COVID-19 updates from India and the World
COVID-19 Statewise Status - May 2021 (Last updated on May 18, 2021; 9.10 a.m.) Source: MoHFW, Government of India	WHO Global Situation Reports on COVID-19 [External Link]. Source: World Health Organization
COVID-19 Research Resources Repository (Data Sets) [ External Link] Source: National Digital Library of India	Weekly Epidemiological Reports on COVID-19, Updates 1-39. (Last updated on May 11, 2021) Source: World Health Organization
PIB Daily Bulletin on COVID19 - May 2021 (Last updated on May 18, 2021; 6.34 p.m.) Source: PIB, Government of India	The WHO's India Updates on COVID-19, Updates 1-67. (Last updated on May 12, 2021) Source: World Health Organization - India
Daily Updates from Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi (ICMR) [External Link] Source: ICMR, New Delhi	Find answers about Coronavirus. [External Link] Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency

PIB Press Releases – COVID-19 for the year 2021
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Related Articles on COVID-19 published by The Hindu Centre

External Links on COVID-19

Press Releases in May

May 17, 2021

1736. PM Interacts with State and District Officials on the COVID-19 situation - Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi through video conference interacted with field officials from States and Districts regarding their experience in handling the Covid-19 pandemic. 

During the interaction, the officials thanked the Prime Minister for leading the fight against the second wave of Covid from the front. The officials shared their experiences and apprised the Prime Minister about the innovative steps that were undertaken to manage the recent surge of cases. 2.26 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719567]. Click here for PDF.

1735. Daily Recoveries more than 4 Lakh in the country, for the first time - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In a landmark achievement, with the dedication and tireless effort of all the healthcare and frontline workers, India has recorded daily recoveries of more than 4 lakh COVID patients in a single day for the first time.

4,22,436 recoveries were registered in the last 24 hours.

Average Daily Recovery of more than 3,55,944 cases has been recorded in the last 14 days. The graph below depicts the Daily Recoveries in the last 14 days. 1.27 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719558]. Click here for PDF.

1734. Railways set to have 86 Oxygen plants for its hospitals - Ministry of Railways

Indian Railways is leaving no stone unturned in the fight against Covid 19. On one hand, Railways is moving Oxygen Expresses swiftly with loaded oxygen to different parts, at the same, it is continuing with the movement of passenger and freight traffic. At the same time, Railways has geared up its in-house medical facilities. 1.17 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719555]. Click here for PDF.

May 17, 2021

1733. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 122 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 18,44,22,218 as per the 8 pm provisional report today.

6,63,329 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine today and cumulatively 59,32,704 across 36 States/UTs since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive. Table below shows the cumulative vaccine doses administered to 18-44 years age group till now. 9.50 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719497]. Click here for PDF.

1732. PM to interact with State and District officials across the country on COVID-19 management - Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will be interacting with field officials from States and Districts to converse about their experience in handling the pandemic at 11am on 18th May.

Many of these districts have seen a huge surge in cases and widespread infection. 

The battle against COVID-19 across various States & Districts is being led at the cutting edge by field level officials. Many of them have shown great initiative and come out with imaginative solutions. 7.29 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719422]. Click here for PDF.

1731. PM interacts with Group of Doctors from across the country to discuss Covid situation - Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today interacted with a Group of Doctors from across the country, via video conferencing, to discuss the Covid related situation.

Prime Minister thanked the entire medical fraternity & the paramedical staff for the exemplary fight displayed by them against the extraordinary circumstances of the second wave of Covid, adding that the entire country is indebted to them. 7.24 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719416]. Click here for PDF.

1730. Anti Covid drug 2-DG launched by Defence Minister and Health Minister - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Minister of Defence, Shri Rajnath Singh and Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Harsh Vardhan today jointly launched the new COVID drug 2-DG at DRDO Bhawan. The anti-COVID-19 therapeutic application of the drug 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) has been developed by Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), a lab of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), along with Dr Reddy’s Laboratories (DRL), Hyderabad. 6.46 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719393]. Click here for PDF.

1729. Dr Harsh Vardhan chairs 26th meeting of Group of Ministers (GOM) on COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare chaired the 26 meeting of the high-level Group of Ministers (GoM) on COVID-19 here today. He was joined by Dr S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs and Shri Hardeep S. Puri, Minister of Civil Aviation, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways (I/C), & Chemical and Fertilizers, and Shri Nityanand Rai, Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs. Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Minister of State, Health & Family Welfare joined the meet digitally. 5.04 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719352]. Click here for PDF.

1728. Update on COVID Relief Aid - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India, at the forefront to combat the ongoing COVID-19 has been receiving international cooperation of COVID-19 relief medical supplies and equipment since 27 April 2021 from different countries/organisations. Through a streamlined and systematic mechanism, various Ministries/Departments of Government of India have seamlessly collaborated under the “Whole of Government” approach for expeditiously delivering the incoming global aid to States and UTs. 4.11 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719328]. Click here for PDF.

1727. Swift actions taken by Government to enhance availability of Remdesivir in India - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Department of Pharmaceuticals intensified monitoring of availability, production and supply of drugs used for Covid-19 Treatment in early April, 2021 as number of cases of Covid-19 started increasing steeply. Remdesivir is a patented drug, manufactured in India under voluntary licenses granted by Gilead Life Sciences USA, the patent holder, to 7 Indian pharmaceutical companies (Cipla, Dr Reddy’s Lab., Hetero, Jubilant Pharma, Mylan, Syngene and Zydus Cadila). 2.58 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719307]. Click here for PDF.

1726. Bleeding and clotting events following COVID vaccination miniscule in India - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Bleeding and clotting cases following COVID vaccination in India are minuscule and in line with the expected number of diagnoses of these conditions in the country, a report submitted by the National AEFI (Adverse Event Following Immunization) Committee to the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare said. 2.32 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719293]. Click here for PDF.

1725. Transporter of Oxygen Containers to Dubai by IAF - Ministry of Defence

The heavy lift transport fleet of IAF has been airlifting empty cryogenic oxygen tankers to their filling stations in India since 22 April 2021, so that they may be filled and transported to their destinations by road or rail. The same activity is now being undertaken at international destinations.

An IL-76 aircraft of the IAF has airlifted 03 empty cryogenic containers from Jamnagar to Al Maktoum, Dubai. Indian Oil Corporation Ltd has coordinated for these containers which will be filled up with Liquid Medical Oxygen at Dubai and brought back by ship to India. The airlift will reduce the timelines of transportation of empty containers. 12.50 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719272]. Click here for PDF.

1724. Daily new COVID cases less than 3L after 26 days - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In an encouraging development, daily new COVID cases being registered in India are now less than 3 Lakhs after 26 days.

2,81,386 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours.

The graph below shows the average decline in daily new cases since 9 May 2021. 12.08 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719267]. Click here for PDF.

1723. More than 20 crore vaccine doses provided to States/UTs Free of Cost by Govt. of India, so far - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

As part of the nationwide vaccination drive, Government of India has been supporting the States and UTs by providing them COVID Vaccines free of cost, in addition to several efforts to ramp up its production and supply. Vaccination is an integral pillar of the comprehensive strategy of Government of India for containment and management of the pandemic, along with Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour. 12.01 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719266]. Click here for PDF.

1722. Van Dhan Kendras in Maharashtra: Helping Transform Lives and Livelihoods - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

A group of a few dedicated boys led by an able leader, with enabling support from government organizations, has done wonders in Thane district of Maharashtra. The grassroots tribal organization to which the boys belong has been able to secure orders worth Rs. 1.57 crore for the medicinal plant Giloy. The orders include those from corporate bigwigs like Dabur, Baidyanath and Himalay, among others. 11.23 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719256]. Click here for PDF.

May 16, 2021

1721. Centre highlights to States/UTs Critical Protocols for COVID-19 Containment & Management in Peri-Urban, Rural and Tribal Areas - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Union Health Secretary Shri Rajesh Bhushan along with Member (Health), NITI Aayog Dr. Vinod K. Paul chaired a high-level video conference meeting today with all the States/UTs. The focus of the meet was on COVID-19 Containment & Management in Peri-urban, Rural & Tribal areas along with the Effective Clinical Management of COVID, including the black Mucor-mycosis fungi which is being recorded in growing number of states. 9.28 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719209]. Click here for PDF.

1720. CoWIN digital Portal Reconfigured to Reflect Change in Dose Interval of Covishield Vaccine to 12-16 weeks - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The COVID Working Group chaired by Dr N K Arora had recommended extension of the gap between the first and second doses of COVISHIELD vaccine to 12-16 weeks. This has been accepted by Government of India on 13th May 2021. 6.11 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719143]. Click here for PDF.

1719. Centre directs States to prevent dumping of dead bodies in Ganga and focus on their safe disposal and providing support for ensuring dignified cremation - Ministry of Jal Shakti

The country is facing an extraordinary situation wherein a number of COVID-19 cases and consequential deaths have been on the rise in many States and UTs in the recent past. Dumping of dead bodies/ partially burnt or decomposed corpses in the river Ganga and its tributaries have recently been reported. This is most undesirable and alarming. 5.54 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719134]. Click here for PDF.

1718. SOP on COVID-19 Containment & Management in Peri-urban, Rural & Tribal areas - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Background: COVID-19 outbreak in the country is still predominantly an urban phenomenon. However, besides urban areas reporting a large number of cases, a gradual ingress is now being seen in peri-urban, rural and tribal areas as well. In view of this there is a need to enable communities, strengthen primary level healthcare infrastructure at all levels to intensify COVID-19 response in peri-urban, rural & tribal areas, while continuing to provide other essential health services. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1717. Allocation of Remdesivir made upto 23rd May 2021 to ensure its adequate availability across the country- Shri D.V Sadananda Gowda - Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

Considering the requirement of Remdesivir in every state and ensuring its adequate availability, Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilisers Shri D.V Sadananda Gowda today announced the allocation of Remdesivir made upto 23 May 2021. Substantial increase has been made in overall production and allocation of Remdesivir , he added. 12.36 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719032]. Click here for PDF.

1716. More than 20 crore vaccine doses provided to States/UTs Free of Cost by Govt. of India, so far - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Vaccination forms an integral component of the comprehensive strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). Government of India has been supporting the nationwide vaccination drive by providing COVID Vaccines free of cost to the States and UTs, in addition to several efforts to ramp up its production and supply. 11.54 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719019]. Click here for PDF.

1715. 24-hour Recoveries Outnumber Daily New COVID Cases for Fifth Time in last 6 Days - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India’s cumulative recoveries have reached 2,07,95,335 today. The National Recovery Rate is 84.25%.

3,62,437 recoveries were registered in the last 24 hours. It outnumbers India’s Daily New COVID cases for the fifth time in the last six days.

Ten states account for 70.94% of the new recoveries. 11.26 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1719011]. Click here for PDF.

May 15, 2021

1714. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 120 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 18,21,99,668 as per the 8 pm provisional report today.

5,58,477 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine today and cumulatively 48,21,550 across 32 States/UTs since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive. Table below shows the cumulative vaccine doses administered to 18-44 years age group till now. 9.26 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718947]. Click here for PDF.

1713. Dr. Harsh Vardhan reviews Public Health Response to COVID-19 and Progress of Vaccination with Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare today interacted with State Health Ministers and Principal Secretaries/ Additional Chief Secretaries of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat states in the presence of Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare. These states/UT are depicting a higher growth rate in the number of daily cases, rise in positivity, high mortality and saturation of healthcare capacity. 6.54 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718869]. Click here for PDF.

1712. DST supported startup develops affordable test kits for early diagnosis of Covid-19 in rural & resource constraint areas - Ministry of Science & Technology

A Mumbai-based startup is ready with its affordable Rapid Antigen Test that offers COVID 19 diagnosis & surveillance at the cost of Rs 100 per test. The test developed by Patanjali Pharma will complement the gold standard RTPCR & Rapid antigen tests and make it one of the most affordable ones available in the market. 4.48 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718810]. Click here for PDF.

1711. Government Supports Augmentation of Manufacturing Capacity for COVAXIN production under Mission COVID Suraksha - Ministry of Science & Technology

Under Atmanirbhar Bharat 3.0 Mission COVID Suraksha was announced by the Government of India, to accelerate the development and production of Indigenous COVID Vaccines. This is being implemented by Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India at Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), New Delhi. 2.47 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718791]. Click here for PDF.

1710. PM chairs a high level meeting on Covid and vaccination related situation - Prime Minister's Office

PM chaired a high-level meeting to discuss the Covid and vaccination related situation in the country. Officials briefed the PM on the current Covid related situation in the country. PM was briefed that testing has gone up rapidly in the country, from around 50 lakh tests per week in early March to around 1.3 crore tests per week now. They also informed the PM about the gradually decreasing test positivity rate and increasing recovery rate. It was discussed that cases which had gone over 4 lakh cases per day are now coming down as a result of the efforts by healthcare workers, state governments and central government. 2.28 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718787]. Click here for PDF.

1709. AIIMS doctors provide guidance on Medication and Care for Mild COVID-19 Patients - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The commonly observed symptoms among COVID-19 patients are fever, dry cough, tiredness and loss of taste or smell. Irritation in throat, headache, body ache, diarrhea, rash on skin and redness in eyes are also observed in rare cases. If you observe any of these symptoms, you should immediately isolate yourself from others. This was informed by Dr. Neeraj Nishchal of AIIMS Delhi, during a webinar on “Medication and Care in Home Isolation”, for patients who are tested positive for COVID-19. The webinar was organized by The Centre of Excellence of the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry. 1.47 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718783]. Click here for PDF.

1708. India’s Cumulative Vaccination Coverage exceeds 18 Crore - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country has exceeded 18 Cr today under the Phase-3 of the nationwide Vaccination Drive.

A total of 18,04,57,579 vaccine doses have been administered through 26,02,435 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 am today. These include 96,27,650 HCWs who have taken the 1 dose and 66,22,040 HCWs who have taken the 2dose, 1,43,65,871 FLWs (1dose), 81,49,613 FLWs (2dose), 42,58,756 beneficiaries under 18-45 age group (1dose), 5,68,05,772 (1dose) and 87,56,313 (2 dose) beneficiaries aged 45 to 60 years. 5,43,17,646 1dose beneficiaries and 1,75,53,918 2 dose beneficiaries of more than 60 years old. 11.22 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718764]. Click here for PDF.

May 14, 2021

1707. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 119 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has crossed a significant landmark in its fight against COVID19 pandemic today. The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 18 Cr. The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 18,04,29,261 as per the 8 pm provisional report today. 9.03 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718714]. Click here for PDF.

1706. Update on Ventilators Installed in Aurangabad - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India has been supporting the efforts of States and UTs for effective management of COVID patients in hospital care, under the ‘Whole of Government” approach since last year. In order to augment the existing hospital infrastructure, the Union Government has been centrally procuring and providing States/UTs/Central Hospitals/ Institutes with essential medical devices including ventilators since April 2020. 7.34 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718677]. Click here for PDF.

1705. Update on COVID Relief Aid. The Inflow of Foreign Aid to combat COVID continues to be swiftly cleared, apportioned and sent to States/UTs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Government of India, at the forefront of the “Whole of government” approach to combat the ongoing COVID-19 has been receiving international donations and aid of COVID-19 relief medical supplies and equipment since 27 April 2021 from different countries/organisations to augment its efforts in fighting the unprecedented surge of cases. 5.35 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718640]. Click here for PDF.

1704. Mega make-shift COVID centre set up at Kochi Refinery premises; BPCL supplies Oxygen and Utilities to the Centre - Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas

A 100-bed make-shift COVID treatment centre opened today at BPCL’s Kochi Refinery operated school, adjacent to its premises, in Ambalamugal, Kerala. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a ‘Maharatna’ PSU under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, will provide free Oxygen, power and water to the Centre. The oxygen will be supplied through a dedicated stainless steel pipeline.  The medical facility will have 100 beds in the first phase, which will be later expanded to accommodate 1,500 beds, in the same premises. 5.03 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718630]. Click here for PDF.

1703. Update on COVID Vaccine Allocation - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country is nearly 18  Crore (17.93 Crore, as per the 7 am provisional report today). COVID-19 vaccination drive has successfully completed 118 days wherein 17.89 Crore doses have been administered to the identified beneficiaries through collaborative efforts of all States/UTs. 12.49 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718543]. Click here for PDF.

1702. India’s Cumulative Recoveries exceed 2 Crore - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In a significant development, India’s cumulative recoveries has surpassed 2 Crore (2,00,79,599) today. The National Recovery Rate is 83.50%. 3,44,776 recoveries were registered in the last 24 hours. It outnumbers India’s Daily New COVID cases for the third time in the last four days. Ten states account for 71.16% of the new recoveries. 11.01 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718507]. Click here for PDF.

1701. Stay Safe from Mucormycosis - a Fungal Complication being Detected in COVID-19 Patients - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Even as we try our best to protect ourselves from and cope with COVID-19, there is another threat being posed by a fungus, which we must know and act upon. Mucormycosis, a fungal infection, is being reported in a few COVID-19 patients during or post recovery. 10.42 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718501]. Click here for PDF.

May 13, 2021

1700. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 118 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 17,91,77,029 as per the 8 pm provisional report today. 4,37,192 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine today and cumulatively 39,14,688 across 32 States/UTs since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive. Table below shows the cumulative vaccine doses administered to 18-44 years age group till now. 9.23 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718428]. Click here for PDF.

1699. Dr. Harsh Vardhan reviews Public Health Response to COVID-19 and Progress of Vaccination with 6 States/UT - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare today interacted with State Health Ministers and Principal Secretaries/Additional Chief Secretaries of 6 states/UT in the presence of Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare. These states/UT are depicting a considerable growth rate in the number of daily cases and higher mortality but in urban areas situation is improving. 7.37 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718378]. Click here for PDF.

1698. No COVID-related import consignment should face delay in clearance: CBIC - Ministry of Finance

The Government of India is taking all necessary measures to facilitate speedy import of essential supplies as the nation fights against COVID-19.  It is being ensured that no COVID-related consignment faces delay in clearance. Online systems are being used wherein 95% of COVID-related shipments are assessed by system and not by any officer. 7.02 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718362]. Click here for PDF.

1697. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh reviews COVID management in Government Medical Colleges of Jammu and Kashmir - Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh today took a follow up of Government Medical College Jammu following the urgent meeting held yesterday to address certain concerns raised by the public. 5.53 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718340]. Click here for PDF.

1696. Union Government consistently and proactively working to secure and enhance the Availability of COVID Vaccines - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

There have been reports in a section of the media followed by some uninformed tweets alleging delay in licensing for Covaxin and delayed approval for technology transfer for manufacturing COVAXIN vaccine in the country. 5.41 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718332]. Click here for PDF.

1695. Update on Covid Relief Aid. Through a “Whole of Government” approach, Govt of India has expeditiously Allocated and Delivered Global Aid to States/UTs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India has been receiving international donations and aid of COVID-19 relief medical supplies and equipment since 27 April 2021 from different countries/organisations to augment its efforts in fighting the unprecedented surge in COVID in the country. Through a streamlined and systematic mechanism under the “Whole of Government” approach, various Ministries/Departments of Government of India have seamlessly collaborated for expeditiously delivering the incoming global aid to States and UTs. 4.51 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718313]. Click here for PDF.

1694. Gap between two doses of Covishield Vaccine extended from 6-8 weeks to 12-16 weeks based on recommendation of COVID Working Group - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The COVID Working Group chaired by Dr N K Arora has recommended extension of the gap between the first and second doses of COVISHIELD vaccine to 12-16 weeks. The present gap between the two doses of COVISHIELD vaccine is 6-8 weeks. 4.28 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718308]. Click here for PDF.

1693. Centre Promptly Clearing and Apportioning Global Aid to States/UTs for COVID Management - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India is swiftly clearing and apportioning global aid to strengthen tertiary medical care across States and UTs for COVID management. Cumulatively, 9,284 Oxygen Concentrators; 7,033 Oxygen Cylinders; 19 Oxygen Generation Plants; 5,933 ventilators/Bi PAP and over 3.44L Remdesivir vials have been delivered/ dispatched through road and air, so far. 11.53 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718217]. Click here for PDF.

1692. DCGI approves Phase II/III clinical trial of COVAXIN in the age group of 2 to 18 Years - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The National Regulator of the country, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), after careful examination, has accepted the recommendation of Subject Expert Committee (SEC) and accorded permission to conduct the Phase II/III clinical trial of Covaxin (COVID vaccine) in the age group 2 to 18 years, to its manufacturer Bharat Biotech Ltd on 12.05.2021. 10.35 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718192]. Click here for PDF.

1691. Update on Ventilators Supplied under PM CARES - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India has been supporting the efforts of States and UTs for effective management of COVID patients in hospital care, under the ‘Whole of Government” approach since last year. In order to augment the existing hospital infrastructure, the Union Government has been centrally procuring and providing States/UTs/Central Hospitals/ Institutes with essential medical devices including ventilators since April 2020. 10.00 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718183]. Click here for PDF.

May 12, 2021

1690. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 117 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 17,70,85,371 as per the 8 pm provisional report today.

4,17,321 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine today and cumulatively 34,66,895 across 30 States/UTs since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive. Table below shows the cumulative vaccine doses administered to 18-44 years age group till now. 9.31 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718165]. Click here for PDF.

1689. Prime Minister reviews availability & supply of oxygen and medicines - Prime Minister's Office

PM Narendra Modi chaired a high level meeting to review the availability & supply of oxygen & medicines.

PM was briefed that the Government is actively monitoring the supply of drugs being used in the management of Covid as well Mucormycosis. 9.14 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718159]. Click here for PDF.

1688. Dr. Harsh Vardhan reviews Public Health Response to COVID-19 and Progress of Vaccination with 8 States/UT - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare today interacted with State Health Ministers and Principal Secretaries/ Additional Chief Secretaries of 8 states in the presence of Shri Ashwini Kumar Choubey, Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare. These states/UT are depicting a high growth rate in the number of daily cases, higher mortality, very high and growing positivity rate. 7.58 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718098]. Click here for PDF.

1687. 4686 MT of life-saving Liquid Medical Oxygen supplied by steel plants; - Ministry of Steel

Steel fraternity stands united in the service of nation in this time of crisis. A total of 4686 MT of life-saving Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO)was supplied by steel plants on 10 May. It included 1193 MT by SAIL, 180 MT by RINL, 1425 MT by TATA group, 1300 by JSW, and rest by other steel companies in the public and private sector. 6.19 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718055]. Click here for PDF.

1686. 1.5 Lakh units of Oxycare Systems to procured through PM CARES - Prime Minister's Office

PM-CARES Fund has accorded sanction for procurement of 1,50,000 units of Oxycare System at a cost of Rs 322.5 Crore. It is a comprehensive system developed by DRDO to regulate oxygen being administrated to patients based on the sensed values of their SpO2 levels. 6.16 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718054]. Click here for PDF.

1685. OPERATION SAMUDRA SETU II - INS TARKASH BRINGS MEDICAL OXYGEN CONSIGNMENT FROM QATAR - Ministry of Defence

As part of ongoing COVID relief Operation 'Samudra Setu II’ launched by Indian Navy, INS Tarkash, with two Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) filled (20 MT each) cryogenic containers and 230 Oxygen cylinders embarked, arrived at Mumbai on 12 May 21. 5.32 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1718006]. Click here for PDF.

1684. Shri Piyush Goyal urges the countries to share Covid vaccines liberally with those who are in dire need of it, stating that Global solidarity is the need of the hour; - Ministry of Commerce & Industry

Minister of Commerce & Industry, Railways, Consumer Affairs and Food & Public Distribution Shri Piyush Goyal today said that India feels much more comfortable in launching negotiations for a Balanced, Ambitious, Comprehensive, and Mutually Beneficial Agreement on trade & investment protection. Speaking at World Economic Forum’s Global Trade Outlook Session, he said that Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) was not a balanced agreement as it would have hurt India's farmers, our MSMEs, dairy industry and therefore it was prudent for India not to join RCEP. 4.09 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717962]. Click here for PDF.

1683. 100th Oxygen Express of Indian Railways delivers relief - Ministry of Railways

Overcoming all hurdles and finding new solutions, Indian Railways is continuing its journey of bringing relief by delivering Liquid Medical Oxygen(LMO) to various states across the country. So far, Indian Railways has delivered nearly 6260 MT of LMO in more than 396 tankers to various states across the country. 3.52 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717954]. Click here for PDF.

1682. Swift Clearing and Apportioning of Global Aid by Government of India has strengthened Tertiary Medical Care across States and UTs for COVID management - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In the spirit of goodwill, the global community has been helping India through international donations and aid of COVID-19 relief medical supplies and equipment since 27 April 2021 to support India to address the challenges of COVID management. 2.53 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717923]. Click here for PDF.

1681. WHO has not associated the term “Indian Variant” with B.1.617, now classified as Variant of Concern - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Several media reports have covered the news of World Health Organisation (WHO) classifying B.1.617 as variant of global concern. Some of these reports have termed the B.1.617 variant of the coronavirus as an “Indian Variant”. 12.57 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717876]. Click here for PDF.

1680. India's Active Caseload Declines for the Second Consecutive day - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India’s total Active Caseload has dipped to 37,04,099 today. It now comprises 15.87% of the country's total Positive Cases.

A net decline of 11,122 cases is recorded in the active caseload in the last 24 hours. This is the second consecutive day of decline in the active cases.

13 States cumulatively account for 82.51% of India’s total Active Cases. 12.31 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717870]. Click here for PDF.

1679. Government take steps to ramp up availability of Amphotericin B - to fight Mucormycosis - Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

A sudden increase in demand has been observed in some states for Amphotericin B which is being actively prescribed by the physicians to patients suffering from Mucormycosis, a post COVID complication. The Government of India is therefore engaging with the manufacturers to ramp up production of the drug. The supply position is expected to improve with extra  imports of this drug and  increase in its production domestically. 12.10 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717864]. Click here for PDF.

1678. Ministry of Power takes proactive measures to ensure 24x7 power supply to Oxygen Plants in the Country  - Ministry of Power

In view of the pan India impact of the second wave of corona virus  pandemic across the country  and the manifold rise in oxygen demand for both medical facilities and for home treatment of patients , the Ministry of Power has undertaken a number of pro-active preventive and remedial measures to ensure that there is uninterrupted power supply to Oxygen Plants by the State Utilities. 11.57 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717861]. Click here for PDF.

May 11, 2021

1677. Health Ministry appreciates COVID-19 Containment Models of Mumbai and Pune - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The decentralized approach Mumbai has adopted in COVID-19 containment needs to be adopted at the national level.

“Control rooms were created for engaging with citizens but they were not at Municipal Corporation level but were at ward level, for each of the 24 wards. Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation which receives lab results passes it on to respective ward acting as a hub during the process and helping in reduction of case load in each ward. 6.16 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717738]. Click here for PDF.

1676. Ministry of Panchayati Raj writes to States on preventive measures to curb the spread of COVID 19 in rural India - Ministry of Panchayati Raj

The Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj has written to all the State Governments to take preventive measures to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic in rural India. To combat COVID 19, the Ministry in its letter has suggested States to sensitize and facilitate the Panchayats/Rural Local Bodies towards meeting the challenge and provide leadership. 4.29 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717682]. Click here for PDF.

1675. Update on Covid Relief Aid - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India is receiving international donations and aid of COVID-19 relief medical supplies and equipment since 27 April 2021 from different countries/organisations to augment its efforts in fighting the unprecedented surge in COVID in the country. 3.42 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717668]. Click here for PDF.

1674. Centre Reviews Progress of COVID Vaccination with States/UTs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Shri Rajesh Bhushan, Union Health Secretary and Dr. R S Sharma, Chairman of Empowered Group on Technology and Data Management to combat COVID-19 and member, National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration of COVID-19 reviewed the status of COVID vaccination with Health Secretaries and NHM MDs of States and UTs, through a video conference (VC) today. 2.58 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717649]. Click here for PDF.

1673. Experts & Stakeholders discuss COVID Resurgence – S&T Perspective - Ministry of Science & Technology

Experts from wide range of disciplines came forward on one common virtual platform to discuss the best approach to address the state of emergency of COVID crisis at a meeting on 10 May 2021. The online meeting “Addressing COVID Resurgence – S&T Perspective” organised by Technology Information, Forecasting and Assessment Council (TIFAC), an autonomous body of Department of Science and Technology (DST) brought together scientists, doctors, drug manufacturers, industry and policy makers brainstormed on ways to check the spread of the virus. 1.17 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717628]. Click here for PDF.

1672. Government of India is expeditiously delivering Global Aid of Oxygen concentrators, cylinders, generation plants and more than 3.4 L Remdesivir Vials to states/UTs through a “Whole of Government” approach - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

8,900 Oxygen Concentrators, 5,043 Oxygen Cylinders, 18 Oxygen Generation Plants, 5,698 ventilators/ Bi PAP and more than 3.4 L Remdesivir vials received as part of global aid to India have been delivered/ dispatched to States and UTs to strengthen and supplement their COVID response, so far. The Union Government is ensuring a streamlined and fast delivery of the global aid to States and UTs through faster custom clearances, and use of air and road. 11.40 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717593]. Click here for PDF.

1671. More than 18 crore vaccine doses provided to States/UTs Free of Cost by Govt. of India, so far - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). Government of India has been supporting the nationwide vaccination drive by providing COVID Vaccines free of cost to the States and UTs. 10.28 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717583]. Click here for PDF.

May 10, 2021

1670. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 115 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 17,26,33,761 as per the 8 pm provisional report today. 5,18,479 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine today and cumulatively 25,52,843 across 30 States/UTs since the start of Phase-3 of the vaccination drive. Table below shows the cumulative vaccine doses administered to 18-44 years age group till now. 9.17 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717544]. Click here for PDF.

1669. Indian Naval Ships Airavat,Kolkata and Trikand reach India with Liquid Medical Oxygen and Critical Medical from Singapore, Kuwait and Qatar - Ministry of Defence

As part of the ongoing Operation 'SamudraSetu II’ to support the nation’s fight against Covid-19, INS Kolkata arrived New Mangalore, INS Trikand entered Mumbai and INS Airavat arrived in Visakhapatnam today 10th May. 6.01 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717476]. Click here for PDF.

1668. Centre undertakes multiple initiatives to enhance Oxygen availability, distributionand storage infrastructure; - Ministry of Commerce & Industry

In order to address the surge in demand for oxygen, the Central Government has undertakenkey measures to increase the availability, streamline the distribution and strengthen the oxygen storage infrastructure in the country. The steps undertaken focused on the entire oxygen supply chain. These include efforts for improving oxygen production, enhancing tanker availability to optimizelogistics, improving oxygen storage at thelast mile, and easing norms of procurement. 5.41 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717459]. Click here for PDF.

1667. Indian Air Force & Indian Navy working on war footing in fight against second COVID-19 wave - Ministry of Defence

Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy (IN) are working tirelessly to provide logistic support to shore up medical supplies to tackle the current Covid-19situation. As on early hours of May 10, 2021, the IAF aircraft carried out 534 sorties from various parts of the country, airlifting 336 oxygen containers of total capacity of 6,420 Metric Tonnes (MT) and other medical supplies and equipment. 4.55 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717445]. Click here for PDF.

1666. Update on Covid Relief Aid - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India has been receiving international donations and aid of COVID-19 relief medical supplies and equipment since 27 April 2021 from different countries/organisations to augment its efforts in fighting the unprecedented surge in COVID in the country. Through a streamlined and systematic mechanism under the “Whole of Government” approach, various Ministries/Departments of Government of India have seamlessly collaborated for expeditiously delivering the incoming global aid to States and UTs. 4.36 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717439]. Click here for PDF.

1665. Global Aid comprising of Oxygen concentrators, cylinders, generation plants and more than 3 L Remdesivir Vials received and expedited to States/UTs in their fight against COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

6,738 Oxygen Concentrators, 3,856 Oxygen Cylinders, 16 Oxygen Generation Plants, 4,668 ventilators/ Bi PAP/ C PAP and more than 3L Remdesivir vials received as part of global aid to India have been delivered/ dispatched to States and UTs to augment and supplement their infrastructure, so far. The Union Government is ensuring that the global aid is being expeditiously delivered to States and UTs through fast custom clearances, and use of air and road. 10.49 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717365]. Click here for PDF.

1664. Nearly 18 crore vaccine doses provided to States/UTs Free of Cost by Govt. of India, so far - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). Government of India has been supporting the nationwide vaccination drive by providing COVID Vaccines free of cost to the States and UTs. 10.42 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717358]. Click here for PDF.

May 09, 2021

1663. Update on Covid Relief Aid - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Reflecting the solidarity and goodwill towards India, the global community has extended a helping hand in supporting efforts of India in this collective fight against COVID-19. Government of India has designed a streamlined and systematic mechanism for effective allocation, and prompt distribution and delivery of the support supplies received by India. 4.59 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717248]. Click here for PDF.

1662. Home Isolation in Mild COVID-19: Dos and Don’ts - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

As we know, most people who catch COVID-19 would recover after experiencing either no or mild symptoms. Such patients need to isolate themselves at home, to both protect themselves and avoid spread of infection. The Government has been updating the clinical guidance for home isolation, based on evolving pandemic situation and clinical knowledge. 1.36 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717212]. Click here for PDF.

1661. Global Aid including 14 Oxygen Plants and more than 3 L Remdesivir Vials proactively cleared and rushed to States/UTs to combat COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The global community is extending a helping hand to support India’s efforts to meet the challenges and requirements of the unprecedented surge in the number of COVID19 cases in the second wave of the global pandemic. The Union Government has been ensuring the global aid is being effectively & promptly allocated and delivered to States and UTs to supplement their efforts during this critical phase. 12.01 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717184]. Click here for PDF.

1660. Govt. of India has so far provided more than 17.56 crore vaccine doses to States/UTs Free of Cost - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). Implementation of the Liberalised and Accelerated Phase 3 Strategy of Covid-19 Vaccination has started from 1May 2021. Registration for the new eligible population groups has commenced since 28th April. Potential beneficiaries can either register directly on the CoWIN portal (cowin.gov.in) or through the AarogyaSetu app. 11.37 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717176]. Click here for PDF.

1659. Centre releases Rs. 8923.8 crore to Panchayats in 25 States - Ministry of Finance

The Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance,yesterday released an amount of Rs. 8,923.8 crore to 25 States for providing grants to the Rural Local Bodies (RLBs). The grants are meant for all the three tiers of Panchayati Raj Institutions – village, block and district. 10.35 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717165]. Click here for PDF.

May 08, 2021

1658. Experimental Drone Flights for Vaccine Delivery: Aim to provide last mile Healthcare access - Ministry of Civil Aviation

The Government is providing conditional exemption for experimental drone flights for vaccine delivery as part of constant endeavour to enhance the scope of drone usage in the country and assist the nation to fight COVID-19 pandemic.Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) & Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)have granted conditional exemption to the Government of Telangana for conducting experimental Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone flights for delivery of vaccines.Exemption has been grantedfrom Unmanned Aircraft System {UAS) Rules, 2021. 4.41 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717026]. Click here for PDF.

1657. 6608 Oxygen Concentrators; 3856 Oxygen Cylinders; 14 Oxygen Generation Plants; 4330 ventilators/Bi PAP; about 3L Remdesivir vials delivered/dispatched, so far - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Reflecting the solidarity and goodwill towards India, the global community has extended a helping hand in supporting efforts of India in this collective fight against COVID19. Government of India has designed a streamlined and systematic mechanism for effective allocation, and prompt distribution and delivery of the support supplies received by India. 4.11 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717017]. Click here for PDF.

1656. National Policy for Admission of Covid Patients in Hospitals Revised to be more Patient-Centric - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In a significant directive to the States, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has revised the national policy for admission of COVID patients to various categories of COVID facilities. This patient-centric measure aims to ensure prompt, effective and comprehensive treatment of patients suffering from COVID19. 2.31 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717009]. Click here for PDF.

1655. DCGI approves anti-COVID drug developed by DRDO for emergency use - Ministry of Defence

An anti-COVID-19 therapeutic application of the drug 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) has been developed by Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), a lab of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with Dr Reddy’s Laboratories (DRL), Hyderabad. Clinical trial results have shown that this molecule helps in faster recovery of hospitalised patients and reduces supplemental oxygen dependence. Higher proportion of patients treated with 2-DG showed RT-PCR negative conversion in COVID patients. The drug will be of immense benefit to the people suffering from COVID-19. 1.42 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1717007]. Click here for PDF.

1654. Govt. of India has so far provided more than 17.49 crore vaccine doses to States/UTs Free of Cost - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Government of India is leading the fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UT through a "Whole of Government" approach. Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). 10.45 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716980]. Click here for PDF.

May 07, 2021

1653. Indian Air Force & Navy step up efforts to ferry oxygen and medical supplies - Ministry of Defence

Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy (IN) have intensified their efforts to aid the civil administration in tackling the current COVID19 situation by ferrying oxygen containers and medical equipment.As on May 07, 2021, the C-17 aircraft of IAFhave conducted 400 sorties from within the country, including 351 to airlift 252 oxygen tankers of total capacity of 4,904 Metric Tonnes (MT). 4.09 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716805]. Click here for PDF.

1652. Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan reviews COVID19 management Preparedness at Dr. RML Hospital, New Delhi - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare today reviewed in person the preparedness of Dr Ram Manohar LohiaHospital, New Delhi for clinical management of the severe COVID19 patients. He has been personally reviewing the management of COVID19 in the Central Hospitals that serve Delhi and had also visited the Lady Hardinge Medical College recently. 3.35 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716789] Click here for PDF.

1651. Update on COVID Vaccination Phase-3 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

It has been noticed in some instances that citizens that had booked their appointment for COVID vaccination through the CoWIN portal, but did not actually go for vaccination on the scheduled date, have received notification through SMS that a vaccine dose has been administered to them. Upon examination, it has been found to occur largely on account of the Vaccinator wrongly marking the citizen as vaccinated, i.e. an instance of a data entry error by the vaccinator. 12.53 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716726]. Click here for PDF.

1650. Centre continues to Effectively and Promptly Allocate and Deliver COVID-19 Aid received from Global Community to States/UTs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Global Community has been extending a helping hand in supporting efforts of India  to meet the challenges and requirements of the unprecedented surge in the number of COVID19 cases in the second wave of the global pandemic. Government of India has ensured the global aid is being effectively & promptly allocated, and dispatched to States and UTs. This is an ongoing exercise. 11.14 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716697]. Click here for PDF.

1649. Govt. of India has so far provided more than 17.35 crore vaccine doses to States/UTs Free of Cost - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India is leading the fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UT through a “Whole of Government” approach. Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behavior). 10.24 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716688]. Click here for PDF.

May 06, 2021

1648. SOPs on COVID-19 Vaccination of Persons without prescribed Identity Cards through CoWIN - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India's National Covid-19 Vaccination Strategy is based on scientific and epidemiological evidence and focuses on systematic end-to-end planning. Phase-I of the National Covid-19 Vaccination Strategy was launched on 16th January 2021 and focussed on protecting Health Care Workers (HCWs) and Front Line Workers (FLWs). Phase-II was initiated from 1st March 2021 and 1st April 2021 and focussed on protecting the most vulnerable i.e. population more than 45 years of age. Liberalised Pricing and Accelerated National Covid-19 Vaccination Strategy came in effect from 1st May 2021 under which COVID-19 Vaccination was opened for persons 18-44 years of age groups. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1647. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 111 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Liberalised and Accelerated Phase-3 Strategy of Covid-19 Vaccination has come into force from 1st May 2021. Registration for the newly eligible population groups has commenced on 28th April. The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 16,48,76,248 as per the 8 pm provisional report today. 9.29 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716659]. Click here for PDF.

1646. Government of India continues to Effectively Allocate COVID -19 supplies received from the Global Community to States and UTs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In the fight against the global pandemic, the global community has extended a helping hand in supporting efforts of India in this collective fight against COVID19. The Government of India continues to be at the forefront of this fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UTs and with the support of its citizens under a “whole of society” approach. 7.32 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716591]. Click here for PDF.

1645. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh says, Department of Space pitched in to augment COVID infrastructure in the country - Department of Space

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh today said that Department of Space has gone beyond its call to provide COVID related support mainly liquid oxygen to States of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Chandigarh. In an online review meeting, Chairman, ISRO, Dr. K. Sivan said that 9.5 tonnes of oxygen being given to Tamil Nadu and Kerala per day, besides the oxygen capacity of Andhra Pradesh and Chandigarh was augmentd. 6.02 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716535]. Click here for PDF.

1644. India Fights COVID-19 Webinar explores what to do after Positive Test Result - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

As the second wave of COVID-19 is driving more and more people into distress, lack of authentic information has added to the wave of infodemic. Lack of reliable information creates panic. In an effort to address these issues, Press Information Bureau organized a webinar titled ‘So you become COVID Positive, What's Next?’ in collaboration with National Tuberculosis Institute, Bangalore and Birla Institute of Technology, Goa, today. 4.10 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716496]. Click here for PDF. Click here for Video. [https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/pib]

1643. PM Modi reviews public health response to Covid-19 - Prime Minister's Office

PM Modi today undertook a comprehensive review of the Covid-19 related situation in the country. He was given a detailed picture on the Covid outbreak in various states and districts. He was informed about the 12 states which have more than 1 lakh active cases. PM was also apprised about the districts with high disease burden. 2.51 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716474]. Click here for PDF.

1642. No pendency of Oxygen Concentrators with Indian Customs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

It has been reported in some sections of the media that oxygen concentrators are pending at the Customs warehouse for getting clearance from the Custom authorities. The news is totally incorrect, not based on facts and without any basis. 12.16 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716432]. Click here for PDF.

1641. Effective Allocation of COVID-19 Materials received from the Global Community by Centre to States and UTs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

There has been an unprecedented surge in the number of COVID19 cases in the country since the past few weeks. The health infrastructure of several States and UTs has been overwhelmed by the very high number of daily cases and increased mortality. 11.16 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716426]. Click here for PDF.

1640. Liquid Medical Oxygen: Explainer - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

We know 65% of human body is oxygen. Yes, oxygen is vital for respiration, the process that transfers energy from glucose to cells. In fact, every cell in our body requires oxygen. When we breathe air in, oxygen molecules enter the lungs and pass through lung walls into our blood. 11.00 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716197]. Click here for PDF.

1639. Govt. of India has so far provided more than 17.15 crore vaccine doses to States/UTs Free of Cost - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Government of India is leading the fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UT through a “Whole of Government” approach. Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). 10.43 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716415]. Click here for PDF.

May 05, 2021

1638. Centre Reviews Preparedness of 5 States of Eastern India to address Needs and Challenges of current phase of COVID Pandemic. 5 Critical Areas of Action Highlighted - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Union Health Secretary Shri Rajesh Bhushan along with Member (Health), NITI Aayog Dr. Vinod K. Paul chaired a high-level meeting today with the Eastern States of Assam, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar and Jharkhand.  The review meeting assessed the arrangements put in place by these eastern states for containment and management of the COVID19 pandemic. 8.50 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716366]. Click here for PDF.

1637. COVID -19 supplies received from the Global Community have been Effectively Allocated to States and UTs by Government of India - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

There has been an unprecedented surge in the number of COVID19 cases in the country since the past few weeks. The health infrastructure of several States and UTs has been overwhelmed by the very high number of daily cases and increased mortality. 8.45 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716364]. Click here for PDF.

1636. MSME’s Cluster Scheme to support private hospitals for Oxygen Plant - Ministry of Micro,Small & Medium Enterprises

There are more than 100 private hospitals registered in Vidarbha Hospitals Association, Nagpur facing difficulties in supply of oxygen due to which they approached MSME-DI, Nagpur and met Shri P.M.Parlewar, Director, MSME-DI, Nagpur with a request to support them for setting up of oxygen plant under Cluster Development scheme of Ministry of MSME. 6.46 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716317]. Click here for PDF.

1635. Steel plants supply 4076 MT Liquid Medical Oxygen - Ministry of Steel

Steel companies from across the country, from both the public and private sectors, have stepped up efforts to meet the nation’s requirement of medical oxygen. Yesterday, the Total Liquid Medical Oxygen(LMO) Production by the Steel plants was 3680.30 MT, and Total LMO Supply was 4076.65 MT. In comparison, the LMO supply was 3131.84 Metric Tonnes to various states on the 25 April 2021. In mid-April, on an average 1500-1700 Metric tonnes /day was being dispatched. 6.10 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716301]. Click here for PDF.

1634. REVISED GUIDELINES FOR HOME ISOLATION OF MILD/ASYMPTOMATIC COVID-19 CASES - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

As per the guidelines, the patients who are clinically assigned to be mild/asymptomatic are recommended for home isolation. The asymptomatic cases are laboratory confirmed cases not experiencing any symptoms and having oxygen saturation at room air of more than 94%.Clinically assigned mild cases are patients with upper respiratory tract symptoms (&/or fever) without shortness of breath and having oxygen saturation at room air of more than 94%. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1633. Covid-19 Vaccination camp organised at Guwahati Airport. Separate helpdesk to assist elderly - Ministry of Civil Aviation

The second covid vaccination camp, open for all above 18 years, has been organised at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBI) Guwahati. The camp started on 3 May 2021 and the vaccination is going on in the camp. Over 2000 people have been vaccinated and more are likely to get vaccinated tomorrow. 4.54 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716242]. Click here for PDF.

1632. Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilisers reviews the availability of drugs for covid treatment and other essential drugs - Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers

Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilisers Shri D.V Sadananda Gowda chaired a meeting to review availability of drugs for covid treatment and other essential drugs. The Meeting was attended by Ms. S. Aparna, Secretary (Pharma), Dr. V. G. Somani, DCGI, Smt. Shubhra Singh, Chairperson, NPPA, Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Joint Secretary (Health and Family Welfare), Shri Navdeep Rinwa, Joint Secretary (Pharma), Smt. Vinod Kotwal, Member Secretary, NPPA and other senior officers. 2.52 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716165]. Click here for PDF.

1631. Banks given Liquidity Facility of ₹ 50,000 crore to improve access to Emergency Health Services - Special Service and Features

The RBI Governor Shri Shaktikanta Das today announced  a series of measures to support the nation’s fight against the second wave of COVID-19 infections. “Alleviating any constraint from the financing side for all stakeholders – government, hospitals and dispensaries, pharmacies, vaccine/medicine manufacturers/importers, medical oxygen manufacturers/suppliers, private operators engaged in the critical healthcare supply chain, and above all the common man who may be facing sudden spike in health expenditure – requires a comprehensive targeted policy response. 1.02 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716115]. Click here for PDF.

1630. Installation of Two High Flow Medical Oxygen Plants funded by PMCARES at AIIMS, New Delhi and RML Hospital completed - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In a significant development, two medical oxygen plants funded by PMCARES have been installed at AIIMS, New Delhi and RML Hospital within a week. Carried out on a war footing, the two plants were swiftly airlifted from Coimbatore and installed yesterday. Both the plants will start supply of oxygen by today evening. 12.04 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716089]. Click here for PDF.

1629. Govt. of India has so far provided more than 17.02 crore vaccine doses to States/UTs Free of Cost - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Government of India is at the forefront of the fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UT through a “Whole of Government” approach. In addition to Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour, Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India for containment and management of the pandemic. 10.49 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716069]. Click here for PDF.

May 04, 2021

1628. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 109 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has scaled another peak in its effort to contain the COVID-19 virus with the administration of more than 16 Cr vaccine doses to its citizens. The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 16,04,18,105 as per the provisional report 08:00 pm today. 9.45 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1716043]. Click here for PDF.

1627. Update on Oxygen for COVID-19 Patients in Delhi - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In view of the unprecedented surge in daily COVID19 cases, uninterrupted requirement of oxygen, oxygen supported and ICU beds have increased manifold.  The matter of ensuring adequate and uninterrupted supply of oxygen for effective clinical management of severe COVID19 patients receiving medical care in the Central Government hospitals in New Delhi was reviewed by Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare in a high-level meeting on 23rd April 2021. 7.37 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715993]. Click here for PDF.

1626. DRDO to install five Medical Oxygen Plants in Delhi & Haryana - Ministry of Defence

In order to tackle the surge in Covid-19 cases & subsequent requirement of oxygen, PM-Cares has allocated funds for the installation of 500 Medical Oxygen Plants across the country. These plants are planned to be set up within three months. 6.26 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715960]. Click here for PDF.

1625. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh appeals to all Central Government Employees aged 18 years and above to get themselves vaccinated at the earliest - Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh today appealed to all the eligible employees of the age of 18 years and above to get themselves vaccinated at the earliest. 6.11 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715954]. Click here for PDF.

1624. Union Government Did Not Waste Time in Effective Allocation and Distribution of COVID Pandemic Relief material - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India Today in its news story has alleged that while the first consignment of Covid-19 assistance arrived in India on April 25, 2021 the Centre took seven days to frame the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) of distributing these life-saving medical supplies. 5.34 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715943]. Click here for PDF.

1623. Delhi to receive 244 tonnes more Oxygen Today; With this, Oxygen Expresses would deliver nearly 450 MT of LMO to Delhi alone in 24 hours, counting from deliveries that took early hours today - Ministry of Railways

Overcoming all hurdles and finding new solutions, Indian Railways is continuing its journey of bringing relief by delivering Liquid Medical Oxygen(LMO) to various states across the country. So far, Indian Railways has delivered 1585MT (approx) of LMO in 103 tankers to various states across the country. 27 Oxygen Expresses have already completed their journey and 6 more loaded Oxygen Express are on the run carrying 463 MT (approx) of LMO in 33 tankers. 4.53 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715936]. Click here for PDF.

1622. No factual evidence that animals can transmit the disease to humans any further - Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

On the 24th April 2021 with an abundance of caution , Nehru  Zoological  Park  (NZP),  Hyderabad shared samples (as collected from nose, throat and respiratory tract under anaesthesia) with  CCMB-LaCONES for eight  Asiatic  lions  housed  in  the Zoo that had showed signs of respiratory distress.  Based on detailed diagnostic tests and report as shared by CCMB-LaCONES on 4 May 2021, it has now been confirmed that eight Asiatic lions housed in Nehru Zoological Park (NZP), Hyderabad  have tested positive for SARS-CoV2 virus. 3.28 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715909]. Click here for PDF. 

1621. Effective Allocation by Government of India of COVID -19 supplies received from the Global Community for Fight against the Global Pandemic - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Government of India is leading the fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UT through a “Whole of Government” approach. There has been an unprecedented surge in the number of COVID19 cases across the country. The health infrastructure of several States and UTs has been overwhelmed by the very high number of daily cases and increased mortality. 2.51 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715896]. Click here for PDF.

1620. Govt. of India has so far provided more than 16.69 crore vaccine doses to States/UTs Free of Cost - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Government of India is leading the fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UT through a “Whole of Government” approach. Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). 10.57 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715845]. Click here for PDF.

1619. India’s Cumulative Vaccination Coverage exceeds 15.89 Crore as Phase-3 of Nationwide Vaccination Drive commences - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Liberalized and Accelerated Phase-3 Strategy of Covid-19 Vaccination has come into force from 1st May 2021. The cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 15.89 Cr today. 10.33 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715837]. Click here for PDF.

May 03, 2021

1618. COVID-19 Vaccination Update- Day 108 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Liberalised and Accelerated Phase-3 Strategy of Covid-19 Vaccination has come into force from 1st May 2021. Registration for the newly eligible population groups has commenced on 28th April. 2,15,185 beneficiaries of the age group 18-44 years received their first dose of COVID vaccine today across 12 States/UTs. Table below shows the cumulative vaccine doses administered to 18-44 years age group till now. 10.02 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715791]. Click here for PDF.

1617. PM reviews Covid related initiatives by the Indian Navy - Prime Minister's Office

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh called on PM Modi today. He briefed the PM about various initiatives being taken by the Indian Navy to assist the countrymen during the pandemic. He informed the PM that the Indian Navy has reached out to all state administrations and have offered help in terms of hospital beds, transportation and conduct of vaccination drives. He apprised the PM about beds being earmarked in various Naval hospitals  for use of civilians in various cities. 7.23 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715746]. Click here for PDF.

1616. PM authorises keys decisions to boost availability of medical personnel to fight COVID-19 - Prime Minister's Office

The Prime Minister reviewed the growing need of adequate human resources for responding to the COVID-19 pandemic in the country today. Many important decisions were taken which will significantly boost availability of medical personnel in Covid duty. 2.59 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715667]. Click here for PDF.

1615. Media reports alleging that Centre has not placed any fresh order for COVID19 Vaccines are Incorrect and not Based on Facts - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

There have been some media reports alleging that the Centre has not placed any fresh order for COVID19 vaccines. The news reports suggest that the last order placed with the two vaccine makers (100 million doses with SII and 20 million doses with Bharat Biotech) was in March 2021.

These media reports are completely incorrect, and are not based on facts. 1.50 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715649]. Click here for PDF.

1614. Govt. of India has so far provided more 16.54 crore vaccine doses to States/UTs Free of Cost - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India is leading the fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UT through a “Whole of Government” approach. In addition to Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour, vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the COVID19 pandemic. 11.38 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715621]. Click here for PDF.

1613. On a steadily growing path, over 3 Lakh Recoveries in the last 24 hours - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The number of COVID tests conducted across the country has crossed 29.16 cr today. 29,16,47,037 have been conducted as on date.India’s cumulative recoveries now stand at 1,62,93,003 today.

The National Recovery Rate is 81.77% with 3,00,732 recoveries being reported in the last 24 hours.

Ten states account for 73.49% of the new recoveries. 11.08 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715615]. Click here for PDF.

May 02, 2021

1612. PM reviews progress of converting Nitrogen plants to Oxygen Plants - Prime Minister's Office

Considering the requirement of medical oxygen amidst the COVID-19 pandemic situation, the Government of India explored the feasibility of conversion of existing nitrogen plants to produce oxygen. Various such potential industries, wherein existing nitrogen plants may be spared for production of oxygen were identified. 3.25 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715505]. Click here for PDF.

1611. PM reviews usage of Gaseous Oxygen for Medical Purposes - Prime Minister's Office

In line with his direction of exploring innovative ways to ramp up supply and availability of oxygen, PM Modi today chaired a meeting to review the usage of gaseous oxygen. Many industries like Steel plants, refineries with petrochemical units, industries using rich combustion process, power plants etc have oxygen plants which produce gaseous oxygen which is used in the process. This oxygen can be tapped for medical use. 3.24 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715504]. Click here for PDF.

1610. Scientists working on SUTRA model for charting trajectory of COVID-19 - Ministry of Science & Technology

We, the scientists working on the SUTRA model for charting the trajectory of COVID-19, would like to clearly point out some facts related to predictions of our mathematical model, especially since some of these have been misunderstood and misquoted. Recent reports in some media seem to suggest that scientists working on the SUTRA model cautioned in March about the second wave but attention was not paid to it. This is incorrect. 12.05 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715485]. Click here for PDF.

1609. More than 78 lakh doses are still available with the States/UTs to be administered - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India is leading the fight against the COVID19 pandemic in collaboration with the States and UT through a “Whole of Government” approach. Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India of containment and management of the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). 11.38 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715481]. Click here for PDF.

1608. India’s Cumulative Vaccination Coverage exceeds 15.68 Crore as Phase-3 of Nationwide Vaccination Drive commences - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Government of India along with States/UTs through a ‘Whole of Government’ approach has embarked on a five-point strategy for prevention, containment, and management of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. Vaccination forms an integral component of the five-point strategy including Test, Track, Treat, and COVID Appropriate Behaviour. 10.29 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715478]. Click here for PDF.

May 01, 2021

1607. Railway mobilises Additional Covid Care Coaches for use in States of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra - Ministry of Railways

Strengthening the capabilities of the nation in the united fight against Covid, the Ministry of Railways has, amongst its multi-pronged initiatives, deployed nearly 4000 Isolation coaches with almost 64000 beds. To work concurrently with the States and in a bid to reach out as swiftly as possible, the Railway has drawn a de-centralised plan of action empowering zones and divisions to work out their Memorandum of Agreement for cohesive action. These Isolation Coaches can be easily moved and positioned at places of demand on the Indian Railways network. 3.06 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715321]. Click here for PDF. 

1606. Production of Medical Oxygen from modified Industrial Nitrogen Plants - Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

Considering the COVID-19 pandemic situation and to further augment availability of oxygen formedical purposes in the country, the Central Government had asked Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), which hascomprehensivedatabaseof industrial units,toidentify theindustries having sparenitrogenplants and explore the feasibility of converting of existing Nitrogen plants to produce oxygen.CPCB with the help of State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) have identified such potentialindustries, wherein existing Nitrogen generation plants may be spared for production of oxygen.Consultationhave beenheld withpotentialindustrialunitsandexperts. 2.42 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715313]. Click here for PDF. 

1605. Import of Oxygen Concentrators for personal use included in exempted category list - Ministry of Commerce & Industry

The Government has included import of oxygen concentrators for personal use, through post, courier or e-commerce portals, in the list of exempted categories, where Customs clearance is sought as ''gifts". This exemption is valid till 31 July 2021. A notification issued by Directorate General of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry on 30 April, 2021 states that Para 2.25 of Foreign Trade Policy, 2015-20 stands revised for the purpose. 1.00 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715293]. Click here for PDF.

1604. Oxygen Concentrators during COVID-19: What We Need to Know - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

As India battles the 2 wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the surge of new infections has resulted in an alarming increase in the number of active cases. The resultant stress on our public health infrastructure has led to a big spike in demand for oxygen concentrators. 11.51 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715273]. Click here for PDF.

1603. Govt. of India has so far provided more 16.37 crore vaccine doses to States/UTs Free of Cost - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Government of India has at the forefront of the fight against the COVID19 pandemic. Vaccination forms an integral component of the five point strategy of Government of India to fight the pandemic (including Test, Track, Treat and COVID Appropriate Behaviour). 11.40 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715269]. Click here for PDF.

1602. India’s COVID19 Vaccination Coverage Nearly 15.5 Crore - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

As part of the countrywide COVID19 vaccination drive, the cumulative number of COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country stands at 15,49,89,635. More than 27 lakh vaccine doses were in the last 24 hours. 11.26 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1715267]. Click here for PDF.

 

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