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Press Releases in March

March 31, 2021

1413. Union Health Secretary and Member NITI Aayog chair High Level meet to review the COVID19 Status and Public Health Measures taken by Punjab and Chandigarh - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Shri Rajesh Bhushan, Union Health Secretary chaired a high-level meeting today along with Dr. V. K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog to review the status of COVID19 in Punjab and Chandigarh and the public health measures taken for surveillance, containment and management of COVID19 by the health authorities. 8.26 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708790]. Click here for PDF.

1412. Union Health Secretary Reviews COVID Vaccination Drive and Preparations for April 2021 with all States and UTs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Shri Rajesh Bhushan, Union Health Secretary and Dr R S Sharma, CEO, National Health Authority (NHA) and Chairperson, Empowered Group on COVID Vaccination chaired a high-level meeting through video conference today with Health Secretaries, State Mission Directors of NHM and State Immunization officers of all States and UTs to review the status, pace and issues regarding COVID vaccination across the country as well as the preparations for April 2021 when vaccination  would be extended to all persons above the age of 45. A key theme underlying the meet was the identification of low vaccine coverage pockets particularly in districts showing COVID surge and for taking corrective actions there. 2.37 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708680]. Click here for PDF.

1411. Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Punjab and Madhya Pradesh report high Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Eight States, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Punjab and Madhya Pradesh report a surge in the COVID daily new cases. 84.73% of the new cases are reported from these 8 states. 53,480 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 27,918. It is followed by Chhattisgarh with 3,108 while Karnataka reported 2,975 new cases. 12.12 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708656]. Click here for PDF.

March 30, 2021

1410. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 74 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 6.24 Crore today. A total of 6,24,08,333 vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 7 pm today. These include 82,00,007 HCWs who have taken the 1st dose and 52,07,368 HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 90,08,905 FLWs (1 dose), 37,70,603 FLWs (2 dose), 2,90,20,989 1 dose beneficiaries and 36,899 2 dose beneficiaries more than 60 years old and 71,58,657 (1 dose) and 4,905 (2 dose) beneficiaries aged 45 and above with specific co-morbidities. 9.03 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708593]. Click here for PDF.

1409. Dr Harsh Vardhan releases document titled - “Chasing the Virus: A Public Health Response to the COVID 19 Pandemic” - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare released the document titled- “Chasing the Virus: A Public Health Response to the COVID 19 Pandemic” here today. This publication is a chronicle of the response to the pandemic for the period January 2020 to November 2020. 7.47 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708567]. Click here for PDF.

1408. Vaccine hesitancy must go: Health Secretary - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Seven out of the top 10 districts with active COVID-19 cases are in Maharashtra (Pune, Mumbai, Nagpur, Thane, Nashik, Aurangabad, Nanded). While the average positivity rate of the country is 5.65%, Maharashtra's COVID19 positivity rate is 23%.  Bengaluru, Urban Delhi and Ahmedabad are the other three districts with maximum number of active cases. 7.36 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708562]. Click here for PDF.

1407. Dr. Harsh Vardhan and Smt. Nutan Goel receives their second dose of COVID-19 Vaccine - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Dr Harsh Vardhan,Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare along with his wife Smt. Nutan Goel were administeredthe second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine (Covaxin) today at Delhi Heart and Lung Institute, New Delhi.They had taken the first dose of the vaccine 28 days before on 2 March 2021. 3.21 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708458]. Click here for PDF.

1406. DG CSIR makes presentation to Vice President on Sewage and Air Surveillance System to detect COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

A presentation suggesting the setting up of sewage and air surveillance system in the Indian Parliament to find the prevalence of COVID-19 was made to the Vice President and Chairman, Rajya Sabha today by the Director-General of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Dr. Shekhar C Mande. 11.46 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708376]. Click here for PDF.

1405. Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat continue to report high Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Six States, Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, continue to report a surge in the COVID daily new cases. 78.56% of the new cases are reported from these 6 states. 56,211 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 31,643. It is followed by Punjab with 2,868 while Karnataka reported 2,792 new cases. 11.40 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708375]. Click here for PDF.

March 29, 2021

1404. Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh report high Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Eight States, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Chhattisgarh have reported high number of COVID daily new cases. 84.5% of the new cases are reported from these 8 states. 11.17 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708246]. Click here for PDF.

March 28, 2021

1403. India crosses a Landmark Milestone of over 6 cr vaccine doses administered - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has registered a significant achievement in its fight against COVID19. The country’s total vaccination coverage has surpassed 6 crore today. 6,02,69,782 vaccine doses have been administered through 9,85,018 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 am today. These include 81,52,808HCWs (1st dose), 51,75,597HCWs (2nd dose), 88,90,046FLWs (1st dose) and 36,52,749 FLWs (2nd Dose), 66,73,662beneficiaries aged more than 45 years with specific co-morbidities (1st Dose) and 2,77,24,920beneficiaries aged more than 60 years. 11.24 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708173]. Click here for PDF.

March 27, 2021

1402. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 71 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 5.94 Crore today.

A total of 5,94,92,824 vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 8 pm today. 9.08 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708131]. Click here for PDF.

1401. Surge in COVID-19 Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Shri Rajesh Bhushan, Union Health Secretary chaired a high-level review meeting today with Addl. Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and Secretaries (H&FW) of 12 States and Municipal Commissioners and District Collectors of 46 districts that are the most affected by rising cases and rising mortality because of COVID-19. 4.20 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708061]. Click here for PDF.

1400. With 80% of Daily New Cases, Maharashtra, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh continue to exhibit a spike - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Six States, Maharashtra, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh continue to report a surge in the COVID daily new cases. 79.57% of the new cases are reported from these 6 states.

62,258 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours.

Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 36,902. It is followed by Punjab with 3,122 while Chhattisgarh reported 2,665 new cases. 11.19 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1708008]. Click here for PDF.

March 26, 2021

1399. Centre rushes high level Central multi-disciplinary teams to Chhattisgarh and Chandigarh to assist the State/UT Government in COVID-19 Control and Containment measures - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has rushed two High Level multidisciplinary teams to Chhattisgarh & Chandigarh in view of surge in number of COVID-19 cases being reported from the State and UT. These teams shall work with the respective State/UT Government to ascertain the reason/s for surge, assist in undertaking gap analysis and recommend requisite COVID-19 control and containment measures. 4.09 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1707817]. Click here for PDF.

1398. More than 5.5 cr vaccine doses administered across the country - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India’s vaccination drive gains further momentum as over 5.5 cr (5,55,04,440) vaccine doses have been administered through 9,01,887 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 am today. These include 80,34,547 HCWs (1st dose), 51,04,398 HCWs (2nd dose), 85,99,981 FLWs (1 dose) and 33,98,570 FLWs (2 Dose), 55,99,772 beneficiaries aged more than 45 years with specific co-morbidities (1 Dose) and 2,47,67,172 beneficiaries aged more than 60 years. 11.35 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1707704]. Click here for PDF.

March 25, 2021

1397. Maharashtra, Punjab, Kerala, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh and Gujarat report a hike; account for 81% of Daily New COVID Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Six States, Maharashtra, Punjab, Kerala, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh and Gujarat, are reporting a surge in daily new cases. They together account for 80.63% of the new cases reported in last 24 hours.

53,476 new cases were reported in the last 24 hours.

Maharashtra continues to report the highest daily new cases at 31,855 (59.57%). It is followed by Punjab with 2,613 while Kerala reported 2,456 new cases. 11.32 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1707450]. Click here for PDF.

March 24, 2021

1396. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 68 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 5.21 Crore today. A total of 5,21,97,380 vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 7 pm today. These include 79,56,925 HCWs who have taken the 1st dose and 50,47,927 HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 84,33,875 FLWs (1dose), 32,02,183 FLWs (2 dose), 2,26,01,622 beneficiaries more than 60 years old and 49,54,848 beneficiaries aged 45 and above with specific co-morbidities. 9.06 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1707381]. Click here for PDF.

1395. People aged 45 years and above are the most vulnerable; Case Fatality Rate of this group is 2.85% : Health Secretary - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Nine out of 10 top districts with maximum active COVID cases are in Maharashtra. Districts include Pune, Nagpur, Mumbai, Thane, Nashik, Aurangabad, Nanded, Jalgaon and Akola. Of the total cases reported across the country, only 3.14% of the cases account for active cases. Union Health and Family Welfare Secretary Shri Rajesh Bhushan presented the details at a media briefing on the actions taken, preparedness and updates on COVID-19, held at National Media Centre in New Delhi today. 7.02 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1707348]. Click here for PDF.

1394. Genome Sequencing by INSACOG shows variants of concern and a Novel variant in India - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Consortium on Genomics (INSACOG) is a grouping of 10 National Laboratories that was established by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt of India on 25/12/2020. INSACOG is since then carrying out genomic sequencing and analysis of circulating COVID-19 viruses, and correlating epidemiological trends with genomic variants. Genomic variants of various viruses are a natural phenomenon and are found in almost all countries. 12.49 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1707177]. Click here for PDF.

1393. India’s total Vaccination Coverage has surpassed 5 cr Doses - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has crossed a significant milestone in the fight against the global pandemic. The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 5 crore. 5,08,41,286 vaccine doses have been administered through 8,23,046 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 am today. These include 79,17,521 HCWs (1st dose), 50,20,695 HCWs (2nd dose), 83,62,065 FLWs (1 dose) and 30,88,639 FLWs (2 Dose), 47,01,894 beneficiaries aged more than 45 years with specific co-morbidities (1 Dose) and 2,17,50,472 beneficiaries aged more than 60 years. 11.04 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1707151]. Click here for PDF.

March 23, 2021

1392. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 67 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has crossed a significant milestone in the fight against the global pandemic. The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 5 Crore today. A total of 5,00,75,162 vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 7 pm today. These include 79,03,068 HCWs who have taken the 1st dose and 50,09,252 HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 83,33,713 FLWs (1dose), 30,60,060 FLWs (2 dose), 2,12,03,700 beneficiaries more than 60 years old and 45,65,369 beneficiaries aged 45 and above with specific co-morbidities. 9.19 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1707090]. Click here for PDF.

1391. MHA Guidelines for effective control of COVID-19 - Ministry of Home Affairs

States/ UTs mandated to strictly enforce Test-Track-Treat protocol, Containment measures,COVID-Appropriate behavior and SOPs on various activities. 4.53 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706966]. Click here for PDF.

1390. Scientific Research in Ayush for Covid-19 Treatment - AYUSH

Ministry of AYUSH has formed an Inter-disciplinary AYUSH R&D Task Force chaired by Prof. Bhushan Patwardhan and having representation from scientists including ICMR, DBT, CSIR, AIIMS and AYUSH Institutions. 4.34 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706948]. Click here for PDF.

1389. Importance of Ayush to Improve the Immunity - AYUSH

The Government has taken note of the importance of AYUSH in view of the need to improve the immunity of every individual and has taken various steps to propagate AYUSH among the public. The Ministry of AYUSH have conventionally organised National and State level Arogya fairs; exhibitions; seminars; melas to increase awareness about affordable and easy practices that can be adopted for prevention of diseases including enhancing immunity. 4.32 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706946]. Click here for PDF.

1388. Export of Vaccine to other Nations - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

A sub-Group of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 was constituted to consider all matters related to vaccine export of COVID-19 vaccines and take necessary decisions with due regard to domestic production and ensuring adequate availability for the national vaccine programme for COVID-19. This Sub-Group closely monitors the supplies. 4.30 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706942]. Click here for PDF.

1387. Maharashtra, Punjab, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu report a rise in Daily New Cases; account for 81% of daily new cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Six States- Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu- are reporting a surge in daily new cases. They together account for 80.90% of the new cases (40,715) reported in last 24 hours. Maharashtra continues to report the highest daily new cases at 24,645 (60.53%). It is followed by Punjab with 2,299 while Gujarat reported 1,640 new cases. 11.40 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706832]. Click here for PDF.

March 22, 2021

1386. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 66 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 4.72 Crore today. A total of 4,72,07,134vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 7pm today. These include 78,30,626HCWs who have taken the 1st dose and 49,30,888HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 81,72,121FLWs (1stdose), 27,93,013FLWs (2nd dose), 1,94,07,739beneficiaries more than 60 years old and 4072747beneficiaries aged 45 and above with specific co-morbidities. 9.00 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706747]. Click here for PDF.

1385. Frequently Asked Questions on Co-WIN - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Registration: 1. Where can I register for COVID-19 vaccination? You can log into the Co-WIN portal using the link www.cowin.gov.in and click on the “Register/Sign In Yourself” tab to register for COVID-19 vaccination. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1384. Centre writes to States/UTs to Increase the Interval between two doses of COVISHIELD to 4-8 weeks based on NTAGI and NEGVAC Recommendation - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In view of the emerging scientific evidence, the interval between two doses of a specific COVID-19 vaccine i.e. COVISHIELD, has been revisited by National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) and subsequently by National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC) in its 20th meeting. 3.20 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706597]. Click here for PDF.

1383. Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh account for more than 80% of the daily new COVID19 cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh are reporting a surge in the COVID daily new cases. They together account for 80.5% of the total new cases registered in the last 24 hours. 46,951 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Of these, 84.49% are reported from 6 States of Maharashtra, Punjab, Kerala, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 30,535 (65.03%). This is followed by Punjab with 2,644 while Kerala reported 1,875 new cases. 11.12 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706531]. Click here for PDF.

March 21, 2021

1382. Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh account for 77.7% of the new cases reported in last 24 hours - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Some States in the country are noticing a spike in the daily new cases. Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh account for 77.7% of the new cases in last 24 hours.

43,846 new daily cases reported in last 24 hours.

83.14% of the new cases are from 6 States. 12.09 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706396]. Click here for PDF.

March 20, 2021

1381. India records a milestone in COVID19 vaccination with administration of over 4.2 cr vaccine doses - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has scaled a significant peak in its battle against COVID 19 pandemic. The total vaccination coverage has surpassed 4 crores.

4,20,63,392 vaccine doses have been administered through 6,86,469 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 am today. 11.40 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706226]. Click here for PDF.

March 19, 2021

1380. SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium - Ministry of Science & Technology

The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) was set up for genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in India. The consortium involves ten Regional Genome Sequencing Laboratories (RGSLs) namely NIBMG Kalyani, ILS Bhubaneswar, ICMR-NIV Pune, NCCS Pune, CSIR-CCMB Hyderabad, CDFD Hyderabad, InStem/NCBS Bengaluru, NIMHANS Bengaluru, CSIR-IGIB Delhi, and NCDC Delhi. 5.17 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706087]. Click here for PDF.

1379. Covid Vaccination Beneficiaries - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

As per the recommendation of the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration for COVID-19 (NEGVAC), the following categories are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination:  Health Care Workers, Front Line Workers, persons aged 60 years and above and persons between 45 to 59 years of age with specified comorbidities. 2.55 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1706006]. Click here for PDF.

1378. Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Chhattisgarh exhibiting a steep rise in Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Some States in the country are reporting a surge in the daily new COVID cases.  Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Chhattisgarh together account 80.63% of the daily new cases. 39,726 new daily cases were reported in last 24 hours. Maharashtra continues to report the highest daily new cases at 25,833, 65% of the daily cases. It is followed by Punjab with 2,369 while Kerala reported 1,899 new cases. 11.11 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705966]. Click here for PDF.

March 18, 2021

1377. Majority Covid Warriors and frontline workers in Southern Command Vaccinated - Ministry of Defence

The COVID-19 vaccination for front line workers serving in Southern Command area of responsibility covering 11 states and 04 Union territories commenced on 08 February 2021 as per the National COVID-19 vaccination drive and MoHFW guidelines issued for the same. 5.36 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705835]. Click here for PDF.

1376. Covid-19 and Malnutrition in Children - Ministry of Women and Child Development

Government has been receiving regular reports from the States on the prevailing scenario and activities undertaken during Covid-19 pandemic, though no formal study on impact of Covid-19 on malnutrition has been conducted. 4.40 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705808]. Click here for PDF.

1375. Measures to Improve Health Services post COVID19 Pandemic - Ministry of Women and Child Development

Govt. is implementing the Supplementary Nutrition Programme under Anganwadi Services and Scheme for Adolescent Girls for different categories of beneficiaries. in order to improve the nutritional status of Women and Children. To ensure continuous nutritional support to Anganwadi beneficiaries during the COVID-19 pandemic, necessary directions were issued to the States/UTs to distribute supplementary nutrition at the doorstep of beneficiaries once in 15 days by Anganwadi Workers. 3.48 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705780]. Click here for PDF.

1374. More than 23 crore COVID tests conducted across the country - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The number of COVID tests conducted across the country has crossed 23 cr today. 23,03,13,163 have been conducted as on date. The cumulative national Positivity Rate continues to remain less than 5.00%. It stands at 4.98% today. 11.53 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705712]. Click here for PDF.

March 17, 2021

1373. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 61 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 3.64Crore today. A total of 3,64,67,744vaccine doses have been given,as per the provisional report till 7pm today. These include 75,47,958HCWs who have taken the 1st dose and 4608397HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 76,63,647FLWs (1^st dose), 17,86,812FLWs(2^nd dose), 1,24,74,362beneficiaries more than 60 years old and 23,86,568beneficiaries aged 45 and above with specific co-morbidities. 9.08 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705628]. Click here for PDF.

1372. Vaccine wastage has to be drastically reduced, states should optimally use vaccine: Union Health Secretary - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

"The contribution of active cases as well as the case fatality rate is 2 percent or less than it. This is significant as some states are seeing a surge of COVID-19", stated Union Health and Family Welfare Secretary Shri Rajesh Bhushan at a media briefing on the actions taken, preparedness and updates on COVID-19, held at National Media Centre in New Delhi today. 7.03 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705577]. Click here for PDF.

1371. PM interacts with the Chief Ministers on Covid-19 situation - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi interacted with the Chief Ministers of various states today regarding the COVID-19 situation via video conference. The Chief Ministers praised the leadership of the Prime Minister in the fight against Covid. They thanked the Prime Minister for the smooth implementation of the vaccination drive all across the country, while also giving their inputs and suggestions to further expand the vaccination coverage. 3.32 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705457]. Click here for PDF.

1370. Five States -Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu- continue to drive up India’s Active Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat andTamil Nadu continue to report a high number of daily new cases. They collectively account for 71.10% of the 28,903 new cases reported in the last 24 hours. 83.91% of the new cases are from Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Maharashtra alone accounts for 61.8% of the daily new cases with 17,864 cases. It is followed by Kerala with 1,970 while Punjab reported 1,463 new cases. 10.42 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705350]. Click here for PDF.

March 16, 2021

1369. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 60 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 3.48Crore today. A total of 3,48,59,345vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 7pm today. These include 75,01,590HCWs who have taken the 1st dose and 45,40,776HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 75,91,670FLWs (1dose), 16,28,096FLWs (2 dose), 1,14,54,104beneficiaries more than 60 years old and 21,43,109beneficiaries aged 45 and above with specific co-morbidities. 9.58 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705295]. Click here for PDF.

1368. Demand for Indian COVID-19 Vaccines - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Ministry of External Affairs has received several requests for the supply of Indian manufactured COVID-19 vaccines from various foreign countries. In its Press Release of 19 January 2021, Ministry of External Affairs had stated that "Immunization programme is being implemented in India, as in other countries, in a phased manner to cover the healthcare providers. 1.25 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705064]. Click here for PDF.

1367. Addressing Social Stigma associated with COVID-19 Pandemic - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Addressal of stigma associated with COVID-19 and resulting discrimination faced by patients as well as healthcare workers involved in COVID-19 related activities is a major theme of COVID-19 communication strategy adopted by Government of India. 1.24 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705063]. Click here for PDF.

1366. India scales several peaks in its fight against COVID19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

In its collaborative fight against the COVID19 pandemic, India has scaled several peaks today.  In a significant development, the total vaccination coverage in India has crossed the3.29 crore.

Yesterday, India also recorded the highest vaccinations in a day with over 3 million vaccine doses administered.

The coverage of beneficiaries aged over 60 years has crossed 1 crore in just 15 days. 11.23 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1705043]. Click here for PDF.

March 15, 2021

1365. 6th Mega Health Camp in Parliament for Super-specialist Consultations inaugurated by Speaker Lok Sabha in presence of Dr Harsh Vardhan - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The 6 Mega-Health camp in Parliament House Annexe for super-specialist consultations for Parliamentarians was inaugurated today by Shri Om Birla,Speaker of LokSabha in the presence of Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare andShriAshwini Kumar Choubey, Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. ShriPralhadVenkatesh Joshi,Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, ShriHarivansh Narayan Singh, Deputy Chairman, RajyaSabha and other dignitaries were also present at the event. 3.44 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704844]. Click here for PDF.

1364. Digital process for tracking Coronavirus - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Government has taken a number of steps for tracing / tracking of patients with corona and other infectious diseases in the country, as given below :-

Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme(IDSP) :-  Under IDSP, Surveillance units have been established in all States and District Headquarters and are reporting weekly data on epidemic prone diseases.  The data is collected to monitor disease trends and to detect and respond to outbreaks in early rising phase through trained Rapid Response Teams (RRTs). The IDSP has also been geared up in connection with Covid-19 to track and follow up passengers coming from various countries like China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, etc. 2.48 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704823]. Click here for PDF.

1363. Immunization of Children - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The full immunization coverage stands at 92.8%, as per HMIS data from April 2019 to March 2020. However, still there are pockets where children remain deprived of completing the doses of vaccination, on account of various reasons, such as: (i) lack of awareness of benefit of Immunization, (ii) apprehensions of Adverse Event Following Immunization (AEFI), (iii) Child travelling, (iv) refusal for vaccination and (v) operational gaps. 2.39 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704820]. Click here for PDF.

1362. Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu continue to report a spike in Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Five States of Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu continue to report a surge in the COVID daily new cases. They cumulatively account for 78.41% of the new cases reported in the past 24 hours. 26,291 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 16,620 (accounting for 63.21% of the daily new cases). It is followed by Kerala with 1,792 while Punjab reported 1,492 new cases. 11.58 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704796]. Click here for PDF.

March 14, 2021

1361. In the World's Largest Vaccination Drive, close to 3 crore vaccine doses administered in India - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has rolled out the world's largest vaccination drive. The country is nearing 3 cr cumulative vaccination doses. 2,97,38,409 vaccine doses have been administered through 5,10,400 sessions, as per the provisional report till 7 am today. 11.36 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704694]. Click here for PDF.

March 13, 2021

1360. India registers a new landmark in COVID19 Vaccination with Highest Single Day Vaccination of More than 20.53 lakh Doses - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India recorded a significant milestone in its countrywide COVID19 vaccination drive which started on 16^th January, 2021.

More than 20 lakh (20,53,537) vaccine doses were given on Day-56 of the vaccination drive (12^th March, 2021) through 30,561 sessions. This is the highest single day vaccine administration so far.

16,39,663 beneficiaries were vaccinated for 1^st dose (HCWs and FLWs) and 4,13,874 HCWs and FLWs received the 2^nd dose of vaccine. 11.22 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704544]. Click here for PDF.

March 12, 2021

1359. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu continue to reportan upsurge in Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Some States in the country have been reporting very high number of daily new COVID cases. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu continue to report a surge in the COVID daily cases. They cumulatively account for 85.6% of the new cases reported in the past 24 hours.

23,285 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 14,317 (61.48% of the daily new cases). It is followed by Kerala with 2,133 while Punjab reported 1,305 new cases. 11.20 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704280]. Click here for PDF.

March 11, 2021

1358. COVID Vaccination-Day 55 being a Gazetted Holiday (Maha Shivratri) in a Large Number of States, results in lower Vaccination numbers - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 2.60 crore today. A total of 2,60,73,517 vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 7pm today. These include72,16,759 HCWs who have taken the 1st dose and 40,48,754 HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 71,16,849 FLWs (1dose), 6,70,813 FLWs (2 dose), 10,21,588 beneficiaries aged 45 and above with specific co-morbidities and 59,98,754 beneficiaries more than 60 years old. 9.40 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704239]. Click here for PDF.

1357. Eight out of top 10 districts with active COVID-19 cases are in Maharashtra: Union Health Secretary - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Eight out of top 10 districts with active COVID-19 cases are in Maharashtra, stated Union Health and Family Welfare Secretary Shri Rajesh Bhushan in course of a press briefing on the actions taken, preparedness and updates on COVID-19, held at National Media Centre in New Delhi today.  Pune with 18,474 cases tops the list, followed by Nagpur with 12,724 cases, then Thane with 10,460 cases and Mumbai with 9,973 cases. The other districts of Maharashtra in the list are Amravati, Jalgaon, Nashik and Aurangabad. 6.54 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704189]. Click here for PDF.

1356. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu continue to report High Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu continue to report high number of COVID daily new cases. They cumulatively account for 85.91% of the new cases reported in the past 24 hours. 22,854 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 13,659 (almost 60% of the daily new cases). It is followed by Kerala with 2,475 while Punjab reported 1,393 new cases. 11.02 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1704041]. Click here for PDF.

March 10, 2021

1355. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 54 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 2.52 crore today. A total of 2,52,89,693 vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 7pm today. These include 71,70,519 HCWs who have taken the 1st dose and 39,77,407 HCWs who have taken the 2nd dose, 70,31,147 FLWs (1stdose), 5,82,118 FLWs (2nd dose), 9,29,359 beneficiaries aged 45 and above with specific co-morbidities and 55,99,143 beneficiaries more than 60 years old. 8.39 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703966]. Click here for PDF.

1354. Over 2.4 cr Vaccine Doses administered across the Country - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

More than 2.43 cr (2,43,67,906) vaccine doses have been administered through 3,39,145 sessions across the States and UTs, as per the provisional report till 7 am today. These include 71,30,098 HCWs (1st dose), 38,90,257HCWs (2nd dose), 69,36,480 FLWs (1 dose) and 4,73,422 FLWs (2 Dose), 8,33,526 beneficiaries aged more than 45 years with specific co-morbidities (1 Dose) and 51,04,123 beneficiaries aged more than 60 years (1 Dose). 12.09 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703702]. Click here for PDF.

March 09, 2021

1353. No shortage of Vaccine Doses in Rajasthan. Centre closely Monitoring Vaccine Supply in all States/UTs - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

There have been some news reports suggesting impending shortage of COVID19 Vaccine doses in Rajasthan. The factual position is that there is no shortage of COVID19 vaccine with the State at present. Rajasthan has been supplied 37.61 lakh doses and has consumed only 24.28 lakh doses till yesterday night. The Central government is regularly monitoring availability of vaccine supply in all States and UTs, and providing the doses as per their requirement and consumption pattern. 1.32 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703452]. Click here for PDF.

1352. Increase in Fund Allocation for various Health Schemes - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

There is an overall increase of 7.95% in budget allocation for Health Schemes in 2021-22 as compared to allocation in 2020-21. 1.25 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703447]. Click here for PDF.

1351. COVID-19 Helplines for Mental Health Assistance - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Centre for Psychosocial Support in Disaster Management, NIMHANS, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had initiated a nationwide toll free 24 x 7 helpline (080-4611 0007) on 29 March 2020 to address the mental health and psychosocial concern of the public during pandemic and lock down. As on 27 February 2021 this helpline has received 3,37,556 calls and provided 53,081 individuals with specific assistance/ interventions. 1.23 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703446]. Click here for PDF.

1350. COVID-19 vaccine per million population - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The State/UT-wise details of number of doses administered and doses per million population, as on 3 March 2021 is given in the table below.

India is the second most populous country in the world. It is in this context that vaccination per million population has to be appreciated. The national average per million population for India stands at 11,675 doses while it is 2,32,300 doses, 3,14,100 doses, 71,600 doses and 76,400 doses per million population for USA, UK, France & Germany respectively, at present. (source: www.ourworldindata.org). 1.19 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703443]. Click here for PDF.

1349. Safety and Efficacy of COVID-19 Vaccines - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

As per New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019 (ND & CT Rules 2019) under Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and in light of urgent need due to COVID pandemic in the country, Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in consultation with Subject Expert Committee (SEC) has granted permission to manufacture the following COVID-19 vaccines. 1.16 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703442]. Click here for PDF.

1348. India crosses a landmark in COVID19 Vaccination - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has recorded a significant achievement in its countrywide COVID19 vaccination drive which was rolled out from 16 January 2021. More than 2 million vaccine doses were administered in the last 24 hours. 11.27 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703413]. Click here for PDF.

March 08, 2021

1347. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 52 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 2.26 Crore today. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on 16 Jan 2021 and vaccination of the Frontline Workers (FLWs) started from 2 Feb 2021.The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination has commenced from 1st March 2021 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. 9.48 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703346]. Click here for PDF.

1346. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu continue to report a spike in Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu have been reporting a surge in the COVID daily new cases. They cumulatively account for 86.25% of the new cases reported in the past 24 hours.

18,599 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours.

Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 11,141. It is followed by Kerala with 2,100 while Punjab reported 1,043 new cases. 10.59 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703117]. Click here for PDF.

March 07, 2021

1345. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh visits several Vaccination Centers in Guwahati - Ministry of Development of North-East Region

On the seventh day of Phase-II of countywide Vaccination drive today, 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 visited different Vaccination Centres in Guwahati, Assam and interacted with citizens while inquiring about their well-being and also asking if there was any suggestion from the vaccination-seekers or anything more that could be done for them either at official level or unofficially at the social level. 7.29 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703038]. Click here for PDF.

1344. Delhi Medical Association (DMA) Honors Dr Harsh Vardhan for Outstanding Service & Exemplary Work during COVID-19 Pandemic - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Delhi Medical Association (DMA) honoured Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Science and Technology and Earth Sciences for his contribution to the medical fraternity and outstanding service and exemplary work during the COVID-19 Pandemic. 5.18 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1703017]. Click here for PDF.

1343. 'Resilience, research and reinvention’ helped India become a torch-bearer in global fight against Covid19 pandemic - Vice President - Vice President's Secretariat

The Vice President, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu today said that ‘resilience, research and reinvention’ helped India become a torch-bearer in the global fight against Covid-19 pandemic. He also applauded the untiring efforts and ingenuity of Indian researchers and scientists for finding technological solutions to the challenges thrown by the pandemic. 1.16 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702985]. Click here for PDF.

1342. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu exhibit a steep rise in Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Six states across the country are reporting high daily COVID19 cases. These are Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu. They collectively account for 84.71% of the 18,711 new daily cases reported in last 24 hours. Maharashtra continues to report the highest daily new cases at 10,187. It is followed by Kerala with 2,791 while Punjab reported 1,159 new cases. 11.32 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702981]. Click here for PDF.

March 06, 2021

1341. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 50 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 2.06Crore today. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on 16 Jan 2021 and vaccination of the Frontline Workers (FLWs) started from 2 Feb 2021.The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination has commenced from 1st March 2021 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. A total of 2,06,62,073vaccine doses have been given, as per the provisional report till 7pm today. 9.49 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702939]. Click here for PDF.

1340. States exhibiting surge in Daily New COVID cases and High Active Caseload urged to Return to Fundamentals of “Test, Track and Treat” - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Shri Rajesh Bhushan, Union Health Secretary and Dr. Vinod K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog today interacted with Health Secretaries and MDs (NHM) of Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and UTs of Delhi and Chandigarh.  These States/UTs have in the recent past seen increased positivity and increased number of daily positive cases. They reviewed the ongoing public health measures of surveillance, containment and management of COVID cases in wake of the steep rise in daily new cases of COVID and the high number of active caseload being reported from these eight States/UTs. 3.05 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702870]. Click here for PDF.

1339. Centre rushes High Level Public Health teams to Maharashtra and Punjab to assist in COVID-19 control and containment measures in view of recent spike in cases in these States - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The Central Government has rushed high level multi-disciplinary public health teams to Maharashtra and Punjab in view of the increase in number of daily new COVID-19 cases being consistently reported by these States. They are being deployed to assist the State Health Departments in COVID-19 surveillance, control and containment measures. 2.19 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702862]. Click here for PDF.

1338. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu continue to report a spike in Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka and  Tamil Nadu have reported a high number of COVID daily new cases. They cumulatively account for 82% of the new cases reported in the past 24 hours. 18,327 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 10,216. It is followed by Kerala with 2,776 while Punjab reported 808 new cases. 11.14 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702839]. Click here for PDF.

March 05, 2021

1337. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 49 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 1.90Crore today. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on 16 Jan 2021 and vaccination of the Frontline Workers (FLWs) started from 2 Feb 2021.The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination has commenced from 1st March 2021 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. A total of 1,90,40,175vaccine doses have beengiven, as per the provisional report till 7 pm today. 9.15 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702784]. Click here for PDF.

1336. More than 1.8 cr COVID19 Vaccine Doses Administered across the Country - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India has registered a cumulative figure of more than 1.8 crore (1,80,05,503) COVID19 Vaccination doses, as per the provisional report till 7 am today. These include 68,53,083 HCWs (1st dose), 31,41,371 HCWs (2nd dose), 60,90,931 FLWs (1st dose) and 67,297 FLWs (2nd Dose), 2,35,901 beneficiaries aged more than 45 years with specific comorbidities (1st Dose) and 16,16,920 beneficiaries aged more than 60 years. 11.31 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702634]. Click here for PDF.

March 04, 2021

1335. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 48 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 1.77 Crore today. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on 16th Jan 2021 and vaccination of the Frontline Workers (FLWs) started from 2nd Feb 2021.The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination has commenced from 1st March 2021 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. 9.00 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702568]. Click here for PDF.

1334. COVID-19 vaccination drive begins at ECI headquarters - Election Commission

Election Commission of India today started COVID-19 vaccination drive for its officers and staff working at Nirvachan Sadan, Delhi. Former Chief Election Commissioner Shri. M.S. Gill, took the first shot of vaccine, to mark the beginning of the vaccination drive. 6.01 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702492]. Click here for PDF.

1333.  Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Karnataka continue to report a High Number of Daily New COVID Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Karnataka continue to report a surge in the COVID daily new cases. They cumulatively account for 85.51% of the new cases reported in the past 24 hours. 17,407 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 9,855. This is the highest number recorded in Maharashtra since 18 October when 10,259 new cases were reported. It is followed by Kerala with 2,765 while Punjab reported 772 new cases. 11.45 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702398]. Click here for PDF.

March 03, 2021

1332. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 47 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 1.63 Crore today. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on 16 Jan 2021 and vaccination of the Frontline Workers (FLWs) started from 2 Feb 2021.The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination has commenced from 1st March 2021 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. 8.58 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702329]. Click here for PDF.

1331. Phase 3 Clinical Trial of COVAXIN, developed by ICMR & Bharat Biotech, shows 81% efficacy - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Phase 3 results of the COVAXIN, developed by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)in partnership with Bharat BiotechInternational Limited (BBIL),has shown an interim vaccine efficacy of 81% in preventing Covid-19. The Phase 3 trial,jointly initiated by ICMR and BBIL in mid-November 2020,was conducted in a total of 25,800 individualsacross 21 sites. The interim efficacy trend of 81%, analyzed as per the protocol approved by the DCGI, putsit at par with other global front-runner vaccines. 6.30 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702293]. Click here for PDF.

1330. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Karnataka continue to report an upsurge in Daily New Cases. More than 1.56 cr vaccine doses administered till 7 am today - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Karnataka continue to report a surge in the COVID daily new cases. Together, they account for 85.95% of the new cases reported in the past 24 hours. 14,989 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra has reported the highest daily new cases at 7,863. It is followed by Kerala with 2,938 while Punjab reported 729 new cases. 12.03 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702138]. Click here for PDF.

1329. Policy Dialogue on COVID-19 Vaccine organized by CSIR-NISTADS and CSIR-NISCAIR - Ministry of Science & Technology

CSIR Institutions CSIR-NISTADS and CSIR-NISCAIR, New Delhi jointly organized a half-day session on “A Policy Dialogue on COVID-19 Vaccine from Self-Reliance to Global Leadership: Opportunities, Challenges, and Policy Imperatives in COVID Era” recently. This event was organised to celebrate the National Science Day and to have a policy discourse from eminent personalities on the journey of indigenous development of the COVID-19 vaccine in the midst of the pandemic. It focussed on the opportunities available, the challenges faced and the policy imperatives for a way forward to become a global leader not only in the COVID-19 vaccine but also in vaccines in general. 11.35 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702132]. Click here for PDF.

March 02, 2021

1328. FAQs for Healthcare Workers and Front line workers - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Which COVID-19 vaccines are licenced in India?

Two vaccines that have been granted emergency use authorization by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO)in India are Covishield® (AstraZeneca's vaccine manufactured by Serum Institute of India) and Covaxin® (manufactured by Bharat Biotech Limited). Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1327. COVID19 Vaccination-Day 46. More than 1.54 Cr COVID19 vaccine doses administered. 6.09 lakh vaccine doses given till 7pm today - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 1.54 Crore today. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on 16 Jan 2021 and vaccination of the Frontline Workers (FLWs) started from 2 Feb 2021.The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination has commenced from 1st March 2021 for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. 11.07 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702073]. Click here for PDF.

1326. Update on COVID19 Vaccination States/UTs urged to utilise 100% capacities of Private Hospitals functioning as COVID Vaccination Centres (CVCs) - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Shri Rajesh Bhushan, Union Health Secretary along with Dr. Ram S Sharma, Chairman of Empowered Group on Vaccine Administration (Co-WIN) and member, National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration of COVID-19 (NEGVAC) chaired a high-level review meeting today with Addl. Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries and Secretaries (H&FW) of States and UTs through a video conference (VC) today. They reviewed the status and pace of the next phase of the country-wide COVID vaccination program which commenced from 1st March 2021. 7.56 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702038]. Click here for PDF.

1325. Change in Approach in Vaccination Drive – Demand-driven Approach from now on: Chairperson, EG, COVID Vaccination - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

“More than 1.48 Crore vaccine doses have been administered so far. These include more than 67 lakh Healthcare workers who got the first dose and around 26 lakh HCW who got the second dose.” Health Secretary, Shri Rajesh Bhushan presented the above update on COVID Vaccination during the weekly COVID briefing at National Media Centre in New Delhi today. 6.50 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1702009]. Click here for PDF.

1324. Dr. Harsh Vardhan takes his first dose of COVID-19 Vaccine - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Appealed all eligible to take the vaccine and negate any rumour related to vaccine. “Both these vaccines are safe, immunogenic and useful. Till now, around 1.5 crore people have been vaccinated. Only 0.0003% people have shown the minor AEFI effects till now”. “ Vaccine Appropriate Behaviour along with COVID appropriate behaviour key to fighting virus”. “Indian vaccines are in high demand in the world.This is good news for Vaccine Maitri”. 5.56 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1701986]. Click here for PDF.

1323. Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Tamil Nadu & Gujarat witness an upsurge in Daily New Cases. Caution advised to States showing High Active Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

India’s total Active Caseload stands at 1.68 lakh (1,68,358) today as the country added 12,286 new cases in the last 24 hours. The country’s present active caseload now consists of 1.51% of India’s total Positive Cases. 80.33% of the new cases are from 5 States. Maharashtra continues to report the highest daily new cases at 6,397. It is followed by Kerala with 1,938 while Punjab reported 633 new cases. Two states, Maharashtra and Kerala alone account for 67.84% of total active cases. 12.06 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1701884]. Click here for PDF.

March 01, 2021

1322. Guidelines on Preventive Measures to Contain Spread of COVID-19 in Yoga Institutes & Gymnasiums - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Background: While Yoga and physical activity being important for health & well-being, to prevent spread of COVID-19 infection, it is important that required physical distancing and other COVID appropriate measures are followed. Yoga Institutes and Gymnasiums shall adhere to protocols and prevention measures outlined in this document to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1321. SOP on preventive measures in Hotels and other Hospitality Units to contain spread of COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Background: All hotels and other hospitality units must take suitable measures to restrict any further transmission of COVID-19 while providing accommodation and other tourist services. The SOP aims to minimize all possible physical contacts between Staff and Guests and maintain physical distancing and other preventive and safety measures against COVID-19. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1320. SOP on preventive measures in Restaurants to contain spread of COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Background: Given the current COVID-19 outbreak in India, it is important that restaurants and other hospitality units take suitable measures to restrict any further transmission of the virus while providing restaurant services. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1319. SOP on preventive measures in shopping malls to contain spread of COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Background: Shopping malls get frequented by large number of people for shopping, entertainment and food. To prevent spread of COVID-19 infection, it is important that required physical distancing and other preventive measures are followed. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1318. SOP on preventive measures to be followed in Entertainment Parks and similar places to contain spread of COVID-19 - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Background Entertainment Parks and similar places are frequented by a large number of people for leisure and entertainment. To prevent spread of COVID-19 infection, it is important that required physical distancing and other preventive measures are followed in these places. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1317. SOP on preventive measures to contain spread of COVID-19 in religious places/places of worship - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Background: Religious places / places of worship get frequented by large number of people for spiritual solace. To prevent spread of COVID-19 infection, it is important that required social distancing and other preventive measures are followed in such premises. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1316. SOP on preventive measures to contain spread of COVID-19 in skill or entrepreneurship training institutions - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Background: Government of India is following a phase-wise unlocking of activities. In days to come, this would also involve resumption of activities in skill or entrepreneurship training institutions, higher educational institutions conducting doctoral courses and post graduate studies in technical & professional programs requiring laboratory /experimental work. Read more... [https://www.mohfw.gov.in]. Click here for PDF.

1315. Day 45- next Phase of COVID19 Vaccination commences - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

The cumulative number of COVID19 vaccine doses administered in the country has crossed 1.47 Crore today. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on 16 Jan 2021 and vaccination of the Frontline Workers (FLWs) started from 2 Feb 2021. The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination has commenced from today for those who are over 60 years of age and for people aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions. 9.45 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1701807]. Click here for PDF.

1314. Kerala, Maharashtra, Punjab, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat continue to report an upsurge in COVID Daily New Cases - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Several States in the country continue to report an increased number of daily new cases. 6 States, Maharashtra, Kerala, Punjab, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, have shown a surge in new cases in the last 24 hours. 15,510 new cases were registered in the last 24 hours. Maharashtra continues to report the highest daily new cases at 8,293. It is followed by Kerala with 3,254 while Punjab has reported 579 new cases. 87.25% of the new cases are from these six States. 12.16 p.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1701645]. Click here for PDF.

1313. PM takes first dose of COVID-19 vaccine - Prime Minister's Office

Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi took his first dose of the COVID-19  vaccine today,  at AIIMS New Delhi. In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, "Took my first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at AIIMS. Remarkable how our doctors and scientists have worked in quick time to strengthen the global fight against COVID-19. I appeal to all those who are eligible to take the vaccine. Together, let us make India COVID-19 free!". 7.49 a.m. IST. Read more... [https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1701597]. Click here for PDF.

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