0 1 ; / !< !< < ): ;* 5830 23'('2( , 6247) 8 3245 $+ A 8%-4/8'64 8/8" -"E" 8 %78"9 A"8 7A06 /58/64 "084 A6B .0 /4678 60%1.5 '7."6 '70'"45"- -"%78 -"80- %7"/8:"-7 /44-C4 -44% 0/4- 688 . -468:8. . "6/8C4 /47-"/0 7B/4-"'"/ C8D"B5"/" =6 % (9 *> " *?( =" 4 " , - - 2, 1%15< 51 1 Q
+,-- ! $-
1.61" " O P P Chhatisgarh Rajdhani, Katra !"# " Vande Bharat and other pairs. ours after taking oath, According to Ministry of HBengal Chief Minister Railway sources, if the situation Mamata Banerjee on Thursday # didn’t improve more trains launched a fierce attack on the could be suspended in coming Centre for sending “intimidat- $ % O ' days, bringing the passenger ing” letters and a Central team ! transport services to a near halt. to enquire into the reports of / 45 /4678 Earlier the suspension of ongoing post-poll violence that $% & the train was only for short dis- has seen at least 17 people dead, & ' n view of a massive surge in tance duration but the Ministry many including election can- ()*# () ICovid-19 cases and States of Railways has instructed the didates injured and hundreds imposing curfew and lock- Zonal Railways to suspend of houses destroyed. %# down to contain the pandem- trains wherever there is a mas- Taking a swipe at the ! " # $% $& *+ ic, the Indian Railways has sive Covid-19 surge and also Centre, she said, “This is ' (#() gone for cancellation and sus- poor occupancy. unprecedented… It has not pension of huge numbers of So far zones like ECR, been even 24 hours that the but he would not even reply to Secretary level officer arrived in ! " trains, including premier trains Central Railway, Southern Government has taken charge that…maybe that he is busy… Bengal to enquire into the # such as Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Railway, South Eastern Railway and they are sending letters, but my question is when stat- reports of post-poll - . Vande Bharat express. catering to States like Bihar, UP teams and Ministers… my ues can be made spending violence. / ! At an average, the Railways Jharkhand, West Bengal, question is where was these thousands of crore… why has suspended 260 trains per Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, teams when violence was tak- 30,000 cannot be earmarked & $% & , day in the last ten days. The Kerala, and Maharashtra had ing place in Delhi and UP?” for free vaccine and oxygen… P & - total number of suspended suspended their inter and intra- Attacking the BJP What has happened to the (.*(. " 01 trains now stands at 2,600, Chief Public Relations Officer, express, the railways also sus- State passenger services due to Government for trying to take PMCares fund?’’, she said. # which is more than one-fifth of Northern Railways. pended 14 pairs of long dis- sharp rise in covid cases and out its frustration after the “Without doing the need- Kolkata: Union Minister V 23 4 the 12,000 trains operated by The cancellation of the tance superfast trains operat- low occupancy in the trains. humiliating defeat it suffered in ful they are trying to disturb an Murlidhar too got trapped in railways during the pre-Covid premier trains is expected to ing from the national Capital The passenger train ser- the just-concluded State elec- elected Government… they the post-poll violence on ! - time. The Indian Railways had send the domestic air ticket on Thursday. vices had started in a phased tions, she said, “The fact is the are sending Ministers and Thursday even as reports of - started the operations of almost price soaring high and place The trains suspended now manner last August after com- BJP is unable to digest its Central teams to complicate the clashes continued to come in 5 ! 9,000 trains in October 2020. the country in a state of semi includes mail/express, holiday plete suspension in March end defeat and so it is trying to cre- issue… but my issue is anyone from various parts of the The number has now come lockdown with States intro- special and passengers spe- 2020. Most of the suspended ate problems through fake may come to Bengal… the State. The Minister’s convoy down to around 6,400. ducing major restrictions on cials. trains are e destined to Bihar, reports on violence,” adding, Central Ministers too… but was attacked at the “Movement of certain pairs the movement of people. The Trains suspended till fur- UP, Jharkhand and Odisha. “Instead of sending letters and whosoever comes from outside, Panchkhuri village in of the passenger trains is being decline in traffic is cited as offi- ther notice from Friday Bihar has announced com- teams they should have sent even by special flights, we want Midnapore Sadar area when suspended till further notice in cial reason for the suspension onwards include Amritsar plete lockdown till middle of vaccines and oxygen.” RT-PCR tests and there will be he went there to enquire into view of surging Covid-19 pos- of trains. Shatabdi, Kalka Shatabdi, this month and given the acute “I wrote to the Prime no discrimination,” she added. the reports of some BJP itive cases and poor occupan- Apart from Rajdhani, Bhopal Shatabdi, Dehradun surge in cases it is likely to be Minister repeatedly to set aside A Home Ministry team workers being attacked by R cy as well,” said Deepak Kumar, Shatabdi and Vande Bharat Shatabdi, Chennai Rajdhani, further extended. 30,000 crore for free vaccine led by an Additional Home alleged TMC men, sources. Q R ( " 45 /4678 45 /4678 children. So when a child goes The Bench also urged the upreme Court on Thursday to hospital, the mother and Centre to examine the possi- Sdisposed of the Election # 2( 2 upreme Court on Thursday father will also have to go. That bility of utilising services of Commission (EC)’s petition to Surged the Central and State is why vaccination will have to doctors who have completed expunge the observation of Governments to start working be over for this group of peo- MBBS and waiting to enroll for Madras High Court that the 786" All the tourism units or on plans “today itself” to tack- ple. We need to plan for this in PG courses. Their services poll panel was singularly tourists will strictly follow the le the third wave of Covid pan- a scientific way and thus make could prove crucial for the responsible for the rise in the hile the Himachal safety and hygiene guidelines demic. The court also suggest- arrangement…If we prepare third wave. Covid-19 pandemic. WGovernment has for operation of tourism units ed that there should be “scien- today we may be able to han- “Today we have 1.5 lakh Disposing of the petition, imposed a ten-day Corona issued from time to time, the tific plan” to vaccinate children both the Centre and Delhi dle it,” said the Bench com- doctors who have finished which was objected by Rajiv curfew starting May 7 to break order added. too before the third State Counsels to “avoid polit- prising Justices DY medical course but waiting for Kumar from filing, the Bench the chain of infection, the Announcing to impose a wave. ical ideological differences” in Chandrachud and MR Shah, NEET exam. How do you tap headed by Justice DY tourists have been allowed to ten-day Corona curfew, the Meanwhile, the Centre the time of pandemic in the reiterating on vaccination cover them? 1.5 lakh doctors and 2.5 Chandrachud said judges visit the state. State Government had a day informed the apex court on interest of people. for Children. lakh nurses are sitting at home. should exercise caution in mak- However, the tourists from before said that government Wednesday that 730 MT (extra “The third surge in India Several health experts have They will be crucial for third ing off-the-cuff remarks while seven Covid-19 highload states and private offices and estab- 30MT) oxygen was supplied to which is around the corner cited risk to children during the wave,” Justice Chandrachud appreciating the role of High will have to show their negative lishments will remain closed Delhi, and the judges advised according to experts will affect third wave. said. Courts across the country in RT-PCR report before check-in while essential services such as taking up the cases related to the hotels across the state. those related to health, elec- the pandemic and delivering During the Corona curfew, tricity, telecommunication, remedies. the hotels, restaurants and water supply and sanitation will “The remarks of the High dhabas have been allowed to be exempted. Court were harsh. The operate as per the SOPs issued issued not earlier than 72 hours metaphor inappropriate,” the by the Department of Tourism. of the tourists coming from Supreme Court said, adding “The swimming pools, Covid-19 highload states like %$& even if the High Court did auditoriums and assembly halls Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, " # $ indeed make the oral observa- in the hotels shall remain Delhi, Karnataka, Gujarat, '( '()'* 45 /4678 The DMA was created last General K. Narayanan, Rear tions that have been alluded to, closed. Before check in the Rajasthan and Punjab,” stated 45 /4678 year along with the Chief of Admiral Kapil Mohan Dhir it did not seek to attribute cul- hotel, Hoteliars or staff will an order issued issued by OC & 1,50,38,$50 n a major reform to fast-track Defence Staff (CDS) institution and Air Vice Marshal Hardeep pability for the Covid-19 pan- check the negative RT-PCR Sharma, Principal Secretary 4'$,2,1556 he southwest monsoon is Idecision making in the and General Bipin Rawat was Bains were appointed as joint demic in the country to the test report for Covid-19 from (Tourism), Himachal on Tlikely to make its onset Armed forces, the Government appointed as the first head of it. secretaries in the DMA, the EC. ICMR approved laboratory Thursday. 1,$$,23 4'$,3586 over the Indian subcontinent at has appointed military officers The CDS is single-point ACC note said. its normal date of June 1. as additional and joint secre- adviser to the political leader- Sources said Puri was & 5,27,83,73$ “Extended Range Forecast sug- taries in the Defence Ministry. ship on matters of defence and already officiating as addition- 4'$,52,106 gests monsoon will arrive over These officers can now act on strategic importance. Similarly, al secretary and the other three ' Kerala on time, around 1 June. their own avoiding bureau- the DMA also came into being officers as joint secretaries. $3,$,%71 This is an early indication,” said cratic maze. along with the CDS to propel With the official and formal M Rajeevan, Secretary at the The setting up of these major reforms in the Armed seal of additional secretary and 9 0,01,2$3 4'31,506 Ministry of Earth Sciences posts was approved by the forces, including joint com- joint secretaries, these four (MoES). Appointments Committee of mands, cutting down avoidable officers can now take decision +/ P 52,%,5%0 4'0,%786 This is the second indica- the Cabinet headed by the expenses by pooling scarce independently. Elaborating on tion of a normal monsoon Prime Minister on Wednesday resources and speeding up the this aspect, they said till now / 45 /4678 52,83,$2 4'01,0306 season in 2021. About 75 per evening, sources said here on pace of modernisation. Rawat the four officers had to seek cent of the country’s annual Thursday. The officers will be heads it as the Secretary, DMA. approval for any decision from ndia has contributed half of 50,17,53 4'13,3116 rainfall is recorded part of the Department of After the ACC nod, Lt Secretary, the DMA as they did Ithe world Covid cases in the between June and Military Affairs (DMA) in the General Anil Puri became not have the requisite official past 24 hour. Of the total 51,2$,%$7 4'5,5$$6 September. Defence Ministry. Additional Secretary. Major sanction. 8,43,709 Covid cases reported across the world on Wednesday, India contributed over 4.12 lakh cases. This is the ! "! highest single-day case report- ed by any country in the world. India’s share of global active ! pated “third Covid wave” in while doling out numerous Minister to carry out a “reali- Singh Bajwa, a known Capt coronavirus cases now stands advance, the MPs have also suggestions to tackle the pre- ty check” of the prevailing Amarinder’s detractor, sug- at 19.26 per cent. " pressed for opting the legal way vailing crisis. The party’s all state of affairs and consider gested knocking the doors of According to the worl- #* # # +, in case the Centre failed to MPs, except former Union imposing a complete lockdown the Punjab and Haryana High dometers.info data, the US, # #* - . # (#! / 01 meet State’s oxygen require- Minister Ambika Soni, from which is currently the only way Court in case the Centre the worst affected country, has ments on the lines of the Delhi both Lok Sabha and Rajya to break the transmission chain refused to provide required reported 46,129 in the last 24 2,10,77,410 and the death toll comes second with 4,14,399 # Government. Sabha, were present in the — a suggestion also supported oxygen supply to the State. hours. The rate of daily new to 2,30,168. fatalities across the world. In fact, the MPs also asked meeting, besides Punjab by some other parliamentari- The Punjab Government infections fell below 50,000 The active cases have The other countries with the State Government to once Congress president Sunil ans. should move the High Court per day over the weekend and increased to 35,66,398 com- more than two million con- & %7"/8:"-7 again urge the Central Jakhar. Some of the MPs also just the way the Delhi continues to decline in the prising 16.92 per cent of total firmed coronavirus cases are Government to allow the oxy- Sources told The Pioneer pointed out that the State was Government had to seek direc- US. The US continues to be the infections. On April 30, it had Brazil (14,936,464), France it hard by the devastating gen supply from Pakistan. that even as discussion on the not at all prepared to deal with tions from the Delhi High worst-hit country with the reported 4.08 lakh cases. The (5,706,378), Turkey Hsecond wave of the novel The Congress’ lawmakers issue arising out of the Punjab the second Covid wave that has Court to get the adequate oxy- world’s highest number of cases last one million cases for India (4,955,594), Russia (4,855,128), coronavirus, the Congress par- from Punjab, during the hours and Haryana High Court’s hit its population so hard that gen supply, Bajwa submitted and deaths at 33,321,244 and have come in just three the UK (4,425,940), Italy liamentarians from Punjab on long video conferencing meet- recent order in the Kotkapura every day it was now reporting during the meeting. 5,93,148 respectively. days. (4,070,400), Spain (3,551,262), Thursday told the Chief ing with the Chief Minister to firing incident and the sacrilege a high number of deaths. They Bajwa also demanded to The new cases and deaths Brazil, the third worst Germany (3,469,448), Minister Capt Amarinder discuss in detail the situation was expected during the meet- asked their own party’s put a cap on the private hospi- in India hit a record daily high affected country reported Argentina (3,071,496), Singh that lockdown was essen- arising out of Covid-19 along ing, the party MPs stressed to Government to “be fully pre- tals which, during the prevail- with 4,12,262 new infections 75,652 cases. France and Colombia (2,934,611), Poland tial for sailing through the with other significant issues, focus on the Covid situation pared in advance” to tackle the ing crisis, are over charging the and 3,980 fatalities being Turkey have reported 26,000 (2,818,378), Iran (2,610,018), Covid-19 storm. While asking assured to fully cooperate the only. “third wave”, as projected by the patients and more interested in reported, taking the total tally and 26,476 cases respectively. Mexico (2,355,985) and the State Government to be State Government in its fight It has been learnt that two Centre also. profiteering. of Covid-19 cases to In terms of deaths, Brazil Ukraine (2,097,024). fully prepared for the antici- against the deadly contagion of MPs asked the Chief Rajya Sabha MP Partap Continued on Page 2 !
786" The Chief Minister said nisms and steps should be that steps must also be taken to taken to remove social stigma imachal Chief Minister Jai reduce the delay in getting associated with the disease. HRam Thakur on Thursday reports of COVID-19 tests. Director General of Police directed the Civil For this, private labs must Sanjay Kundu said that stern Administration and Police be requisitioned. An approval action would be taken against Department to ensure effective had been accorded for setting violators of SoPs issued by the implementation of the corona up of laboratories at Una and State Government. He said that curfew imposed in the wake of Kullu for which Rs seven crore action would also be taken sharp surge of COVID-19 cases had been sanctioned. against people visiting the state in the state. Possibilities must also be by furnishing fake identity and The Chief Minister explored for setting up of test- wrong details. presided over a review meeting ing labs in three government regarding COVID-19 situa- universities and IIT Mandi, HIMACHAL LAUNCH- tion through video conferenc- he added. ES DEDICATED COVID-19 ing from Shimla with Deputy Thakur further directed HELPLINE Commissioners, the officers to bridge the gap In view of sudden surge in Superintendents of Police, between home isolation and COVID-19 cases and deaths in Chief Medical Officers and hospitals as it has been felt that the state, Himachal Principals of Medical Colleges the fatality rate in the state is Government on Thursday in Himachal. increasing due to delay in shift- launched a dedicated Covid-19 The State Government has ing of serious patients in home Helpline at 'Mukhyamantri imposed a corona curfew from isolation to the hospitals which Sewa Sanklap Helpline 1100 for May 7 to May 16 to break the is a matter of concern. facilitating the people regard- chain of the virus. He directed the Health ing COVID related Thakur said that Deputy Department to ensure mainte- issues. Commissioners and nance of a smooth supply chain Chief Minister Jai Ram Superintendents of Police must of oxygen, PPE kits, medi- Thakur while launching the ensure that the general public cines and other logistics during helpline said that the caller can strictly adheres to SoPs issued the corona curfew. call on toll free number 1100 by the State Government from All deputy commissioners from 7 am to 10 pm for seek- time to time to check spread of must also ensure increase in ing help regarding Covid relat- Coronavirus in the state. testing besides enhancing the ed issues. He said that the state has bed capacity in their districts. He said that the call exec- sufficient production of oxygen Adequate manpower must be utive would register the com- but the only constraint is cylin- provided through rationaliza- plaint and contact concerned ders for transportation of the tion and outsourcing to run the authority for providing neces- oxygen. The State Government makeshift hospitals, he sary help to the person regard- had urged the Union said. ing various issues such as tests, Government to provide oxygen During the meeting, Chief vaccination, home quarantine, cylinders to the state to cope up Secretary Anil Khachi said that medicines, ambulance and with the deficiency. Efforts the implementing agencies oxygen etc. must be made to expedite set- must ensure effective sharing of Thakur said that this ting up of PSA Oxygen Plants resources in wake of the pan- helpline is unique in itself by sanctioned by the Union demic. He said that special ensuring effective use of tech- Government to the state, he thrust must be laid on strength- nology in facilitating the peo- directed ening home isolation mecha- ple. O (24 240-4-(24&02024 01(!-'425!)-46.2 7P %7"/8:"-7 Capt Amarinder told the serious note of the poor MPs that despite the state’s response of central govern- unjab Chief Minister Capt repeated pleas and his per- ment institutions in matters PAmarinder Singh on sonal letters to the Prime related to health and medical Thursday urged Congress Minister and the Home infrastructure in the state. In MPs from the state to pres- Minister for increase in spite of repeated requests, surize the Centre to augment Oxygen quota for the state by GOI institutions such as supplies of Oxygen, tankers, 50 MT, the state was still IISER Mohali never gave sup- vaccines and vital medicines struggling with insufficient port in Covid testing, said the to help the state government Oxygen supply. The 195 MT Chief Minister, adding that effectively fight the deadly quota allocated was inade- even AIIMS Bathinda, whose second wave of the pandem- quate for the state to meet its foundation stone was laid by ic. present needs, and even that the Prime Minister over 5 Exhorting the MPs to could not be completely lift- years ago, has not been able to push the Government of India ed due to shortage of tankers, provide any critical Covid to enhance the state’s quota of he noted, adding that the care. PGI, which was set up as Oxygen and dispatch addi- state was currently facing a the main referral hospital for tional tankers on priority to backlot of 120 MT from near- the region, was mostly refus- enable lifting of the full allo- by sources (Dehradun, ing to take patients referred cated quota of 195 MT on Panipat, Roorkee). The situ- from Punjab (even though daily basis, the Chief Minister ation, he said, was grim as the walk-in patients are being said Punjab was being meted state was currently managing taken), and was even con- out step motherly treatment on a 12 hours supply cycle. ducting fewer tests than by the Centre in the matter of On the vaccination front, Punjab colleges. supplies needed urgently to the MPs expressed concern The MPs expressed con- battle Covid. over the low supplies and cern over the Chief Minister’s He said that BJP-ruled repeated delays from the disclosure that genome neighbouring Haryana had Government of India. The sequence results had not been got a bigger Oxygen quota Chief Minister said the state received for the past one and more tankers than government was continuous- month. On the issue of Punjab. ly engaging with both, the phased reopening of shops Expressing concern over Central Government and the from Friday, he told the MPs the issue, the MPs, from both Serum Institute of India, to that DCs and SSPs had been Houses, promised to utilize expedite availability. asked to work out arrange- their MPLAD funds to set up The Centre’s apathy ments after taking stakehold- Oxygen generation plants in towards Punjab was also ers into confidence. government hospitals, to reflected in the fact that many Those who attended complement the state gov- other states had been given meeting included Amritsar ernment’s efforts in tackling more vials of Tocilizumab, MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla, the exponential rise in patient whose import and distribution Patiala MP Preneet Kaur, MP load in Punjab, where a large was controlled by GoI, said Fatehgarh Sahib Dr. Amar number of patients are also the Chief Minister. The state Singh, MP Khadur Sahib coming from neighbouring had sought 650 vials but was Jasbir Singh Gill, MP states for treatment. Besides given only 200 in the initial Ludhiana Ravneet Singh shortage of Oxygen, tankers stages, which were distributed Bittu, MP Jalandhar Santokh vaccines and medicines, the to government and private Singh Chaudhary, MP Sri state was facing issues even on hospitals, he added. Even Anandpur Sahib Manish the ventilators front, since Remdesivir continued to be in Tewari, MP Faridkot Mohd. there was no BEL engineer to short supply, as delivery of the Sadique besides Members install 108 of the 809 ventila- 50000 vials allocated to the Rajya Sabha, Pratap Singh tors received from the state was extremely slow, he Bajwa and Shamsher Singh Government of India, said the said. Dullo and PPCC President Chief Minister. The meeting also took Sunil Jakhar. 8*999
From page 1
“They should be con- Anandpur Sahib MP and for- third wave would be more trolled,” he demanded, with mer Union Minister Manish worse than what we are wit- another Rajya Sabha MP Tewari, who is currently in the nessing now. The Government Shamsher Singh Dullo sup- national capital, the responsi- should consider the ways to porting his demand. bility to take up the issue of vac- save our people,” said Amritsar They also suggested using cine supply to Punjab with the MP Gurjit Singh Aujla after the the available infrastructure of Union health Minister Dr meeting. the sansang ghars, deras etc in Harshvardhan. He said: “We all MPs the State to enhance the bed Notably, Tewari had urged expressed our full support to capacity or setting up the oxy- all MPs from Punjab “irre- the Government to fight gen plants. “Sarbat Bhala Trust spective of party affiliation” to against the COVID…We, col- has offered to set up 10 oxygen meet the Union health Minister lectively, told the Chief plants in the state, and we “to ensure Punjab gets its due Minister that if needed, we all should seek their help,” added quota of vaccine”. Bajwa, also are ready to meet the Union Bajwa. supporting the same, asked Health Minister or the Union Bajwa also suggested set- the Centre to review its allo- Home Minister or anyone to ting up temporary beds with cation and increase it for hold talks with the Centre to the help of the Armed forces. Punjab immediately. take up the issue On slackening pace of the “During the second wave, of oxygen supply, and even spe- vaccination drive in the State, a lot of people died and the cial tankers to carry the MPs suggested to give Sri death toll increased, and the them.”
! " # $ % S ' " (
! " # $% % & ' ( )*+ ( + %$**)* , - *%.)+/$*01/. 2 ( (( - )) 3 /4 +22 2 5 !6 7 !6 27 87579! 7 % ** ! 6 7 : -6 ;6 3 6 ( 3 6 < ' # 6 - $ 9 : = ( -: '+%%* **) 6 *%%+/*%%*/>> + # 6 &+0% $ -#2' 9 - ( +)*%0*% 8 6 *%)*+/1.41** 3 /1.44** : # 6 / & ( & ? 7 :+))$ *%$ , 6 *>))+)0/$//0+/> !
! ## $ %7"/8:"-7 gen quota is 257 MT and a patients so that any critical spreading its wings, therefore not exploited, he added. request has been made to the patient who might be strug- special screening camps in %7"/8:"-7 email:THROUGH NGOs: CS aryana Chief Minister Central government to further gling to get admission in the each village should be set up. HOME ISOLATED [email protected],” said Punjab Government has HManohar Lal Khattar on enhance this quota to 300 hospital can get the much Participation of public repre- PATIENTS TO GET INDI- n the ongoing fight against the spokesperson. Any person allocated a sum of Rs 10 crore Thursday directed to consti- MT, hence uninterrupted oxy- needed treatment at the ear- sentatives in organizing these VIDUAL OXYGEN SUPPLY Icoronavirus, the Punjab who wants to send goods for to the departments of Health, tute district level monitoring gen supply across the state is liest. He also directed the offi- screening camps should be During the meeting, the Government on Thursday COVID relief from outside Education, Social Security teams for oxygen supply and being ensured. cers concerned that both the ensured, he directed. Chief Minister was apprised appointed two nodal officers to India for free distribution in Women and Child demand in every hospital The Deputy government and private hos- Besides this, the Health that a system is being devel- facilitate the individuals or orga- India may contact these officers. Development, Social Justice, across the state. Commissioners should ensure pitals should ensure daily Department has also been oped for providing oxygen nizations in getting tax exemp- Pertinently, Punjab Agri Export Animal Husbandry and SOSVA “These teams should be unloading of the tankers updation of the data regarding directed to impart necessary supply to the COVID 19 tion on any COVID relief to be Corporation Limited (NGO) for helping out the constituted at the earliest. should be done within the number of patients admitted, training to people in these vil- patients and those suffering imported into the State from (PAGREXCO) has been autho- needy in the State through Regular auditing of oxygen, shortest span of time so that patients on oxygen support, lages so that they can spread from co-morbidities who need abroad. rized as the nodal agency for involvement of NGOs during availability of beds and med- the oxygen supply chain in the number of patients discharged the required awareness for oxygen at home. As per the “To fight the challenge of import of such material in this the current fiscal 2021-2022. icines in the hospitals should hospitals remains intact, he so that the requirement the the disease, he added. The system, a portal has been coronavirus pandemic more regard by the Government of Chief Secretary, Ms Vini also be done so that the future added. oxygen quota and other facil- work of imparting the train- developed for the registra- effectively and to facilitate the Punjab. Further, any entity in Mahajan, chairing a meeting of and present strategies regard- Khattar said that as per ities can be given on Hrheal ing would start soon and tion of these patients and flow of aid from outside India, Punjab who wants to import the Apex Committee for pro- ing demand and supply can be the experts a potential rise in and NHM portal. through these camps. the after their registration, various the Government of India has free of cost goods for COVID viding financial assistance to the made in advance,” the Chief the COVID-19 cases is Asking the Deputy Deputy Commissioners social organizations would provided exemption from cus- relief for free distribution in NGOs on Thursday, solicited Minister said while presiding expected therefore all the Commissioners to emphasize should ensure that every also be registered for the dis- toms duty and integrated tax on India could apply on the portal support of the non-govern- over the review meeting of Deputy Commissioners now more on rapid antigen tests, member of 60 lakh families tribution of this oxygen at the goods for COVID relief import- https://taxation.punjab.gov.in/i ment organizations (NGOs) COVID-19 with have to play a pivotal role in the Chief Minister said testing residing in Haryana is tracked, door steps of such patients. ed into the country,” said a mports/. The Spokesperson and appealed to them to come Administrative Secretaries the containment of this pan- capacity should be increased he said. spokesperson of the Punjab said that once authorized by the forward to help the State and Deputy Commissioners demic and have to further especially in rural areas along On the issue of black mar- VACCINATION TO BE Government. He said that the Government, any individual or Government in fighting and through video conferencing. ramp up COVID-19 manage- with aggressive efforts to keting, the Chief Minister DONE IN OPEN OR BIG same concessions could be organization could import such winning the devastating second He said that the Deputy ment preparations coupled reduce the positivity rate of directed that every Deputy HALL availed for such imports if they goods without any tax during COVID wave. “Please get your Commissioner should them- with aggressive surveillance, COVID-19. Improved testing Commissioner should con- The Chief Minister direct- were sent free of cost from out- these turbulent times. NGOs to encourage people for selves monitor the demand stringent containment, capacity together with aggres- stitute a team to curb black ed that the vaccination sites side India and are distributed The move has been initiat- COVID testing, vaccination and supply of oxygen and focused clinical management sive contact tracing is the key marketing of medicines, should be set up either in big free within India. ed by the Punjab Government and early reporting so as to further ensure unloading of along with proactive to reduce the positivity rate. essential commodities. Per halls or in open so that it “For claiming these exemp- to solicit the participation of break the chain of the virus oxygen tankers at the earliest. Information Education and Besides this, more focus kilometer rates for the ambu- should be ensured that the tions, anyone could approach general public in management spread,” urged the Chief More emphasis should be laid Communication (IEC) activ- should be laid on conducting lances should be capped along risk of infection spread is the nodal officer appointed by of resources for fighting the Secretary. on conducting maximum ities, especially in rural areas. antigen testing in every dis- with capping the rate of beds lessened and also that the the State Government of Punjab COVID menace on one hand She commended the NGOs rapid antigen tests, organizing He asked the Deputy trict, along with conducting and medicines in the hospi- COVID-19 protocol and — Kumar Rahul (IAS) on and to provide a single window for putting in their best efforts health check-up and aware- Commissioners to focus on RTPCR, he added. tals. The capped rate list of norms are religiously followed 9876164787 and e-mail: for all such clearances in this towards implementing the pro- ness camps especially in rural shifting the step down patients Emphasizing on setting essential commodities should at the sites. It was informed [email protected] grave hour of crisis, on the other. jects for human resource devel- areas, he directed. to COVID Care Centres along up special screening camps in be displayed outside the shops that soon, Haryana would be and [email protected]; and opment targeting the most- The Chief Minister said with ensuring all medical rural areas, Khattar said since to make the people aware and getting another lot of 3.5 lakh Ravneet Singh Khurana (IRS PUNJAB ALLOCATES RS needy sections in the that at present the state’s oxy- health facilities to such in rural areas the virus is to ensure that the consumer is vaccination doses. C&IT) on 9560954405 and 10-CR TO HELP NEEDY society. . P * # 8* ! %&'
& %7"/8:"-7 of patients requiring oxygen patients who require oxygen. oxygen production units in support at Level II and Level III As on Wednesday, the state had the state, besides appointing a " ( " ith no less than 10,000 health facilities, the demand for 8,457 patients on oxygen sup- nodal officer to coordinate WCOVID-positive patients medical oxygen has increased port, and another 240 critical with Customs Department for on oxygen support amidst the and the state is ensuring avail- patients were on ventilator quick clearance of foreign aid. " 8"6" Rajindra Hospital which was beds with piped oxygen at ing from other state, are also erratic oxygen supplies to the ability of medical oxygen to all support. The special status will witnessing a massive rise in Rajindra Hospital were being being given treatment in state, Punjab Government has the patients admitted in the As per available informa- apply to oxygen production midst the massive surge in deaths to take stock of the care enhanced while 125 beds would Punjab hospitals. asked the doctors not to pre- Government and the Private tion, the state’s consumption of units with a minimum capac- Athe CIVID-19 cases across and treatment arrangements be set up for post COVID care. Soni said that all the three scribe medical oxygen to the health facilities,” read the order. oxygen is more than 250 MT ity of 700 cylinders per day the state, the Punjab for COVID patients, said that “In addition, two manifolds medical colleges of Punjab patients in home isolation. “It has been observed that daily, while the average increase equivalent to five MT, Oxygen Government is increasing the in view of the grim situation of and a 20,000 liter tank will be were making significant con- The fresh orders, amidst some of the doctors are pre- in demand every day is around cylinder manufacturers or fab- bed capacity in all the COVID-19 across the country, installed for uninterrupted sup- tribution in the war against the increasing requirement of scribing medical oxygen to the 15-20 percent. ricators, Oxygen concentrator Government Medical College the Chief Minister Capt ply of oxygen,” he said. COVID and were caring Level- oxygen in state’s hospitals, came patients so that they can take Notably, Punjab has a 195 manufacturing units. However, and Hospitals by 25 percent. Amarinder Singh had directed Soni added that 30 oxygen II and Level-III patients (suf- at a time when the Punjab the medical oxygen support at MT allocation from various the Oxygen refilling units will “To save the precious to increase the capacity of beds generators have arrived and as fering from serious and other Government is struggling with home. This is not advisable as plants in other states, but the not be covered by the special human lives from the second in the hospitals of Government per the demand of the hospi- ailments) very diligently and so the supplies of the life saving it is very important to monitor actual supply received has been status. wave of COVID-19, the bed Medical Colleges for the treat- tal, 1000-1000 cylinders large far more than 60 lakh COVID gas, and also facing shortage of the condition of the patient around 110-120 MT daily, With this decision, the capacity is being increased and ment of COVID in the state, and small are being procured tests have been conducted. special tankers to carry the who requires oxygen support,” which has also been erratic. units — both old and new — both the Medical Education that would likely to be com- soon. “At the same time, 200 Also applauding the doc- same. it added. Considering that the num- will become eligible for 100 and Research and the Health pleted in a week or two. nursing staff and 200 Class IV tors, nurses, and other staff of The orders, issued by the Thus, the order stated, it ber of patients on Oxygen sup- percent exemption from and Family Welfare “In view of the seriousness are being recruited. New Rajindra Hospital for their state Principal Secretary was ordered that “henceforth, port has been rising every day, Change of Land Use (CLU) or Departments are exploring of the situation, timely testing recruitment has also been sanc- relentless working, Soni said (Health and Family Welfare no doctor shall prescribe med- the State Government is mak- External Development Charges additional capacity of 2,000 and early admission of the tioned in place of other super- that the major cause of death in Department) Husan Lal, has ical oxygen to the patients in ing efforts to monitor and (EDC), Property Tax, beds besides setting up of tem- people is mandatory. But peo- annuating staff including the COVID cases was the late asked the doctors not to pre- home isolation”. streamline the supplies through Electricity Duty, Stamp Duty porary hospitals at Mohali and ple report at the hospital very services of retired faculty,” he arrival of patients in hospitals scribe medical oxygen to the Notably, the Chief Minister its controls rooms, which has and Investment Subsidy, by Bathinda,” said the state late when the patient's condi- said. He said that the Chief and other serious illnesses, so patients who were in home iso- Capt Amarinder Singh, in a let- helped in keeping things stable. way of reimbursement of GST Medical Education and tion becomes very serious, Minister was monitoring the the media should also support lation as it was important to ter to the Prime Minister Only a day before, the up to 125 percent of Fixed Research Minister OP Soni on which has led to a high death arrangements at all levels and the government in creating “monitor their condition”. recently, highlighted that State Cabinet had approved Capital Investment made in the Thursday. toll,” he said. as per the orders of the Chief awareness in the war against “In view of more number Punjab has more than 10,000 ‘thrust sector’ status for all land and machinery. Soni, who visited Patiala’s The Minister said that 125 Minister, all the patients, com- COVID. . " # ;#
/ in distress.” seeking emergency help has not preferring to field for over a month now and relled past grim milestones in “Sometimes, even if we %7"/8:"-7 Deepender has over three seen a massive surge amid the seek help from have built a network with sup- Haryana, which had on May 5 wish, we are not able to help lakh followers on Twitter han- unprecedented rise in COVID Chief Minister pliers, manufacturers, social reported 15416 COVID-19 people in arranging hospital s India finds itself in the dle, which gets tagged by thou- cases and crumbling health Manohar Lal, organizations among others to cases and highest ever 181 beds or medicines like Athroes of a deadly and sands of people from Haryana infrastructure,” tells Deepender, Deputy Chief address the issues related to fatalities. Remdesivir, Tocilizumab,” he record-breaking second wave and neighboring states with who is the son of former Minister oxygen cylinders, medicines The three districts of concedes. of COVID-19, the Twitter han- SOS messages every day. Apart Haryana Chief Minister and Dushyant or other medical help,” he Gurugram, Faridabad and Speaking on the govern- dle of Congress’ Rajya Sabha from his Twitter account, current Leader of opposition in Chautala, tells. Sonipat, all falling in the ment's response amidst the MP Deepender Singh Hooda another handle Haryana, Bhupinder Singh Home-cum- “Apart from districts of National Capital Region, con- COVID crisis, Deepender says, has become a go-to platform ‘TeamDeepender’ of volun- Hooda. Health Minister Haryana, we are also getting tinue to witness a massive “We want to work unitedly for people seeking help to find teers is inundated with SOS The MP further shares Anil Vij among requests from districts in jump in new cases and deaths. with the government but there life saving medicines, hospital requests. “Over the past two weeks, I other active adjoining states of Punjab, With the continuous surge in are certain issues which the beds, plasma and medical oxy- The Congress leader from have been spending around 20 users on social Rajasthan and even Delhi,” he cases, ICU and ventilator beds State Government needs to gen. Haryana tells, “His phone keeps hours per day on social media media platform adds. are reportedly filled to capac- implement immediately. Firstly, Deepender, who is leading ringing incessantly and his platforms like Twitter, from the state. Besides actively monitor- ity in Gurugram and Faridabad it is high time that the govern- a team of around 300 volun- Twitter handle and DM are WhatsApp and on calls to Talking ing the requests on Twitter, the districts. ment come out of denial and teers, is winning hearts every- flooded with appeals for help respond to the requests per- about 'Team team of volunteers have formed Deepender Hooda had also accept that people are dying where for his unrelenting related to hospital beds, much sonally and make arrange- Deepender', the WhatsApp groups to coordi- contracted COVID-19 in due to shortage of oxygen, efforts to respond to SOS mes- sought after drugs like ments for the people who are MP says, “It is nate among themselves to September last year. Former beds and medicines required sages on his Twitter handle and Remdesivir and Tocilizumab, running from pillar to post in all team- arrange various facilities for Chief Minister Bhupinder for COVID treatment,” helping as many people as pos- oxygen cylinders, food and need of medical assistance. I work…When COVID-19 patients and their Singh Hooda and his wife were “A war room should be set sible amidst the despair of even, cremation. We have been am personally contacting Mumbai wit- attendants in the time of crisis. also infected with the virus up in every district to address COVID-19 pandemic. receiving more than 4000 Deputy Commissioners and nessed a massive surge in been made available on social Not only this, the team has recently and have recovered the issues related to medical Quoting the famous idiom requests through social media other officers to ensure quick COVID cases, we had begun media platforms to facilitate the also started a plasma bank to now. help. We are at a very critical “We can't help everyone, but platforms and phone calls on a response to SOS requests.” working on putting together a people in distress.” help in the treatment of criti- “Unfortunately, the second stage and there is a need to everyone can help someone”, daily basis now.” With Haryana’s healthcare team of volunteers in Haryana “Whenever a request is cal COVID patients. wave of COVID-19 is more impose 14 days national lock- Deepender tells The Pioneer, “Out of over 4000 requests, system overwhelmed by huge in the beginning of April. Now, received on my Twitter Even last year, Deepender deadly and spreading at a fast down to break the chain of “These are difficult times and we manage to attend half of spike in COVID cases, the rel- we have a team of 300 volun- account, I tag the official han- had deputed volunteers across pace,” says Deepender adding spread of virus. This will also we are coming across heart- them and try to help as many atives and friends of COVID teers and this number of good dle of TeamDeepender and the state for distribution of food that the situation is really bad help the government to wrenching tales of hardships. people as possible. In the begin- patients, struggling to get med- samaritans will further increase concerned district to amplify for stranded migrants during and it has become impossible enhance the required resources Keeping the politics aside, I and ning of April, we used to ical help have been tagging in the next few days. The con- and get quick response from the nationwide lockdown. to arrange a hospital bed in to fight the battle against my team of volunteers are just receive around 50 requests per Deepender and his team on tact numbers of ten volunteers the volunteers. These volun- Notably, the second wave Gurugram and Faridabad dis- COVID-19,” he trying to help people, who are day but the number of people Twitter for prompt action and each in every district have teers have been working in the of the COVID-19 has bar- tricts. suggests. !
! ) R $ 7 * # $ " ( 45 /4678 45 /4678 ays after the first consign- Dment of 150,000 doses of he Ministry of Civil 45 /4678 be the national database for the Sputnik V vaccine landed TAviation on Thursday the PwDs, for issuance of in Hyderabad from Russia on issued guidelines for Covid-19 ays after asking the UDID Cards in order to May 1, yet another lot of 1.5 vaccination of all civil aviation DStates/UTs to prioritise enable the sector to avail var- lakh doses of Sputnik V vaccine 45 /4678 personnel working in persons with disabilities ious concessions under will reach here in the next two Government as well as private (PwDs) in the ongoing vacci- schemes meant for their wel- days while another 30 lakh rime Minister Narendra entities. nation drive, Union Social fare. doses will be arriving in PModi on Thursday According to the guide- Welfare Ministry has made it The DEPwD plans to Hyderabad with Dr Reddys reviewed the Covid-19 situa- lines, a priority during vacci- mandatory for them to issue cover an additional 10 lakh Laboratories by the end of this tion in the country and called nation should be given to the disability certificates online to persons by December to reach month. However, no timeline for speeding up vaccination air traffic controllers (ATCs), the sector which is confined 65 lakhs. has been set when the Indians drive and expanding its pro- cockpit and cabin crews of the within the four walls of their Unhappy at the poor pace will be able to avail the vac- duction. airlines as well as mission- homes due to Covid-19. of the UDID, the Parliamentary cines. Modi noted that an advi- critical and passenger-facing A gazette notification has Standing Committee on Social Currently the Centre has sory was sent to the States to staff. The Ministry has also been issued in this regard by Justice and Empowerment in rolled out a nationwide vacci- identify districts of concern advised that the vaccination of the Union Ministry of Social March recommended that nation drive using two where case positivity is 10% or sures were also discussed, said civil service personnel should cination centres at the airports. The facilities created by air- justice and empowerment DEPwD must fix state-wise COVID-19 vaccines — more and bed occupancy is the PMO statement. not have any delay. The There can be more than port operator would be avail- recently. annual targets for issuing the Covaxin of Bharat Biotech and more than 60% on either oxy- Prime Minister also Ministry’s guidelines came after one service provider at any air- able for all aviation personnel "Mandatory for all UDID cards. Covishield of Oxford- gen supported or ICU beds. reviewed the availability of the Air India pilots union port depending on a number of in the first phase and can be States/UTs to grant certificate In another decision, the AstraZeneca, manufactured by Union Minister s Rajnath medicines. He was briefed threatened to stop work if the personnel working in the avi- extended to the family mem- of disability through online Ministry has also asked the Serum Institute of India in Singh, Amit Shah, Nirmala about the "rapid augmenting airline failed to set up vacci- ation ecosystem," it stated. The bers subsequently, it men- mode only using the UDID State/Union Territory to make Pune. Sitharaman, Dr Harsh of production of medicines nation camps for them on pri- focus of major airports could tioned. portal with effect from June 1. sure “special provisions” were In September 2020, Dr. Vardhan, Piyush Goyal, including Remdesivir." ority. be on tying up with private ser- "All airport operators are States/UTs have been advised made at testing, vaccination Reddys and RDIF entered into Mansukh Mandaviya other In the meeting Prime “A dedicated vaccination vice providers, it noted. advised to designate a nodal for compliance," the ministry's and treatment centres for PwD. a partnership to conduct clin- ministers and top officials Minister reviewed the progress facility will be established by "For the smaller airports, officer — and alternative nodal Department of Persons with The move followed allega- ical trials of the SputnikV, took part in the meeting, on vaccination & the roadmap the airport operators in their where the numbers to get vac- officer may also be kept in Disabilities (DEPwD) tweeted. tions that persons with dis- developed by the Gamaleya according to a statement from for "scaling up production on respective airports to facilitate cinated are less and private readiness — for coordinating The sector had been abilities (PwD) were being National Research Institute of Prime Minister's Office vaccines in the next few expeditious vaccination of staff. players do not find it viable, the the efforts," the guidelines demanding such a move, espe- made to wait for COVID-19 Epidemiology and (PMO) months." Basic facilities for the person- airport operators can approach noted. cially during the Covid pan- testing, treatment and vacci- Microbiology and the rights The Prime Minister was He was informed that nel visiting (help desk, drink- the district or local adminis- "Chairman of Airports demic where PwDs were nation. for distribution of the first 100 given "a detailed picture" on around 17.7 crore vaccines ing water, ventilation fans, tration for extending the vac- Authority of India (AAI) will unable to get their certificates The Rights of Persons with million doses in India. the Covid outbreak in various have been supplied to the washrooms, etc.) to be cination programme," it added. hold regular meetings to review due to the prevalent restric- Disabilities Act, 2016 man- Later it was enhanced to states and districts. He was states. Modi also reviewed the arranged following Covid safe- The guidelines further stat- the progress and coordinate tions as well as health threat dates that PwD are given pri- 125 million. Dr Reddys has informed about the 12 states state wise trends on vaccine ty protocols. The cost per vac- ed that all agencies working in with the Civil Aviation posed by the deadly virus. ority when it comes to medical already received approval from which have more than 1 lakh wastage. cination dose can be decided by the airports eco-system need to Ministry, and Directorate According to the 2011 attention and treatment. The Indian drug regulator for active cases and details on the According to the PMO , the airport operator with the sponsor their personnel to General of Civil Aviation Census, there were 2.68 crore DEPwD said it had received a restricted emergency use of districts with high disease the Prime Minister was briefed service provider and it will be avail the facilities as opera- (DGCA) will address issues or PwDs, while till mid-March representation from the Sputnik V in India on April 12. burden. that "around 31% of eligible the same for aviation person- tors/service providers would challenges" it said. The AAI this year just around 54.84 National Federation of the “New Delhi and Moscow Modi directed that states population over the age of 45 nel,” the guidelines said. not be dealing with individual owns and manages more than lakhs e-Unique Disability Blind, Delhi on April 22 “alleg- are constantly in touch with should be given help and guid- has been given atleast one The guidelines stated that cases. Further, online Payment 100 airports across the country. Identification (UDID) cards ing that PwDs including per- each other through the diplo- ance about leading indicators dose". the operator should immedi- mechanism to the service "This is the broad frame- have been generated in 710 out sons with visual impairments matic channels so that medical to ramp up healthcare infra- He spoke about the need ately contact the State provider for vaccine doses work to facilitate expeditious of 734 districts across have to stand in long queues for support is available on structure. to sensitise states that the Governments or private service administered for their respec- vaccination of the civil aviation States/UTs. Thus, indicating the purpose of testing, vacci- demand as much as possible,” The need to ensure quick speed of vaccination doesn’t providers (hospitals), which are tive personnel has been advised community in the country," the the slow pace of the UDID nation and treatment for an Indian diplomat reported- & holistic containment mea- come down, said PMO. willing to set up Covid-19 vac- to be devised. guidelines said. project which is envisaged to Covid-19 induced ailments”. ly said.
more doctors," the minister " " "$" said. On the steps taken by the Army, Rajnath said it has pro- #$%&' %% % " vided 100 beds each to Lucknow and Allahabad, set up 45 /4678 a 40-bedded isolation facility at ! ( 45 /4678 Sagar in Madhya Pradesh and he N440K variant of coro- established a 50-bed isolation Tnavirus, which was largely ith its engagement grow- facility at Namkum in 45 /4678 responsible for the first wave of Wing to fight the corona Jharkhand. the pandemic in India is dimin- pandemic, the Army has set up Army medical persons n six days since the launch of ishing and likely to disappear an exclusive Covid manage- have been deployed at Ithe 18+vaccination drive soon, scientists at CSIR-Centre ment cell to fine-tune response Ahmedabad and Patna, and which was launched on May 1, for Cellular and Molecular in real-time to the civil admin- battlefield-nursing assistants a total 9,04,263 beneficiaries of Biology (CCMB) have said. istration to provide aid. have been provided to the the age group 18-44 years have They shared this informa- Meanwhile, Defence Patiala administration for hos- been inoculated the first dose tion to the public by posting a Minister Rajnath Singh on pital management, the minis- of Covid vaccine across 12 tweet on Thursday. Thursday underlined efforts ter noted. States. They also said that the made by the armed forces, the He also talked about the These are Chhattisgarh B.1.617 variant of the coron- Defence Research and logistics support, an exclusive operate quarantine facilities logistics support that is being (1,026), Delhi (1,29,096), avirus which is more infectious for CCMB from the labs of the The Hyderabad-based insti- Development COVID Management Cell and procure items that are provided by the IAF and the Gujarat (1,96,860), Jammu and is fast replacing the N440K state every month, where tute further cited World Health Organisation(DRDO) and the under a Director General rank required to fight against the Navy in bringing required Kashmir (16,387), Haryana variant in south India, thus genome sequencing of southern Organization's weekly epi- defence public sector under- officer has been established pandemic. medical supplies including oxy- (1,23,484), Karnataka (5,328), indicating that the worse is in States — Andhra Pradesh, demiological reports and said takings(PSU)to meet the ongo- which reports directly to the Various defence organisa- gen cylinders from outside Maharashtra (1,53,966), waiting. Telangana and Karnataka — are that even the WHO mentioned ing second wave of the pan- Vice Chief of Army Staff. tions such as the DRDO, India or in transporting these Odisha (21,031), Punjab N440K strain, also known being carried out. The research B.1.617 as the "Variant of demic. This will bring in greater Cantonment Boards, Armed supplies from one place to (1,535), Rajasthan (1,80,242), as B.1.36, was detected in data of CCMB far does not Interest" and did not say any- Giving details about the efficiency in coordinating real Forces Medical Services another within the country. Tamil Nadu (6,415) and Uttar Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, establish that N440K is a vari- thing about N440K. new cell, army officials said time responses to address (AFMS) have established Indian naval ships includ- Pradesh (68,893). and Telangana last year. ant of interest and is very viru- "If this variant (N440K) is of here on Thursday while the exponential rise in COVID COVID hospitals and facilities ing Kolkata, Kochi, Tabar, The Union Health However, its impact has sud- lent," he said. such public health concern, it force has ensured own force cases across the country includ- in various cities including Trikand, Jalashwa and Airavat Ministry said that cumulative- denly dropped in March, and The CCMB also released an should have by now found a preservation, medical care to ing Delhi where assistance to Delhi, Lucknow, Bengaluru have been deployed for ship- ly, 16,25,13,339 vaccine doses now "the share among the pos- official statement in which it place in WHO reports as well as veterans and their dependents, civil administration in the form and Patna, he mentioned. ment of liquid medical oxygen- have been administered itives is very minimal", accord- said, "Although N440K variant ICMR report," the CCMB said it has also deployed consider- of testing, admissions in mili- The AFMS has deployed filled cryogenic containers and through 29,34,844 sessions, as ing to CCMB institute. shown to be efficient in cell cul- in the statement. able medical resources to assist tary hospitals and transporta- additional doctors, including associated medical equipment per the provisional report till 7 COVID Command Centre ture system in the experimen- However, currently, doc- civil authorities especially at the tion of critical medical equip- specialists, super specialists from various countries in the am on Thursday. chief Dr KS Jawahar Reddy on tal condition, it is also important tors have identified two strains five COVID hospitals already ment are already being pro- and paramedics, at various Middle East and South-East These include 94,80,739 Thursday said, "Research data to remember that just because B.1.617 (double mutant strain) functional or in the process of vided, they said. hospitals, he said. "My ministry Asia, he noted. healthworkers (HCWs) who doesn't establish that N440K is a variant behaves a certain way and B.1 in Andhra Pradesh, being established at Delhi, In a blog post on his web- has granted an extension to The DRDO has also initi- have taken the 1st dose and variant of interest and is very in cell cultures, it does not Karnataka, and Telangana, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, site, Rajnath said emergency short service commissioned ated fabrication of 500 medical 63,54,113 HCWs who have virulent". mean it will behave the same which are said to be 'very infec- Varanasi and Patna. financial powers were granted doctors of AFMS till December oxygen plants with allocation taken the 2nd dose while "On average around 250 way in humans, or a compli- tious' and 'easily spreading' in In order to coordinate mul- to the armed forces so that 31, 2021, which has augment- received from PM Cares Fund, 1,36,57,922 frontline workers samples are being sent to Centre cated pandemic scenario". the younger age groups. tiple facets of staffing and commanders can establish and ed the strength of AFMS by 238 he said. (FLWs) have taken the 1stdose, 74,25,592 FLWs (2nddose). At least 5,31,16,901 1st & ' dose and 1,29,15,354 2nd dose # * beneficiaries in the category of more than 60 years old and % 5,38,15,026 (1st dose) and ! < # 48,43,429 (2nd dose) benefi- 45 /4678 during the last 15 years and ciaries aged 45 to 60 years have productivity not less than 10 been vaccinated so far. ' 45 /4678 records, they identified rates of cause, only correlation, the he Ministry of Agriculture qtl/ha for Sole Crop. In the meanwhile, the events, such as heart attacks, researchers said. Tand Farmers Welfare has The above mini-kits used Government said that large study in Denmark strokes, deep vein blood clots They also point to some formulated a special strategy for inter-cropping and urad Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh 45 /4678 a number of models are some- Aand Norway has found and bleeding events within 28 limitations, such as a lack of for the ensuing Kharif 2021 Sole Crop will cover an area of and Delhi are among 10 states where between the middle slightly increased rates of vein days of receiving a first vaccine data on underlying risk factors season and has proposed to dis- 4.05 lakh hectare in the Kharif that account for 72.19 per cent he current surge in coro- and the end of the month. blood clots, including in the dose and compared these with for clotting and the possibili- tribute 20,27,318, almost 10 season 2021 to be funded by of the new Covid-19 cases Tnavirus cases may go Some models have it going brain, among adults who had expected rates in the general ty that their results may not times more, seed mini kits the Central Government. In reported in a day. down by the middle to the into early June but based on received their first dose of the populations. apply to other ethnicities. than the 2020-21 season cost- addition to this, the usual New coronavirus cases and end of May, noted vaccinolo- what we are seeing, right now Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID- The researchers found 59 However, strengths include ing Rs 82.01 crores. The total programme of inter-cropping deaths in India hit a record gist Gagandeep Kang has said. middle to end of May is a rea- 19 vaccine, compared with blood clots in the veins com- the large population based cost for these mini-kits will be and area expansion by the daily high with 4,12,262 new She said there could be sonable estimate," she said in expected rates in the general pared with 30 expected, corre- approach, using reliable borne by the Central states will continue on a shar- infections and 3,980 fatalities one or two more peaks of response to a question in a population. sponding to 11 excess events national registry data and near Government to boost the pro- ing basis between the Centre being reported, taking the total coronavirus cases but they webinar organised by the However, the study pub- per 100,000 vaccinations. complete follow-up of partic- duction and productivity of and the States. tally of Covid-19 cases to may not be as bad as the cur- Indian Women Press Corps. lished in The BMJ on This included a higher ipants. Tur, Moong and Urad. The fol- Through consultations 2,10,77,410 and the death toll rent one. On forecasting waves of Wednesday, stresses that the than expected rate of blood "The absolute risks of lowing mini-kits will be dis- with the State Governments, a to 2,30,168. Right now it's doing a virus, she said one can defi- risk of such adverse events is clots in the veins of the brain, venous thromboembolic tributed: 13,51,710 mini kits of detailed plan for both area The ministry said that "world through" in areas it did nitely use the characteristics considered low. known as cerebral venous events described in this study arhar containing certified seeds expansion and productivity Karnataka,Kerala, Haryana, not do last year, in the mid- of the strain, characteristics of The researchers from thrombosis (2.5 events per are small, and the findings of HYVs of arhar released dur- enhancement for Tur, Moong West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, dle class population, in the a pandemic in a particular University of Southern 100,000 vaccinations), the said. should be interpreted in the ing the last ten years and pro- and Urad has been formulat- Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan rural areas and there is going place to predict what is going Denmark, and Norwegian However, the team found context of the benefits of ductivity not less than 15 ed. are among the other states in to be "very little fuel" for the to happen in that location if Institute of Public Health, set no increase in the rate of arte- COVID-19 vaccination at both qtl/ha- for inter-cropping. Under the strategy, utilis- the list of 10. virus to continue to go the data is available at that out to compare rates of blood rial clots, such as heart attacks the societal and the individual 4,73,295 mini kits of ing all the high yielding vari- Maharashtra has reported through, she said. level for mathematical mod- clots and related conditions or strokes. level," the researchers said. moong containing certified eties (HYVs) of seeds that are the highest daily new cases at Allaying fears about vac- elling. after vaccination with the For most remaining out- BMJ editors Rafael Perera seeds of HYVs of moong available either with the 57,640. It is followed by cines, she said they are effi- She said there are few Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine comes, results were largely and John Fletcher noted that released during the last ten Central Seed Agencies or in the Karnataka with 50,112 while cacious and emphasised the infectious disease modellers with those in the general pop- reassuring, with slightly high- COVID-19 is itself associated years but productivity not less States will be distributed free Kerala reported 41,953 new need to ramp the inoculation in the country. ulations of the two countries. er rates of less severe events with cerebral venous throm- than 10 qtl/ha for inter-crop- of cost to increase area through cases.Besides Maharashtra, drive. "And all the ones that The findings are based on such as thrombocytopenia a bosis, adding that vaccination ping. inter-cropping and Sole Crop. Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, She also expressed con- exist will tell you that their 280,000 people aged 18-65 condition related to low blood remains overwhelmingly the 93,805 mini kits of urad Tur inter-cropping will be Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, cern over the declining num- models are as good as the data who received a first dose of the platelet levels — clotting dis- safest option. containing certified seeds of covered in 11 states and 187 Punjab, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan ber of coronavirus tests. The they have and the models are Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID- orders and bleeding. "The choice we nearly all HYVs of urad released during districts. and Jhakhand account for proportion of cases is actual- accurate up to two weeks. You 19 vaccine, known as The researchers said these face is between eventual SARS the last ten years but produc- The states are Andhra 75.55 per cent of the new ly much larger than the tests cannot expect a prediction for Covishield in India, from events could be influenced by CoV-2 infection or vaccina- tivity not less than 10 qtl/ha for Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, deaths. reveal but in absolute num- three months or six months or February 2021 through to 11 increased surveillance of vac- tion. The Astra-Zeneca vaccine inter-cropping. Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, India's cumulative recov- bers in "what we track and two years from now as yet. We March 2021 in Denmark and cine recipients. is clearly a good choice, despite 1,08,508 mini kits of urad Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, eries stand at 1,72,80,844 with count", Kang said. don't know enough about the Norway. This is an observational the likely risks reported in containing certified seeds of Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, 3,29,113 recoveries being reg- "Best case estimates from virus. Using national health study, so cannot establish this study," the editors wrote. urad HYVs of urad released Telangana and Uttar Pradesh. istered in a day. !
)" 0 ()*+,-,-.*-/010 ' .232-4,-4-22-/ *+ 1.61" " said, “They stoned my vehicle,” adding “this cannot be politics but simple goondaism” nion Minister V Muraleedharan too he said adding any build-up should die 1.%78 The KSRTC buses owned by the Kerala %74"8 Ramachandran, Thangam Thennarassu, Ugot trapped in the post-poll violence down after the elections but “here it is con- Government would deploy sufficient buses S Reghupathy, S Muthusamy, K R on Thursday even as reports of clashes con- tinuing with vengeance … so much so that he Kerala Government has declared a on Friday to help travelers reach their des- fter ten years in the Opposition Periyakaruppan, T M Anbarasan, M P tinued to come in from various parts of the even a protected person like a central min- Tnine-day complete lock down of the tinations. Abenches, the DMK will take over the Saminathan, Geetha Jeevan, “Anitha” R State. ister is not spared … then what must be State with effect from Saturday. This has The next nine days would see all pub- State administration and return to Fort Radhakrishnan, S R Rajakannappan, K The Minister’s convoy was attacked at happening to the common party been necessitated because of the failure of lic vehicles staying off the roads. Saint George (the headquarters of Tamil Ramachandran, R Sakkarapani, V the Panchkhuri village in Midnapore workers.” the State administration to bring in any Shops selling emergency materials like Nadu Government) on Friday morning. Senthilbalaji, R Gandhi, M Subramanian, Sadar area when he went there to inquire He said he would submit a report to the change in the ever growing number of milk and vegetables would be opened for Party president M K Stalin (68) P Moorthy, S S Sivasankar, P K Sekar into the reports of some BJP workers being appropriate authorities while State BJP vice Covid-19 patients on a daily basis. Though a few hours daily while the general public would be sworn in as Chief Minister of Babu, Palanivel Thiagarajan, S M Nassar, attacked by alleged TMC men, sources said. president JP Majumdar wondered “whether the complete lock down begins only on have been asked to make use of home-deliv- Tamil Nadu on Friday at 9 am in a sim- Gingee K S Masthan, Anbil Mahesh The Minister’s convoy was chased we are in Bengal and whether we are in Saturday, the entire State wears the look of ery facilities. ple function to be held at Raj Bhavan. Poyyamozhi, Siva Meyyanathan, C V away by the locals who attacked with sticks. India and whether we are Indian citizens a deserted place with most of the popula- The Kerala Government Medical Governor Banwarilal Purohit will admin- Ganesan, Mano Thangaraj, M Another senior saffron leader and former … a Central Minister was driving past a tion staying indoors. Officers Association welcomed the move ister oath of office and secrecy to 33 Mathiventhan and Kayalvizhi Selvaraj. State party president Rahul Sinha too was public road … is he not entitled to do so According to the Department of to declare total lock down for nine days. MLAs as members of the council of Palanivel Thiagarajan is the new attacked, sources said. as a citizen of this country? Should he be Health, Kerala diagnosed 42,464 new “We are hopeful that the decision would Ministers to be formed by Stalin. finance minister while senthi Balaji, who Seven hundred kms away at Dinhata stoned like the way they did in Kashmir … Covid-19 patients in the 12 hours ending help in curbing the increase in the trans- The names of MLAs to be sworn in crossed over to the DMK from AIADMK in Cooch Behar district former TMC there they pelted stones and here they are 6 pm on Thursday. The death toll too mission of the pandemic. Ministers include Durai Murugan (83), via the AMMK has been allocated the MLA and senior leader Udayan Guha was throwing brickbats … is there a difference increased in the last 24 hours as 68 persons Yes, we have been requesting the who will be the minister for water portfolios of electricity, prohibition and attacked by alleged BJP men who smashed … if President’s Rule can be imposed there succumbed to the pandemic. The Test authorities to declare total lock down for resources, a portfolio in which he has excise. his vehicle, gave him a fractured hand and in Kashmir for stone-pelting why cannot Positivity Rate reached 27.28 per cent by quite sometime,” Dr T N Suresh, general excelled during his previous tenure in the Fort Saint George has been given a head injuries, Chief Minister Mamata the same be done here.” Thursday evening. secretary, KGMOA, told The Pioneer. Karunanidhi ministry. As per the list fresh coating of paint to welcome the new Banerjee said. Later a 10-member team of BJP lead- The lock down rules have been made He said the Government was taking released by Raj Bhavan, Durai Murugan chief minister and his colleagues. The “Udayan has been seriously injured” ers led by State party president Dilip Ghosh stringent this time as no private vehicles measures to appoint more doctors and para woud be the second-in-command to the Information and Public Relations she said. Guha’s personal security officer on Thursday met the central team. “We would be allowed anywhere in the State medical staff as there was severe shortage Chief Minister. Department has removed all pictures of too was attacked and he received stitches have given our side of the story on how our unless it is for medical emergency. The of doctors and medical professionals in the Those who are joining Stalin in the late Chief Ministers M G Ramachandran, on his head, police said. The former MLA leaders, candidates and workers are being Government order says the police have Government Hospitals. Southern Railway council of ministers include veterans K J Jayalalithaa and former Chief Minister who lost by a few votes had been hospi- attacked and killed every day… thousands been empowered to seize any private vehi- has cancelled 15 long distance trains ply- N Nehru, I Periyasamy, K Ponmudi, E Edappadi Palaniswamy from all offices in talized. of them are homeless and living in camps,” cles that come out to the roads during the ing through the State because of the lock Velu, M R K Panneerselvam, KKSSR the Secretariat. Back in Kolkata the Union Minister Ghosh alleged. lock down period. down. + , ! - % Jammu: A joint team of security launched a joint cordon and search search party which was retaliated forces on Thursday neutralised three operation in the Kanigam area of leading to an encounter", police (F local terrorists of Al-Badr terror Shopian after receiving the infor- spokesman added. " outfit while one of them surrendered mation about the presence of group In the ensuing encounter, three Jaipur: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has before the security forces in Kanigam of terrorists in the area. terrorists were killed and their bod- Puducherry: AINRC Chief N Rangasamy although there is no precedent in this given approval for the opening of 48 new courts in area of Shopian. Police spokesman said, "during ies were retrieved from the site of will be sworn in as Chief Minister of Union regard. the State and the creation of 550 posts of various cadres In Jammu, a Pakistani intruder the search operation as the presence encounter. They have been identified Territory of Puducherry at a brief ceremo- A Namassivayam, who joined the BJP in for them. was shot dead by the BSF jawans as of terrorists got ascertained they as Danish Mir, Mohd Umer Bhat ny here on Friday. Lt Governor Tamilisai January after quitting the Congress is tipped In accordance with the budget announcements, he had managed to sneak at least 100 were given an opportunity to sur- both residents of Khajapora Shopian Soundararajan would induct Rangasamy as for the post of Deputy Chief Minister. Gehlot has given approval to open commercial courts metre inside the Indian territory in render. Family members of the and Zaid Bashir Reshi resident of Chief Minister at a brief session on the The concurrence of the Centre is in Bikaner, Alwar, Bhilwara and Jodhpur, courts of the Samba sector. trapped terrorists were also called to Raben Shopian. As per police records, precincts of Rajnivas here. Official sources awaited for the appointment of Deputy Chief additional district judge in Jalore, Sirohi, Wair, Initially, BSF jawans deployed the encounter site to motivate and they were affiliated with proscribed said Rangasamy alone would be inducted as Minister, BJP sources said. Dungargarh, Nainwan, Sardarshahar, Nasirabad, along the International border chal- persuade them to surrender. terror outfit Al-Badr. Chief Minister tomorrow although he would The AINRC bagged 10 seats out of the Kathumar, Sadulshahar, Begun, Anupgarh, Neem Ka lenged him but when he kept mov- Following repeated appeals one IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar con- be heading an NDA dispensation which has 16 it contested in the April 6 polls while the Thana and Gangapur City. ing he was neutralised in the wee of the trapped terrorists Tausif gratulated the joint team of police and the BJP as the other constituent. BJP garnered six out of the nine seats it con- He also gave approval for the opening of various hours of Thursday. Ahmad stepped out of the hideout security forces for showing utmost According to party sources, the swear- tested. other courts in other districts. In a brief statement, PRO BSF and laid down his arms before the patience and exhibiting profession- ing in of other ministers, including those The total strength of the Assembly is 30 The Chief Minister has also sanctioned 550 posts Jammu frontier said, "a Pakistani joint security forces. alism, which resulted in saving the life from BJP willtake place in the next few days. and sixteen is the magic number for for- of presiding officer, stenographer, reader, clerk, intruder was shot dead in the Samba "The surrendered terrorist later of a misguided youth. IGP Kashmir Usually, the strength of a ministry in mation of a ministry. class-4 employee etc. For these courts. sector. A paltry sum of Rs 150 was also appealed to his trapped com- also made a fervent appeal to all mis- Puducherry would be six including Chief The AINRC and BJP has a combined "With this decision of the chief minister, people recovered from his possession".In panions to surrender, however, they guided youth who have joined terror Minister. strength of 16. There are six independents will be able to get justice at the local level itself and Srinagar, a police spokesman said, the turned down the surrender offer and ranks to shun the path of violence There is however a reported move to elected to the House and they are by and cases pending in the courts will be cleared," accord- joint team of security forces had fired indiscriminately on a joint and return to mainstream. PNS have one Deputy Chief Minister now large supporters of Rangasamy. PTI ing to a release. PTI !" #
& D"0 the media bulletin, out of waiting for admission but the patients are under treatment in Hospital, 2 from Super 41666 active positive cases, same was not happening in the GMC Jammu, out of which 35 Speciality Hospital Jammu and he Union Territory of Kashmir region accounted for absence of beds. have been admitted in the last 8 from Maternal & Child TJammu & Kashmir on 65 percent active positive cases Around one dozen patients 24 hours. Health Hospital Jammu. Thursday came closer to while Jammu division account- along with oxygen cylinders “Out of 94 under treatment Regarding treatment pro- recording around 5,000 fresh ed for 35 percent cases. Out of were seen sitting in different Covid patients in Chest Disease tocol, he said at present 359 cases of coronavirus while 52 20 districts, Jammu and corners of the hospital premis- & TB Hospital, 14 have been Covid-19 patients are on oxy- patients succumbed to the Srinagar districts alone es/garden waiting for their admitted since yesterday. gen support in GMC Jammu, 2 virus across different covid accounted for 17 % and 25% turn to get admission. Similarly, the Super Specialty patients in Chest Disease & TB hospitals in the last 24 hours. active positive cases. To set the record straight, Hospital and Maternal & Child Hospital and one in Super With 4,926 fresh cases of Meanwhile, chaos pre- Incharge Triage Facility and Health Hospital are treating 33 Specialty Hospital. coronavirus the total active vailed outside Chest Disease Medical Superintendent, Chest and 83 Covid patients respec- With regards to beds, he positive load stood at 41,666 hospital in Jammu during the Disease & TB Hospital Jammu, tively, out of which 14 have said 366 out of 410 beds are cases. Out of 52 deaths, 34 were first half of the day as several Dr Rajeshwar Sharma claimed been admitted in the last 24 occupied in GMC Jammu; 94 reported from Jammu divi- patients in need of hospital that health infrastructure in hours. (4+10)” Dr Rajeshwar out of 110 beds are occupied in sion and 18 from Kashmir beds with oxygen support were Jammu has sufficient resources Sharma added. Chest Disease & TB Hospital division. So far 2562 patients directed to return home due to in place to treat all Covid-19 Giving the details of recov- and 83 out of 172 beds are have died due to Covid19. non-availability of beds. patients. eries, Dr Rajeshwar Sharma occupied in Maternal & Child 1068 patients succumbed to the As media teams arrived in He further urged the pub- said that in the last 24 hours, 22 Health Hospital Jammu. The deadly virus across Jammu the hospital premises several lic not to give in to panic and Covid-19 patients have been Super Specialty Hospital is region and 1494 across care takers of the seriously ill rumours. Dr Rajeshwar discharged from GMC Jammu, occupied to its full capacity. (33 ! =# (#() Kashmir division. According to patients claimed they had been informed that 366 Covid-19 3 from Chest Disease & TB beds), he said. >? @1+,A B # % & 7% , R # 0'"8 As 63,842 patients were dis- charged from the hospitals / O $ A8- ith absolutely no improve- across the state after full recov- : :O " Wment in the Covid-19 sit- ery, the total number of people 0'"8 enquiry with an ulterior motive have him “arrested with an uation, Maharashtra on discharged from the hospitals 0'"8 “Respondent 1 ( state) and the at the behest of those having ulterior motive”. Thursday recorded 853 deaths since the second week of March petitioner shall strictly abide by he Bombay High Court on political or other vendettas’’ On Thursday when senior and 62,194 infections, even as last year went up to 42,27,940. Panaji: The Goa Government n a relief to senior IPS officer the statements made by them TThursday adjourned the against him. counsel Amit Desai appearing 63,842 patients were discharged The recovery rate in the state for on Thursday brought Covid-19 IRashmi Shukla, the Mumbai through their senior advocates hearing for four weeks on a Deshmukh had also told for Deshmukh began to make from various hospitals across the the first time in several days rose treatment under its flagship police told the Bombay High and can proceed further”, petition filed by Maharashtra’s the high court that the CBI had submissions before the court, state. from 85.32 per cent to 85.54 per medical insurance scheme, Court on Thursday that they In a related development, former Home Minister Anil based its FIR on “vague alle- Additional Solicitor General A day after the state record- cent. The total “active cases” in which covers the entire popu- would not arrest her for the Additional Solicitor General Deshmukh seeking the quash- gations” and that there was no Anil Singh, representing the ed 920 deaths and 57,640 infec- the state dropped from 6,41,569 lation of the state. time being, if she co-operates Anil Singh appearing for the ing of “false” FIR filed against case of allegations of ‘illegal CBI – told the court that since tions, the daily deaths dropped cases to 6,39,075. The fatality The move will allow with them in the investigations CBI submitted that the obser- him by the CBI under the gratification’’ under section 7 of the petition copy was served to to 853, while the daily infections rate in the state stood static at patients to avail benefits under into the much-discussed phone vations made in the regard to Prevention of Corruption Act, PCA or criminal him on Wednesday evening, he went up to 62,194. 1.49 per cent. the Deen Dayal Swasthya Seva tapping case. Shulka’s petition “may not be after the central investigating conspiracy under section 120- needed four weeks’ time to file With 853 new deaths, the With 69 fresh deaths, the Yojana (DDSSY) while under- During the hearing on a construed as impediment to it” agency told the court that it B of the IPC. a reply to the former minister’s total number of deaths in the Covid-19 toll in Mumbai going treatment for Covid-19 in petition filed by Shukla seeking to proceed further in the larg- needed time to file its reply. In his petition, he had also petition seeking quashing of state climbed from 72,662 to increased from 13,511 to 13,580, private hospitals, according to a direction to the Mumbai er investigation being con- In a petition filed before told the court that the CBI had the FIR against the latter. 73,715. Similarly, with 62,194 while the infected cases went up a notification issued by police not to not take any ducted by it in the FIR regis- the high court on Wednesday, not taken the Maharashtra The petitioner’s counsel new infections, the total number by 3028 to trigger a jump in the Additional Secretary (Health) “coercive action” against her for tered against former Home Deshmukh had urged the court government’s consent to regis- opposed the four weeks’ time of cases rose from 48,80,542 to infections from 6,65,057 to Vikas Gaunekar. Treatment for allegedly leaking certain confi- Minister Anil Deshmukh on to quash the “false” FIR filed ter the FIR against him which sought by the CBI saying that 49,42,736. 6,68,085. Covid-19 in government hos- dential documents, senior corruption charges. against him on the ground he said was necessary since he “there is urgency in the matter”. pitals is free in the state. counsel Darius Khambata – The HC bench clarified that the CBI ----while regis- was a minister when the alleged However, the court allowed Patients can avail benefits appearing for the state -- told a that the order statements and tering the case against him --- offence took place. the CBI’s request and gave -.+/.* 0-.12., *3 for a maximum 10 days from two-member HC bench com- the observations made in the had followed a “biased and Deshmukh had told the four weeks’ time to the inves- the date of admission and they prising Justices Manish Pitale order passed on Shukla’s peti- dubious” way and that too court that the reason behind fil- tigating agency to filed its reply ,41 *,351+3,6.1+.*13+ will be applicable only to and S S Shinde that the Mumbai tion were only limited to the after a “legal non-existent ing an FIR against him was to on Deshmukh’s petition. DDSSY-empanelled hospitals police would not arrest her till present case and “may not be Mumbai:The Brihanmumbai istration must” rule in the with ICU facility, said the order. the next date of hearing. construed as impediment to it” Municipal Corporation (BMC) cases where the citizens are The notification said all Khambata told the high into the FIR registered in the $ $ on Thursday made it manda- above 45 years of age who are charges, including admission, court that if Shukla -- who is corruption case on April 2. tory for Mumbaikars desirous due for the second dose of those related to medical con- currently Additional Director In a criminal write petition % of getting vaccinated to regis- COVAXIN only (subject to sultancy, nursing, beds, diet, General (ADG) of the Central filed through her advocate ter themselves on Cowin production of the provisional PPE kits, X-Ray, ECG and car- Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Sameer Nangre, Shukla had & Portland and book appoint- certificate of 15t dose in either diac monitor, among others, based in Hyderabad – could not on Monday sought a direction ment slot for vaccination at the soft or hard copy), health care will be covered under the to Mumbai, the Mumbai police to the police to not take any Panaji: The Entertainment Society of centre of their choice. and frontline workers due for scheme's package. would send a team of police “coercive action” against her. Goa(ESG) on Thursday cancelled all per- In his order, Mumbai second dose of COVAXIN or The government-sponsored officers to record her statement She also sought an urgent head- missions granted for film and television Municipal Commissioner I S COVISHIELD and health care scheme, with nominal premi- under Section 160 Code of ing in the case, as she was serial shootings in the state in the wake Chahal stated: “... all citizens and front line workers due for um, allows residents of Goa to Criminal Procedure. apprehending her arrest in the of the raging Covid-19 pandemic. who wish to get vaccinated first dose having authentic receive healthcare services from On his part, senior case. ESG is the Goa government's nodal against COVID-19 shall in certification by his employer. government and listed private Advocate Mahesh Jethmalani, “My client is one of the agency which is empowered to give per- advance register themselves The BMC started the vac- hospitals for surgical, medical representing Shukla, told the senior most officers of 1988 mission for commercial shootings in the on the Cowin portaland also cination program against and hospitalisation expenses. court that a statement of 'no- cadre in police service for more coastal state. book the appointment slot at Covid-19 from January 16, It offers health insurance arrest' may be made and that than 30 years....The approach of Several film and TV serial makers the CVC of their choice on the 2021. Currently, it is carrying coverage between 2.5 lakh Shukla was willing to co-oper- the respondent state is to arm- from Mumbai and Chennai recently same portal before proceeding out the vaccination program is and 4 lakh, depending on the ate with the investigation. twist the petitioner by bogus shifted their shootings to Goa in the wake to the Vaccination Centre”. implementing through 147 number of family members, and After the State agreed not to and frivolous case,” Shukla’s of the surge in COVID-19 cases in their However, the BMC made Covid Vaccination Centres provides benefits on a cashless arrest Shukla till the next date, counsel had said in the respective places, ESG's Vice Chairman ! * +, # exceptions to its “Cowin reg- (CVCs). basis. PTI the HC bench observed: petition. Subhash Faldesai told PTI. PTI !8 (# () ! 5
' % ' !< ; / !< < .,51*. 13+ 1 1 - " . / 0 $ +)((,-.6+*0 ) # , ( $ 8 ) , # # ( ) 02 4 ndia is in the middle of the , ) , pandemic second wave’s %(7B battering, as never seen ) Ibefore. As it battles the # P Q alarming spread of the virus, the world media has spared no time in lambasting a country of ) a whopping 1.4 billion where ( the sheer numbers make the > implementation and success of any public scheme a challenge. 4(!($ I have been visiting India for S P Q over a decade now and have # ) ( travelled all over the country, ( >C$ ( especially Tamil Nadu which I consider my “spiritual home”. I have always had the highest " , respect for the leaders and pub- >C$ lic officials who are entrusted * D 4 with the task of running such a diverse and vast country. # ) * ! Wherever I went, the peo- # ( ple greeted me with love and , affection, for which I remain in ! their debt. I can proudly claim word comes to mind. truth: The demand for basic game since I was four years , ! S ) that I have seen India up close Incredible; a word popu- medical facilities is making the old, my voice, full of excite- over the years and that is why larised by the Indian Tourism supply look more like one of ment, helps narrate our great # my heart bleeds to see it not only slogan, “Incredible India”. Usain Bolt’s competitors. game by bringing an authen- ! # in agony at the moment, but also Even now, being caught in the In short, hectic has been tic positive view to the crick- $ for the bad press that has been political crossfire of the Scott replaced with nervous. One et community. Cricket, as so > S 4 ( ( hurled at it by those who I am Morrison Government’s deci- can truly sense the fear and often throughout history, has not sure spend any time here to sion to temporarily ban the anxiety as India faces off been and is the silver lining !S 4 O understand India, its people travel to Australia, nothing against the challenges of this to our COVID cloud. The O C ! and their myriad challenges. has changed my mind about horrific pandemic. Begging cricketers, especially in the ( As a cricketer and lover of this ancient civilisation. 8 7"C4 " /44 the question, why is an Aussie IPL, have understandably :$ # S :$ the game, I have maintained my As of now, this heaving ex-cricketer away from his been soft targets of the media association with the sport which mass of humanity reels in the %.4% 8. . beloved country and family at and, because of their contrac- P Q $ ( has allowed me to come to India wake of the pandemic; the . 74- 8/8" such a critical, even danger- tual obligations, cannot , % ) ( to cover the Indian Premier new normal replacing various ous, time? On the surface is defend themselves. # ) League (IPL). Many of my fel- religious festivals, exotic wed- 578%7 /.%1 8 . the commercial value for my It makes all the more low countrymen have also been ding celebrations, bustling B 68A4 88.9 family, having played and important for people such as playing in the IPL for years. In streets jampacked with street worked on every IPL since its me, who have once been in a this context, at a time when the vendors and livestock, all . %.4% conception in 2008. similar situation but can now 1()* world has been shutting doors sadly — like the Morrison It’s true, my remuneration from the outside not only on India and lambasting the Government’s travel policy — 4.64 "/ is significant and, yes, it pays share a “player’s perspective” Government, I thought of shar- temporarily put on hold. .-:"8" 8. my family’s bills. More broad- but also speak up for them. ing my thoughts while in India, Looking out the window ly, however, I have a deep con- India is a rich civilisation to give a perspective not avail- of my room overlooking . 0-.4 "/ nection to Mother India which has very few parallels able to those sitting thousands Bengaluru, a truss has been -" 4:B! B which docks into my life’s mis- in the world and, in its hour of miles away. established; as if a siesta has sion: To connect people and of need, the least we can do I am not a data person, but been called in respect to health 0-.4 8 organisations on purpose and is to appreciate its cultural, some of the figures I gathered authorities’ call to action for 0.- 8: 74 strategy. My purpose in sup- regional, linguistic, human from some of the media reports our new global anthem: porting the IPL this season development and other com- are astonishing. India has already “Isolate, stay home, sanitise 86 78 4". was to provide a welcome plexities before passing any vaccinated over 160 million peo- your hands, wear your mask, relief to the monotony of judgement on it. ple (five times the population of social distance.” A race busi- 5" . -.C8/4 " extended periods of partial or (The writer is a former Australia) and has been conduct- ly running in the background, 546%.4 -4684A hard lockdown. Every evening Australian cricketer; Board ing 1.3 million tests a day. The in many cases for life itself, as from 6.30 pm, cricket lovers, Member, Australia India point I am making is not to over- national resources like oxygen . 74 .. .B and let me tell you there are a Council (DFAT) and the look the sheer vast numbers and and critical medical supplies .A 4H 4/4/ few, went online or turned on Goodwill Ambassador for the challenges associated with it. are being re-routed from man- the television to watch their India, Institute for Australia When one conjures up ufacturing plants to hospitals 6.%1/.5 4-8./ favourite franchise battle. India Engagement. The views thoughts of India, a singular and care facilities. The simple As a genuine lover of the expressed are personal.) ,,2 ,-,,6*1,-2 SOUNDBITE $ 8 () " Sir — In the West Bengal Assembly elec- tion, the Bharatiya Janata Party’s, suppos- ""# $ ! - edly invincible election juggernaut was van- quished in the long-drawn fight. The saf- ! 4 - fron army was led by none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The reasons for ! ! the BJP’s defeat are not difficult to analyse. After the Parliament election, the BJP ! 0 # .=. ; > . )# )*+, (-. started believing that it could wrest power K 1 % - # ) $ /01 from the TMC through coalescence of social $ 0 $ 2 R$ S ( engineering, religious polarisation, advoca- ! % 2$ 4 *( % * cy of nationalisation, noisy campaigns, psychological warfare and inflaming the # 0 -5 6 * anti-incumbency against Mamata Banerjee. %.C8/#*+ ! 8 " * ) In the run-up to the voting, they : : demonised the Muslims, promised to ban- # # * 75-8(-9 # # / )$ (:0;1 )$ /01 ish the Muslim infiltrators, offered citizen- ship to the numerically strong migrant ! / % ! 8 % $ 4 ! # * Matuas-the scheduled caste Vaishnava sect, # : * # # " . (# =. . )# rent the air everywhere with religious chants K 6 $ 6 and had been deeply disrespectful towards ! 5 ! ! # 0 ( Mamata Banerjee all through. Perhaps, that ! # was the genesis of the slogan — “Bangla Nijer # % S ! # Meyekei Chaay” — which literally means ! % # ! 5 # # 0 “Bengal wants none but its own daughter” 4 ) P Q ( – which transformed the election into a bat- tle between ‘son of the soil versus the out- ! B ! #:;B#. ); sider’. This is the third consecutive victory ! ) * 0 -5 for Trinamool in the Bengal Assembly ( election. Since 2011, it has been leading in .=# Vaccinations, education and campaigns will subside, making the curve flat etc. If one K ( all elections in the State, whether Assembly against HIV/AIDS and malaria have long or two scientists or institutes are of the mark or parliamentary. There is no gainsaying the been on the Foundation’s agenda, but over then it can be understood but if all are giv- * ( (, ( fact the saffron outfits proved to be out of the years, Melinda’s voice was heard push- ing predictions which are far from real then sync with the culture of Bengal. ing for an increased focus on family plan- it does raise serious doubts on the research 6 S ! Haridasan Rajan | Kozhikode ning efforts envisaging that family planning work going on in our institutions. 7 ,S S # makes families healthier, wealthier and hap- We are going through one of the worst ! 0 ; ) pier. And as they— Bill and Melinda — are crises and we need to have accurate data to !# *.) > )*+, ( Sir — Bill and Melinda Gates have filed for transiting into the next phase of their lives, plan accordingly. It seems that our scientists divorce to end their 27 years of marriage. we should respect their wish for personal are firing arrows in the dark just based on K : -. S > * % Divorce is sad and stressful for most peo- privacy. Only time would tell where lies the faulty hypotheses. Since there is no dearth ple who go through it. They are hyper- future of their highly influential Foundation of technological tools available with our sci- 5 A 4 , , ? wealthy, but that doesn’t make them less in times to come. entists, we expect them to give us as accu- : * % human. One hopes they are able to walk the N Sadhasiva Reddy | Bengaluru rate data as possible. Indeed our scientists difficult path forward as amicably and gen- need them to facilitate our Government as 0 ? tly as possible. Bill has said that they both Q vaccinating all 18 plus citizens will take # @ will continue their work together at the Sir — It refers to the editorial ‘Wide of the months if not years and is no mean task. ! S # ( Foundation. mark’ (May 6). It’s shameful that our scien- Bal Govind | Noida ! The Gates Foundation has spent more tists are unable to accurately predict the 75-A " ,S than $50 billion, mostly on essential glob- COVID-19 pandemic — the number of * (#@# # *.) " al health and development initiatives. cases, when it will reach its peak, when it ))# )(! (.#?=@ 9A(@ K / ! 8
' % ' !< / !< < FIRSTCOLUMN 2 *5.,1 ., ,336, # 1 /--01) 96.2 , 2 s the India oxygen story leaves the world wondering and different versions of the pre- Aparedness of the nation make headlines glob- 1() ally, it’s time we start looking at the crisis from a dif- 27,1 2*6.21600 ferent angle. That the Government should have been -A( ( 2 better prepared and that they should have seen this coming, has already been said a million times. That ,: $ /:$1 we celebrated too early and should have been more # careful, is widely acknowledged. While the blame 9A # )*+, ( game will continue, it’s time to rethink our priori- -. 0 ties. There is no disputing the fact that we were not 4 ( prepared for the second wave and it just blew away S the entire Government machinery. It exposed the fact that our disaster management services were faulty and their plans were not methodical. The 4 Centre-State debates and the blame game took its )*+, (-. % ( own toll. It was, however, marvelous to see how var- ? ious social groups and individuals rose to the occa- sion and took steps to help out in any way they could. # " Anthony Fauci, the Chief Medical Advisor to ? the Joe Biden Administration, in an interview rec- P Q ommended steps to be taken on an immediate, inter- mediate and long-term basis to overcome this cri- 4 sis. The immediate steps suggested by him were: -7 2 Make an emergency group that will visit the situ- ? , ation every day and suggest measures; focus on the 78 8 ? immediate need for oxygen, beds and medicines "6. 74 rather than the long-term strategy of vaccination 84 . management of medical oxygen at come the logistics issues of oxygen ing ideas that can solve the global though it should keep going on simultaneously as -4"684 7" the start of the pandemic to ensure transportation. The IAF is making health crisis. Google and Microsoft a long-term strategy; rope in the Army to help with 57" 5866 that the supplies were enough in hos- relentless sorties to airlift oxygen have pledged to support India. Apple the situation; shut down the entire country for a few "C4 .- /4A4" pitals. The first wave was managed from abroad and one of its C-17 air- has also offered to extend its support weeks. While these suggestions are relevant and have 0 8 .0- .5 well but when the new strain of the craft flew 35 hours to fetch cryogenic to India. Many NRIs have formed been known to work for both China and the US, -4: 7 virus started infecting more people, oxygen containers from England. social groups that are collecting we must realise that whenever the lockdown is 574 74- 8 the numbers escalated. The demand Earlier, another C-17 flew 14 hours funds and have opened charities to opened, we will plunge back into the crisis. This is 4- .A rose from 1,500 metric tonnes (MT) non-stop to get cylinders from send the required supplies to India. because, the mutability of the virus is unpredictable %. -"% 8: to 6,000 MT within 72 hours. This Germany. Looking at the serious sit- Amazon has offered to bear the cost and we are dealing with a political class and pop- 74 /84"4 led to a panic situation as no one was uation, the IAF has to date brought of airlifting oxygen concentrators to ulation that doesn’t understand the importance of prepared for it. in more than 60 cryogenic contain- India. A new US public-private-part- COVID-appropriate behaviour and the severity of .- 8 4- .A While India has the capacity to ers and 900 oxygen cylinders from nership called ‘A Global Task Force 6,+ ? )*+, (-. the situation. .0- 0-C8C"6! produce 8,500 MT oxygen, it has a Singapore, Dubai, Bangkok, on Pandemic Response: Mobilising # To keep the economy from crashing; to save the 74%4 54 44/ stock of 4,000 MT. The crisis also Frankfurt and the UK, clocking for India’ will provide the country lives of the people; to take all measures to keep them . A.66.5 happened due to supply chain man- over 140 flying hours. While there are with critical medical supplies, vac- # $ $ @" healthy and to keep the stoves burning in their .0- %84 8A8% agement failure. Oxygen transport is a lot of lessons to be learnt from this cines, oxygen and other life-saving /$$@1 homes so that they can feed their families is tough. 58/. 7" not easy due to its highly inflamma- crisis, the importance of adding assistance. Even as we choose strategies to fight one variant, 8 864 6B ble nature and the vehicles carrying health to the Concurrent List under With so much help pouring in # ( '4%.8: # 6 the next one will be ready to play hide and seek with oxygen cannot run very fast. The the Constitution has been pointed from all quarters, all India needs to us. What options are we left with, then? .-4 availability of cryogenic tankers was out by the Finance Commission. This do is stand strong, take the immedi- India’s National List of Essential Medicines, as 8.- " limited. However, as usual, we have must be taken up on a priority basis. ate steps and prepare for the future F $)! also the World Health Organisation’s (WHO’s) "/ 58/4-4"/ been resilient and the Government It is imperative that central health to avoid another such crisis. , model list of essential medicines, lists oxygen as one. 74 5.-6/ .C4- has roped in the security forces to schemes are implemented in States Defeating the virus that changes 4 ( As AIIMS Director, Randeep Guleria puts it, help tide over the oxygen crisis in the and the Centre and State everyday and keeping normal life 0 % “Many of the patients can be saved by giving just country. They have been ferrying Governments work in tandem. If all going will be tricky in a vast coun- ( one treatment, that is by giving oxygen.” Therefore, oxygen from abroad and the Defence concerned perform their duties in try like India. With all the required # # 0 a strategy of having more oxygen beds makes a lot Research and Development time and there is cohesiveness in support from across the world, we of sense. However, there is no official data on the Organisation (DRDO) has set up an functioning, the next crisis during the will definitely come out of this cri- $$@ overall requirement of oxygen of the country. Hence, oxygen generation plant at the predicted third wave of the pandem- sis very soon. What remains to be 0 0 preparedness has suffered and the future demand AIIMS in New Delhi. Four more ic can be averted. seen, however, is how we will fare in 0 , of oxygen cannot be predicted. Piped oxygen in hos- plants capable of generating more Meanwhile, it is heartening that future. We have survived past disas- 4 P Q # pitals is much safer and cheap in comparison to oxy- than 1,000 litres of oxygen per hour several startups and corporates have ters and will wade through this with > gen cylinders which are unsafe, logistically challeng- will soon start functioning in the stepped up the fight against the sec- immense global and internal support, # ing and expensive. The purity of oxygen and whether RML Hospital, Lady Hardinge, ond wave of the contagion in India. India-specific wisdom, a strong will it is medical grade or not, is equally challenging. Safdarjung and the AIIMS in Rohtak. The Paytm Foundation is raising over power and community coopera- > " Procuring oxygen concentrators from abroad The system can cater to 190 patients 10 crore to donate oxygen concen- tion. This is also the time to realise is also being actively pursued to artificially produce at a flow rate of five litres per minute trators across India. Zomato Feeding that what will save or defeat us is our ()*+, 2 oxygen, which is then transported to medical estab- and charge 195 cylinders per day. India, in association with logistics own strength, whether in terms of F ( lishments. In large hospitals, liquid oxygen is filled The Medical Oxygen Plant tech- firm Delhivery, has started the ‘Help contracting the disease or in terms ) in large tanks and supplied through a network of The writer is Registrar, nology has been developed by the Save My India’ endeavour to source of our survival. Hence, we need to pipes to the outlet near the patient’s bed. Piped oxy- IIT-Delhi. The views DRDO based on the on-board oxy- oxygen concentrators. Action follow our scientific wisdom that is # :$ -7 ) expressed 4 gen is more automated and it is easier to control the are personal. gen generation unit of the Tejas light COVID-19 Team Grants (ACT silently becoming more important levels. The Government had created guidelines for combat aircraft and will help over- Grants) have taken the task of fund- and widespread the world over. ( POINTCOUNTERPOINT # 4 ) % ( )*+, (-. ( 0 & & & - & & C - D& 5%1 & & & & &9 9 && & 9 / ! " L L& # $ % & "!'# & & % () * 1 ! $
ndia is reeling under the However, we must remember derive from. If you analyse the kept for domestic use what they is a trend in international one- chic conditions and delay recov- impact of the second, more that India is a large and popu- matter, India has actually done produced, without shipping upmanship, to which even ery. Also, nations like Pakistan Ivirulent wave of the lous nation with unique chal- much better than many out a single vial. Now, when we Indians in India and abroad and China are determined to COVID-19 pandemic. And the lenges and it is almost impos- advanced countries. First, many are falling short of vaccines for greatly contribute. If the per show India in a poor light. number of cases and casualties sible to take into account every western countries, including our own citizens, this “vaccine unit population death by the China in particular has an axe are just mounting up. As the detail and caution while devel- the US, allowed civil protests on diplomacy” is paying off and virus is computed, India has the to grind because as a nation, it Government scrambles to han- oping national strategies and the need for masking up and other nations are lending a least number of casualties per was isolated during the first dle the situation, fingers are 2 :0 implementing the local actions people argued that imposing helping hand and shipping the crore of population. It is only wave of the outbreak and being pointed at Prime Minister of these wider programmes. the mask rule was against their precious doses to us. that India is visible because of COVID-19 was called the Narendra Modi and there have Often, people do not cooperate fundamental rights guaranteed Till the second wave of the its large population and the “Chinese virus.” Politics over the been calls for his resignation unless forced to do so. by the Constitution. India has contagion exploded and we absolute numbers affected by pandemic will only provide from some quarters. In the eyes We must realise that our imposed the mask rule much fell short of vaccines, our pub- the virus. Also, we are visible India-bashing fuel to China and of the Opposition, the Press, historic cumulation of knowl- more sincerely than any other lic vaccination programme was because of the dramatic footage its allies. We will play into the both Indian and international, edge has not given us enough country in the world. put off for some time in view of a very systematic one. India of cremations of the dead while hands of international cartels and some communities, Modi understanding about the behav- As for social distancing, the outbreak, but that is not an began its inoculation pro- the rituals in other communi- that want to see India underde- is responsible for every short- iour of this microscopic beast. India imposed stringent guide- easy decision to take. gramme from the most vulner- ties may not be that dramatic veloped and politically chaotic. coming in the country. Most researches on the lines and meticulously imple- Vaccine production is one able section of the society. In looking. This is the time for us to However, this blame game has COVID-19, including the mented them. However, there important and primary Germany, senior citizens who We must realise that by come together as a nation and not helped in addressing the invention of the Coronavirus is a view that this regulation response to the pandemic that registered for vaccination in highlighting and constantly fill- rally behind our leaders, who problem. As a nation, the need vaccine, are only a few months could have been better fol- India excelled at. It invested January are still waiting to get ing the television channels and are doggedly working towards of the hour is to rise beyond old and we are yet to discover lowed in election rallies and heavily in this and brought out their first dose. In Switzerland, social media with negative COVID recovery and the devel- COVID politics and establish the long-term effects and effec- religious congregations. With effective vaccines at affordable which has a tiny population the information of the tragedy opment of the country. If we fundamentally strong arrange- tiveness of the measures being the cooperation of the people prices. India also became a vaccination programme that India is undergoing and not giv- don’t recognise our role as cit- ments for providing relief to the The writer is Chairman, prescribed and adopted. As and all political outfits, this global leader and shipped mil- started in December 2020 has ing enough coverage to the izens, we will just turn out to be suffering citizens. Khadi and Village such, the policy-making hori- could have been coordinated lions of doses for free to coun- still covered only eight per cent enormous amount of positive our own worst enemies and Industries Commission. Indeed, some errors may The views expressed zon at the national level also better, though. Or even better, tries in trouble, as part of its of the citizens. work the nation is doing spin within the negative spiral have occurred in arresting the are personal. does not have an accumulated the elections and the Maha “vaccine diplomacy.” Many However, India is shown in towards the mitigation of the that we ourselves create, know- second wave of the virus. experience to bank upon and Kumbh could also have been countries, including the US, a bad light, all the while, which pandemic, we only stir up anar- ingly or unknowingly. ! % < "! R!
'":1.1 popular. They contrast with including ethnic minorities. weeks of confrontations in The plan was announced 3$%44-53 6- flash mob of mostly young which security forces increas- by Khin Ma Ma Myo, deputy Apeople in Myanmar’s ingly used lethal force, with defence minister of the shadow biggest city staged a brief some militant protesters National Unity Government, " protest march on Thursday responding with homemade which challenges the junta’s against military rule, the latest weapons such as gasoline legitimacy. She said one of the 08 4/ " 8. their grip, culminating in in a series of actions aimed at bombs in self-defence. duties of the People’s Defence Aung San Suu Kyi’s rise to reducing the chances of a dead- In other areas, mass peace- Force is to protect the country’s ore than 200 global leadership in 2015 elections, ly response by the authorities. ful protests still are being bro- resistance movement from mil- Morganisations urged the the international community In the five-minute protest in ken up by force, while in some itary attacks and violence insti- UN Security Council on responded by lifting most Yangon, about 70 marchers remote areas, groups opposed to gated by the junta. Wednesday to impose an arms sanctions and pouring invest- chanted slogans in support of the ruling junta have occasion- The National Unity embargo on Myanmar, saying ment into the country. The the civil disobedience move- ally ambushed security forces, Government has the backing of the time for statements has coup took place following ment that opposes February’s leading to bloody clashes. several major ethnic minority passed and immediate action November elections, which army coup that ousted the elect- According to the groups who for decades have is needed to help protect Suu Kyi’s party won over- ed government of Aung San Suu Assistance Association for been seeking greater autonomy peaceful protesters against whelmingly and the military Kyi. They then scattered into the Political Prisoners, which com- and who maintain their own military rule and other oppo- contests as fraudulent. downtown crowds. piles details of arrests and fatal- guerrilla forces. The two most nents of the junta. The 15-member Security Protests also took place in ities linked to the junta’s crack- important are the Kachin in the A statement by the non- Council has issued several other cities and towns includ- down, 769 protesters and north and the Karen in the east, governmental organisations statements since the coup ing Mandalay, the country’s bystanders have been killed both of which are actively said the military “has demon- demanding the restoration of second biggest city, where since February’s military engaged in combat with the strated a callous disregard for democracy and the release of Buddhist monks marched, and takeover. The junta has said the government’s military forces. human life” since their Feb 1 all detainees including Suu Dawei in the southeast, where death toll is about one-third of Pado Man Man, a coup, killing at least 769 peo- Kyi, strongly condemning the the demonstrators included that, and that the use of lethal ! # (#! spokesman for the 5th Brigade ple including 51 children as use of violence against peace- engineers, teachers, university force was justified to end what of the Karen National Union, young as six years old and ful protesters and the deaths of students and members of it called rioting. neighbourhoods began organ- military shadow government these local groups into a said he believes that the for- detaining several thousand hundreds of civilians and call- LGBT groups. After the military govern- ising themselves into home- formed by elected lawmakers national “People’s Defence mation of the People’s Defence activists, journalists, civil ser- ing on the military “to exercise In Yangon in particular, ment began using lethal force grown militias or defence who were barred from taking Force” which would serve as a Army will be a step toward a vants and politicians. utmost restraint” and “on all small protests publicised by to suppress demonstrations, groups. office by the military precursor to a “Federal Union future state that includes all Hundreds of others have dis- sides to refrain from violence.” word of mouth have become protesters in some towns and On Wednesday, the anti- announced a plan to unify Army” of democratic forces ethnic armed groups. appeared, it said. It has also stressed “the “No government should need to fully respect human sell a single bullet to the junta rights and to pursue dialogue under these circumstances,” and reconciliation,” and 7 8 4 " R. " the NGOs said. “Imposing a backed diplomatic efforts by global arms embargo on the 10-member Association of Myanmar is the minimum Southeast Asian Nations and " . necessary step the Security UN special envoy Christine Council should take in Schraner Burgener to find a 1"7:"- J%78"K 5"78: . to the Atlantic coast and want- contracts will lead to greater response to the military’s esca- solution. ing to get such a base there.” access in the future. They are lating violence.” “The time for statements ursunjan Mamat, a prac- he top US general for Townsend’s warnings come hedging their bets and making The organisations urged has passed,” the NGOs said. Tticing Muslim in western TAfrica is warning that a as the Pentagon shifts its focus big bets on Africa.” the United Kingdom, the “The Security Council should China’s Xinjiang region, said growing threat from China from the counterterrorism wars China’s first overseas naval Security Council nation in take its consensus on he’s fasting for Ramzan but his may come not just from the of the last two decades to the base was built years ago in charge of drafting resolutions Myanmar to a new level and daughters, ages 8 and 10, are waters of the Pacific but from Indo-Pacific region and threats Djibouti in the Horn of Africa on Myanmar, “to begin nego- agree on immediate and sub- not. Religious activity includ- the Atlantic as well. from great power adversaries and it is steadily increasing its tiations on a resolution autho- stantive action.” ing fasting is not permitted for US Gen. Stephen like China and Russia. The capacity. Townsend said as rizing an arms embargo as They said a UN global minors, he explained. Townsend, in an interview Biden administration views many as 2,000 military per- soon as possible.” arms embargo against The 32-year-old ethnic with The Associated Press, China’s rapidly expanding eco- sonnel are at the base, includ- This “will demonstrate to Myanmar should bar the Uyghur wasn’t complaining, said Beijing is looking to estab- nomic influence and military ing hundreds of Marines who the junta that there will be no direct or indirect supply, sale at least not to a group of foreign lish a large navy port capable of might as America’s handle security there. more business as usual,” they or transfer of “all weapons, journalists brought to his home hosting submarines or aircraft primary long-term security “They have arms and said. Myanmar for five decades munitions, and other mili- outside the city of Aksu by gov- carriers on Africa’s western challenge. munitions for sure. They have had languished under strict tary-related equipment, ernment officials, who listened # # * # # # )'# coast. Townsend said China has U.S. military commanders armored combat vehicles. We military rule that led to inter- including dual-use goods such in on his responses. It seemed / '# #PC8 #! 2 approached countries stretch- around the globe, including think they will soon be basing national isolation and sanc- as vehicles and communica- he was giving a matter-of-fact 7 8 ! ing from Mauritania to south several who may lose troops helicopters there to potential- tions. tions and surveillance equip- description of how religion is of Namibia, intent on estab- and resources to bolster growth ly include attack helicopters,” As the generals loosened ment.” practiced under rules set by deserts bordering Central Asia. saying the younger generation lishing a naval facility. If real- in the Pacific, caution that said Townsend. China’s Communist Party. Outside observers say scores of wants to spend more time ized, that prospect would China’s growing assertiveness For some time, many have “My children know who mosques have been demol- working than praying. enable China to base warships isn’t simply happening in Asia. thought that China was work- our holy creator is, but I don’t ished, a charge Beijing denies, The Chinese government in its expanding Navy in the And they argue that Beijing is ing to establish a Navy base in $)! give them detailed religious and locals say the number of organised a five-day visit to Atlantic as well as Pacific aggressively asserting economic Tanzania, a country on Africa’s 1! $ knowledge,” he said, speaking worshippers is sinking. Xinjiang in April for about a oceans. influence over countries in eastern coast, that has had a through a translator. A decade ago, 4,000 to dozen foreign correspondents, “They’re looking for a place Africa, South America and the strong, longstanding military “After they reach 18, they 5,000 people attended Friday part of an intense propaganda where they can rearm and Middle East, and is pursuing relationship with Beijing. But $ $ can receive religious education prayers at the Id Kah Mosque campaign to counter allega- repair warships. That becomes bases and footholds there. Townsend said it appears there’s according to their own will.” in the historic Silk Road city of tions of abuse. Officials repeat- militarily useful in conflict,” “The Chinese are outma- been no decision on that yet. 1 Under the weight of official Kashgar. Now only 800 to 900 edly urged journalists to said Townsend, who heads neuvering the U.S. in select He said that while China policies, the future of Islam do, said the mosque’s imam, recount what they saw, not U.S. Africa Command. countries in Africa,” said has been trying hard to get a Geneva: France joined the Colombo: Sri Lanka on appears precarious in Xinjiang, Mamat Juma. He attributed the what China calls the lies of crit- “They’re a long way toward Townsend. “Port projects, eco- base in Tanzania, it’s not the United States on Thursday in Thursday announced that all a rugged realm of craggy snow- drop to a natural shift in val- ical Western politicians and establishing that in Djibouti. nomic endeavors, infrastruc- location he’s most concern supporting an easing of patent arrivals from India will be capped mountains and barren ues, not government policy, media. Now they’re casting their gaze ture and their agreements and about. and other protections on banned with immediate effect Covid-19 vaccines that could due to the record rise in Covid- help poorer countries get more 19 cases in the neighbouring 0) +.*3 doses and speed the end of the country. ) P 1? pandemic. While the backing Several countries like the from two countries with major UK, the UAE, Australia and - )R drug makers is important, Singapore have already banned The Hague: The International Presiding Judge Bertram Ongwen, wearing a face always catch up with you.” many obstacles remain. travellers from India as well as Criminal Court sentenced a Schmitt said that judges had to mask and headphones, showed Ongwen’s defence lawyers Kyiv (Ukraine): On the front- visit to show “our unwavering The move to support waiv- other South Asian countries. Ugandan former child soldier weigh Ongwen’s brutality and no emotion as he heard that the have always cast him as a vic- lines of the battle against support for the independence, ing intellectual property pro- The Civil Aviation who turned into a brutal rebel victims’ wishes for justice against three-judge panel had given tim of the LRA’s brutality who Russia-backed separatists and sovereignty and territorial tections on vaccines under Authority on Thursday said commander to 25 years’ impris- his own tortured past when him a sentence five years longer was traumatised after being in the halls of government in integrity of Ukraine.” World Trade Organisation rules that travellers from India will onment on Thursday, with judges deciding on a sentence. than the 20 years prosecutors abducted as a 9-year-old and Kyiv, Ukrainians hold strong Zelenskyy has made it clear marked a dramatic shift for the not be allowed to disembark in saying that his own abduction as “The chamber is confront- requested. turned into a child soldier in hopes for Thursday’s visit of the that he wants significant action. United States — and drew cheers Sri Lanka. The decision has a schoolboy and history as a child ed in the present case with a Ugandan authorities wel- the group’s violent insurgency. US Secretary of State - “Ukraine needs a clear sig- from activists, complaints from been taken as the coronavirus soldier prevented him being sen- unique situation. It is con- comed the sentence, in a case But judges in February increased military aid and nal about the European and Big Pharma, and a lot of ques- continues to spread rapidly in tenced to life. fronted with a perpetrator who they had asked the court to ruled that he committed the strong support for NATO Euro-Atlantic prospect,” tions about what comes next. India. Dominic Ongwen was con- willfully brought tremendous investigate. crimes “as a fully responsible membership among them. Zelenskyy said Monday on Washington had previously The Director General Civil victed in February of a total of suffering upon his victims,” “As the government of adult, as a commander of the By visiting so early in his Twitter, referring to Ukraine’s lined up with many other devel- aviation in a letter to the CEO 61 war crimes and crimes Schmitt said. Uganda, we are happy that the LRA in his mid- to late 20s”. tenure, before any trip to aspirations to join NATO and the oped nations opposed to the of the national carrier Srilankan against humanity including “However, it is also con- case we referred to the ICC had Schmitt underscored that Russia, Antony Blinken is sig- European Union. “Postponing idea floated by India and South Airlines has said, “in accor- murder, rape, forced marriage, fronted with a perpetrator who merit,” said spokesman on Thursday, saying Ongwen naling that Ukraine is a high these issues for later,’ some day,’ Africa in October. dance with instructions forced pregnancy and using himself had previously endured Ofwono Opondo. “We are sat- could have fled the LRA, was not foreign-policy priority for (in) 10 years’ has to end.” Attention is now turning to received from health authori- child soldiers as a commander extreme suffering himself at the isfied, and we hope it will always in a position of total sub- President Joe Biden’s adminis- “We need to be more sup- those richer nations, notably in ties of Sri Lanka due to the in the shadowy Lord’s Resistance hands of the group of which he serve as a signal to others who ordination to its leader Joseph tration. But what he can, or ported, given some special sta- the European Union — and Covid-19 pandemic situation, Army. His lawyers have said they later became a prominent think they can commit a crime Kony and committed some of will, deliver in the meeting with tus - NATO membership,” said France was the first to voice its it is hereby directed that pas- will appeal the conviction. member and leader.” and run away. The law will the crimes in private. AP President Volodymyr a Ukrainian soldier on the support. sengers travelling from India Zelenskyy is unclear. eastern front lines, who gave his “I completely favour this will not be permitted to dis- Blinken said Monday in name and patronymic as Vasyl opening up of the intellectual embark in Sri Lanka with London that he would use the Adolfovich. AP property,” AP immediate effect.” PTI 5 ! " #!!
'48D8: falling rocket, Wang said for azine, said that the develop- “specifics I refer you to the ment of rocket debris falling '""1. J"68K hina on Thursday declined competent authority”. was carefully considered by Cto comment on reports “As a principle, China is China’s space authorities from Malian woman has given that the debris of its Long committed to the peaceful use the initial rocket design phase Abirth to nine babies at March 5B rocket, which last of outer space and believes we and the choice of a launch site, once — after only expecting week launched the core mod- should conduct international to the rocket’s liftoff attitude seven, according to Mali’s ule of the country’s space sta- cooperation in this area,” he and its trajectory. Minister of Health and the tion, is set to re-enter the said. “Most of the debris will Moroccan clinic where the earth’s atmosphere this week- “We stand ready to work burn up during re-entry into nonuplets were born. end, amid concerns that it with all parties to make efforts the Earth’s atmosphere, leaving It appeared to be the first could cause damage if it crash- for the peaceful use of outer only a very small portion that time on record that a woman es in civilian areas. space and uphold its safety and may fall to the ground, which had given birth to nine sur- While the Foreign Ministry security,” he said. will potentially land on areas viving babies at once. spokesman Wang Wenbin par- The rocket was used by away from human activities or The Guinness Book of ried questions about the reports China to launch part of its in the ocean,” Wang told the World Records said in an email that the US defence department space station. While most space daily. to The AP on Wednesday that was tracking the falling rocket debris objects may burn up in On May 4, the US Defence its current record for most liv- debris, official media here the atmosphere, the rocket’s Department said it was track- ing births at once is eight, and quoted Chinese experts as say- size — 22 tonnes — has ing a large Chinese rocket that that it is verifying the Morocco ing that the parts of the disin- prompted concern that large is out of control and set to re- birth. tegrated rocket will fall in parts could re-enter and cause enter earth’s atmosphere this The current holder of the international waters. damage if they hit inhabited weekend, CNN reported. Guinness record is American The Pentagon said on areas. The Chinese Long March Nadya Suleman, who gave Tuesday that it was tracking a State-run Global Times 5B rocket is expected to enter birth to eight premature but large Chinese rocket that is out quoted aerospace expert and earth’s atmosphere “around otherwise healthy children in of control and set to re-enter TV commentator Song May 8,” the report quoted a 2009. earth’s atmosphere this week- Zhongping as saying that it is statement from Defence The five girls and four end. “completely normal” for rock- Department spokesperson boys, and their mother, “are all Asked what measures et debris to return to Earth. Mike Howard, who said the US doing well,” Mali’s health min- China is taking to deal with the Wang Ya’nan, chief editor Space Command is tracking ister said in a statement. situation arising out of the of Aerospace Knowledge mag- the rocket’s trajectory. ! " (
7% 9)3 &:; 1 0 E# %.C8/#*+ -40-:4%4 '-8:8: -4454/ %7"664:4 A.- 8/8" 1. 88 %4. " 45 /4678 loads will most likely see an extension and expansion of he spiralling crisis from lockdowns, it said adding that $ ) 5 0'"8 Tresurgence of Covid-19 the resurgence of Covid-19 0'"8 PowerGrid, ONGC, Asian cases in India has dented sup- cases exposed cracks in the Paints, Bajaj Finserv, IndusInd petition filed in the port for the ruling BJP but Indian healthcare system. 9:;< <; quity gauges Sensex and Bank, NTPC and Sun Pharma ABombay High Court has voter support for Prime “While there appears to be ENifty notched up gains for were the major laggards, drop- sought Z-plus security for Adar Minister Narendra Modi and signs that the spiralling 45 /4678 Constitution. and West Bengal. the second straight session on ping as much as 1.24 per cent. Poonawalla, Chief Executive his party will remain strong COVID-19 crisis in India has The grants are released as The eligibility of states to Thursday, boosted by hectic Of the Sensex constituents, Officer of the Serum Institute over the coming quarters and dented support for the ruling he Union Finance per the recommendations of receive this grant and the buying in auto, financial and IT 20 shares ended with gains. of India (SII) which manufac- through this humanitarian cri- BJP, we maintain our view that TMinistry on Thursday the Finance Commission in quantum of grant was decid- counters amid firm global cues. “The trend of positive tures the Covishield vaccine sis, Fitch Solutions said voter support for Prime released the 2nd monthly monthly installments to meet ed by the Commission based Participants cheered the news alternating with negative against Covid-19. Thursday. Minister Modi and the BJP will installment of Post Devolution the gap in revenue accounts of on the gap between assessment US government’s decision to news continues. The Union government The sudden and steep remain strong over the coming Revenue Deficit (PDRD) the states post devolution. of revenue and expenditure of back waiver of intellectual President Biden’s decision has already granted `Y’ cate- surge in the number of coron- quarters and through this Grant of Rs 9,871 crore for the The 15th Finance the State.Assessed devolution property rights for Covid-19 to back waiving intellectual gory security to the Pune- avirus cases – the highest-ever humanitarian crisis,” Fitch year 2021-22 to 17 states. Commission has recom- for the financial year 2021-22 vaccines, which can speed up property rights on vaccines is based industrialist. 4,12,262 new infections and a Solutions said. With the release of 2nd mended PDRD grants to 17 was also taken into account by the vaccination drive in India a big positive. This will quick- Advocate Datta Mane, the record 3,980 daily death toll in This second wave in India installment, a total amount of states. the Commission. and other emerging economies, en the vaccination process petitioner, also sought a direc- a day – has swamped the health has been widely attributed to Rs 19,742 crore has been These states are: Andhra The Fifteenth Finance traders said. enabling countries like India to tion to the police to register FIR system, which seemed to have the B.1.1.7 variant – first iden- released in the first two Pradesh, Assam, Haryana, Commission has recom- The BSE benchmark come out of the pandemic and carry out a probe into collapsed. tified in the UK – which had months of the current finan- Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, mended a total grant of Rs Sensex closed higher by 272.21 faster,” said V K Vijayakumar, alleged threat to Poonawalla While containment mea- ramped up cases in Punjab. cial year as PDRD grant to the Kerala, Manipur, Meghalaya, 1,18,452 crore to 17 States in points or 0.56 per cent at Chief Investment Strategist at over the supply of vaccine. sures will weigh on India’s Another possible culprit is a states. The Centre provides the Mizoram, Nagaland, Punjab, the financial year 2021-22. 48,949.76. In volatile trade, Geojit Financial Services. If vaccine makers felt ongoing economic recovery, homegrown variant, B.1.617, grant to the states under Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil The grant is released in 12 the 30-share index oscillated But data on daily infec- unsafe, it could affect vaccine the localised nature of restric- with two worrying mutations Article 275 of the Nadu, Tripura, Uttarakhand, monthly installments. between a high of 49,011.31 tions indicate a rise after five production, the petition, filed tions means that the actual that originated in Maharashtra, and a low of 48,614.11 during days of decline, he said, adding on Wednesday, said. impact is likely to be much less the worst affected state. face masks and maintaining move fast. countries. the day. Similarly, the broader lockdowns and restrictions on “If Adar Poonawalla is out severe relative to April-June “In addition to this, in social distancing, are also the Fitch Solutions said that in India exported around 193 NSE Nifty ended with gains of mobility are increasing, impact- of India due to threat to his life, 2020 when a strict nationwide India, a year of COVID-19 main reasons for India’s upward March this year, a few weeks million doses of vaccines. 106.95 points or 0.73 per cent ing the economic recovery. then it (his company) will be a lockdown was imposed, Fitch fatigue gave way to an ill- tick in infections,” it said. before the new surge, Health Fitch Solutions said “the at 14,724.80. On the Sensex New coronavirus cases ship in a storm without its cap- Solutions said. advised euphoria over herd It added that a number of Minister Harsh Vardhan, who perception that Prime Minister chart, Bajaj Auto, HDFC, Tech and deaths in India hit a record tain,” said the plea. It forecasted real GDP to immunity as cases began to dip political, social and religious is also a physician, asserted Narendra Modi’s administra- Mahindra, Infosys, Nestle daily high with 4,12,262 new Poonawalla had said in a grow 9.5 per cent in 2021-22 in January 2021. events and elections for local that India was in the tion has considerably mis- India, Maruti and Titan infections and 3,980 fatalities recent interview to The Times (April 2021 to March 2022). “Inadequate government bodies in multiple states and “endgame” of the COVID-19 managed the COVID-19 crisis emerged as the prominent being reported, taking the total that he left for the United Risks to this forecast are to measures and people not preparation for Assembly elec- pandemic, justifying the gov- will weigh on his and the gainers, advancing up to 2.61 tally of COVID-19 cases to Kingdom due to threats and the downside, as the surge in adhering to public health tions in others also created an ernment’s decision to export Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) per cent. 2,10,77,410 and the death toll pressure from `powerful peo- new daily COVID-19 case- guidelines, such as wearing opportunity for the virus to medical resources to other popularity somewhat. On the other hand, to 2,30,168. ple’ seeking vaccine doses on priority.Mane further said in the petition that he has 3 approached the Commissioner $ $ %4=%&' !"#$" % of Police, Pune and Maharashtra Director General +; of Police with a complaint > about alleged threat to the SII & "'!() %"''!%* " CEO.The high court should direct the police to register FIR 45 /4678 economic performance as trav- additional financial support 45 /4678 Wang Xiaojian, spokesper- Traders to ban Huawei and and ask the government to pro- el is curtailed and local restric- from the government; India’s <- son of the Chinese Embassy in ZTE Corporation of China vide higher-level security to ndia’s second wave of coron- tions enforced. stimulus measures have been eijing has expressed deep India, said in a statement that from participating in 5G net- Poonawalla, the petition said. Iavirus infections and the “This is inevitably impact- modest since the start of the New Delhi:In one of the steep- Bconcerns over India’s new China expresses “concern and work rollout in India. resultant city and state-specif- ing the country’s energy mar- pandemic, totalling 9 per cent est increase since daily price telecom policy that does not regret that Chinese telecom- ic restrictions may shave-off kets, with all sectors being of GDP. If a nationwide lock- revision was started, petrol permit Chinese telecommuni- munications companies have about 20-25 per cent of auto impacted. down is enforced, the govern- price on Thursday was hiked cation companies to conduct not been permitted to conduct fuel demand in April, consul- However, without a ment will need to provide by 25 paise per litre and diesel 5G trials in the country, saying 5G trials with Indian Telecom tancy Wood Mackenzie said on nationwide lockdown along much more,” it said. by 30 paise as oil companies the move is not conducive to Service Providers in India.” Thursday and estimated a the lines of that seen in Q2 With the domestic econ- raised rates for the third the innovation and develop- “Relevant Chinese com- modest impact on oil demand (April-June) 2020, energy omy gripped by the pandmic straight day ment of related Indian indus- panies have been operating in in the absence of a full nation- demand has so far proven rel- and the looming risk of a To pass on to consumers tries. India for years, providing mass wide lockdown. atively resilient, despite the nationwide lockdown, external the increase in international oil On Tuesday, the job opportunities and making India’s COVID crisis more severe levels of infection demand and export-orientated prices.Petrol price in Delhi Department of contribution to India’s infra- shows no sign of slowing. The compared to 12 months ago,” industries are now critical for was increased to Rs 90.99 per Telecommunications (DoT) structure construction in country has reported new cases Wood Mackenzie said in a the economic recovery in the litre from Rs 90.74 while diesel granted approval to nearly a telecommunications,” Xiaojian above 3 lakh per day for two report. short term. rates went up to Rs 81.42 a litre dozen companies to conduct a said. “To exclude Chinese weeks straight, though experts It trimmed India’s GDP During last year’s lock- from Rs 81.12, according to a six-month trial for use and telecommunications compa- think the true number is like- forecast to 9 per cent year-on- down, India’s oil demand fell by price notification by state- applications of 5G technology. nies from the trials will not ly to be far higher, it said. year in 2021 from 9.9 per cent 1.2 million barrels per day in owned fuel retailers. The telecom service providers only harm their legitimate “Yet despite increasing previously due to the second April-June, equal to about a 25 Rates have been increased included Bharti Airtel, Reliance rights and interests, but also calls for the government to peak of COVID cases. But per cent drop. Road traffic across the country and vary JioInfocomm Ltd, Vodafone hinder the improvement of impose a nationwide lockdown there is further downside risk was particularly impacted, from state to state depending Idea Ltd and MTNL who have the Indian business environ- to reduce the rate of infection, if lockdown measures and recording a peak decline of on the local incidence of taxa- tied up with original equipment ment, which is not conducive Prime Minister Narendra Modi restrictions on movement are some 45 per cent during April tion (VAT). This is the third manufacturers and technology to the innovation and devel- has so far resisted, citing the tightened further. 2020. straight day of increase in providers which are Ericsson, opment of related Indian economic impact on an already “While current localised Oil product consumption petrol and diesel prices since Nokia, Samsung and C-DOT. industries”. suffering population.” restrictions appear inadequate almost halved in April 2020 state-owned fuel retailers ended There was no Chinese Like the US and the UK, Compounding this terrible in comparison to the severity of with petrol demand slumping an 18-day hiatus in rate revi- company -- Huawei or ZTE -- there have been demands from human tragedy, the crisis is also the pandemic, tighter restric- by a record 60.5 per cent and sion during assembly elections in the list that have been oper- the industry stakeholders like impacting India’s near-term tions come with expectations of diesel by 55.6 per cent. in states like West Bengal.PTI ating in India for several years. the Confederation of All India " ' 9213 = 7 - C & & & "= % & , & L % 7 (>+ + %#*+ / D L 1 0'"8 Framework 2.0, provided they ! / 45 /4678 ferred destination for power have not availed of restructur- procurement for both the dis- day after the RBI allowed ing under any of the earlier ! ontinuing its exceptional tribution utilities as well as the Aanother round of restruc- frameworks and were classified 7 %4. Cperformance during the industrial consumers. turing, largest domestic ratings as standard accounts as on / 1 last fiscal, the electricity mar- The day-ahead market agency Crisil on Thursday said March 31. ! ket at the Indian Energy traded 5,699 MU volume in half of the mid-size companies Crisil said it rates 6,800 / -% Exchange entered the new fis- April, achieving a significant 54 in its portfolio will be eligible mid-sized entities and more D 18%% cal year 2022 with 7707 MU per cent YoY growth. for the recast. than half of them are small and ! volume in April 2021, achiev- The average monthly price Companies with relatively medium enterprises (SMEs) ing a 90.2 per cent YoY growth. at Rs 3.70 per unit witnessed 53 weaker credit profiles, and part having a bank loan exposure of & & & & According to the power per cent increase over Rs 2.42 of low-resilience sectors are up to Rs 25 crore. /9 6 # demand data published by the in the corresponding period in expected to benefit more from Over 3,400 of the mid- % ?3?3 National Load Dispatch Centre, 2020. the scheme, Crisil said, speci- sized companies were classified %4. the national peak power The increase in price was fying that mid-sized companies as standard accounts, making ! L5 ! 5 demand was at 183 GW while primarily due to increase in are those having aggregate them eligible to avail restruc- M O ":! the peak demand and power demand and sharp slump in exposures of less than 500 turing. / consumption registered close to electricity prices in April 2020 crore. “The RBI’s intervention is 40 per cent YoY growth on a due to a stringent nationwide RBI Governor Shaktikanta timely and companies with # ! weak base. lockdown. The day-ahead mar- Das had on Wednesday weaker credit profiles will ben- While the growing elec- ket saw ample availability of announced another window efit more from the restructur- & & & D0 & 209$7 tricity consumption has been power with sell-bids at 1.48X of to recast loans given the second ing scheme,” its Chief Ratings /9 % 6 J %6K one of the key factors behind the cleared volume during the wave of COVID-19 infections. Officer Subodh Rai said. - O(!2) $ the consistent performance of month. As per the announcement, Four out of five companies ?3?* # the Exchange, its robust value The term-ahead market individuals, small businesses eligible for restructuring have ! - *??!(F proposition in terms of the comprising intra-day, contin- and MSMEs having aggregate sub-investment category rat- D # $ %6 : ' 6 '4 ! most competitive prices, flex- gency, daily & weekly contracts exposure of up to Rs 25 crore ings, indicating their relative- ible, and efficient procurement traded 349 MU during the would be eligible for consider- ly weak ability to manage liq- positions it as the most pre- month. ation under the Resolution uidity shocks, he said. 9 9
45 /4678 -'8 in 2018 and had directed all quarterly accounting system ?3*F entities regulated by the central whereby companies have to he Government should reg- bank to cease dealing in virtu- show their books of accounts Tulate and control cryp- al currencies. The Supreme after every three months. tocurrencies instead of pro- Court had asked the Centre in “We need to set higher hibiting them, former finance 2019 to frame policies for cryp- accounting standards and secretary SC Garg said on to, and in 2020, struck down move out to automatic Thursday. the curbs imposed by the RBI. accounting system which Addressing a virtual event allow the crypto assets, encour- All Indian companies would be relevant to present organised by industry body age the crypto services,” he said. should only be keeping digital needs of the business,” he Assocham, Garg also said there Cryptocurrencies are dig- accounts in the next three to noted. is undue emphasis on cryp- ital or virtual currencies in five years, Garg said, adding “it According to Garg, the tocurrencies and these digital which encryption techniques is possible to integrate nation- current financial reporting assets will require standard are used to regulate the gener- al accounts with company standards are for the bygone frameworks. “I don’t think we ation of their units and verify accounts.”In the times to come, industrial era and there is an still have full clarity and under- the transfer of funds, operating the entire system of accounting, urgent need for a complete dig- standing about how to regulate independently of a central bank auditing and reporting can be italisation of accounting, finan- cryptocurrencies...Regulate, The RBI had virtually automated, he added. cial reporting and auditing for control cryptocurrencies but banned cryptocurrency trading “At present, we have this companies. 4 ! P #$% % & $ '%$()* % # % % + , # '% %$ .' ' L0. 1 $%% '233 3%3
& . R @ $ (>(1)">22A> MYTHOLOGIES DOMINATE SMALL SCREEN ( 1 % &
ast year during Covid lockdown, that need to be kept in mind. Actors characters with as much authenticity - and talks of how he helps multiple peo- Doordarshan struck gold re-tele- are at high risk because we cannot wear as possible, as these are characters peo- The popularity of late Ramanand ple who seek him. His path of Dharma Lcasting Ramayan, Ramanand a mask while shooting. If the team is ple have immense faith in and are sen- Sagar’s tele-epic continues to grow with is highlighted in the series. The show stars Sagar’s hit mythological series of the good and precautions are being taken, sitive about,” observes Madirakshi time. While the show broke several Tushar Dalvi, Kishori Godbole and eighties. This year, as India has come to actors are safe. You need to sanitise Mundle who plays Devi Parvati in records upon re-release on Doordarshan Vaibhav Mangle. Tune in to Sony a standstill once again owing to the sec- your hands and take precautions and Vighnaharta Ganesh. during last year’s lockdown, it has been Entertainment Television (SET) India to ond wave of the deadly coronavirus, see if people around you are wearing “I feel fortunate to have essayed brought back on Star Bharat this year. The watch this show. many soap makers seem to have picked masks and sanitising their hands,” Goddesses on the TV screen.We have show stars Arun Govil as Ram, Deepika up cue. Mythology seems to be flavour says Riney Aryaa, who plays Goddess grown up hearing tales of the Chikhalia as Sita, Sunil Lahri as & - on the tube once again, as Indian tele- Laxmi in Vighnaharta Ganesh. ennobling qualities, benevolence and Lakshman, Arvind Trivedi as Raavan and - vision finds a ready homebound audi- She adds, “A lot of people touch deep intrinsic strength of virtuous Dara Singh as Hanuman. The show is a sequel to the series ence base. actors for costume, hair and make-up, Goddesses such as Sita, Lakshmi and Santoshi Maa and has been produced by A host of shows including which increases the risk of contracting Parvati and have a deep reverence for Rashmi Sharma and Pawan Kumar Vighnaharta Ganesh and RadhaKrishn Covid-19. The costumes are so heavy them. They are often very commonly This 2013 series stars Saurabh Jain as Marut. Actress Gracy Singh plays the lead make for prime family viewing while the and the temperatures are high and that invoked as role models. People are Lord Krishna, Pooja Sharma as Draupadi, in the show which is being telecast on epics Ramayan and Mahabharat are makes it very difficult. We are in our attached to them and their principles Sayantani Ghosh as Satyavati, and Shaheer Zee5. Actors Tanvi Dogra and Vijay opular singer Shahid Mallya, who is the being re-telecast. jewellery and get-up for 16 hours.” are deeply integral to our culture and Sheikh as Arjun. The show also stars Arpit Badlani are also part of the show. Pvoice behind classic hit songs like Rabba Shooting for mythological shows in “In these uncertain times, portray- mythology. So, the audience’s feelings Ranka as Duryodhana, Praneet Bhatt as Main Toh Mar Gaya (Mausam), Ikk Kudi the time of Covid is naturally tough, ing a mythological character also towards them are of paramount impor- Shakuni and Puneet Issar plays the role (Udta Punjab), and Kukkad (Student Of The given the extravagant set, costumes, entails a very different challenge. tance when I essay such a role. People of Parshurama. The series has been re- The series revolves around the eter- Year), says that he misses the physical audi- heavy jewellery and the execution they Shows in this genre are meant to have a certain image they attach with released on Star Bharat. nal bond of love shared by Radha and ence-artiste interaction. It is very crucial to demand. Also, no matter the precau- spread hope during a crisis such as the such a character, in their minds,” she Lord Krishna. The show stars Sumedh the essence of being an artiste and prays for tions, actors would always have to take pandemic, as people look up to divine added. Mudgalkar and Mallika Singh and has normalcy to return. off their masks in front of the camera. protagonists on the small screen with Here are some of the mythological been directed by Rahul Kumar Tiwari. It Asked how has the Covid-19 pandemic “Shooting in Covid times is tough reverence. In turn, this means we need shows that are currently a rage on the The story of the show revolves is being aired on Star Bharat. and lockdown impacted his professional and because there are so many precautions to take extra care in portraying such tube: around the life story of Sai Baba of Shirdi —IANS personal life, the playback singer said, “Till an artiste isn’t fronted with listeners, critics and admirers, she or he is somehow lost. Yes hile many over-the-counter spots. Choose alpha-hydroxy acids we are recording sitting at home, but at the Wcreams claim to fade away dark based exfoliators that work to improve end of the day, we miss the face-to-face inter- spots within a matter of days, there is ? skin by removing top layers of the skin action. The artiste inside is unnerved and is no such magical potion to clear your and remove dead cells to reveal wondering whether the future will be with- skin instantly unless you eliminate the healthy and glowing skin. out any physical connect and we’d remain rel- cause behind it. Pigmentation occurs egated to screens only? I pray that the audi- due to an excess amount of melanin 9" Use turmeric ence-artiste interaction can begin again production in the skin cells, triggered Packed with anti-inflammatory soon.” from sun exposure, hormonal # * and anti-bacterial benefits, turmeric According to the vocalist, “Without an changes, poor diet, medical condi- has been shown to inhibit the skin’s audience, an artiste is not a true artiste.” tions, use of certain products, post- melanin production. Topical applica- Mallya has repeatedly also critiqued inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or tion of turmeric on dark spots can remixed music. Speaking on his approach to environmental conditions. help to lighten hyperpigmentation and music and songs, he says, “The remixes that Here are seven tips to easily treat prevent the occurrence of acne. are being made today are mostly songs from dark spots on your body for a bright the 1990s or 2000s era. If the singers of the and clear complexion. Apply night cream original song are still active, when they hear The skin repairs and rejuvenates their own work via some other music direc- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen while you take your beauty sleep. So, tor, they wouldn’t like it. At some point in the UV radiation coming from the make sure to apply a night cream past, they had collected appreciation for these sun induces the production of with a high concentration of antiox- songs, and when they see someone else being melanin, which results in tanning. idants, Vitamin E, Kojic acid, appreciated for singing the same song, I think However, sun exposure can also exag- Azelaic acid, Glycolic When your it’s wrong.” gerate post-inflammatory hyperpig- body has the right vitamins in the He adds that remixes are alright if the mentation, resulting in the darkening right quantities, the health of the songs are really old, or the original makers of the brown spots. Therefore, make skin cells improves rapidly and it have passed away or if the songs have slipped sure to add sunscreen to your skincare radiates from within. Vitamin A, away from popular memory. “Then it’s good routine 365 days a year to prevent Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and to recreate them, so today’s generation know intensifying pigmented marks. Also, Vitamin E are some of the best vit- of the songs from the bygone era. My perspec- physical protection is more effective plexion. amins for lightening dark spots. tive on selecting songs is that they should have P/ Q & than using the sunscreen, so make Generally, vitamin skin treatment good poetry, and I should enjoy doing the sure to wear hat, scarf, or even use an Drink adequate amount of water starts showing results but to know song, and it should fit my singing skills.” umbrella when you are outdoors. Try Dark spots are sometimes caused the right vitamins as per your skin Responding to a question about debates 7 Q to limit spending hours in the sun for by lack of hydration, so consuming an type, take advice from a certified around nepotism and favouritism in long hours to prevent exacerbating the adequate amount of water can do dermatologist. Bollywood, Mallya shares an interesting inger Sonu Nigam urged every non-vaccinat- skin issue. wonders for your skin. Drinking viewpoint. “Nepotism happens truly when any Sed person in India to step forward and donate water can provide a natural barrier Develop healthy skincare habits artiste is launched but is unable to do justice blood because there will be a severe shortage fol- Include antioxidants in diet from pollutants and heal the skin Make sure to cleanse your skin to the role or task, whether it’s in acting, danc- lowing the second wave of Covid-19. Consume antioxidant-rich foods faster, resulting in a flawless complex- twice a day to remove dirt and dead ing, singing or any domain where people “There is going to be a severe crisis in blood- such as coloured fruit, vegetables, ion. skin layer. Get at least six-eight achieve stardom and their descendants want banks. People who haven’t been vaccinated till berries, dark chocolate, etc. to even out hours of sleep so that your skin has to follow suit. According to me, even if an now need to step forward and donate blood. The your skin complexion. Antioxidants Exfoliate ample time to heal. Quit bad habits artiste is launched or gets work in the indus- situation, which could turn serious in the near promote collagen production, repair Make sure to gently exfoliate like excessive drinking and smok- try, unless they have what it takes, the audi- future, can easily be controlled with blood dona- acne marks faster, increase cell your skin at least twice a week to ing for glowing skin. ence will anyway not accept them. If some- tion,” said Sonu. turnover, and lead to a brighter com- diminish the appearance of dark —IANS one works hard, then it’s not nepotism. If a The singer, who donated blood and oxygen singer’s child is good, then she or he has the canisters at a blood donation camp in Juhu, urges right to work. Yes, the entry is easier for them. everyone to not wait till the 11th hour. In this process, overlooked are those artistes “Rather than waiting for the crisis to arrive # O # P who come from a small village or a poor fam- and then start looking for a solution, it would ily or those who aren’t enabled to reach the be a lot easier to foresee the threat and prepare right place at the right time. There are real- for it right away. That’s what I am doing here: ctress Jamie Lee Curtis has side the 52-year-old Smith’s shirt- into bad habits.” ity shows which often platforms fresh talent. looking for a solution to a looming crisis,” added Agiven a motivating response to less image. “The goal is self-acceptance, self Experienced people in any field have the Sonu. Hollywood star Will Smith’s social “Acceptance of the way things love. Realistic, attainable self-accep- responsibility to guide the right talent. Sonu inaugurated the blood donation camp media post which stated he is cur- are is the first step to any change,” tance. In recovery we say ‘compare and Nepotism can give you a platform, but to keep and also donated 250 oxygen canisters for rently in the “worst shape” of his she wrote alongside the picture and despair’, ‘nothing changes unless some- standing on it and succeed, depends on one’s Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) life. added, “My old More thing changes’,” Curtis, quoted the say- capabilities,” he says. and ambulances. He added, “There are 250 oxy- Curtis reinforced his positive @_moremagazine story was both a ings she had collected during her drug Finally, who are some of the biggest influ- gen canisters here for patients who are being message by reminding people to set testament to ‘The way things were and alcohol addiction recovery. encers of his music? “Whatever I know, I have transported in ambulances, from home to hos- their own realistic self-acceptance for me’ as well as a way to show the She added: “Many people don’t learnt from my father. I have also listened to pital. We’re making these canisters available for goals. artifice of magazine advertising have the luxury of devoting oodles of great artistes from the childhood. I have huge BMC and ambulances.” In a now-deleted Instagram and airbrushing but also a chance time and money on their appearance. respect for Mohammed Rafi sahab and Sonu Sonu had tested Covid positive earlier and post, Curtis, 62, shared an unedit- to look in the mirror and make Mostly it should be a conversation Nigam ji, and am influenced by them,” con- he has not taken the vaccine yet. ed photo of herself from an old some changes. None of us should be starter.” cludes Mallya. —IANS More magazine photoshoot along- unhealthy. We ALL have fallen —IANS —IANS ,20* 9?2 0)+-*)$-( L8 L 3+1)(-/ # ,1(,-/)$)1 ! ! 6 7 5 " 1 $ 8 ! ! L" ' " " A / 8 8 # ! 5 8 B % 8 A A N' JB%8AAK! ! " 8 O 8 O L8 ! 8O M # 7 ! ! 8 $ ! 8 # A A !M !M 8 M " ! ! ! $%% '233 3%3 PUT MICRO IN THE GREENS ) 0 !1A>-B> C3(1 B
tion to your daily meals. The tiny leaves of most of the micro- greens get ready for harvest in 12 to 14 days and are packed with nutrition and intense flavours imitating their mature counterparts. Bengaluru-based chef Vikram Udaygiri and his wife Divya Kumar from Earthistic Agro represent the Ministry of External Affairs in promoting Indian cuisine and have organ- ised food festivals in several countries including South Africa, Israel, and Egypt. “During a food festival in Zimbabwe, I came across micro- greens being used as a garnish for dishes in the same way that we use coriander or curry leaves. & I was amazed because, at the time, these tiny leaves were considered an exotic ingredient "178" -"8" 47 " back home and were also quite expensive. I wondered if I could work towards changing that he pandemic turned our perception and make them s times change people and their per- focus around and made us affordable,” says chef Udaygiri. Aspective towards their lifestyle and Tconcentrate on tiny things The couple, in 2017, converted their habits have also changed drastical- that improve our health. his grandparents’ empty house ly. The ongoing pandemic has accelerat- Microgreens are one food group into a microgreens farm and ed this process and has been a critical gradually climbing the charts of today he is one of the top sup- wake-up call for many people who now popularity. It might have start- pliers in Bengaluru. He adds, look for ways to improve their habits for ed as an exotic garnish but “We have door-to-door delivery better immunity and a better lifestyle. now, it has made it to the front because now people are aware With healthier alternatives such as oats, row of immunity-building and concerned about their chia seeds and others, gluten-free food has foods. You might have seen health. And trust me, it’s a very become quite popular. Besides people microgreens in fancy restaurants good source for improving switching to a more calorie-conscious all around the world. Top chefs immunity.” diet, others who are diagnosed with have taken a fancy to these Fine dining has relied on the Celiac disease should definitely not con- because of their ability to power of microgreens for some sume gluten. enhance the looks, taste and time now. Chef Siddharth In this never-ending quarantine, health quotient of dishes. Sharma, Holiday Inn New Delhi cooking isn't just an essential but also a Delhi-based Swati Jain, The Mayur Vihar Noida says, “For a hobby for many who bake to keep them- First Leaf, highlighting their long time microgreens were selves distracted inspired by YouTube importance, says, “A healthy used and served as a decorative videos. People who choose to switch to immune system is our best item and for colour contrast, a gluten-free diet are apprehensive that defense against viruses, bacteria especially in Continental and they might not be able to enjoy their and carcinogens. A great way to French food. These give a differ- favourite dishes, especially desserts if they strengthen it is by adding micro- ent texture and elevate the forego wheat flour. But that is just a myth. greens to our daily diet. They are flavours of food.” Baking enthusiasts need to keep these abundant in vitamins and min- But if you think these are things in mind while rustling up gluten- in the flour, you can never overmix erals that improve the body’s best used in a restaurant, you are free desserts. gluten-free cake. ability to fight, prevent and mistaken. These tiny greens can recover from an illness.” improve the flavours of your & - But what are microgreens regular, homemade food to One of the major pain points that One of the major points of differen- and where can we find these? something par excellence. Jain make people hesitant to switch to gluten- tiation between gluten-rich and gluten- You know that a bunch of fenu- says, “These can work as a great free products is finding a substitute that free cake batters is that the latter has a greek (methi) is a great source of healthy addition to our daily gives you the taste and texture of wheat much more runny consistency. The bak- vitamins, minerals and so much diet. These are not only packed flour. Gluten-free desserts are made ing time is much longer. The cakes do not more. Similarly, mustard greens with nutrition but a lot of from a wide host of flours such as rise as well and often sink due to the lack are loaded with antioxidants flavour too. Basil, corn shoots, almonds, potatoes, oats, quinoa, coconut, of structure made by the glue bonds in and essential vitamins. Then, amaranth, sunflower, pakchoi, amaranth, sorghum among others. the batter. However, these are only aes- there is spinach that’s packed pea shoots have a mild flavour However, using a blend of flours ensures thetic differences and the desserts taste with plenty of minerals and profile. Whereas mustard, the structure and moisture in the treat as just as rich and amazing. A tip for the new iron. In fact, the list of these radish, arugula, garden cress one type of flour cannot replace the bakers — when you start experimenting amazingly nutritious vegetables have a sharper flavour. One can strength of gluten. with gluten-free baking, you must ideal- is rather long. pick and choose based on ly follow the given proportions in the “Now imagine, if we could his/her palate.” Another advan- recipes until you get the hang of the con- harness up to 40 or even 50 tage is their versatility. You can As the gluten bonds are formed, the sistency and workability of the times the nutrients out of these blend them in smoothies, stuff protein forms elastic networks within the dough/mixture. already magical vegetables. The them in sandwiches, toss them dough, which in turn gives structure to small edible greens grown from in salads, sprinkle them over it. This helps the dough to rise and adds the seeds of these mighty vegeta- eggs. Or simply munch on them shape and a chewy texture to baked Once made, the life of gluten-free bles are called microgreens,” like a snack. goods. The gluten proteins solidify, when desserts is not as long as regular desserts. says Jain and adds, “Always Dr Manjari Chandra says heated, forming a semi-rigid structure So, these dishes should be consumed in make sure that these are grown that there is more which and providing texture to many wheat- the given time period and stored accord- organically and consumed as liv- works in the favour of adding based products. However, due to the ing to the recommended method. ing foods.” microgreens to your diet. She absence of the glue-like binding nature of Microgreens are the first says, “Most of our food has pes- the dough, gluten-free desserts have to use A gluten-free diet can help improve true leaves produced from a ticides and growing these at several ingredients for the flour. These your intestinal and dietary issues and help seedling of vegetables and herbs home can be the first step could include chia seeds/flax seeds/psyl- you and your entire family feel healthier that are about two-three inches towards a healthy life. These lium husk/agar powder. while, at the same time, eating the tasti- tall. There are so many varieties plants stimulate immunity, help est of desserts. For people suffering from of plants including turnips, to lose weight and reduce & celiac disease improvements in digestive radishes, broccoli, cauliflower, inflammation. They contain sul- We’re often warned not to over- health are observed. Consuming gluten- carrots, celery, chard, lettuce, phur that repairs damaged cells whisk baked goods made with wheat free desserts satiate your sweet tooth while spinach, arugula, amaranth, cab- in our bodies. These tiny plants flour. The upside of gluten-free desserts helping to revitalise your body with bet- bage, beets, parsley and basil, to are a kitchen pharmacy.” is that you really can’t toughen the ter digestion. name a few, that can be So, what are you waiting for? dough. Therefore, another aspect that one grown as microgreens for a Go ahead and get that dash of can keep in mind while making these — The authors are head bakers and wholesome and nutritious addi- micro. desserts is that, since there is no gluten co-founders, Moonlight Bakers 21 9:3.:1-)/0:;- # ! C -& " ! 7 # *) % D # *3 ! % # *) . : # * % # * ! ! & # )#' 8 # 4 # ! D #
81$ C -& / J K # * % # ? # *3 ,---)- / # 23 ! % # * C -& 5 # ?3 6 % # * & # *3 ! % # ) & # ) # ) ?3 ! / A #*33 ! / # ?) - 7 % # *
passes -<)= * ( VEDA LOSES SISTER TO COVID-19 . C 8 C 1 C ' ++ %#*+ ! Four members clearly, a very challenging time,” ()# # $ = ( of New Zealand’s Test contingent New Zealand Cricket (NZC) % 5 ! involved in the now-suspended chief executive David White IPL, including captain Kane said in a statement on Thursday. PFIZER, BIONTECH TO DONATE VAX Williamson, will leave India for Skipper Williamson, pacer Kyle C Chennai: Chennai Super Kings’ the United Kingdom on May 11 Jamieson and spinner Mitchell ' batting coach Mike Hussey and while the rest will make their Santner, as well as physio bowling coach L Balaji have been way back home on Friday, the Tommy Simsek, will remain in . 8.% ! / flown into the city from Delhi in country’s cricket board has a mini-bubble in New Delhi an air ambulance as they recover announced. New Zealand are before departing for the UK, . from Covid-19, a top franchise scheduled to play hosts England ahead of preparations for the official said on Thursday. in a two-match Test series, Test series against England, and ! Hussey and Balaji were beginning on June 2, before fac- the WTC final against India. among the prominent non-play- ing India in the World Test There were 17 New Zealanders MALIK 1 WIN AWAY FROM OLY ing staff to test positive when the Championships final at involved in the IPL, including 10 & IPL was ‘indefinitely suspended’ Southampton from June 18. players. “We are also very grate- $ : on Tuesday. “We’ve worked closely with the ful to the England and Wales " / 1 “We decided to bring Hussey BCCI and the IPL franchises on Cricket Board for accommodat- 5 5 . and Balaji to Chennai by an air the various departure strategies ing the early arrival of the four Q ambulance as we have better con- and we’re very appreciative of members of the Test squad cur- ! tacts here and wanted to ensure their support during what is, rently in India.” NZC said. PTI better medical facilities in case of SHOOTERS RECEIVE 1ST DOSE any need,” the CSK official said. C He further said the duo was 8 .# ‘asymptomatic and doing fine.’ %#*+ 45 /4678 owing to Covid-19 cases inside its bio- the Caribbean will fly to Auckland, The CSK official said Hussey ! bubble. Johannesburg and Trinidad on their would have to wait for a Covid-19 he Australians flew off to “CA and the ACA extend their sin- respective charter flights arranged by negative report to be able to leave E % ** Maldives, the South Africans cere thanks to the BCCI for their the franchise. the country. 4 % ! Theaded home as the suspended responsiveness in moving the Among its foreigners, while swash- “Hussey has to wait and get a IPL’s foreign cricketers bid adieu to Australians from India to the buckling all-rounder Kieron Pollard is Covid negative report before he ARCHERS TO MISS SWISS WC India, hoping that the country recov- Maldives...,” the statement read. from the West Indies, opener Quinton can leave India. We will make & 8 .# ers from the mayhem unleashed by a De Kock hails from South Africa. arrangements for a charter when ? 5 % second wave of Covid-19 cases. JAYAWARDENE TO COMPLETE Pacer Trent Boult and bowling it is safe for him to fly,” the offi- 6 The 40-strong Australian contin- QUARANTINE IN MALDIVES coach Shane Bond are from New cial added. PTI 4 ! gent, except for a Covid-positive Mike Mumbai Indians on Thursday Zealand. Hussey, left for Maldives on Thursday said that their local stars have reached ED SHEERAN TO SPONSOR IPSWICH to serve out the waiting period before home while it has also ensured a safe && A # : 4 they can board a flight to Australia passage for its Australian contingent once the travel restrictions end on May to Maldives along with Sri Lankan 8 ! 15. head coach Mahela Jaywardene, who 23# # “We can confirm that Australian also will be quarantining there. # ! players, coaches, match officials and The five-time champions posted commentators have been safely trans- a series of tweets and shared the trav- ODISHA FC ROPE IN VILLA ported from India and are en route to el plans of its players and support staff. C . A% the Maldives,” Cricket Australia stat- “Indian players have embarked on / C ed in a release. their journey back to their hometowns. “The Australians will remain in All Covid-19 related travel and safe- ! Maldives until the conclusion of the ty protocols have been diligently travel pause pertaining to flights from adhered. MAN UTD VS L’POOL ON MAY 13 India to Australia,” it added. “Mumbai and Ahmedabad based 0 Of the 40 Australians involved in players and support staff members will 6 the league after three early pullouts, 14 return home via Ahmedabad on a 28 #2 $ # 2# # ''2 #* 6 were players, including mega-stars charter flight. The cabin crew has com- !" # # # #.# (# F ,G *2! such as David Warner, Pat Cummins, pleted seven days quarantine at the and Steve Smith among others. team hotel in Delhi,” the franchise stat- STERLING RACIALLY ABUSED The 11 South Africans in the ed. / && % - league boarded flights for “Australian players and support 8 Johannesburg as their country has not staff members will fly to Maldives on Dhaka: Bangladesh internationals “Thank you @Sah75official, (F 6 imposed any restrictions on travel from a special charter. MI has made Shakib Al Hasan and Mustafizur happy to know you’ve landed ! India, which recorded more than 4 lakh arrangements for their 14-day quaran- Rahaman on Thursday afternoon home safely in Dhaka with Covid-19 cases on Thursday and close tine stay in Maldives before flying returned safely to Dhaka on a Bangladesh teammate @Mustafiz9 NAGAL REACHES QUARTERS to 4,000 deaths. them back to Australia,” it said. chartered flight arranged by the from Ahmedabad. Stay safe, and “My constant prayers is with the The franchise has two Australian Rajasthan Royals and the Kolkata see you soon.” KKR tweeted. 0 (#> >#* people from India to get through this. players — hard-hitting batsman Chris Knight Riders after the IPL was “Alhamdulillah, we have safe- >#( *> . " Pls Take care of yourselves,” Proteas star Lynn and pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile. indefinitely postponed. ly back in Bangladesh without any % ! Faf du Plessis, who turned up Chennai “Head coach Mahela Jayawardene While KKR posted the news trouble. I would like to thank Super Kings, posted on Instagram. will also complete his quarantine in of Shakib’s safe arrival here, @rajasthanroyals and @KKRiders ABU DHABI T10 FROM NOV 19 Cricket Australia thanked the Maldives before returning to Sri Mustafizur took to Twitter to franchises for making it happen. " / BCCI for its assistance in ensuring that Lanka,” it added. thank both the franchises for I would also like to thank our *3 players were able to leave India with- The players and support staff facilitating their Delhi-Dhaka health ministry for it’s contribu- *+ / ? ! in two days of the league’s suspension from New Zealand, South Africa and flight. tion,” Mustafizur wrote. PTI = 8 " " 1$9%8 D 2 6./. the ECB may discuss the mat- ter. our premier English counties A logic that goes in the 6./. F— Middlesex, Surrey, favour of the tournament is Warwickshire and Lancashire — that it provides a good opportu- our premier English coun- have expressed interest in host- nity to all the players to prepare Fties — Middlesex, Surrey, ing the remaining 31 games of Emirates Old Trafford for the World T20 which in all Warwickshire and Lancashire the Indian Premier League, (Manchester) are understood to likelihood will be moved to the — have expressed interest in which was postponed after coro- be part of the group who wrote UAE from India. hosting the remaining 31 games navirus breached the bio-bubble to the ECB expressing their And if both IPL and World of the Indian Premier League, to infect four Indian cricketers. interest. T20 are played in the UAE, the which was postponed after With India anticipating a “The plans would see the pitches might get slow during coronavirus breached the bio- third wave of the pandemic tournament completed in second half of the global tour- bubble to infect four Indian later during the year, BCCI is around two weeks in the second nament, so England would be a cricketers. exploring a window in half of September,” according to better option to host the League. With India anticipating a September after the conclusion the report. However, there are some third wave of the pandemic of India’s England tour to com- BCCI is ideally looking at a issues that need to addressed. later during the year, BCCI is plete the tournament. 20-day window with multiple When India’s tour of England exploring a window in India’s tour of England ends double headers in order to com- ends on September 14, at that September after the conclusion on September 14. plete the tournament. time at 30 Indian cricketers will of India’s England tour to com- According to ESPN Cricinfo, It is expected that at the ICC be there but flying others would plete the tournament. Lord’s, Oval (both London), Chief Executives Meeting, the be an onerous task, keeping in India’s tour of England ends Edgbaston (Birmingham) and representatives of the BCCI and mind the quarantine rules. on September 14. group who wrote to the ECB ty to all the players to prepare According to ESPN expressing their interest. for the World T20 which in all Cricinfo, Lord’s, Oval (both “The plans would see the likelihood will be moved to the London), Edgbaston tournament completed in UAE from India. (Birmingham) and Emirates around two weeks in the second And if both IPL and World Old Trafford (Manchester) are half of September,” according to T20 are played in the UAE, the understood to be part of the the report. pitches might get slow during BCCI is ideally looking at second half of the global tour- a 20-day window with multiple nament, so England would be double headers in order to a better option to host the complete the tournament. League. It is expected that at the However, there are some ICC Chief Executives Meeting, issues that need to addressed. the representatives of the BCCI When India’s tour of England and the ECB may discuss the ends on September 14, at that matter. time at 30 Indian cricketers will A logic that goes in the be there but flying others would favour of the tournament is that be an onerous task, keeping in it provides a good opportuni- mind the quarantine rules.