PD Hinduja Hospital. "Veteran actor Dilip Kumar is on oxygen support, not on a ventilator. He is stable. We are waiting for few test results to perform pleural aspiration," Dr Jalil Parkar, the pulmonologist treating the actor informed. For the unversed, a ventilator is used to help people breathe when they can`t breathe on their own. It is a type of life support. Dilip Kumarm, 98, was admitted to hospital on Sunday after having breathing issues for the past few days. Ever since his hospitalisation, rumours have been doing that rounds that the actor was in critical condition. A spokesperson for the actor has even urged the media not to believe in hoax news, assuring the actor will be back home soon. "Request to media: Millions of Dilip Saab`s fans look upto you for update on his health. You have always done a great job. Please verify from this twitter handle instead of calling anybody who may not have direct knowledge," a tweet read on the official Twitter account of Dilip Kumar, who has been hospitalised several times in recent years.

Dilip Kumar is on oxygen support, 'not on ventilator', says his doctor

Aftermath of Cyclone Tauktae: In India, 22 people died in Mumbai after barge sank and 45 people died in Gujarat.

Cyclone Tauktae: 22 dead in Mumbai after barge sank

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation shifted 580 patients from Covid care centres in the city as a precautionary measure after India Meteorological Department warned that Cyclone Tauktae is likely to pass close to the city, a BMC official said on Sunday.&nbsp;

The BMC on Saturday night shifted 580 patients from BKC (243), Dahisar (183) and Mulund (154) jumbo Covid care facilities to state and civic-run hospitals in Mumbai, the official said.&nbsp;

Officials are also contemplating a possible shut down of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link as a precautionary measure because of IMD's announcement that the cyclone may pass close to the city on Sunday.&nbsp;

The BMC had on Friday alerted city hospitals to avoid last-minute confusion over beds and availability of oxygen devices.&nbsp;

Suburban rail services in Mumbai will operate on Sunday, the official said.&nbsp;

The IMD on Saturday night said the cyclonic storm Tauktae, the first to hit the Indian Coast this year, has intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' and is heading towards the coast of Gujarat and the Union Territory of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.&nbsp;

The IMD had said the storm is likely to pass the Mumbai coast late Saturday or early Sunday from a distance, so minimal damage is expected. It will, however, cause gusty winds and heavy rain in a few places in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar.&nbsp;

The IMD had also informed the BMC that Mumbai is not in the direct line of the threat of the cyclone. However, as it will pass through the sea near the Mumbai coast, its effect is likely to be accompanied by rain and strong winds.&nbsp;

The BMC has asked ward officers to ensure hoardings do not fall on the road and to remove them if they fall. The 24 ward officers have been told to be ready with manpower and equipment and prepare shelter homes in case people living near low-lying areas need to be relocated, the official said.&nbsp;

The cyclone is likely to move north-northwestwards and cross the Gujarat coast between Porbandar and Naliya around May 18 with wind speed gusting up to 175 kmph, the IMD said.&nbsp;

On Saturday night, the storm was around 220 km south- southwest of Panaji and 590 km south-southwest of Mumbai, resulting in heavy rainfall, gusty winds and thunderstorms in Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation shifted 580 patients from Covid care centres in the city as a precautionary measure after India Meteorological Department warned that Cyclone Tauktae is likely to pass close to the city, a BMC official said on Sunday.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation shifted 580 patients from Covid care centres in the city as a precautionary measure after India Meteorological Department warned that Cyclone Tauktae is likely to pass close to the city, a BMC official said on Sunday. The BMC on Saturday night shifted 580 patients from BKC (243), Dahisar (183) and Mulund (154) jumbo Covid care facilities to state and civic-run hospitals in Mumbai, the official said. Officials are also contemplating a possible shut down of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link as a precautionary measure because of IMD's announcement that the cyclone may pass close to the city on Sunday. The BMC had on Friday alerted city hospitals to avoid last-minute confusion over beds and availability of oxygen devices. Suburban rail services in Mumbai will operate on Sunday, the official said. The IMD on Saturday night said the cyclonic storm Tauktae, the first to hit the Indian Coast this year, has intensified into a 'severe cyclonic storm' and is heading towards the coast of Gujarat and the Union Territory of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The IMD had said the storm is likely to pass the Mumbai coast late Saturday or early Sunday from a distance, so minimal damage is expected. It will, however, cause gusty winds and heavy rain in a few places in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar. The IMD had also informed the BMC that Mumbai is not in the direct line of the threat of the cyclone. However, as it will pass through the sea near the Mumbai coast, its effect is likely to be accompanied by rain and strong winds. The BMC has asked ward officers to ensure hoardings do not fall on the road and to remove them if they fall. The 24 ward officers have been told to be ready with manpower and equipment and prepare shelter homes in case people living near low-lying areas need to be relocated, the official said. The cyclone is likely to move north-northwestwards and cross the Gujarat coast between Porbandar and Naliya around May 18 with wind speed gusting up to 175 kmph, the IMD said. On Saturday night, the storm was around 220 km south- southwest of Panaji and 590 km south-southwest of Mumbai, resulting in heavy rainfall, gusty winds and thunderstorms in Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts. (With inputs from agencies)

Cyclone Tauktae: Mumbai civic body moves 580 COVID-19 patients 

Vaccination centres in Mumbai did not administer Covaxin for the second consecutive day on Monday because of lack of stock, leaving citizens fuming as many of them are due for their second dose of the vaccine against COVID-19.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), through its Twitter handle, released a list of 105 vaccination centres that would be functional on Monday, but informed that these would be administering only the Covishield vaccine.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-to-receive-360-million-sputnik-jabs-by-march-2022-383908/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Sunday also, the BMC had not administered Covaxin to the beneficiaries due to the unavailability of the vaccine.

Several citizens expressed anger and frustration at the state of affairs as many of them are due for their second dose since they had taken the first jab over 42 days back.

As per the government guidelines, the recommended gap between two doses of Covaxin is four-six weeks and for Covishield the suggested interval is four-eight weeks.

Local resident Rupesh Lingayat took to Twitter to express his frustration.

"My father took 1st dose of Covaxin, now it is impossible to get second dose of Covaxin and its been 43 days since took 1st dose. He is 63. Please help," he tweeted.

Another resident Param Sampat also tweeted that his sister had got a booking on Saturday for 3-5 pm slot, but when she reached at 2.45 pm, authorities told her they were out of stock gave her a token for Monday.

"Today when she reached at 8, she was denied a vaccine. This is absolutely irresponsible," he tweeted.

The BMC's executive health officer, Mangala Gomare, did not respond to calls or text messages on the lack of Covaxin doses in the city.

According to a BMC report, a total of 1,76,505 people have been administered Covaxin doses in the city, including 1,20,167 who have received the first dose and 56,338 who have got the second dose as well.

Till Sunday evening, 27,00,431 people were vaccinated in Mumbai against COVID-19. These included 20,52,963 beneficiaries who have taken the first dose and 6,47,468 people who have received their second dose, the report said.

Currently, there are 175 active vaccination centres in Mumbai, included 81 run by the BMC, 20 by the state government and 74 private facilities.&nbsp;

Vaccination centres in Mumbai did not administer Covaxin for the second consecutive day on Monday because of lack of stock, leaving citizens fuming as many of them are due for their second dose of the vaccine against COVID-19.

Vaccination centres in Mumbai did not administer Covaxin for the second consecutive day on Monday because of lack of stock, leaving citizens fuming as many of them are due for their second dose of the vaccine against COVID-19. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), through its Twitter handle, released a list of 105 vaccination centres that would be functional on Monday, but informed that these would be administering only the Covishield vaccine. Watch | On Sunday also, the BMC had not administered Covaxin to the beneficiaries due to the unavailability of the vaccine. Several citizens expressed anger and frustration at the state of affairs as many of them are due for their second dose since they had taken the first jab over 42 days back. As per the government guidelines, the recommended gap between two doses of Covaxin is four-six weeks and for Covishield the suggested interval is four-eight weeks. Local resident Rupesh Lingayat took to Twitter to express his frustration. "My father took 1st dose of Covaxin, now it is impossible to get second dose of Covaxin and its been 43 days since took 1st dose. He is 63. Please help," he tweeted. Another resident Param Sampat also tweeted that his sister had got a booking on Saturday for 3-5 pm slot, but when she reached at 2.45 pm, authorities told her they were out of stock gave her a token for Monday. "Today when she reached at 8, she was denied a vaccine. This is absolutely irresponsible," he tweeted. The BMC's executive health officer, Mangala Gomare, did not respond to calls or text messages on the lack of Covaxin doses in the city. According to a BMC report, a total of 1,76,505 people have been administered Covaxin doses in the city, including 1,20,167 who have received the first dose and 56,338 who have got the second dose as well. Till Sunday evening, 27,00,431 people were vaccinated in Mumbai against COVID-19. These included 20,52,963 beneficiaries who have taken the first dose and 6,47,468 people who have received their second dose, the report said. Currently, there are 175 active vaccination centres in Mumbai, included 81 run by the BMC, 20 by the state government and 74 private facilities.

Covid in India: Covaxin doses unavailable for 2nd day in Mumbai; citizens fume

Chhota Rajan, the gangster of Mumbai underworld, has died of COVID-19, according to reports.

An official confirmation is yet to be made.

Rajan died in New Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the reports said.

He was admitted to AIIMS on April 26.

Born Rajendra Nikalje, he&nbsp;was arrested from Indonesia in 2015 and was lodged in Delhi's high security Tihar Jail since then.

He is an accused in some 70 criminal cases including extortion and murder in the western state of Maharashtra.

A special court was created for trial on pending cases in Delhi after they were tranferred to Central Bureau of Investigation.

In 2018, Rajan was sentenced to life in prison in the 2011 murder case of journalist Jyotirmoy Dey.

Chhota Rajan, the gangster of Mumbai underworld, has died of COVID-19, according to reports. An official confirmation is yet to be made. Rajan died in New Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the reports said.

Chhota Rajan, the gangster of Mumbai underworld, has died of COVID-19, according to reports. An official confirmation is yet to be made. Rajan died in New Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the reports said. He was admitted to AIIMS on April 26. Born Rajendra Nikalje, he was arrested from Indonesia in 2015 and was lodged in Delhi's high security Tihar Jail since then. He is an accused in some 70 criminal cases including extortion and murder in the western state of Maharashtra. A special court was created for trial on pending cases in Delhi after they were tranferred to Central Bureau of Investigation. In 2018, Rajan was sentenced to life in prison in the 2011 murder case of journalist Jyotirmoy Dey.

Mumbai gangster Chhota Rajan dies of COVID-19 in Delhi: Reports

Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai were the six venues initially planned for IPL 2021. Chennai and Mumbai facilitated the first leg of the league, while the latter was played in Ahmedabad and Delhi.&nbsp;

Following the COVID-19 emergency that has hit IPL 2021, reports have arisen that the remaining matches of the league might be held altogether in Mumbai.&nbsp;

For IPL 2021 fans, Monday morning started with the information on two Kolkata Knight Riders players testing COVID-19 positive. The names of the players were subsequently uncovered to be Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier.&nbsp;

Later in the day, it arose that three members from the Chennai Super Kings camp had tested positive for COVID-19 too. Notwithstanding, none of them were players. Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan, bowling coach L Balaji and someone from the support staff are the three who have tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

In the evening, it was accounted for that the BCCI had asked all players and support staff of Delhi Capitals to isolate themselves. It is perceived that the guidelines came as insurance after the two Kolkata Knight Riders players tested positive for COVID-19 prior on Monday.&nbsp;

BCCI needs to limit all dangers in the wake of Monday's COVID-related turns of events and henceforth wants to move the league to Mumbai. As indicated by the report, the BCCI could make the shift ahead of schedule by the end of the week.&nbsp;

The report additionally expressed that the BCCI has been checking with enormous lodgings in Mumbai to investigate the plausibility of making a bio-bubble with all essential SOPs at such short notice.&nbsp;

Mumbai has three cricket stadiums that can have IPL 2021 matches - Wankhede Stadium, DY Patil Stadium, and Brabourne Stadium. While the Wankhede Stadium facilitated ten matches during the first leg of IPL 2021, the other two venues were utilized for practice purposes.&nbsp;

Moving the league totally to Mumbai would mean rescheduling the entire schedule, which could prompt various doubleheaders. Likewise, the IPL 2021 finale, which is as os now scheduled for May 30, could be pushed to the beginning of June.&nbsp;

Team India; however, are scheduled to play the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22, a game that is as of now under a haze, as the UK has hindered travel from India. An all-encompassing IPL 2021 could place the World Test Championship last in additional peril. 
&nbsp;

Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai were the six venues initially planned for IPL 2021. Chennai and Mumbai facilitated the first leg of the league, while the latter was played in Ahmedabad and Delhi.

Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai were the six venues initially planned for IPL 2021. Chennai and Mumbai facilitated the first leg of the league, while the latter was played in Ahmedabad and Delhi. Following the COVID-19 emergency that has hit IPL 2021, reports have arisen that the remaining matches of the league might be held altogether in Mumbai. For IPL 2021 fans, Monday morning started with the information on two Kolkata Knight Riders players testing COVID-19 positive. The names of the players were subsequently uncovered to be Varun Chakravarthy and Sandeep Warrier. Later in the day, it arose that three members from the Chennai Super Kings camp had tested positive for COVID-19 too. Notwithstanding, none of them were players. Chennai Super Kings CEO Kasi Viswanathan, bowling coach L Balaji and someone from the support staff are the three who have tested positive for COVID-19. In the evening, it was accounted for that the BCCI had asked all players and support staff of Delhi Capitals to isolate themselves. It is perceived that the guidelines came as insurance after the two Kolkata Knight Riders players tested positive for COVID-19 prior on Monday. BCCI needs to limit all dangers in the wake of Monday's COVID-related turns of events and henceforth wants to move the league to Mumbai. As indicated by the report, the BCCI could make the shift ahead of schedule by the end of the week. The report additionally expressed that the BCCI has been checking with enormous lodgings in Mumbai to investigate the plausibility of making a bio-bubble with all essential SOPs at such short notice. Mumbai has three cricket stadiums that can have IPL 2021 matches - Wankhede Stadium, DY Patil Stadium, and Brabourne Stadium. While the Wankhede Stadium facilitated ten matches during the first leg of IPL 2021, the other two venues were utilized for practice purposes. Moving the league totally to Mumbai would mean rescheduling the entire schedule, which could prompt various doubleheaders. Likewise, the IPL 2021 finale, which is as os now scheduled for May 30, could be pushed to the beginning of June. Team India; however, are scheduled to play the World Test Championship final against New Zealand in Southampton from June 18-22, a game that is as of now under a haze, as the UK has hindered travel from India. An all-encompassing IPL 2021 could place the World Test Championship last in additional peril.

Remainder of IPL might be held in Mumbai as COVID-19 rocks IPL 2021

India's daily COVID-19 cases stayed above the 200,000 mark for a sixth straight day, with cases increasing by 259,170 over the last 24 hours.

With this, India's Covid tally has shot up to 15,321,089 cases. India, also&nbsp;reported the highest-ever single-day spike in Covid-related deaths with 1,761 fatalities. The death toll from the deadly infection stands at 180,550. The country now has over 2 million active cases.

The Health Department stated that Maharashtra witnessed a dip in its daily Covid-19 count by recording 58,924 fresh infections; a day after reporting the highest number of 68,631 cases on Sunday.&nbsp;

However, 351 people succumbed to the deadly virus in the last 24 hours. Delhi recorded 240 deaths in the past 24 hours, much higher than the 161 reported a day earlier.

(With inputs from agencies)

India's daily COVID-19 cases stayed above the 200,000 mark for a sixth straight day, with cases increasing by 259,170 over the last 24 hours. With this, India's Covid tally has shot up to 15,321,089 cases.

India's daily COVID-19 cases stayed above the 200,000 mark for a sixth straight day, with cases increasing by 259,170 over the last 24 hours. With this, India's Covid tally has shot up to 15,321,089 cases. India, also reported the highest-ever single-day spike in Covid-related deaths with 1,761 fatalities. The death toll from the deadly infection stands at 180,550. The country now has over 2 million active cases. The Health Department stated that Maharashtra witnessed a dip in its daily Covid-19 count by recording 58,924 fresh infections; a day after reporting the highest number of 68,631 cases on Sunday. However, 351 people succumbed to the deadly virus in the last 24 hours. Delhi recorded 240 deaths in the past 24 hours, much higher than the 161 reported a day earlier. (With inputs from agencies)

Record 1,761 deaths in a day in India; Lockdown in Delhi

Amid a surge in deadly coronavirus cases in India, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has told its citizens to avoid travelling to India.

"Travellers should avoid all travel to India. Even fully vaccinated travellers may be at risk for getting &amp; spreading variants and should avoid all travel to India. If you must travel to India, get fully vaccinated before travel," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in an advisory.

"The Covid-19 pandemic continues to pose unprecedented risks to travellers. In light of those risks, the Department of State strongly recommends US citizens reconsider all travel abroad," it said.

"Because of the current situation in India even fully vaccinated travellers may be at risk for getting and spreading COVID-19 variants and should avoid all travel to India.

"If you must travel to India, get fully vaccinated before travel. All travellers should wear a mask, stay 6 feet from others, avoid crowds, and wash their hands," it said.

The number of active coronavirus cases surpassed the 2 million&nbsp;mark in India as the country continued to record a mammoth surge in daily cases of the coronavirus disease.

The nationwide tally of COVID-19 cases mounted to 1,53,21,089 with a record single-day rise of 2,59,170 coronavirus infections, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday.

The State Department announced Monday that it would begin to update its travel advisories to more closely align with those from the CDC. The update comes as the world continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic, which has now claimed more than 3 million lives worldwide.

It strongly recommended US citizens reconsider all travel abroad encompassing 80 per cent of the world.

The advisories, it said, also take into account logistical factors, including in-country testing availability and current travel restrictions for US citizens.

“This update will result in a significant increase in the number of countries at Level 4: Do Not Travel, to approximately 80 per cent of countries worldwide,” the State Department said.

“The COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose unprecedented risks to travellers. In light of those risks, the Department of State strongly recommends US citizens reconsider all travel abroad,” it said.

According to the State Department, this does not imply a reassessment of the current health situation in a given country, but rather reflects an adjustment in the State Department's Travel Advisory system to rely more on CDC''s existing epidemiological assessments.

On Monday, Britain added India to its COVID-19 travel "red list", which effectively bans all travel from the country and makes a 10-day hotel quarantine compulsory for UK residents arriving back to the country.

Earlier this month, New Zealand also restricted travellers from India due to a spike in infections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid a surge in deadly coronavirus cases in India, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has told its citizens to avoid travelling to India.

Amid a surge in deadly coronavirus cases in India, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has told its citizens to avoid travelling to India. "Travellers should avoid all travel to India. Even fully vaccinated travellers may be at risk for getting & spreading variants and should avoid all travel to India. If you must travel to India, get fully vaccinated before travel," the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said in an advisory. "The Covid-19 pandemic continues to pose unprecedented risks to travellers. In light of those risks, the Department of State strongly recommends US citizens reconsider all travel abroad," it said. "Because of the current situation in India even fully vaccinated travellers may be at risk for getting and spreading COVID-19 variants and should avoid all travel to India. "If you must travel to India, get fully vaccinated before travel. All travellers should wear a mask, stay 6 feet from others, avoid crowds, and wash their hands," it said. The number of active coronavirus cases surpassed the 2 million mark in India as the country continued to record a mammoth surge in daily cases of the coronavirus disease. The nationwide tally of COVID-19 cases mounted to 1,53,21,089 with a record single-day rise of 2,59,170 coronavirus infections, according to the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. The State Department announced Monday that it would begin to update its travel advisories to more closely align with those from the CDC. The update comes as the world continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic, which has now claimed more than 3 million lives worldwide. It strongly recommended US citizens reconsider all travel abroad encompassing 80 per cent of the world. The advisories, it said, also take into account logistical factors, including in-country testing availability and current travel restrictions for US citizens. “This update will result in a significant increase in the number of countries at Level 4: Do Not Travel, to approximately 80 per cent of countries worldwide,” the State Department said. “The COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose unprecedented risks to travellers. In light of those risks, the Department of State strongly recommends US citizens reconsider all travel abroad,” it said. According to the State Department, this does not imply a reassessment of the current health situation in a given country, but rather reflects an adjustment in the State Department's Travel Advisory system to rely more on CDC''s existing epidemiological assessments. On Monday, Britain added India to its COVID-19 travel "red list", which effectively bans all travel from the country and makes a 10-day hotel quarantine compulsory for UK residents arriving back to the country. Earlier this month, New Zealand also restricted travellers from India due to a spike in infections. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19: US advises its citizens to avoid travelling to India

India will waive its 10% customs duty on imported COVID-19 vaccines, a senior government official told Reuters on Monday, as it tries to boost supplies to counter a dramatic surge in coronavirus cases.

Imports of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine are due to arrive soon and the government has also urged Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson and Johnson to sell their products to India.

The official, who declined to be named, also said the government was considering allowing private entities to import approved vaccines for sale on the open market without government intervention. They could also be given the freedom to set pricing, he added.

The Indian government currently regulates the sale and purchase of all COVID-19 shots in the country.

A finance ministry spokesman did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment outside business hours.

Other South Asian countries, including Nepal and Pakistan, as well as Latin American nations such as Argentina and Brazil levy vaccine import tariffs ranging between 10% and 20%.

New COVID-19 infections and deaths in India have jumped by record numbers for days, with hospitals running short of beds, oxygen and key medicines. Total deaths have swelled to nearly 179,000 and cases have climbed above 15 million, the world's second-highest tally behind the United States.

The government has now decided to open vaccinations for all adults from May 1.

India will waive its 10% customs duty on imported COVID-19 vaccines, a senior government official told Reuters on Monday, as it tries to boost supplies to counter a dramatic surge in coronavirus cases.

India will waive its 10% customs duty on imported COVID-19 vaccines, a senior government official told Reuters on Monday, as it tries to boost supplies to counter a dramatic surge in coronavirus cases. Imports of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine are due to arrive soon and the government has also urged Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson and Johnson to sell their products to India. The official, who declined to be named, also said the government was considering allowing private entities to import approved vaccines for sale on the open market without government intervention. They could also be given the freedom to set pricing, he added. The Indian government currently regulates the sale and purchase of all COVID-19 shots in the country. A finance ministry spokesman did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment outside business hours. Other South Asian countries, including Nepal and Pakistan, as well as Latin American nations such as Argentina and Brazil levy vaccine import tariffs ranging between 10% and 20%. New COVID-19 infections and deaths in India have jumped by record numbers for days, with hospitals running short of beds, oxygen and key medicines. Total deaths have swelled to nearly 179,000 and cases have climbed above 15 million, the world's second-highest tally behind the United States. The government has now decided to open vaccinations for all adults from May 1.

India to waive import duty on Covid-19 vaccines: Report

India registered 2,73,810 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 1,619 fatalities in the past 24 hours, the highest single-day spike in terms of cases and deaths since the&nbsp;pandemic began, according to the data updated by the Union Health Ministry on Monday.

The fresh addition took the total tally to 1,50,61,919 while the death toll soared to 1,78,769.

As many as 2,73,810 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in India in the last 24 hours.

The active number of cases in the country stands at 19,29,329.

In the last 24 hours, 1,44,178 people recovered from the disease. With this, the total recoveries reached 1,29,53,821.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, 13,56,133 samples were tested on Monday. And, as many as 26,78,94,549 samples have been tested across the country till April 18.

(With inputs from agencies)

India registered 2,73,810 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 1,619 fatalities in the past 24 hours, the highest single-day spike in terms of cases and deaths since the pandemic began, according to the data updated by the Union Health Ministry on Monday.

India registered 2,73,810 fresh cases of COVID-19 and 1,619 fatalities in the past 24 hours, the highest single-day spike in terms of cases and deaths since the pandemic began, according to the data updated by the Union Health Ministry on Monday. The fresh addition took the total tally to 1,50,61,919 while the death toll soared to 1,78,769. As many as 2,73,810 new COVID-19 cases have been reported in India in the last 24 hours. The active number of cases in the country stands at 19,29,329. In the last 24 hours, 1,44,178 people recovered from the disease. With this, the total recoveries reached 1,29,53,821. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, 13,56,133 samples were tested on Monday. And, as many as 26,78,94,549 samples have been tested across the country till April 18. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid-19: India reports record 2,73,810 cases, highest ever deaths in a day

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.With this, the total number of active cases in the state now stands at 6,70,388, the state health department informed.&nbsp;

So far, as many as 31,06,828 recoveries and 60,473 deaths have been reported. Out of the total fresh cases, 8,479 were reported from Mumbai. 53 lives were claimed by the virus in the city in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

There are 87,698 active cases in Mumbai while the death toll stands at 12,347. Nagpur reported 7,107 new COVID-19 cases, 3987 recoveries, and 85 deaths in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;

India too reported its highest-ever single-day spike of COVID-19 cases with 2,61,500 fresh cases and 1,501 COVID-related deaths.With this, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,47,88,109. The active number of cases in the country stands at 18,01,316.

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.

As many as 68,631 fresh COVID-19 cases and 503 deaths were reported from Maharashtra in the last 24 hours, the highest in the state so far since the pandemic broke out last year.With this, the total number of active cases in the state now stands at 6,70,388, the state health department informed. So far, as many as 31,06,828 recoveries and 60,473 deaths have been reported. Out of the total fresh cases, 8,479 were reported from Mumbai. 53 lives were claimed by the virus in the city in the last 24 hours. There are 87,698 active cases in Mumbai while the death toll stands at 12,347. Nagpur reported 7,107 new COVID-19 cases, 3987 recoveries, and 85 deaths in the last 24 hours. India too reported its highest-ever single-day spike of COVID-19 cases with 2,61,500 fresh cases and 1,501 COVID-related deaths.With this, the total number of cases has gone up to 1,47,88,109. The active number of cases in the country stands at 18,01,316.

Maharashtra records biggest single day jump of 68,631 new COVID-19 cases

How Indian cities, states fighting coronavirus as concerns mount

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