Hit by a deadly second wave, the country had logged 1 lakh cases in a day for the first time about three weeks ago.
India’s coronavirus crisis keeps worsening with the country now recording a global high of 4,01,993 fresh cases of infections in the last 24 hours. 3,523 deaths were reported. Even as several states flag vaccine shortage, the third phase of the world’s largest vaccination drive has started today.
After reporting 3 lakh daily infection for nine straight days, India recorded over 4 lakh cases for the first time. Hit by a deadly second wave, the country had logged 1 lakh cases in a day for the first time about three weeks ago.
Warning action against states for a clampdown on information or citizens sharing grievances on social media. the Supreme Court on Friday said: “If citizens communicate their grievances on social media, we do not want clampdown on the information. We will treat this as contempt if any citizen is harassed if they want bed or oxygen.”
Even though the third phase of vaccination for those in the age group of 18-44 years started today, several states including Delhi, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bengal, Kerala, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh said they’re running low on stocks. The government, however, has countered them saying 1 crore doses are still available with the states.
After holding a meeting with the council of ministers on Friday, PM Modi said: “Discussed the various steps being undertaken including coordination with the states, augmenting medical capacities and boosting oxygen availability.”
The United States and Australia have restricted travel from India amid Covid surge. Australia has even warned of a five-year jail term for those defying the new rule.
Emergency financial powers were granted today to the armed forces by the government to augment their efforts in the battle against COVID-19. These new powers will help them operate facilities, procure equipment and resources, and perform any required urgent tasks.
News agency Reuters reported that India’s coronavirus cases may peak next week between May 3 and 5, according to a mathematical model of a team of scientists advising the government. M Vidyasagar, head of a government-appointed group of scientists modelling the trajectory of infections, told Reuters: “Our belief is that by next week, the daily new cases nationwide would have peaked.”
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