Follow us on: @TheDailyPioneer facebook.com/dailypioneer RNI No.APENG/2018/764698 Established 1864 WHAT’S BREWING 10 SPORTS 11 Published From ANALYSIS 7 VIJAYAWADA DELHI LUCKNOW A FLAWED IDEA THAT GOING DIGITAL IPL PLAYERS START BHOPAL RAIPUR CHANDIGARH THE US MUST ABANDON IS IN ‘VOGUE' PULLING OUT BHUBANESWAR RANCHI DEHRADUN HYDERABAD *LATE CITY VOL. 3 ISSUE 162 VIJAYAWADA, TUESDAY APRIL 27, 2021; PAGES 12 `3 *Air Surcharge Extra if Applicable

POOJA HEGDE TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID { Page 12 } www.dailypioneer.com

CHINA'S AIRLINE SUSPENDS FLIGHTS AT 3,876, MUMBAI LOGS LOWEST US TO SUPPORT INDIA IN COVID FIGHT, DELHI RUNNING OUT OF SPACE FOR WITH MEDICAL SUPPLIES TO INDIA COVID-19 CASES SINCE MARCH 30 BIDEN TELLS MODI DURING PHONE CALL FUNERALS AMID RECORD COVID DEATHS hina's state-run Sichuan Airlines has umbai reported 3,876 new COVID- 19 S President Joe Biden on Monday ith over 350 deaths recorded suspended all its cargo flights to India cases on Monday, the lowest daily conveyed solidarity with India in its every day in recent days, Delhi Cfor 15 days, causing major disruption Mcount since March 30, while 70 Ufight against Covid-19 and asserted Whas less and less space to to private traders' efforts to procure the more patients succumbed to the that his country was determined to cremate its dead. So much so that much-needed oxygen concentrators and infection, the city civic body said. support its efforts by quickly deploying new facilities, even if temporary, other medical supplies from China despite According to the Brihanmumbai resources such as therapeutics, sites are being developed to Beijing offering "support and assistance" to Municipal Corporation (BMC)'s updated ventilators and identifying sources of raw accommodate the pandemic's incr- the country to deal with the latest surge of data, with the addition of 3,876 cases, the materials to be made available for the easing number of victims. Today, COVID-19 cases. In a letter to the sales COVID-19 tally increased to 6,31,527, while manufacture of Covishield vaccine. Biden Delhi recorded 350 deaths, yesterday agents on Monday, the Sichuan Chuanhang the death toll jumped to 12,853. As expressed the support of the US to India in a it was 357, and the day before, 348. Logistics Co. Ltd, the company which is part of the compared to Sunday, the metropolis has reported telephonic conversation with Prime Minister The average number of COVID-19-related Sichuan Airlines said the airline has suspended its cargo flights 1,666 fewer cases, but six more deaths. A day before, the Narendra Modi, during which the two leaders discussed the deaths in the past week was 304. At the Sarai Kale Khan on six routes, to Delhi, amid hectic efforts by private traders from financial capital had registered 5,542 new cases and 64 pandemic situation in their countries, including India's ongoing cremation site, for instance, around 60-70 bodies are being both sides to procure oxygen concentrators from China. fatalities. efforts to contain a second wave of Covid-19. handled every day because of the deadly second wave. Poll panel may be booked for murder, says irate Madras HC on Covid spread PNS n CHENNAI AP sets up task force The Madras High Court on State restricts Monday castigated the Election to lead Covid fight It’s time the Commission over the Covid-19 guests at second wave in the country, hold- PNS n VIJAYAWADA Opposition joins ing it 'singularly' responsible for functions to 50 hands with Modi to the spread, called it the "the most In an important development, the irresponsible institution" and even state government on Monday PNS n VIJAYAWADA fight Covid said its officials may be booked decided to follow a three-tier under murder charges. structure for effective implemen- As part of measures to contain The EC allowing political par- tation of Covid management in the spread of Covid-19, the ties to take out rallies and meet- the state with immediate effect. Andhra Pradesh Government 2 ings had led to the spread of the Orders were also issued constitut- has announced that henceforth, pandemic, the court said. ing a State Level Task Force Co- only 50 people or less would be "Were you (living) on another mmittee to monitor the effective allowed to attend any function planet," the first bench of Chief functioning of the new system. across the State. Justice Sanjib Banerjee and Justice As per the new arrangement, at As per orders issued by State Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy the district level, the Collector will Health secretary Anil Kumar asked the EC officials. divide all private hospitals permit- Singhal only 50 people would be The bench made the stinging ted to treat Covid-19 patients into allowed to attend any function observation on a PIL from Karur clusters and appoint a District across the state. Sports complex- AIADMK candidate and Tran- Level Officer as in-charge for each es, gyms and swimming pools sport Minister M R Vijayabaskar of these clusters to frequently will remain closed until further for the April 6 Assembly polls, inspect these hospitals, receive orders while public transport seeking a direction to authorities complaints and look into these and cinema halls will be allowed to ensure fair counting of votes on and take appropriate action to function with 50 percent May 2 in Karur by taking effec- It’s all about survival of the privileged against the hospitals wherever capacity. tive steps and proper arrange- needed. Singhal also instructed that ments with Covid-19 protocols. NAVEENA GHANATE As Covid-19 positive body before 6 pm. I had to reach Each cluster will have 5-8 pri- social distance be strictly main- Since as many as 77 candidates n HYDERABAD out to bigwigs to allow the hospi- vate hospitals. Complaints per- tained in all offices. Allocation Lockdown only after are contesting from Karur con- cases continue to tal to preserve the body for one taining to nearby hospitals illegal- of beds and admissions of stituency, it would be very diffi- With healthcare infrastructure rise, the calls for help night. We shifted it to Kondapur ly treating Covid patients should patients in hospitals will be Centre’s clarification, cult to accommodate their agents crumbling, the pandemic has area hospital and cremated the next also be monitored by the officer done through a single call cen- says Alla Nani in the counting hall. It may affect shown that it’s now only about sur- online, offline, to day.” so appointed. tre. observance of the protocols, the vival of the privileged. helplines and running Even to shift body to native 2 petitioner alleged. To get oxygen, injections, drugs places, it is impossible without clout 2 When counsel for the EC said or hospital bed, even an oximeter from pillar to post and connections. that all necessary steps were under- or to transport the dead, people are has only increased. Sharing her ordeal, B Pratibha, a way, the bench shot back saying having to resort to using their clout resident of Tirumellgiri said, “My Air India brings 4 that by allowing the political par- and connections. parents tested positive for coron- IAF sends ties to take out rallies and meetings, For a common man, only divine contacts or pay through their avirus and I couldn’t get an oxime- it (Commission) had paved the intervention with huge dollops of noses. ter. None of the medical shops in 318 oxygen way for the resurgence of the sec- luck can help emerge from the dan- Sai Teja, activist and member of the neighbourhood had it. Our aircraft to ond wave of the deadly virus. ger. As Covid-19 positive cases con- Feed The Needy said, “We are family doctor who knew of suppli- concentrators Irked over the submission of tinue to rise, the calls for help reaching out to our connections ers called and arranged it for us.” bring empty EC counsel that all precautionary online, offline, to helplines and more than ever. Even for a Fabiflu Even officials in the administra- from New York measures would be taken at the running from pillar to post has only tablet, we had to reach out to ACP- tion have agreed that distress calls PNS n NEW DELHI counting centres, the Chief Justice increased. Only a minuscule pop- level officials as it is becoming dif- and for seeking help for ICU containers replied that the EC must be 'sin- ulation is able to get a Covid ICU ficult to procure things.” admission have been increasing. PNS n NEW DELHI Air India brought 328 oxygen con- gularly' held responsible for the bed through the routine process. A He said that even cremations are Some have even agreed to have centrators to India on its New second wave of the pandemic similar situation is occurring with not possible without ‘contacts’. made calls for Tocilizumab and A heavy-lift transport aircraft of York-Delhi flight on Monday, spike in the country. regard to drug procurement, where “One person expired at AIG hos- Remdesivir. the Indian Air Force was on Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said. either the citizens have to use pital and they wanted us to take the Monday sent to Dubai to airlift Various hospitals across the 2 2 seven empty cryogenic oxygen country continue to grapple with containers, officials said. a severe shortage of medical oxy- They said the C-17 aircraft has gen on Monday even after receiv- Covid: India logs already landed in Dubai. ing emergency supplies. Rahul Gandhi demands free "After loading, the aircraft will On Saturday, 20 people died at Oscars 2021’s trib- record 3.52 lakh new get airborne for Panagarh in West Delhi's Jaipur Golden Hospital Bengal and is likely to arrive there amid a shortage of oxygen. ute to Irrfan Khan cases, 2,812 fatalities at 5:30 pm," said an official. "All efforts to strengthen India's Covid vaccine for all citizens India is struggling with a sec- fight against the pandemic are on. and Bhanu Athaiya PNS n NEW DELHI been asking for free vaccination of PNS n NEW DELHI ond wave of coronavirus infection 318 Philips oxygen concentrators all. The party has also criticised the and hospitals in several states are on @airindiain flight from JFK Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on government's vaccination policy With 3,52,991 people testing reeling under shortage of oxygen. airport land at @DelhiAirport," Monday said all citizens should get and the handling of the crisis. positive for coronavirus infection Puri tweeted on Monday. Covid vaccines for free and the Maharashtra, which is leading in in a day, the highest so far, India's With 3,52,991 people testing 9 country should not be made a "vic- the number of cases and deaths in total tally of COVID-19 cases has positive for coronavirus infection tim of the BJP's system". the country, Gujarat, Odisha and climbed to 1,73,13,163 while in a day, the highest so far, India's India's vaccination campaign is Rajasthan has said they will provide active cases have crossed the 28- tally of COVID-19 cases has TODAY all set to get a major boost from free vaccination to all, joining sev- lakh mark, according to the climbed to 1,73,13,163 while May 1 when everyone above the eral other states. Union Health Ministry data active cases have crossed the 28 age of 18 will be eligible for vaccine. However, four states ruled by the updated on Monday. lakh-mark, according to the ALMANAC "Enough of discussion. All citi- Congress and its allies accused the The death toll increased to Union Health Ministry data Month & Paksham: zens of the country should get vac- Centre of "hijacking" vaccine stocks 1,95,123 with a record 2,812 new updated on Monday. Chaitra & Shukla Paksha cine for free. Don't make India a from manufacturers and expressed fatalities, the data updated at 8 The death toll increased to Panchangam victim of the BJP's system," he said doubts they would be able to lau- am showed. 1,95,123 with a record 2,812 new Tithi : Purnima: 09:00 am Pratipada: 05:13 am (Next Day) in a tweet in Hindi. nch the inoculation drive to cover fatalities, the data updated at 8 am Gandhi and the Congress have those between 18-45 years of age. showed. Nakshatram : Swati: 08:08 pm 2 Time to Avoid : (Bad time to start any important work) Rahukalam : 03:22 pm – 04:57 pm AP reports 9,881 new Yamagandam : 09:04 am – 10:39 am 2 ‘disputed’ oxygen plants lie idle in AP Varjyam : 01:03 am – 02:27 am SNV SUDHIR 6.3 million tonnes per year. However, due to some financial Gulika : 12:13 pm - 01:48 pm n VIJAYAWADA Accordingly, by 2012-13 two dispute cropped up between RINL Covid cases, 51 deaths ASUs were built by the French and Air Liquide which is said to Good Time : (to start any important work) At a time when every single breath major on the RINL Plant premis- have finally gone to arbitration. The Amritakalam : 12:25 pm – 01:49 pm n Minister says 30% oxygen wasted in hospitals counts, the country is unable to es that had the total installed oxy- dispute led to the already built Abhijit Muhurtham : 11:48 am – 12:39 pm PNS n VIJAYAWADA the bulletin said giving details produce a few more hundred gen capacity over 1,800 tonnes per ASUs lie idle without any produc- during the last 24 hours ending 9 tonnes of oxygen per day due to an day. In addition, Air Liquide was to tion since then. VIJAYAWADA Andhra Pradesh on Monday am today. unresolved dispute between a produce large quantities of liquid “Had the two sides resolved the WEATHER reported 9,881 fresh Covid-19 The state has 95,131 active cases French gas major ‘Air Liquide' and gases like oxygen, nitrogen and issue quickly and amicably, both the Forecast: Partly cloudy cases, taking the infection count to and over 74,000 samples were Vizag-based RINL that first sur- argon to meet the needs of the ASUs would have started produc- Temp: 38 10,43,441, while 51 fatalities tested during the last 24 hours. faced around 2013. industrial and medical customers tion which would have helped the Humidity: 52% pushed the toll to 7,736, according Chittoor and Nellore topped the Air Liquide had signed a long- in the region. The trial run of both plant in steel production all these Sunrise: 05:52 am to an official bulletin released by toll chart with six casualties each term agreement with RINL in No- the ASUs was also successful. years and now help the entire Sunset: 06:35 pm the state government. followed by Kurnool and vember 2010 according to which it The Air Liquide investment country in these difficult times,” The total recoveries stood at Vizianagaram five each. was supposed to supply oxygen and amounted to around €70 million RINL former CMD Y Sivasagar Current Weather Conditions Updated april 26, 2021 5:00 PM 9,40,574 with as many as 4,431 nitrogen to meet the needs of its for the production facilities and the Rao told The Pioneer. people recovering from the disease, 2 expansion from 3 million tonnes to supply chain put together. 2 VIJAYAWADA | TUESDAY | APRIL 27, 2021 vijayawada 02 It’s time the Opposition joins hands with Modi to fight Covid

he Modi government lakh crore were implemented. way coaches into isolation war against Covid. by the people at this hour. is putting up a relent- The Centre implemented Unfortunately, the Opposition does not coaches. Assessing Opposition parties The BJP’s people’s represen- less fight against Vande Bharat Mission to bring praise the good done by the government and the demand for have been creating tatives have set up quarantine Covid-19T for the past 16 back Indians stranded abroad Remedisivir, it TRULY problems in the way centres, medical amenities months and the time has deploying Air India, IAF and work in unison with it with a positive banned export of the Government and started temporary hospi- come for all of us to put up a Navy flights. attitude, whereas in other countries, ruling of the drug. SPEAKING at every step know- tals. united fight now. Can anybody say that the and opposition parties unite when faced with Modi has direct- ing well that Modi has They operated The Government took a government did not take any ed industries to been extending decisive Dhanwantari Raths to distrib- series of measures like impos- measures at all? Can anybody a major problem. ensure their oxygen leadership. ute medicines among the ing lockdown, curfew, restric- say that the measures initiat- plants work at capacity. The During the current Covid people. They sensitised peo- tions on overseas tourists, ed by Modi did not help government lifted customs crisis, the opposition has ple on the need to undergo demarcated zones and sensi- revive the economy after the when faced with a major it is not doing anything to cre- duty on oxygen cylinders and been spreading rumours and vaccination. tising people. crisis due to lockdown? problem. ate medical and health ameni- vaccines to facilitate their creating misunderstandings At the same time, leaders The PM addressed the The turnaround of the In India, the Opposition ties because medical and import. among the people. who target Modi have Y SATYA KUMAR nation many times. The economy, when compared to highlights the lacunae of the health is listed under the Countrywide, the Modi The Opposition blames become distanced from the Centre released Rs 15,000 other nations, was rapid. ruling party, issues statements states’ list. BJP National Secretary government will soon be the BJP election campaign in people long back. crore for PPE kits, ventilators, If the present rate of growth and pokes fun on social In the states’ list, of the 61 embarking on a major vacci- West Bengal for the spread of They did not do anything ICUs, testing centres and so were to continue, India would media. aspects, the sixth pertains to measures initiated by Modi, nation programme in four the virus but why has it not to help the people, barring on. By May 12, the PM emerge as the third most The Opposition on one public health, sanitation, hos- India achieved self-sufficien- days to administer the vaccine appealed to farmers agitating speaking on TV, tweeting announced the Rs 20-lakh developed economy in eight hand blames CMs of BJP- pitals, hospitals and so on. In cy in creation of medical to people in the 18-44 years on the borders of Delhi to call and forwarding WhatsApp crore Atma Nirbhar package, years surpassing the UK, ruled states on Covid-19 while spite of it being listed under the amenities, Covid testing kits age group. The Centre has off their protest? messages. which constitutes 10 percent Germany and Japan, accord- trying to sweep the lacunae of states’ list, the Modi and so on. declared that it will supply the When the Covid was at its The country is facing a cri- of the country’s GDP. ing to economists. Opposition-ruled states under Government released thou- Today, the Navy is supply- vaccine free of cost to states, peak last year, crores of BJP sis, the state governments The Centre announced var- Unfortunately, the the carpet. sands of crores since March ing oxygen cylinders to the the states are also coming for- workers helped supply food, should work in tandem with ious packages for workers, Opposition does not praise the They blame the Modi gov- 2020, till the Budget was country. The Centre has start- ward to give vaccines free of clothes, masks and medi- the Centre to provide succour small, micro and medium good done by the government ernment for shortage of oxy- passed this year. In last year’s ed Oxygen Express trains to cost to the people. cines to migrant workers. to the people. industries, cottage industries. and work in unison with it gen, injections and beds in Budget, the Modi government supply medical oxygen to all The PM asked CDS Bipin BJP national president JP When the whole country Under PM Garib Kalyan with a positive attitude, where- hospitals. allocated Rs 64,180 crore under parts of the country. Rawat to deploy doctors in Nadda appealed to party becomes one, any problem Yojana, several welfare and as in other countries, ruling The state governments crit- the Swasthya Bharat Yojana. Earlier, the Centre convert- defence services and retired workers, sarpanches and peo- can be driven away from the relief measures worth Rs 1.70- and opposition parties unite icise the Centre alleging that On account of a series of ed hundreds of passenger rail- army medical personnel in the ple’s representatives to stand soil.

AP sets up task UK’s Edinburgh varsity to study force to lead Poll panel may be booked Covid fight for murder, says irate... Continued from Page 1 AP’s natural farming benefits Continued from Page 1 There will also be a District PNS n VIJAYAWADA The study will undertake the world. As an organisation that India. The study is being con- Level Flying Squad constitut- The bench even said that EC aspects like carry out a com- is responsible for implement- ducted to benefit farmers. With ed by the Collector with rep- officials may be booked under It’s all about survival of In an endeavour to address the munity-based, cluster-ran- ing the State wide transforma- this new partnership with resentatives from Director murder charges. growing concern of climate domised controlled evalua- tion to natural farming, we RySS, the researchers will General, Drugs Control The judges also orally change and rising health con- tion. Baseline assessments of value the establishment of the ensure that the outcomes are Administration, Vigilance and warned that they would not cerns, the not-for-profit organ- over 2,000 households across health benefits scientifically farmer-centric.” Enforcement Department and hesitate to stop the counting of the privileged isation set up by the two districts Kurnool and as it will help us to motivate PHFI president Prof K Medical and Health votes on May 2. Government of Andhra Visakhapatnam in AP will be more farmers to take up the Srinath Reddy said that near- Department. This Flying "Public health is of para- Continued from Page 1 staff are already stressed with Pradesh focusing on farmer’s conducted to coincide with transformation. We believe ly 3 billion people are unable Squad will inspect the hospi- mount importance and it is Meanwhile, even doctors are the workload. “For us, any empowerment — Rythu Kharif -monsoon season. that this study will provide to afford a healthy diet and tals frequently and ensure distressing that constitutional overburdened by calls and patient has the same value and Sadhikara Samstha (RySS) — Follow-up assessments will some of the most conclusive poor-quality diets are linked to that strict action is initiated authorities have to be remind- recommendations. A doctor our duty is to save as many has commissioned a study to be conducted 1 and 2 years evidence to date on health 11 million deaths per year. Sub- against hospitals violating the ed in such regard. It is only in government chest hospital lives as possible. At our hos- explore the health and environ- later. A wide range of outcomes benefits of reducing pesticide optimal diets are associated guidelines issued by the gov- when a citizen survives that he said, “Even as they enter hos- pital, VIP or poor people will mental benefits of natural will be explored including pes- exposure. The results of the with a wide range of serious ernment from time to time. will be able to enjoy the rights pital, we have people calling us get the same treatment and farming. ticide exposure, diet, crop study will also help us to edu- health risks. Regular agricul- The flying squad will thereby that a democratic republic saying that they are from expecting preferential treat- To take this forward, RySS yield, household income, dia- cate citizens about the health tural practices put very differ- ensure effective functioning of guarantees", the judges said. CM’s peshi, health minister’s ment at government hospitals has signed a MoU for a four betes and kidney disease, and benefits of consuming food ent demands on earth’s natur- the cluster in-charge officers. Observing that the situation peshi, relative of police, local is unwise.” year study with the Public child growth and develop- produced through Natural al resources, which implies At the third layer, State now is of survival and protec- reporter etc. As days pass the Even calls to the Health Health Foundation of India ment. farming.” dietary patterns in one region Level Task Force Committee tion, the bench directed the number of such references is Minister have increased after (PHFI) and The University of Agriculture minister K The grant of Rs 15.70 crore can be different to another due headed by senior IAS officer, Election Commission to file a only increasing.” he himself asked people to Edinburgh (UoE) on Monday. Kannababu said, "We see the over a period of 4 years is to usage of natural resources. Satish Chandra will monitor detailed report by April 30 on He said that the hospital reach out to him. The BLOOM (Co-Benefits partnership with the University awarded by UK Research for The lead researchers of the the effective functioning of the blueprint of Covid-19 pro- of Largescale Organic Farming of Edinburgh and the Public Innovations - UKRI, Govt of BLOOM study, are Dr Lindsay the above arrangements and tocol to be followed on the On HuMan Health) is a clus- Health Foundation of India as UK to The University of Jaacks, UKRI Future Leaders review the complaints counting day. While voting is over in all protocol during the polls, a ter-randomised controlled a unique opportunity to estab- Edinburgh (UoE) for conduct- Fellow and Chancellor’s Fellow received from time to time. The court directed the com- the other states, the seventh of division bench presided by evaluation of the health effects lish the health benefits of nat- ing this research. in the Global Academy of The district Collectors mission for the blueprint to be the eight-phase polling in West Chief Justice T B N of AP Community-managed ural farming, since it eliminates UoE’s International Dean Agriculture and Food Security, have been directed to consti- filed after a detailed consulta- Bengal was held on Monday, Radhakrishnan had said Natural Farming (APCNF). the need for synthetic pesticide for South Asia, Prof. Pankaj UoE, and Dr. Poornima tute the clusters and appoint tion with the state Health with the last phase scheduled issuance of circulars and hold- APCNF is implemented usage. They have chosen AP Pankaj, said, “We are grateful Prabhakaran, Head, District Level Officers and Department Secretary. on April 29. ing meetings on Covid safety through RySS and is the world’s because the AP Community for this opportunity to learn Environmental Health and District Level Flying Squad as On Sunday, Tamil Nadu Earlier, the Calcutta High were not enough. largest chemical-free agro- Managed Natural Farming ( from the pioneering sustain- Deputy Director of the Centre suggested and report compli- reported 15,000 new Covid Court had expressed dissatis- It later directed the compe- ecology and regenerative agri- APCNF) is the largest natural able agriculture programme for Environmental Health at ance urgently, duly furnishing cases, while its active cases are faction with the EC over the tent authorities to make the culture programme. farming programme in the being implemented in south the PHFI. the details of the officers in excess of one lakh. enforcement of Covid-19 people of West Bengal abide by appointed and teams consti- Elections had been held in health safety norms during the restrictions imposed by the tuted to the Government. four states — Tamil Nadu, the ongoing West Bengal Commission on public behav- Kerala, Assam and West assembly election process, iour regarding protective pro- Govt asks Serum , Bengal and the union territo- including campaigning. tocol for Covid-19 in the state, Covid: India logs record 3.52 ry of Puducherry and the On April 22, hearing three which also has witnessed an BB to lower price State restricts... counting of polled votes will be public interest litigations (PILs) alarming rise in infections. taken up on May 2. seeking enforcement of Covid of vax lakh new cases, 2,812 fatalities Continued from Page 1 PNS n NEW DELHI A state-level task force was set Continued from Page 1 September 28, 70 lakh on the country including 64,760 up to supervise Remdesivir The Centre on Monday October 11, crossed 80 lakh on from Maharashtra, 14,426 injection for supply to Covid AP reports 9,881 new asked SII and Bharat Biotech Registering a steady increase, October 29, 90 lakh on from Karnataka, 14,248 from patients, he said and added to lower price of their Covid the active cases have increased November 20 and surpassed Delhi, 13,557 from Tamil that there are currently 11,000 vaccines amid criticism to 28,13,658 comprising 16.25 the one-crore mark on Nadu, 11,165 from Uttar Remdesivir vials available. from various states. per cent of the total infections, December 19. India crossed the Pradesh, 10,941 from West Singhal said that the Central Covid cases, 51 deaths The issue of vaccine pric- while the national COVID-19 grim milestone of 1.50 crore on Bengal, 8,432 from Punjab Government has allocated Continued from Page 1 come to the notice of the gov- tonnes (from all sources). ing was discussed at a meet- recovery rate has further April 19. According to the and 7,685 from Andhra 341 metric tonnes of oxygen ernment that nearly 30 per- We are requesting the Centre ing chaired by Cabinet dropped to 82.62 per cent. ICMR, 27,93,21,177 samples Pradesh. to the state,which is not suf- Meanwhile, State Health cent of the oxygen is being also to enhance the supply,” Secretary Rajiv Gauba. The number of people who have been tested up to April 25 The health ministry stressed ficient for the present needs. Minister Alla Kali Krishna on wasted in the state. Only the Minister said Now the two companies have recuperated from the with 14,02,367 samples being that more than 70 per cent of “We are monitoring med- Monday said as much as 30 those who need oxygen He further said the supply are expected to come up with disease surged to 1,43,04,382. tested on Sunday. the deaths occurred due to ical oxygen consumption on percent of medical oxygen is should only be given (in hos- of Remdesivir, an anti-viral revised pricing for their vac- The case fatality rate has fur- The 2,812 new fatalities comorbidities. a day-to-day basis. Oxygen is being wasted in hospitals. pitals)," he said. drug to treat Covid-19 severe cines. The Hyderabad-based ther dropped to 1.13 per cent, include 832 from Maharashtra, "Our figures are being rec- being wasted in many places "The State government "The State needs 390 cases, is being monitored by Bharat Biotech has fixed the the data stated. 350 from Delhi, 206 from onciled with the Indian as it is being used when not received information that tonnes of oxygen per day but the state government in order price of its Covid vaccine, India's COVID-19 tally had Uttar Pradesh, 199 from Council of Medical Research," needed,” he said. oxygen is being wasted.It has we are getting only 360 to curtail black-marketing. Covaxin, at Rs 600 per dose crossed the 20-lakh mark on Chhattisgarh, 157 from the ministry said on its website, for state governments and at August 7, 30 lakh on August Gujarat, 143 from Karnataka, adding that state-wise distrib- Rs 1,200 per dose for private 23, 40 lakh on September 5 and and 103 from Jharkhand. ution of figures is subject to hospitals. 50 lakh on September 16. It A total of 1,95,123 deaths further verification and recon- went past 60 lakh on have been reported so far in ciliation. IMD predicts wet spell over parts of VIJAYAWADA BULLION RATES country from April 26-30 GOLD 2 ‘disputed’ oxygen plants PNS n ` 48, 870 (10 gm) NEW DELHI very likely in isolated pockets On April 28, thunder- at isolated places over Jammu over Gujarat and coastal storms with lightning are and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit- ` -2220 lie idle in AP The India Meteorological Odisha, the IMD added. On likely over Uttarakhand, Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, SILVER Department (IMD) on April 27, thunderstorms with Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, sub- Himachal Pradesh, Nagaland, ` 74, 600 (1kg) Continued from Page 1 current scenario even one steelmaking. Monday predicted a wet spell lightning and gusty winds Himalayan West Bengal, Manipur, Mizoram and ` -6600 tonne of oxygen is precious To meet the oxygen over several parts of the coun- (speed reaching 30-40 kmph) Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Rayalaseema, coastal Interestingly, these two ASUs not only in Andhra but also requirements for Covid try, including central, south are very likely at isolated Assam, Meghalaya, central and south interior Karnataka, were installed by Air Liquide across the country,” another patients in the second wave, and northeast India, from places over Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Marathwada, Lakshadweep and Tamil CHICKEN under Build-Own-Operate retired senior executive of RINL has already supplied April 26 to 30. Assam, Meghalaya, central Telangana, Kerala and Mahe. Nadu, Puducherry and RATES `/KG (BOO) model where the RINL told The Pioneer. around 400 tonnes of liquid Thunderstorms with light- Maharashtra, Marathwada, Heavy rainfall is likely at Karaikal on April 29. French giant was to invest Every day on an average, oxygen last week to various ning and gusty winds (speed Telangana, Kerala and Mahe. isolated places over south On April 30, thunder- Dressed/With Skin `133 and operate the units with- the ASUs that are in opera- destinations in Andhra reaching 30-40 kilometres Lightning is also likely at interior Karnataka and north storms with lightning and Without Skin `152 out much financial burden tion produce 2,600 tonnes of Pradesh and other states as per hour) are very likely at isolated places over Jammu, Kerala on April 28. gusty winds are likely over Broiler at Farm `92 on RINL. oxygen in gas form, and 100 instructed by government isolated places over Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit- According to the IMD, Uttarakhand, Vidarbha, “Had the RINL’s top exec- tonnes in liquid form — authorities. Telangana, Kerala and Mahe Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, thunderstorms with lightning Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, utives taken little interest which is supplied for medical About 28 oxygen plants from April 26. Himachal Pradesh, Gangetic and gusty wind (speed reach- Sikkim, Odisha, Arunachal EGG after witnessing and experi- purposes. Air Liquide and its located in the steel plants of Lightning at isolated places West Bengal, Odisha, ing 30-40 kmph) are likely at Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, RATES `/100 encing the first wave of UK-based rival Linde Plc are both public and private sec- over Gangetic West Bengal, Arunachal Pradesh, isolated places over coastal Andhra Pradesh, Covid pandemic last year the two biggest providers of tors are supplying about Andaman and Nicobar Nagaland, Manipur, Uttarakhand, Vidarbha, Yanam, Telangana, Kerala VIJAYAWADA 373 and taken it up with the gases to industry in India. 1,500 tonnes of medical oxy- Islands, central Maharashtra, Mizoram, Tripura, Konkan, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, and Mahe. HYDERABAD 400 Union Steel Ministry, the RINL, the only shore gen daily. A stock of 30,000 Marathwada, Rayalaseema, Goa, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Sikkim, Odisha, Arunachal On the same day, heavy issue would have been based integrated Steel plant tonnes including the safety south interior Karnataka and Yanam, Rayalaseema, south Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, rainfall is likely at isolated VISAKHAPATNAM 505 resolved by now and addi- on the East coast, having its stock, is being made available Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Interior Karnataka and coastal Andhra Pradesh, places over south interior RETAIL PRICE `3. 95 (IN HYDERABAD) tional oxygen would have own captive oxygen plant for medical use, according to Karaikal on Monday. Tamilnadu, Puducherry and Yanam, Telangana, Kerala Karnataka and north Kerala, been produced daily. In the primarily for the process of the Steel Ministry. Heat wave conditions are Karaikal. and Mahe and with lightning the IMD added.

Although every possible care and caution has been taken to avoid errors or omissions, this publication is being sold on the condition and understanding that information given in this publication is merely for reference and must not be taken as having authority of or binding in any way on the writers, editors, publishers, and printers and sellers who do not owe any responsibility for any damage or loss to any person, a purchaser of this publication or not for the result of any action taken on the basis of this work. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent court and forums in Delhi/New Delhi only. Readers are advised and requested to verify and seek appropriate advice to satisfy themselves about the veracity of any kind of advertisement before responding to any contents published in this newspaper. The printer, publisher, editor and any employee of the Pioneer Group's will not be held responsible for any kind of claim made by the advertisers of the products & services and shall not be made responsible for any kind of loss, consequences and further product-related damages on such advertisements.

Printed and published by B Krishna Prasad for and on behalf of CMYK Printech Ltd., Printed at Sree Seshasai Enterprises, D.No. New 3-88, Old 3-22, Chandra Theatre, Gosala, Penamaluru Mandal, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh - 521 151, Resident Editor: B Krishna Prasad, AIR SURCHARGE of Rs 2.00. VIJAYAWADA | TUESDAY | APRIL 27, 2021 vijayawada 03 Ensure villages get 20 gbps Naidu blames Govt for Covid deaths at Visakhapatnam hospital Internet, Jagan tells officials PNS n VIJAYAWADA PNS n VIJAYAWADA and will be completed by Leader of the Opposition N March, 2023. Chandrababu Naidu on Lokesh urges Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan He said 14,671 km of aerial Monday expressed shock and Reddy has asked officials to cable has been laid in 3,642 vil- grief over the death of Covid increase the Internet speed to lages of 307 mandals. patients allegedly due to lack 20 GBPS to enable uninter- Panchayat Raj of timely oxygen supply at the Guv to intervene rupted work-from-home in Commissioner Girija Shankar Maharaja Hospital in villages. said digital libraries are being Vizianagaram. The Chief Minister was constructed with an area of 690 “The Jaganmohan Reddy chairing a review meeting on square feet and the construc- Government has become so in board exams Internet connections to villages tion cost of each library is esti- inefficient that it is not being and distribution of laptops as mated at Rs 16 lakh, while 20 able to provide oxygen to PNS n VIJAYAWADA an option under Amma Vodi seats are being set up in each patients battling for their lives Scheme on Monday during library. in Government hospitals,” TDP National General Secretary which he directed the officials School Education Principal Naidu alleged. Nara Lokesh on Monday urged to be prepared to provide Secretary Buditi Rajashekar In a statement here, the Governor Biswabhusan uninterrupted, unlimited said options are being collect- TDP chief termed it as a “total Visakhapatnam following Harichandan to intervene to get broadband Internet network to ed from students for the failure” on the part of the Covid-19 infection. He con- the board examinations for all villages. Amma Vodi scheme and lap- YSRCP Government not to veyed his condolences to the Class X and Intermediate either The Chief Minister asked tops are being procured in two ensure proper supply of oxy- bereaved family members. postponed or cancelled in officials to prepare an action ensure that computers are Classes 9 to 12. Guarantee models and high end version gen at the hospitals in a very “From the beginning, Ravi Andhra Pradesh. Lokesh said plan to provide Internet con- ready by the time construction card, warranty card and other laptops will be provided to difficult time. “The situation Kumar has been taking an that the Covid-19 second wave nection to 31 lakh houses in is completed. Also, a stand for certifications should be provid- engineering students. was deteriorating in all the 13 active part in the party activ- was posing a serious threat to the YSR Jagananna colonies newspapers should be ed to students along with lap- Energy, Forest and districts with scarcity of oxy- ities in the port city. It was all sections of people with the that are under-construction arranged and there should be tops and maintenance should Environment, Science and gen beds increasing every- unfortunate that Ravi Kumar highest single-day spike of over and to lay underground cables provision for six computers in be taken care of. Technology Minister Balineni where,” he claimed. fell victim to the Covid infec- 12,634 cases reported on in 108 cyclone-affected vil- each library and 4-6 comput- “If any laptop is given in the Srinivasa Reddy, AP Fibernet The TDP chief demanded tion and breathed his last Sunday. The public opinion was 10th and 12th class students. It lages. He said providing ers can be set up as per the Village Secretariat for repair, it Chairman Dr P Goutham the YSRCP Government wake while taking treatment at the in favour of the cancellation of is thus egregious on the part of Internet facility in all villages requirement. should be sent to the service Reddy, School Education up from its slumber and begin NRI hospital,” the TDP chief the examinations so that the the Government of Andhra should be completed by 2023. The Chief Minister said lap- centre and get repaired with- Principal Secretary Buditi rendering genuine and sincere said. students and their parents Pradesh to stick to its decision During the review meeting tops should be distributed to in a week. Laptop service cen- Rajashekar, IT Principal services to the people in this Naidu also condoled the would be spared from needless of conducting exams." held at the camp office here on those who opted for them on tres should be available in Secretary Jayalakshmi, Energy troubled time. “Officials death of Kathari Praveen, hus- exposure to the virus threat. Lokesh expressed concern that Monday, Jagan said that village January 9, the day of imple- every revenue division,” the Secretary Nagulapalli Srikanth, should turn all their focus to band of Chittoor former In a letter to the Governor, much more fatal and infectious digital libraries should be set mentation of the Amma Vodi Chief Minister said. Panchayat Raj Commissioner the availability of beds, oxygen mayor Hema Latha. Praveen's Lokesh termed it as an issue of mutations of the coronavirus up in all villages and construc- scheme. Energy Secretary Girija Shankar, AP Fibernet and Remdesivir injections. father Mohan also served as urgent and critical importance to were spreading currently. It may tion should be done as per the The Government has given Nagulapalli Srikanth said cable MD Madhusudan Reddy and These facilities should be the mayor of Chittoor and he the public health of the entire be impossible to ensure safety schedule. He told officials to options to the students of works are already underway other officials were present. expedited immediately in was murdered while in office. state. “The Government of in the exams involving thou- order to prevent the situation Their family has been active- Andhra Pradesh announced its sands of schools, lakhs of from going out of control cre- ly engaged in strengthening decision to conduct teachers, and millions of stu- ate confidence among the peo- the party in Chittoor right Intermediate exams for more dents. Even if a single life of a Unfarewell: ple,” he said. from the beginning. The TDP than 10 lakh students in May, student, teacher, or parent was One more Durga temple Naidu expressed shock over would extend all support to 2021 and also 10th exams for lost to Covid-19 due to this Kin bid muted the death of their party corpo- their family in this time of loss 6.3 lakh students in June, 2021. mass gathering at exams, it will rator Vanapalli Ravi Kumar in and pain. There was widespread anxiety be an unpardonable failure on farewell to among the people about illness, the part of the government. staff succumbs to Covid serious disorders, and untimely Meanwhile, Lokesh announced Covid victims ‘Officials should turn all their deaths due to the second wave that his party would file a PIL in PNS n VIJAYAWADA for darshan should wear masks focus to the availability of beds, of Covid-19,” Lokesh mentioned the court seeking immediate amid 2nd wave and maintain physical dis- in his letter. Stressing the need postponement or cancellation of Covid-19 positive cases are tance. She explained that all the oxygen and Remdesivir injections. for timely intervention, he said: the Class X and Intermediate PNS n HYDERABAD rapidly increasing among the Arjitha sevas will be per- "Hospitals are falling short of examinations to protect the stu- staff of Kanakadurga temple. formed in ekantham (privacy), These facilities should be crucial resources and medical dents from the Covid-19 infec- Funerals of persons deceased On Monday two archakas the devotees will be allowed for expedited immediately in order to supplies. Lockdowns of varying tions. Lokesh said that the deci- due to Covid are taking place tested positive, taking the tally darshan from 6.30 am to 7.30 severity are being enforced sion was taken after taking the with no near and dear in atten- to 52. Also, Jamalamma an pm. prevent the situation from going everywhere. As Your Excellency opinion of students, parents and dance, regardless of the person attender succumbed to Covid She stated that after 7 pm, out of control create confidence is well aware, more than 20 advocates who took part in the who died belongs to affluent on Monday taking the toll the devotees will be denied states in the country have can- 'digital town hall' meeting held sections of society or poorer among the temple employees entry through the Ghat Road among the people.’ celed or postponed exams for on Monday. sections. to three. ing several pujas. and Maha Mandapam route In fact, their funerals are A priest had succumbed to The Antaralaya Darshan and the Antaralaya darshan for being conducted similar to Covid on Saturday and nearly (sanctum sanctorum darshan) devotees is completely can- that of an orphan in the dead 45 people working in Durga has been cancelled and devo- celled. The EO stated that Rs of night. The absence of the temple including priests had tees would only be allowed into 200 fine will be imposed for ` family members is conspicuous been infected from the temple from 6.30 am to temple staff for violating rules. TDP demands 1 cr to kin of Covid-hit employees at these funerals. The heirs in Coronavirus. In view of the ris- 7.30 pm following Corona Temple trust committee the family feel sad for not able ing positive cases the temple guidelines. chairman Somi Naidu said PNS n VIJAYAWADA Babu deplored that the The TDP MLC urged the Stating that the number of to lit funeral pyre of elders in executive committee chair- The temple timings were that for every one hour employees were living under a Chief Minister to allow fatalities was rising, Ashok the family, but could only pay man Pyla Somi Naidu, execu- changed in view of night cur- Sodium Hypochlorite will be TDP MLC P Ashok Babu on threat from the virus epidem- employees to work from home Babu demanded payment of money to the ambulance dri- tive officer D Brahmaramba few being imposed from 10 pm sprayed in the queue lines Monday expressed concern ic even as the YSRCP in their best interests. Rs 1 crore ex gratia to the kin vers to dispose of bodies, and priests conducted a meet- to 5 am to contain the spread through which the devotees over the 'lack of safety and Government was behaving in “In just a week, over five of employees who succumbed unable to hazard a risk. ing on Sunday and imposed of and further to restrain the enter the temple premises. He security' to the lives of govern- a highly objectionable manner. employees lost their lives at the to Covid-19. Ambulance drivers and per- the Corona restrictions. spread of Coronavirus in tem- stated that soon after the dar- ment employees in Andhra It was scary that AP has AP Secretariat. Government The Government should sonnel at crematoria and bur- This is despite the temple ple premises. shan the devotees shall not Pradesh in the wake of the fatal come to stand among those employees should also be treat- immediately pay the DA ial grounds are conducting the authorities imposing Covid-19 Temple EO, Ms form groups and maintain second wave of Covid-19. States which were the worst hit ed as frontline warriors on par arrears which were pending funerals not only in Hyderabad restrictions by restraining Brahmaramba said that the distance and disburse from the In a letter to Chief Minister in the second wave of the with doctors and police,” he for over 5 DAs, he demand- and also in Karimnagar and Darshan timings and suspend- devotees coming to the temple premises. YS Jaganmohan Reddy, Ashok deadly virus. said. ed. Warangal. Compared to funer- als prior to Covid and the funerals taking place during the current pandemic times have been bringing up tears in the TDP using Covid eyes of the people. Covid kits help eliminate need for hospitalisation A teacher set an example for others to emulate. He groomed PNS n VIJAYAWADA in home isolation. with 104. If the mild symptoms many children into very suc- The State Government is dis- are worsening, they will be to make political cessful persons. When he died The Andhra Pradesh tributing kits and boosting the referred to quarantine centres. If recently due to Covid, his own Government has been distribut- morale of the Covid affected say- breathing levels goes down, son could not take part in his ing Covid kits to eliminate the ing that the virus can be cured they are being referred to hos- funeral, but could give Rs need for hospitalisation of from home. pitals. gains: Minister 25,000 to the ambulance driver Covid-19 patients. The virus is more virulent in To enquire about the health to dispose of the body. These kits comprise Vitamin- the second wave. of the patients, ANMs, ASHA PNS n VIJAYAWADA Similarly, an elderly woman C 500 mg tablets, Zinc 20 mg There are over thousands of workers, village secretariat per- who used to live in Hyderabad tablets, Vitamin D3 (60,000) 16 active cases in the state putting sonnel, volunteers will be Asserting that the State gov- has had six sons. She recently capsules, B-Complex tablets, severe pressure on availability of deployed. They will find out the ernment, under the leadership died of the pandemic. All her Paracetamol 650 mg tablets, beds. As the situation worsens, status of the progress of the of Chief Minister YS sons are millionaires. There are Cetirizine 10 mg tablets, the patients are facing the prob- patient or otherwise of it. Jaganmohan Reddy, has been many sugar patients in the Pantoprazole 40 mg tablets and lem of shortage of oxygen as Those who spend time in taking stringent measures to house hold. The family gave Rs antibiotics. they have had difficulty in home quarantine, the state gov- contain Covid-19 in the state, 30,000 to ambulance driver for Once a person tests positive breathing. ernment distributed Covid-19 Minister Botsa Satyanarayana her cremation. Some people for the virus, he or she is wor- Some people are able to get facts. The Government encour- keeping up their health. kits. In fact, many people are on Monday accused TDP are watching the funeral service ried about getting a bed in a rid of the virus without any ages those who tested positive to If the symptoms are mild and able to come out of the Covid- leaders N Chandrababu Naidu of the parents through a video Covid-19 treatment facility. In treatment at all. As mentioned remain in home quarantine . if they are asymptomatic, they 19 with the help of these kits. and Nara Lokesh of creating call as they cannot afford attend- fact, many people are not aware above, 85 percent are able to free There is a plan to treat them. have to receive treatment in ANMs and ASHA workers tension and confusion among ing the funeral services. If video of the fact that 85 percent of from the virus receiving treat- Once a person tests positive for home care. They will be guided deliver these kits at the door step the public for their political call is not feasible, videos are those who have tested positive ment in home care. People are the virus, they will receive a on what type of treatment they of the patients. These kits also interests. being sent to the near and dear for the virus got cured by avail- worrying about their health phone call to enquire about their should avail themselves. contain masks, gloves and hand Speaking to the media at the through WhatsApp. ing themselves treatment while and are not able to observe these symptoms and how they are A call centre has been set up sanitisers. YSRCP central office here, the Minister said the state issue in a hospital in government has laid special Vizianagaram and saved lives focus on bed availability, oxy- with great effort and slammed gen and medicines and taking Naidu for not praising the doc- Situation dire but manageable, says Krishna Collector measures to ensure 50,000 tors and criticising the govern- beds are available across the ment over the issue. “The C PRADEEP KUMAR General Hospital. Three oxygen beds vacant and there recovered and immediately, state. government would welcome n VIJAYAWADA patients are carried on one are plenty of them available. another patient is allocated He said the government any reasonable suggestions stretcher due to shortage of But when a patient is taken to the same bed. “Though there is has set up ‘104’ call centre and from the opposition,” Botsa At a time Covid-19 pandemic stretchers while many patients the respective hospitals, there a shortfall in oxygen supply, we is providing beds to the said, criticising Naidu for not is creating havoc, the demand are waiting in the ambulance are no beds. The hospital are managing and treating all required patients within two giving one responsible sugges- for medical oxygen in hospitals with oxygen support waiting authorities say that there is no patients,” said the collector. hours and added that a state tion to the government. is increasing. Due to the spike for their turn as there is an oxygen supply,” is a complaint Imtiaz appealed to people to command control centre has The Minister came down in the number of people suffer- acute shortage of beds. repeated by quite a few individ- opt for home isolation if their been set up and higher officials heavily on Lokesh for ing from Covid, hospitals are As Vijayawada GGH is a uals. health condition is not severe. are alert and monitoring the demanding cancellation or also falling short of beds. Covid designated hospital, peo- Krishna district Collector A He said that many patients situation. postponement of Class 10 and Oxygen reserves in hospitals ple from far away places come Md Imtiaz said that all the come and get themselves “While the state govern- Intermediate exams. “The state are declining and patients for treatment. There, doctors patients are being accommo- admitted to a hospital just as a ment has been running from government has taken the undergoing treatment are in are forced to tell every patient dated either in the hospital or precautionary measure. “The pillar to post to fight the pan- decision to conduct exams deep trouble. and their relatives ‘Please wait, Covid Care Centres which present situation is only because demic, Naidu and yellow keeping in view the future of Government hospitals are all beds are full’. have all the facilities. some people did not follow media are propagating false the students,” the Minister overcrowded with Covid vic- Getting a bed in the hospi- “Many people are not show- Covid appropriate behaviour information to create unrest in said. tims and relatives. The grief of tal remains a major task for ing interest in getting admitted and had been attending func- the state,” Botsa said. He questioned how the stu- those who have lost their loved patients; besides shortage of number of the patients. Meanwhile, patients and to CCC. As the dashboard was tions in large numbers. He said while the employ- dents can compete in nation- ones and the cries of family oxygen is haunting patients This scarcity has led to a their relatives accuse the not updated there may be a Presently we are tracking, trac- ees have been striving hard al level institutions without members are heart wrenching undergoing treatment in gov- spike in oxygen prices. A five Government of providing mismatch in the figures per- ing and treating all the positive fighting against pandemic, the writing the board exams. He and have become common- ernment hospitals. kg oxygen cylinder that was incorrect information on the taining to the number of beds patients,” Imtiaz said. comments of Naidu and questioned Naidu and Lokesh place at hospitals. There is a shortfall of oxygen sold at Rs 100 earlier is now facilities for Covid patients in available and other details,” He appealed to all the peo- Lokesh are lowering the con- why they didn't comment or Heartbreaking scenes are supplies to even private hospi- sold at Rs 300, as per reports. hospitals. Imtiaz said. ple above 18 years to register fidence among them. react while Narendra Modi now a common sight at the tals as there is no supply to Also, private hospitals have “In the Covid dashboard, it He said that patients are themselves and get vaccinated He said officials became said lockdown was the last Vijayawada Government meet the needs of the growing raised charges all across. is being shown that there are being discharged once fully when their turn comes. alert in the oxygen supply option. VIJAYAWADA | TUESDAY | APRIL 27, 2021 vijayawada 04

Hoarders of O2 Deaths due to technical and Remdesivir Lockdown only after Centre’s warned PNS n clarification, says Alla Nani GUNTUR snag in oxygen flow: Dy CM PNS n GUNTUR Stern action would be ini- Health Minister Alla Kali PNS n VIZIANAGARAM tiated against Krishna Srinivas (Nani) said the hoarders that there were no guidelines Reacting to the death of two of oxygen from the Centre to clamp full- Covid patients, who were on cylinders scale lockdown in the State. ventilators due to technical and CM Jaganmohan Reddy issues in Vizianagaram Remdesivir would decide if the Central Maharaja Hospital, Deputy injections to government issued the guide- CM Pamula Pushpa Srivani make a fast buck, rural SP lines. said the death of two people Vishal Gunni has warned. Minister Alla Nanny held a was due to the slow release of Addressing the media here review meeting with district State has required 360 metric tonnes oxygen at midnight. on Monday, the SP said that officials on the corona situa- "We are working on it to in the wake of the corona out- tion in Guntur district on of oxygen and has been importing resolve the technical issue of break, the State government Monday. The public repre- oxygen from other states. The Centre oxygen supply at Covid was making all efforts to sentatives of the district par- was asked to provide necessary Hospital," she said. Speaking to fetch much-needed oxygen ticipated in the meeting virtu- the media persons here on and Remdesivir injections to ally. stocks of oxygen. Monday, she said that she had treat those infected with The public representatives spoken to the District Collector corona. demanded that a Covid care and the hospital He warned that legal action centre should be set up in of oxygen and has been about the Viziayanagaram inci- Superintendent and the issue would be taken against the every constituency with an importing oxygen from other dent, where two patients died was brought to the notice of perpetrators of such illegal oxygen facility immediately. states. The Centre was asked with a lack of oxygen in time. Medical Health Minister Alla acts and cases would be reg- District Collector Vivek Yadav to provide necessary stocks of He advised Chandrababu Naidu Kali Krishana Srinivas (Nani). istered against them. asked Minister Nani to clari- oxygen. Similarly, 12000 not to take the Corona incidents There was a problem in the The SP appealed to the fy the amount of oxygen to be Remdesivir injections were for political advantage. Home supply of oxygen to patients in people to bring to their notice supplied and the time of sup- available now they were being Minister Sucharita who partic- the ICU. She said 15 people if anyone in the Guntur rural ply every day as Guntur dis- given to everyone. ipated with the Deputy Chief were immediately rushed to She clarified that the Health The technical problem of oxy- oxygen problems in all the hos- district has any information trict needs 47 metric tonnes of Addressing the media, Alla Minister in the virtual confer- another hospital in the city and Minister had ordered to move gen supply would also be pitals in Vizianagaram district on selling oxygen and oxygen. Nani said that Opposition ence said that CM YS Jagan no human life was in danger the patients to Visakhapatnam resolved by evening and steps and people need not worry, she Remdesivir injections in the The Minister said the state leader Chandrababu was mak- Mohan Reddy has the power to after the oxygen problem arose. if the situation was still serious. would be taken to prevent added. black market. has required 360 metric tonnes ing irresponsible comments control the corona. SHORT TAKES Rajendra Prasad, son of Don’t believe in rumours over TDS: Nani No quarantine centre in a lorry driver, gets Ph D PNS n GUDIVADA Avanigadda: Buddha Prasad PNS n NELLORE State Civil Supplies and AVANIGADDA: Former Deputy Speaker Consumer Affairs Minister Mandali Buddha Prasad has said it was Siddhagunta Rajendra Prasad, Kodali Srivenkateswara Rao unfortunate that Covid centres were not set son of a lorry driver has (Nani) has appealed to the up in Avanigadda constituency despite the secured Ph D for his thesis on ration dealers not to believe the Chief Minister's instructions to convert wed- "Experimental investigation, rumours being circulated on ding halls and cinema theatres into Covid modelling and optimization of social media that the TDS centres if possible as nothing was important process parameters for abrasive exemption would be made than the lives of the people. He alleged on jet machining". Prasad was applicable to the ration dealers Monday that a quarantine centre was the second son of Siddhagunta and the amount would be opened in Avanigadda in the past so they thought it would be reopened Peddabbai, a lorry driver and deducted from their commis- but no arrangements have been made to start a quarantine centre in Saubhagya couple from NTR sion. Avanigadda till the date. He said that the area hospitals in some districts Nagar in Nellore. The representatives of the have been made Covid hospitals. He appealed to the Medical and Rajendra Prasad was work- Andhra Pradesh Ration Health Minister to convert Avanigadda Area Hospital into Covid Hospital ing as the Head of the Dealers' Welfare Association but was ignored. The corona was intensifying day by day during the Department of Mechanical called on Minister Kodali Nani second wave in the Avanigadda constituency. Many deaths were report- Engineering at Priyadarshini Speaking on the occasion, at his residence in Gudivada on ed in the constituency, he said and added that setting up a Covid quar- Engineering College in Rajendra Prasad said his ten Monday. The association pres- gramme undertaken by the on each dealer to the tune of Rs talk to the officials of the Civil antine centre with an oxygen facility could save many lives. Kanupartipadu. research papers were pub- ident Kagitha Konda expressed government to save lives. He 20,000, he said. Supplies Department about Prasad received his doc- lished in internationally concern over applying TDS said the commission of about The dealers also urged for the damage of soybeans in torate from Dr Adimulapu renowned journals and now (Tax Deduction at Source) for Rs. 175 crore was credited withdrawal of damaged condi- Bantumilli and Kruthivennu Six KL University students Suresh, Minister of Education he was happy to receive the the ration dealers during the into the accounts of ration ments supplied to ration shops Mandals. at the Eleventh Graduation Doctorate. Rajendra Prasad corona disaster. The ration dealers. It was understood that in Bantumilli and Krittivennu The DM would be instruct- arrested, ganja seized ceremony organized by was congratulated by his col- dealers said they were effective- the government has decided to mandals in Krishna district. ed to withdraw the condi- GUNTUR: As many as six students of KL University in Tadepalli were Jawaharlal Nehru Technical leagues and friends on the ly managed free essential com- exempt TDS on commission as Reacting to their plea, Minister ments if they were found arrested for possessing huge quantities of ganja here on Monday. The University, Anantapur. occasion. modities' distribution pro- this would make a huge burden Kodali Nani said that he would improper. police also seized 1.9 kg of cannabis, two hookah bang bottles and six mobiles from them. Disclosing the details, Guntur urban SP RN Ammi Reddy said the Guntur police were trying to crack down on drug usage for over a month now. Seminars were conducted to create awareness among the students on the ill-effects of drug use and these Cops to the rescue of Covid patients 270 staffers of APSPDCL programmes were organized in various educational institutions apart from counselling to the students. Drop boxes were set up at Tadepalli KL University as part of the awareness programme. Some students informed about drug usage in the university through this dropbox, the as oxygen tanker breaks down affected by corona, seven die SP said. The students of the University Rohit and Sandeep went to Lambasingi together and bought 2 kg of ganja. They brought it for PNS n ONGOLE PNS n NELLORE their use and they have an intention to sell it on the campus. The SP appealed to the students to stay away from drug addiction and focus Acting swiftly on the directives As the Covid cases were surg- on their studies. from the Superintendent of ing in the state, the electricity Police Siddhartha Kaushal, the employees were advised to highway patrolling police on make appropriate arrange- Vontimitta Sri Kodandarama Monday saved the lives of ments to face challenges, Covid patients at RIMS adhering to corona guidelines kalyanotsavam performed Hospital in Ongole. and every worker should get KADAPA : An oxygen-laden tanker, their jab as the corona second Lord Sri Kodandarama Swamy kalyanotsavam was orga- which was supposed to supply wave was devastating, nized in a grandeur manner at Vontimitta in Kadapa district on Monday oxygen to RIMS Hospital, Chairman and Managing night. The celestial wedding of the Lord and his consort Sita Devi was broke down midway at Director of AP Southern performed under the moonlight on the full moon day. The event was Narnivaripalem near Bollapalli Power Distribution Company conducted in Ekantham (Privacy) due to Corona restrictions. Revenue toll plaza at around 4 am on Ltd (APSPDCL) said on Minister V Srinivas Prasad presented the silk garments, pearls and Monday. Monday. necklaces to the God and the Goddess on behalf of the Andhra Pradesh State Government. The event, which was hosted by Tirumala H. Harnath Rao, Chairman & Managing Director, AP Southern Power Distribution The tanker (AP 38 TT9368) Harnatha Rao organized a Tirupati Devasthanams, was attended by TTD officials, JEO Bhargavi, Company Ltd. was transporting 20,000 litres teleconference with the district TTD board member Meda Mallikarjuna Reddy and other officials. (22 tons) of oxygen from officials and staff of Nellore, Visakhapatnam to RIMS hos- Chittoor, Kadapa, Anantapur ed 22 cases and Anantapur The CMD of SPDCL direct- pital in Ongole. The highway and Kurnool districts on has 27 cases. Out of the total ed the officials to ensure 24/7 patrolling police of J Pangaluru Monday. 270 cases, seven employees power supply to hospitals, noticed the tanker and Speaking on the occasion, succumbed to corona, three oxygen plants and manufac- informed the police control Oxygen being filled into tanks at RIMS Hospital in Ongole. he said that so far 270 in Nellore, two in Chittoor, turing units of masks and room. Reacting to the informa- (inset) Oxygen tanker which was breakdown at Bollapalli highway. employees were inflicted with one each in Kurnool and sanitisers. Orders were issued tion, SP Siddharth Kaushal the corona pandemic in the Tirupati corporate office. to sanitize all electricity offices. called J Pangaluru SI and ing. The local police sum- RIMS hospital. The hospital SPDCL. Nellore district reg- Harnatha Rao expressed his However, employees in all ordered him to get it repaired moned three lorry mechanics management has lauded the istered the highest Covid profound sympathies to the offices were instructed to immediately. The tanker has a and got the tanker repaired. services of patrolling person- cases of 82, Chittoor 77 cases, family members of those who attend only 50 per cent in a day mechanical issue and its elec- The cops escorted the oxy- nel and thanked SP Kaushal for Tirupati and Kurnool regis- died with the Covid-19 pan- on alternate days to maintain trical brakes were malfunction- gen tanker till it reached the his timely intervention. tered 31 each, Kadapa report- demic. physical distance. Cockfights amid Covid threat causes concern Man kills three member PNS n KAKINADA People gathered in huge numbers to witness Despite the alarming surge in the of his family, surrenders corona positive cases, people Gundata and cockfights which were held in were flocking to amusement Pithapuram four days ago. Recording dances PNS n KADAPA his wife back. places in hundreds unabatedly Raged by his parents' atti- causing great concern for the dis- were organized in Alamuru mandal two days In a bizarre incident, a person tude, Karimullah attacked his trict medical and health officials brutally murdered three of his brother Mohammed Rafi with in East Godavari. ago. People who attended these amusement family members with a grudge a pestle and then attacked his The corona cases were on the places were not bothered to wear masks and and surrendered before the mother Gulzar Begum. His rise rapidly and the death toll was police on Monday. The inci- younger sister Karimunnisa, also mounting up. Despite all maintain physical distance. dent occurred at Hyderanagar who tried to protect her moth- efforts by the district administra- maintain physical distance. in Proddutur of Kadapa dis- er and brother, received griev- tion to create awareness among The queue lines were seen at the district. The official figures People fear that the virus may trict. The deceased include ous injuries. the people about the precautions the chicken and mutton shops were varying with the real mor- increase in these variant cli- the mother, sister and brother All three persons suc- of wearing a mask and maintain- across the district on Sunday tality rate. The government has mates. The corona positive of the accused. cumbed to injuries on the ing physical distance, there was morning and people were least declared seven private hospitals patients were scared of joining According to police, Chand spot. However, Chand Basha, no a little change in the attitude bothered to maintain physical as Covid hospitals. Another 15 the government hospitals. As a Basha has two sons and a who was away from the house of the people. People gathered in distance in the queue lines. The private hospitals were recently result, the beds in the govern- daughter. His elder son at the time of the incident, huge numbers to witness police personnel became mute approved. However, the Covid ment-run hospitals were empty. In the adjoining West Karimullah got married to a escaped the attack. Gundata and cockfights which spectators for ongoing Covid rule beds were filled in all almost all Those who tested positive were Godavari, the officials declared girl belonging to the same Karimullah surrendered were held in Pithapuram four violations. corporate hospitals. rushing to private hospitals with some villages as containment street four years ago. Since before the police after the days ago. Recording dances were Having a population of 54 Meanwhile, the Covid scare. Taking advantage of zones. Whereas in East Godavari, Karimullah used to suspect his massacre. The Proddutur One organized in Alamuru mandal lakhs, about 1.35 lakh people Meteorological Department has the situation, the hospital man- no containment zones were wife's fidelity; she left him Town police registered a case two days ago. People who attend- were exposed to coronavirus. A issued heavy rain forecast warn- agements were not considering announced at the village level and started living with her par- family members for not sup- and are investigating based ed these amusement places were total of 9,394 active cases and 661 ings in the district. Also, the mer- Arogyasree and other medical causing deep concern to the ents. Karimullah reportedly porting him over the issue as on the complaint lodged by not bothered to wear masks and deaths were reported till now in cury rises on the other side. reimbursement schemes. people. developed a grudge against his they made no efforts to bring Chand Basha. VIJAYAWADA | TUESDAY | APRIL 27, 2021 nation 05

Didi: Madras HC right, EC Panchayat polls held on J&K records 2,135 74% polling in court order: Yogi Govt fresh Covid cases responsible for Covid surge Lucknow: The Yogi Adityanath Government in MOHIT KANDHARI n JAMMU SAUGAR SENGUPTA n KOLKATA ing the ECI to shorten the phases Uttar Pradesh has said it did not wish to conduct of elections to avoid large scale panchayat elections in the State in view of coro- he Covid-19 situation has become grimmer in Jammu engal Chief Minister Mamata infections but they would not listen navirus pandemic but had to do so following the Tand Kashmir as the region has started recording one WB 7th phase BBanerjee on Monday made the to us … when you can single-phase Allahabad High Court's order which directed it death per hour. In the last 48 hours, 46 patients have suc- PIONEER NEWS SERVICE n KOLKATA most of the Madras High Court election in Kerala, three phase in to complete the poll process by May 10. cumbed to the virus while 4,516 coronavirus positive While there was no major report order — faulting the Election Assam why cannot you shorten the A Government spokesman said, "The elections patients were added to the tally which crossed 20,000 engal on Monday recorded a brisk of violence coming from any Commission of India for rising election phases in Bengal?” Banerjee were due in December last year. The pandemic led active positive cases. 2,135 fresh cases of coronavirus were Bpolling amid reports of some place, the TMC and the BJP corona cases in the country — to asked saying “the ECI has proved to delay in reorganisation and delimitation of pan- recorded on Monday. stray violence coming from five dis- blamed each other for jamming launch a frontal attack on the poll that it is working according to the chayats. The writ petitions and subsequent deci- On the other hand out of 87 Covid ICU beds avail- tricts that went to the 7th phase of booths and rigging at Asansol, panel holding it responsible for a directions of the BJP … they want- sion of the high court compelled the state gov- able in Government Medical College, Jammu only 20 are polling on Monday. surge in corona cases in her own ed the poll panel to hold 8-phae ernment to hold the election." left vacant. Out of 227 Covid ICU beds available across The State recorded about 74 per- Raninagar and Malda. At Farakka State. elections and so they did it … the "In a writ petition filed by Vinod Upadhyay 15 Covid hospitals in Jammu division 126 are left vacant. cent polling when reports last came a TMC supporter was stabbed by Welcoming the Madras High EC is responsible for increasing against the State of Uttar Pradesh, the Allahabad The Health and Medical Education department is in at 5 pm with nine about 80.30 and the BJP men, sources said Court observation that the ECI cases in Bengal.” high court in its order dated February 4, direct- working over time to operationalise the oxygen gener- 80.21 percent voters casting their could not avoid blame for the On the other hand the Left said ed the State Election Commission to complete the ation plants to meet the growing demand of oxygen across votes in Murshidabad and South JNU students’ leader Aishe Ghosh spread of pandemic Banerjee that they had already cancelled election process for panchayats by April 30. In over burdened health institutions. Dinajpur districts. While Malda wit- alleged that the Left voters were demanded immediate withdrawal of their large rallies even before the compliance, the state government initiated the The twin capital cities of Jammu and Srinagar are nessed 78.86 percent polling about being stopped by the Trinamool central forces saying about 3 lakh of High Court order and Congress process of reservation and allotment by March 15," emerging as 'hot spots' as the total number of active pos- 70.34 percent voters exercised their goons from going to the polling them had been posted in the State leader Adhir Chowdhury said “we the spokesman said. itive cases are increasing rapidly. Both these capital cities franchise in West Burdwan. In South booth. Later the central forces escort- without them being properly had even asked the EC to postpone The state government said the panchayat polls accounted for over 54 percent active positive cases. Kolkata the rate of polling was low at ed the voters to the booth. Reports of checked for their disease. the elections.” were being conducted in keeping with Covid-19 Out of 2172 deaths due to covid 19 so far, Jammu 59.91 percent. some disturbance came in from Suti “The ECI has posted 3 lakh The BJP however refuted protocols issued by the State Election Commission. region has recorded 828 and 1344 deaths were reported While there was no major report in Murshidabad too, sources said. security forces in Bengal without Banerjee’s charges even as its leader The four-phase panchayat elections started on in Kashmir division. of violence coming from any place the Elections will take place for 34 checking whether they are corona Samik Bhattacharya said “she is April 15 and counting of votes and declaration of On Monday Jammu recorded 472 fresh cases taking TMC and BJP blamed each other for Assembly seats across 5 districts --- of positive or not … this has infected using the HC order to bake her own result will take place on May 2. the total number of active positive cases to 5089 while jamming booths and rigging at South Dinajpur, Malda, Murshidabad, the people in the State in large num- bread … She has first to answer why The spokesperson said the state government Srinagar with 632 fresh cases recorded 6180 active pos- Asansol, Raninagar and Malda. At West Burdwan and Kolkata South -- bers ... we want them to be with- the EC has to hold 8-phase elec- was committed to ensuring the safety of voters. itive cases. Farakka a TMC supporter was - across North and South Bengal. The drawn immediately,” the Banerjee tions… why cannot there be a sin- For proper cleanliness, sanitization and pre- Out of 2135 fresh cases, 299 were travellers who test- allegedly stabbed by the BJP men, Election Commission deployed 89,600 said. gle-phase polling in Bengal … she vention of infection in gram panchayats, special ed positive during routine screening while 1836 locals sources said. paramilitary personnel to ensure free The Chief Minister also alleged has to ask this answer to the TMC sanitation drive was undertaken in villages across were tested positive across the Union Territory of J&K At Jamuria Left candidate and and fair elections. that “we have been repeatedly ask- goons who loot votes.” 75 districts of the state. IANS on Monday. UK, S Afrian variants of Covid detected 15,684 new corona cases in TN No lockdown yet, feel sorry in Kerala, 21,890 new cases reported KUMAR CHELLAPPAN n ducing 1,000 tonnes oxygen per and NTK owned by Seaman for 38 Covid deaths: Goa CM KUMAR CHELLAPPAN n KOCHI said Vijayan in his media interaction on CHENNAI day. had staged protests in Monday evening. The Tamil Nadu Thoothukudi last week against Panaji: The police and the district "We have not decided on hough there has been a slight fall in the The all party meeting convened by the n all-party meeting con- Government in a release said the move to open the oxygen administrations in Goa have been lockdown. We will crackdown on Tnumber of new persons diagnosed Chief Minister early in the day decided Avened by Chief Minister that the oxygen produced at the producing facility of Sterlite Ltd. directed to crackdown on crowd- the Covid protocol violators with Covid-19 on Monday in Kerala, unanimously to continue with the weeknd Edappadi K Palaniswami on Sterlite plant would be used to The Madras High Court ed weddings and other functions, strictly now. The police have Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said there lock down. “The general feeling was that Monday decided unanimously meet the demands of the State Chief Justice Sanjib Banerjee on Chief Minister Pramod Sawant been instructed to take action to was no space for complacency as the a total lock down was not feasible at this to open the oxygen plant of and the surplus if any would be Monday lambasted the election said on Monday, after a record 38 ensure that there are no crowds reduced numbers were on account of the stage because it would pose considerable Anil Aggarwal’s Sterlite Copper given to other States which are Commission of India and persons died within 24 hours due at functions, including weddings. fall in the number of tests held during the hardship to the population. We will con- Plant at Thoothukudi in view of in short supply. blamed it for the second wave to Covid-19 related complications. People should not say we have last two days. tinue with the weekend lockdown,” said the the pandemic situation pre- The Chief Minister had of Covid-19 that struck the Sawant, however, has ruled stopped (events) then. Before “The State on Monday diagnosed Chief Minister. vailing in the State. told the media on Sunday that State. While considering a plea out a lockdown in Goa, but added going into lockdown, we will 21,890 new cases of Covid-19. We also reg- Vijayan asked the people of the State to The State saw the number the State was in need of 310 moved by AIADMK leader M that if the Covid-19 footprint have to stop functions," Sawant istered 28 deaths due to Covid-19 till cooperate with the Government in its of new Covid-19 patients shoot- tonnes oxygen per day and R Vijaybaskar who is also the spreads further in the State, some said Monday evening. There are more than 2.32 efforts to prevent the community spread- ing up to 15,684 on a single day thus may rise to 450 tonnes per Transport Minister, to direct the "harsh decisions" would be taken. lakh persons undergoing treatment for ing of the pandemic. “The number of while 94 deaths were recorded day in coming days. Election Commission of India "We have not decided on lock- has gone viral. Covid-19 in the State as on Monday Muslim brethren who assemble in mosques all over the State. Chennai saw The all-party meeting was to put in place stringent mea- down. We will crackdown on the Sawant said that he "felt sad" evening,” said Vijayan. for Ramazan prayers should not exceed 50. 4,250 new patients while neigh- unanimous in the decision that sures during the May 2 count- Covid protocol violators strictly over the record 38 deaths which The Chief Minister said that two dead- The faithful should use pipe water to bouring Chengalpattu district only the oxygen production ing of votes, the chief justice now. The police have been instruct- were recorded on Monday, but ly genetically modified variants of the wash their hands and face while they saw the figures going up by plant of the Sterlite Copper said the ECI should have put in ed to take action to ensure that added that the steep increase in Covid-19, namely British and South African should avoid the water in the pools,” said 1,142 on Monday. would be allowed to operate place strict guidelines to enforce there are no crowds at functions, Covid-19 infections over the last variants have been detected in the State. the chief Minister. The Copper manufacturing and no other facilities of the the people to fall in line and including weddings. People should two days -- 2,321 persons tested “This is news causing concern and has All shops and business establishments unit owned by Aggarwal’s company would be re-opened observe the safety protocols. not say we have stopped (events) positive on Monday -- was on made us resort to stringent measures,” said have been asked to operate between 7 am Vedanata Group has been shut or revived. Meanwhile Tamil Nadu then. Before going into lockdown, account of clearance of a backlog Vijayan who alerted the people of the State and 5.30 pm. Bars, sports centres, clubs, down since May 28, 2021 fol- The Sterlite Ltd had filed a Police has issued an alert about we will have to stop functions," of test samples. that the two new variants were dangerous spas, and cinema theatres have been asked lowing riots by activists who plea in the Supreme Court ask- the unusual meetings and reli- Sawant said. "The Covid case count is 2000- and hazardous. to down the shutters with immediate demanded the closure of the ing for court directive to the gious ceremonies being held in The Chief Minister, however, plus today because we have cleared Vijayan blamed the Centre, especially effect. facility because of alleged envi- State Government to allow the certain districts of the State by refused to take questions related to the backlog. The second wave is the Prime Minister, for not releasing the While extending support to the ronmental pollution. Group to operate the oxygen Tablighi Jamaat activists since a wedding attended by Deputy very dangerous. Those who have quantity of vaccines asked by the State Government in all its efforts to check the Tamil Nadu has been facing manufacturing plant because the last two months. Chief Minister Manohar symptoms should get admitted as Government. spread of the pandemic, Leader of severe shortage of oxygen in the Tamil Nadu Governmentg does It was the TJ activists who Ajgaonkar, where guests, including soon as possible. We are providing “We are discussing with the vaccine Opposition, Ramesh Chennithala said the backdrop of the increasing not have the capability or know- played a crucial role in 2020 in the minister himself, were seen all the facilities. We have increased manufacturers directly so as to make the LDF Government was not prudent in the number of Covid-19 cases. The how to operate the plant. spreading the pandemic across dancing at the packed event held bed capacity, provided oxygen," the vaccine available to the Kerala population,” financial management of the State. Sterlite unit is capable of pro- The MDMK led by Vaiko the State. last week. The video of the event Chief Minister said. IANS Oxygen Express Tirupati OXYGEN SHORTAGE ROW arrives in Mumbai converted into Maha orders probe into death of 4 patients at Thane hospital TN RAGHUNATHA n MUMBAI containment zone Ro-Ro service carrying three tankers Tirupati: With corona cases record- TN RAGHUNATHA n MUMBAI said: “It is unfortunate that four medical Oxygen by way of procur- Aloaded with 44 tonnes of Liquid Medical ed in each and every division of the patients have died at the Vedanta ing stocks of life-saving gas from Oxygen (LMO), which had left Hapa in Gujarat city, the authorities have designated mid allegations that four Hospital due to lack of medical other states and oxygen-filling on Sunday evening, arrived at Kalamboli in Navi Tirupati as a containment zone. Apatients died owing to acute Oxygen supplies. We demand a facilities via train and flight,” Mumbai on Monday morning. Tirupati Municipal Corporation shortage of medical oxygen at comprehensive inquiry into the Shinde said. The Ro-Ro service carrying three tankers Commissioner PS Girisha on Monday Thane’s Vedanta Hospital, the incident. Those responsible for the Monday’s was the second containing 44 tonnes of medical Oxygen sup- said that the decision was taken in the Maharashtra Government on deaths should be punished. It is instance where the bereaved fam- plied by Jamnagar Refinery of Reliance context of the central government's Monday ordered an inquiry into also a must that the hospital ily members have staged protests Industries Limited, traversed 860 km in little directives on controlling the virus' the circumstances leading to the authorities do not charge anything at hospitals in the Mumbai Caps on domestic over eleven hours and reached Kalamboli spread. death of four patients at the hos- for the treatment undergone by the Metropolitan Region (MMR) over Goods Shed at 11.25 am. It journeyed via A meeting of representatives of pital. deceased patients at the hospital”. the death of their relatives owing Viramgam, Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Vasai business and commercial organisa- Within hours after four State’s Urban Development to medical oxygen shortage capacity, airfares to Road and Bhiwandi Road, after “following all tions, police officials, and public rep- patients died at Vedanta Hospital Minister Eknath Shinde, who is there. the safety parameters en route”. resentatives, was organised at the located at Thane’s Vartak Nagar also the Guardian Minister for It may be recalled that amid The Government has provided a green cor- municipal corporation, to decide locality, the family members made Thane district, and Housing reports that as many as Covid-19 remain till May 30 ridor for the faster movement of the Oxygen ways and means to control the an issue and claimed that their Minister Jitendra Awhad patients had died at Vasai, a satel- Express. The medical oxygen is being made Covid pandemic's spread in near and dear ones died due to announced a high-level inquiry lite town of Mumbai, following PNS n NEW DELHI or until further orders". available for treatment of COVID-19 patients the city which is the gateway to lack of Oxygen. into the incident. shortage of medical oxygen, the When India had resumed across the country, through Oxygen Express Tirumala - the world's richest Hindu Before long, Opposition BJP Shinde said that the state gov- members of bereaved families had The limits imposed on airfares its domestic flight services on trains run by Ministry of Railways. temple. legislator Niranjan Dhavkare vis- ernment had appointed Bhiwandi on April 13 staged a massive and on number of domestic May 25 last year, it had told the The Railways have so far run Oxygen Tirupati city corporation com- ited the Vedanta hospital, made Nizampur Municipal Corporation protest at Vinayaka Hospital in flights that can be operated in airlines to operate not more Express trains between Mumbai to Vizag via missioner Girisha said that the onus enquiries and demanded a com- (BNMC) Commissioner Pankaj Nalasopara, where the maximum the Indian market will extend than 33 per cent of their pre- Nagpur to Nashik and Lucknow to Bokaro and of controlling the spread of corona, lies prehensive inquiry against the Ashiya to conduct an inquiry into deaths have been reported. So till May 31, said the Civil Covid domestic flights. This back. A total 150 tonnes of liquid Oxygen has with the people themselves. hospital authorities. Local MNS the cause of four patients’ death much so that the hospital author- Aviation Ministry on Monday. was gradually increased to up been transported in this train till April 25. The He said that along with contain- workers staged a protest outside and submit a report to the gov- ities requisitioned the help of the Currently, the airlines are to 80 per cent by December 3, authorities have planned the operation of ment measures, the administration is the hospital. ernment local police to calm down fried permitted to operate not more 2020. more such ‘Oxygen Express’ trains to various following up on completing the vac- Talking to media persons after "We are making all possible tempers of the affected relatives of than 80 per cent of their pre- On May 21 last year, the parts of the country. cination process. IANS the visit to the hospital, Dhavkare efforts to overcome the shortage of Covid-19 patients. Covid domestic flights. ministry had placed lower Moreover, they are allowed to and upper limits on airfares charge domestic airfares only through seven bands, classi- Emergency Covid within lower and upper lim- fied on the basis of flight No shortage of oxygen its, which were set by the min- duration. istry in May last year. For example, the first band centres come up In two separate orders on consists of all flights that are in Aligarh jail hospital Monday, the ministry said of under 40 minutes' duration. in Srinagar the caps on capacity as well as The lower limit on such flights PRADEEP SAXENA n ALIGARH years were also vaccinated. Srinagar: As Covid designated airfares will "remain in force is Rs 2,300 and the upper limit However, the situation is still hospitals start running out of till 2359 hrs on May 31, 2021, is Rs 7,500. t the time the entire coun- normal about Corona in jail. beds for indoor patients, Atry is struggling with the However, the prison adminis- Srinagar district administration corona crisis, the district jail is tration, taking precaution, has on Monday decided to providing complete facilities for made L1 hospitals for the establish an emergency Covid- Arms and ammunition the detainees. Separate L One detainees. Health services have 19 centre at city's indoor sta- (Level One) hospital have been been started here by repairing dium. set up here for women and male some of the damaged barracks District magistrate recovered in Kishtwar prisoners. There is a sufficient in the premises. At present, Srinagar, Aijaz Asad said a Jammu: A joint team of army and local police on Monday recov- amount of oxygen cylinders there are also 10 cylinders of Covid emergency centre has ered arms and ammunition from the hilly areas of Jammu and here. Two doctors from the oxygen. Work has also started been established at Srinagar's Kashmir's Kishtwar district. Health Department have also under the supervision of Dr. indoor sports stadium. A defence statement said, "A joint team of army and police been appointed here. At present, Shahrukh of the jail hospital. A Another officer at the DM's launched a search operation in Chhatru forest area in Kishtwar a female prisoner is undergoing doctor and a pharmacist have office said the centre would district yesterday. "The team recovered a cache of arms containing treatment here. been appointed by the Health treat patients with mild symp- two pistols, ammunition and other war-like stores. There are currently 3600 Department. A female prisoner toms and oxygen facility would "Chhatru forest is along the known movement route of ter- prisoner detainees in the District is undergoing treatment. be available at the centre. rorists between South Kashmir and Kishtwar. These caches have Prison. These include captives of Vipin Kumar Mishra, Senior "Like last year, COVID been created by the terrorists in these remote areas to be used Hathras. In such a situation, Jail Superintendent said that treatment centres have also for destabilising the security situation which is heading towards when the second wave of the health of the prisoners is been established at Sanat Nagar normalcy. Corona came, vigilance was being taken full care of. L-One marriage hall, Kashmir "Army and local police alongwith other security forces increased by the district prison. hospitals have been set up for the University's Zakura deployed in Kishtwar have successfully recovered IEDs, A corona check was arranged for detainees in the precautionary campus, NIT Srinagar and at Explosives, arms and ammunitionA in recent months to thwart the detainees. Also, more than prison complex, so that emer- the Haj House," the official the nefarious designs of terrorists and the their few 600 prisoners of age above 45 gency situations do not arise. A deserted view of Asia’s largest tulip garden after it was closed due to Covid-19 cases in Srinagar on Monday PTI added. IANS supporters". IANS VIJAYAWADA | TUESDAY | APRIL 27, 2021 06

www.dailypioneer.com facebook.com/dailypioneer | @TheDailyPioneer | instagram.com/dailypioneer/ PAPER WITH PASSION Waiting to exhale Those who leave The Centre and Delhi Government must work in tandem to ensure regular oxygen supply to people BHOPINDER SINGH cores of precious lives have been lost due to the horrific oxygen crisis in Delhi, no man behind under the very nose of the Central and State Governments, the Supreme Court, SHigh Court and civic authorities. Still, there is no clarity on what led to such a Sadly, the age-old creed of nemo resideo was violated when the dreadful situation. The Centre has repeatedly laid the blame on the door of the Arvind Kejriwal Government while the State administration has held supplier Inox respon- sible for the delay in distribution and asserted that the supply was “grossly inade- joint security team came under fire from Maoists in Chhattisgarh quate” to meet the demand of the hospitals. The truth lies somewhere in between. he professional construct Kejriwal admits that the Centre has increased Delhi’s oxygen quota again from 480 of a military soldier is metric tonnes (MT) to 490 MT but accessing it remains a big issue. Delhi’s require- deliberately drilled and ment is 700 MT but, according to him, only 330- freighted with sacred ethos,T timeless values and spirit- 335 MT is available. With the exponential rise in ed regimentation that almost COVID-19 cases, the demand has also increased. defy the modern-age perspectives The demand-supply gap has led to the current of practicality, individualism and situation. However, it’s not the time for a blame personal safety. The nobility of the profession of arms is predi- game but to work together to save lives and win cated, among other values, on the the trust of the people who are fast losing faith age-old Latin phrase “nemo in the institutions of governance. If the situation resideo” or “leave no man/women is allowed to persist, we would be headed towards behind”. In different expressions, languages and syntax, its inher- an unprecedented chaos and may face an erup- ent spirit manifests in the fight- tion of mass protests that could worsen the ing soldier’s inviolable belief in his Corona spread in the Capital. It’s time for the comrades-in-arms within his Centre to appoint an independent authority/reg- platoon or paltan (unit). Such faith within the combatants rous- ulator to take a holistic view of the situation, analyse the demand-supply gap, sug- es them to routinely defy the sit- gest corrective measures to remove distribution bottlenecks and ensure that no uational/ operational odds and hospital is left without oxygen. do the seemingly impossible, Any delay could be fatal because oxygen supplier Inox has already thrown in the frequently. It is often an institu- tional code that is insisted upon, towel and expressed its inability to enhance the supply, citing production constraints. nurtured and breathed as a given, Forces in countless acts of details are disturbingly sugges- pose that accrues to a South Faced with such a situation, the Centre and the State have to come together and reach falling short of which brings the similar valour and sacrifice, tive. Beyond rightful concerns Indian officer in a Sikh out to industrial houses to help Delhiites. The Chief Minister has already written to ultimate shame on the combat- most recently in Galwan where on Intelligence, planning, tac- Regiment is inexplicably natur- industrialists to provide a helping hand in handling the oxygen crisis. It is equally ant — a question mark on the the Commanding Officer went tics and so on, the fact that al in an Infantry Regiment, individual or paltan’s izzat (the down fighting in hand-to- during the ambush, a sizeable which then seamlessly sub- important that the State authorities set up a control room for both hospitals and patients uncompromising pride vested hand combat along with his number of the personnel sumes one’s personal identity to help them inquire about oxygen supply and the availability of oxygen beds. In the in the “Naam-Namak-Nishan” troops. This unique Indian escaped to camps and left towards that of the regimental absence of such a setup, the hospitals and patients both rush to social media and (the distinguishing name, hall- quality of “leading from the behind the wounded, dead and identity, values and traditions. TV channels to vent their grievances, leading to more panic. Both the Governments marks and accoutrements of front” is unmatched for any caught-alive to fend for them- For those intangible emotions should also take urgent steps to ensure that all hospitals are equipped with oxygen the battalion/regiment)! fighting force in modern his- selves is shockingly telling of of the paltan/regimental pride The legendary story of WW1, tory, and the Indian soldier THAT A SIZEABLE a reality. Apparently, the bod- and dignity, the Indian Army plants, which require little investment and most of the big hospitals can comfortably where a soldier in a trench saw his knows that everyone in the unit ies of the fallen soldiers, who soldier repeatedly fights to “the meet this expenditure. In very few developed countries can such big health setups “buddy” fall in fierce battle and has “got his back” and they will NUMBER OF THE were subsequently stripped of last man standing”. Troves of exist without oxygen plants, which are seen as a basic requirement. It’s heartening urged his Lieutenant to allow him “never leave anyone behind”. JOINT FORCE their weapons and wares by policing reform reports are to note that the Delhi Government has decided to set up half a dozen of its own oxy- to dash into the no-man’s land to Unlike the commercial/civilian the insurgents, were reclaimed gathering dust as the institution bring back his comrade, was domain, the conscript Indian ESCAPED AND the next day. Important to reit- suffers from the lack of politi- gen plants to deal with the situation. We hope that the Centre and the Delhi Government met with a what could be con- Armed Forces have magnifi- erate that the recruitment area cal will to reform, as it poten- understand the urgency of the situation and the growing frustration of the people, strued a fair query today: “You cently upheld the self-devised LEFT BEHIND and demographic profile of the tially “frees” the force from and join hands to ensure that no one gasps to death for want of oxygen. could, but don’t think it would be concept of “unlimited liability” ITS WOUNDED, soldiers, be it in the Armed political use/misuse. It is this worth it. Your friend is probably towards the nation and Forces or the policing realms, cultural risk and infection that dead, and you may throw your amongst itself. Even in death, DEAD AND are common — the difference stares at even the Armed Forces PICTALK life away.” But because a noble sol- the spirit of “leaving no man CAUGHT-ALIVE in cultural and instinctive pat- should they too get politicised dier is cut from a unique cloth, behind” is just as hallowed. terns arises subsequent to join- and exposed to societal morass, the combatant made the dare Unbeknownst outside of the TO FEND FOR ing the respective forces, and passions and divisions. amid relentless firing, hoisted his “uniformed” fraternity, it is that has to do with the leader- The “uniform”, irrespec- “buddy” and retrieved him to the suchlike traditions that make THEMSELVES IS ship, lack of regimentation tive of its denomination, mil- trench. Expectedly, the Lieutenant the Indian Armed Forces dis- SHOCKINGLY and political interferences, in itary or police, must always said: “Your friend is dead and you tinct from other “uniforms”, be one force versus the other. The believe that their institution are mortally wounded.” The gal- it in the police or Central TELLING OF same family that sends one son will never leave anyone lant soldier replied: “It was worth Armed Police Forces that also A REALITY. to the Infantry unit may send behind, fighting or dead. It’s it because when I got to him, he face operational situations war- another to a police force; how- almost a blood promise, belief was still alive…and I had the sat- ranting such beliefs. APPARENTLY, THE ever, owing to institutional and practice that must never isfaction of hearing him say, While the exact details BODIES OF THE moorings and leadership, the end, for as long as conflicts ‘Jim…I knew you’d come’.” The pertaining to the horrific conduct of one “uniform” ver- exist, the unsaid oath to each moving impact of this story Maoist attack in Chhattisgarh FALLEN SOLDIERS sus the other could differ in other must be sacred. within that detachment, unit or on the joint force of 2,000 secu- combat operations — and the (The writer, a military vet- even the Army is unfathomable rity personnel, which led to 22 WERE RECLAIMED blame should never be appor- eran, is a former Lt Governor in its psychological import. jawans getting martyred, are THE NEXT DAY tioned on the jawan. of Andaman & Nicobar Islands The same spirit has been still a matter of conjecture and The sense of invaluable and Puducherry. The views shown by the Indian Armed speculation, certain known identity, “belonging” and pur- expressed are personal.) LETTERS TO THE EDITOR SOUNDBITE A policeman helps an autorickshaw driver wear a mask after new restrictions were announced in Peshawar AP ADHERE TO COVID-APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR The Government is getting oxygen as per It is with fear, anxiety and apprehension Change the freebie culture quota. Strict that the citizens and the authorities look directions have been Race against time forward to May 2, the day of the five Governments, and thus these politicos enjoy issued to check black Assembly election results. What causes a free hand in making promises. Despite sev- marketing. India ought to muster all the help it can, from anxiety and an irregular pulse is not the eral promises and programmes to alleviate Haryana Chief Minister results themselves but the revelry, hulla- poverty in the last 75 years, nothing has — Manohar Lal Khattar within and abroad, to tame the pernicious virus baloo and victory celebrations that normal- changed on the ground and still the majority ly mark such occasions. Especially in the of our population reels under extreme pover- We commend all he pandemic’s second wave has created havoc in the country and the gravity of States of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West ty. Funds are earmarked for poverty eradica- countries that have the situation can be gauged from the Supreme Court’s assertion that it is a “nation- Bengal, where high-voltage campaigning tion in the annual Budget but these don’t reach reached the target al emergency-like situation”. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the took place, there is no doubt that the polit- the poor. For many roadside dwellers, getting of zero malaria for T ical supporters and workers may do the t refers to the editorial ‘Free speech’ (April a nutritious meal a day is like hitting the jack- proving it’s possible. country during his monthly radio programme “Mann Ki Baat”, called it a “storm” that same once the results are out and COVID- 26). The political parties promise the moon pot. A promise made at the time of elections has “shaken the nation”. With the COVID-19 cases hit- appropriate behaviour would be thrown Ito voters during elections but seldom hon- should be honoured in letter and spirit by the United Nations Secretary-General ting new peaks each passing day, the country is faced out of the window. It is a known fact that our these undertakings. The promise of the free parties and their candidates. Only then the peo- — Antonio Guterres with an acute shortage of medical oxygen, hospital the current heavy spike in COVID cases jab is nothing different. The BJP’s “free vacci- ple will have faith in democracy. Of late, peo- in many of these States is a result of the irre- nation” promise in Bihar was a mere rhetoric ple are losing faith in the democratic set-up due I am responsible for beds and essential medicines. With the Centre sponsible, callous and come-what-may atti- and the State still has fewer vaccinations as to the lack of inclusion in the matters of gov- my safety and of those scheduled to throw open vaccination to all adults from tude of the party leaders and workers who compared to other big States. Our politicians ernance. The Governments and the parties must around me. Stop May 1, the Government hopes to rein in the raging pan- flouted the COVID protocols and com- act in such a manner which reflects they have be inclusive in their functioning and widely dis- finding a scapegoat demic but four Opposition-ruled States — Rajasthan, pletely ignored the precautionary norms no sense of accountability. During elections, tall cuss with people their programmes, policies for every problem and promises are made to woo voters but the poor and initiatives. Further, politicians should be start helping others. If Chhattisgarh, Punjab and Jharkhand — claim that they during the campaign. The leaders must act responsibly and should try to reduce people are left at their wit’s end after the elec- made accountable and giving freebies to vot- you have taken care of your would not be able to launch the drive on May Day crowds in their celebrations and victory ral- tions are over. There are no restrictions or effec- ers at the State’s expense should be done away problems, try and solve others’ because they don’t have enough vaccines. This unfor- lies. Let the parties and leaders realise that tive control over political parties and their lead- with as it amounts to bribing the voters. problems. Actor tunate development against the planned mitigation of the duty of a politician is not just to amass ers by the Election Commission (EC) or the Sravana Ramachandran | Chennai votes and grab power with vested interests — Vindu Dara Singh the spread of the virus has put a spoke in the wheels Europe, with the total number of recipient doing it for more than a decade. Ravindra in mind. It is also their duty to check and We could have played of the Union Government’s protracted battle against control their followers and workers, cur- countries touching 150. India supplied 6.5 Jadeja’s excellence in the match against Royal crore vaccine doses to 93 countries in Asia, Challengers Bangalore is an epitome of this. most parts of our game COVID-19. Not only the availability of the vaccines but tail heavy celebrations and strictly adhere just a little better. If you also their pricing has become a bone of contention for the States. to the COVID-appropriate behaviour dur- Latin America and African countries, apart After a thundering performance with the from the UK. Medical support to India from bat, the left-arm allrounder gave a jolt to the are able to do that, The vaccines, Covishield and Covaxin, would be provided to the States and private ing these trying times. whether it is a couple M Pradyu | Kannur countries like the US, France, the UAE, opposition with the ball, too. Dhoni was all more good decisions hospitals at a much higher rate than what the Centre pays to procure these. Meanwhile, Denmark, Israel and some EU nations has praise for the player, who became the first or a slightly more accurate period of the Centre is tapping all the international cooperation it can to ameliorate the critical sit- HELPING HAND TO INDIA started to come as New Delhi stood firm CSK player and 10th player overall to score play, the result can change quickly. uation. Maybe it’s time for India to reap the dividends of its unconditional help to other The diplomatic consultations and a huge with the democratic world in supply of 50 plus runs and take three or more wick- much needed drugs and vaccines. President ets in an innings in the IPL. But it was Dhoni countries — supplying them with vaccines, medicines and other essentials — when backlash against America for its tepid Cricketer response towards the dire pandemic crisis Joe Biden’s tweet that the US will stand by who seemed guiding him from behind the — Kane Williamson they were in a morass of despair. The US National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, con- in India and its hesitancy to revoke the India as the latter stood with Washington stumps after each ball (“Isko danda ke baa- veyed to his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval that just as India had aided the US when its Defence Production Act acted as a stum- during the first wave of COVID-19 infec- har mat rakhna” for Glenn Maxwell (as he In addition to the hospitals were crippled by the pandemic, Washington is determined to help New Delhi bling block to export the raw materials tion is an affirmation that India’s “vaccine plays switch hits very often). After having measures, Goa maitri” initiative paid off with the US med- a pathetic season last year in the UAE, the in its time of need. The US, UK and the European Union have pledged to help India with required for India’s vaccine production, has definitely needs to go brought a change of heart in Washington. ical supplies already on their way. Chennai Super Kings seems to have been under lockdown on vaccines, oxygen tankers and concentrators, PPE kits, ventilators and so on. According US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin N Sadhasiva Reddy | Bengaluru back in form with four consecutive wins. It the lines of the other to the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, India will soon receive at least 12 ISO con- ordered the defence department to use every is imperative for the three-time IPL cham- States like tainers to help transport oxygen within the country. In the race against time, we need resource at their disposal to support India’s TIME TO REGAIN THE LOST GLORY pions to regain their lost glory. Maharashtra and Karnataka for a Chennai Super Kings’ talismanic cap- Tushar Anand | Patna particular period. not just global cooperation but also teamwork among the States and the Centre to defeat fight against the COVID-19 scourge. Since the pandemic started last year, India sup- tain MS Dhoni knows how to get the best Send your feedback to: Goa’s Health Minister the biggest enemy of humankind in living memory. plied hydroxychloroquine to the US and out of his players. And why not, he has been [email protected] — Vishwajit Rane VIJAYAWADA | TUESDAY | APRIL 27, 2021 07 www.dailypioneer.com facebook.com/dailypioneer | @TheDailyPioneer | instagram.com/dailypioneer/ FIRSTCOLUMN A flawed idea that the EVERYONE MUST PULL TOGETHER US must abandon UTTAM GUPTA The Centre, States and citizens can contain the virus only if they are on the same page and cooperate Imposing a global corporate minimum tax will interfere with the right of a country to determine its tax policy and impair its ability to galvanise the policy to achieve certain objectives

he Joe Biden Administration is pushing for a Global Corporate Minimum Tax T(GCMT) rate under the new internation- KALYANI SHANKAR al tax rules being coordinated by it with G20 he World Health Organisation recently said that India’s situation countries. In 2017, the erstwhile Donald Trump is a devastating reminder of what the Coronavirus can do, as the Administration had introduced the US corpo- rate offshore minimum tax called the Global country suffers from a severe and more lethal second wave of T Intangible Low-Taxed Income (GILTI). It is the pandemic. India has overtaken the US with the highest number of applied on the offshore incomes of US multina- infections. No doubt, the country is facing an unprecedented health emer- tionals (MNCs) having subsidiaries in low-tax gency and the Centre and the State Governments are on their toes. When countries, at 10.5 per cent, which is half the the first wave of COVID-19 hit the world last year, India was not ade- Domestic Corporate Tax Rate (DCTR) of 21 per quately equipped — there was a shortage of beds in hospitals and med- cent. US President Biden wants to double ical equipment — to deal with the crisis. There were also no vaccines. GILTI to 21 per cent and correspondingly increase the DCTR to 28 per cent. The US’ move However, despite all these, India managed to fight the first wave suc- is prompted by a tendency among MNCs to reg- cessfully but the second wave is more serious. We were not prepared ister in low-tax countries such as Singapore, to deal with it though this time we have more beds, medicines, infra- Mauritius, Ireland and show their revenue and structure and vaccines to aid us in our fight. Even during the second profits in those jurisdictions, regardless of wave, rural India is faring better with a lesser numbers of infections. where the sales are made. This enables them to Though the vaccination drive launched by the Government is going on, avoid paying higher taxes in the source coun- however, there exists a gap in the demand and supply of the vaccine try. The GCMT is intended to prevent this tax base erosion. owing to several reasons. Further, the Government has opened up vac- The US would want other countries to agree cination for all those above 18 years of age starting from May 1, which to a certain minimum tax, say 21 per cent, so that American companies have no incentive to A CONSENSUS register their subsidiaries in low-tax countries SHOULD BE BUILT irrespective of any physical pres- tax being 21 per cent (15 per cent majority of developing countries, or so-called tax havens. This will ensure that they AROUND A ence in that market, and that a for- paid in India plus six per cent including India, and a consensus stay back and the tax revenue accrues to the US. CRITERIA FOR mula should be evolved for such levied by America), US companies already reached among the 140 Alternatively, if a firm pays lower tax than this ARRIVING AT taxation.” will be deterred from investing in countries involved in the negoti- in a particular country, then its home THE ANNUAL Instead of taking this forward, India. ations on the BEPS framework Government (the US) could levy tax equal to the REVENUE/PROFIT the US is trying to foist on other Second, for preventing an ero- agreement of the OECD. differential (call it a “top up”), thereby eliminat- countries the idea of a GCMT sion in the tax base, the only log- The US should refrain from ing the former’s advantage of shifting revenue FROM ALL SUCH which it asserts, will solve all ical way forward for the pursuing something that is neither and profits to a low-tax jurisdiction. The TRANSACTIONS OF problems related to erosion of the Government in the source coun- desirable nor workable. Telling administration will deny exemptions in respect AN OFFSHORE FIRM tax base, arguing that addressing try where the profits are generat- sovereign Governments to go for of taxes paid, to countries that don’t agree to a TAKING PLACE IN it is technically simpler and polit- ed, is to capture and tax them — a uniform tax at the lower end is might result in more vaccine shortage. However, all efforts are being THE SOURCE made to increase the supply of jabs. minimum rate. The problem arising from ically less contentious. The US as emphasised in the OECD draft. a flawed idea. Instead, the focus MNCs shifting revenue and profits to low-tax COUNTRY BUT approach is flawed. The GCMT can’t be a substitute for should be on adopting a uniform So, what went wrong? Complacency on our part is responsible jurisdictions, also referred to as BEPS (base ero- RECORDED IN AN First, imposing a corporate this. Taking the Indian example, policy for combating the unhealthy for the second wave playing havoc. The authorities were so confident sion and profit shifting), is afflicting most coun- OFFSHORE, LOW- minimum tax will interfere with levy of tax at 21 per cent — practice of shifting profits and that the pandemic was gone, that Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan tries, including India. TAX JURISDICTION the sovereign right of a country to against the prevailing low of 15 per evading tax payment in a jurisdic- even announced that the COVID era was over, in March. Second, the India is affected in particular, by the actions AND LETTING THE determine its tax policy and impair cent (new manufacturing units) — tion (source country) where it is Election Commission (EC) conducted Assembly elections to four States of digital giants such as Google, Facebook and FORMER COLLECT its ability to galvanise the policy to won’t result in additional tax col- due. The OECD draft (2019) sug- and a Union Territory — namely West Bengal, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Amazon (all US-based MNCs) who have invest- THE TAX ON IT. THE achieve certain objectives. For lection to fully offset the loss gests the way forward. Nadu, and Puducherry — amid the pandemic. Many experts opined ment arms in low-tax countries such as SOURCE COUNTRY instance, on September 20, 2019, resulting from profit shifting. For In the context of taxing digi- Singapore, Mauritius, Ireland and so on. They SHOULD HAVE THE the GOI brought about steep instance, if out of `100 only `20 is tal companies, a committee set up that the election rallies were the super spreaders. Probably the EC was invoice Indian customers via these offshore enti- FREEDOM TO reduction in the tax rate for new recorded in India, the extra rev- by the Central Board of Direct encouraged after seeing the successful conduct of Bihar polls last year, ties despite having significant revenue, users or DECIDE THE TAX entities in the manufacturing sec- enue from the higher rate will be Taxes (CBDT) had mooted the however, that was during the period when the cases were reducing sig- paying customers in India even as their entity RATE ON THOSE tor (incorporated from October 1, only `1.2 against a loss of `12 due concept of digital permanent nificantly. The EC could have at least banned the election rallies. The here is crafted more like a service company to PROFITS IN SYNC 2019, and commencing produc- to profit shifting. establishment (DPE). As a follow political parties could have restrained themselves from addressing huge the parent located abroad. This way, they book WITH ITS POLICY tion by March 31, 2023) from 25 Third, America’s move is an up, in the Finance Act 2018, the gatherings where people participated without masks and social distanc- the bulk of their revenues in the parent firm IMPERATIVES per cent to 15 per cent. attempt to garner more revenue GOI proposed that “such offshore ing was thrown out of the window. Alas, by the time the EC banned while a very small portion of service revenue is This was done with a view to without at the same time, under- firms should be taxed in India if reported in the Indian entity. attract investment (including for- mining its own tax competitiveness they have a market presence above the rallies, the damage had already been inflicted. The Madras High Court It results in a situation whereby these firms eign investors), give a boost to globally. In other words, the Biden a threshold to be defined in terms has said that the EC is singularly responsible for spreading COVID-19 generate most of their profits from users locat- growth and create jobs. This objec- Administration wants US compa- of their customer base and rev- and murder charges should probably be imposed on it for its “irrespon- ed in India and yet don’t pay taxes to the tive will be defeated if under the nies to stay back even while tax- enue.” sible” behaviour. The third mistake was that the authorities allowed mil- Government of India (GOI). This anomaly can GCMT regime proposed by the ing them at high rates. This is like A consensus should be built lions of devotees to bathe in the Ganga in Haridwar during the Maha be corrected by taxing profits of MNCs in the US, India can’t lower its corporate the proverbial “have your cake and around a criteria for arriving at the Kumbh Mela this month. The event was a super-spreader. Though wiser country where their customers are. This posi- tax to below a certain threshold, eat it too.” annual revenue/profit from all tion is endorsed by the Organisation for Despite the inherent flaws, such transactions of an offshore counsel prevailed on the Government which cut short the event, but say 21 per cent. Economic Cooperation and Development The purpose would be defeat- the US is overwhelmingly focused firm taking place in the source by the time, it was already too late. (OECD) which is coordinating with over 140 ed even when the home country of on steering a case for GCMT at 21 country but recorded in an off- The fourth is the politicisation of COVID. The Centre has blamed countries to arrive at the BEPS framework agree- the MNC (say the US) goes for the per cent — double the extant 10.5 shore, low-tax jurisdiction and States for not being alert while the latter claimed that the former didn’t ment for taxation of their profits. The writer is a “top-up” option i.e. the Indian tax per cent GILTI under its 2017 law letting the former collect the tax on heed their requests for more oxygen and vaccine doses. No matter, In a draft on “taxing digital companies” New Delhi-based policy rate remaining at 15 per cent, the while at the same time, maintain- it. The source country should released on October 9, 2019, the OECD had stat- analyst. The views former collects six per cent tax on ing a stony silence on the more have the freedom to decide the tax who is at fault, the crisis only worsened. Last year, the States and the expressed Centre had worked in tandem. The Prime Minister took the Chief Ministers ed: “Profits of MNCs should be available for tax- are personal. profits earned by the firm in important issue of “taxing digital rate on those profits in sync with ation in the country where their customers are, India. The effective incidence of companies” that concerns a vast its policy imperatives. on board and shared the burden. Finally, the public should get their share of the blame as people ignored the COVID regulations this year. Swayed by rumours, many people were also apprehensive of taking the jab when POINTCOUNTERPOINT the Government launched the vaccination drive in March. Now, when there is a huge demand, the supply is not adequate. The country is fac- ing an unprecedented health emergency, the likes of which has never I DON’T WANT THIS CASE TO BE DECIDED IN THE THERE IS NOTHING CLANDESTINE ABOUT IT. been witnessed. The Centre, States and the citizens must be on the SHADOW (OF DOUBT) THAT I WAS APPOINTED THE YOU DON’T HAVE TO JUSTIFY ANYTHING. same page and can contain the pandemic only if they all cooperate. AMICUS CURIAE BECAUSE I KNOW THE CJI FROM SCHOOL. IT WAS A COLLECTIVE ACT OF THE COURT. What is required is micro-containment and the responsibility lies with all stakeholders. The sooner they realise it, the better. —SENIOR ADVOCATE —FORMER CJI (The writer is a senior journalist. The views expressed HARISH SALVE SA BOBDE are personal.) Shame the biggest carbon emitters, don’t glorify them The short-term climate goals of the US must be monitored and the country should be made accountable for its huge emissions he US-centric climate world move around its major cies. He also promised to dou- better if the US sets an exam- a new cut in emissions by 46 per energy benefits of the boom diplomacy reminds one polluter is not a favourable ble the funding that was to be ple for other States to follow. cent, below the 2013 levels by that’s coming.” However, the Tof the world order, after solution. The recently-elected given to developing countries The setting of targets is a pos- the end of the decade. Israel credibility of the US is at stake, the collapse of the USSR, fol- Democrats have sanctioned a by 2024, in comparison to what itive first step, but making ade- upped its target by ending the given that its domestic politics lowing which America dictat- huge amount to reduce domes- the US had spent in the second quate policy changes and rolling use of coal domestically by makes major changes in inter- ed the terms of international tic emission. Though one half of the Obama out money are practical indica- 2025. A welcome step was national climate roles. Kerry politics. However, the current believes that the Republicans Administration. NATO offi- tors of change. taken by Brazil, as it pledged to was asked by many States, “You situation of a unipolar world is MUNDRA didn’t do much for world cli- cials committed to reducing On the second day of the eliminate illegal deforestation by destroyed your credibility when contested with the rise of Asian AANEHI mate, there are doubts about emissions from military units summit, the White House men- 2030 and achieve carbon-neu- you left the Paris Agreement, superpowers. what the Democrats did when and the CIA has also added tioned that it lags behind China tral status by 2050 (a decade how can we trust you?” The US The climate scientists were they were in power, and was it environment to its World in developing clean technolo- earlier than the previous target). President responded to it by horrified when former US sufficient? The global climate Factbook. gies. The US formally pledged The moves by States like putting the future in the hands President Donald Trump goals were relaxed, and many A more aggressive plan to cut its emissions by 50 per Brazil were viewed sceptically of the private sector, as it will announced withdrawal from scientists say that the Paris was expected to be rolled out. cent-52 per cent by 2030. It also as earlier its President Jair turn clean energy policies into the Paris Agreement. Now, Agreement was a loosely-bind- Environmental groups and announced its determination to Bolsonaro had threatened to reality. with the change in leadership, ing document. businesses urged Biden to set an Ocasio-Cortez have proposed reach a net-zero level by 2050. withdraw from the Paris The need of the hour is to the US has taken over global cli- Before the recently-con- emission reduction target of at the ‘Green New Deal’, which It is a new Nationally Agreement. He had also asked make the ones most responsi- mate politics again. The major cluded Leaders Summit on least 50 per cent by 2030. Many would eliminate carbon emis- Determined Contribution the Biden administration for $1 ble for the global loss the cen- reason is not just the power that Climate, John Kerry, US special scientists have accepted that it sions from most sources over a under the Paris Agreement. billion for the conservation of tre of shame rather than the the US commands, but also presidential envoy for climate is scientifically feasible, that decade. There were high expec- China reiterated that it the Amazon rainforest. centre of power. Fulfilling long- because it is the second-largest visited many countries to gain the US should cut emissions at tations from the US and unless would be carbon-neutral by Obviously, the shift towards a terms obligations is very impor- emitter globally. The cancella- their support. In world politics least up to 65 per cent below the highly-ambitious short-term 2060 and India reiterated its clean energy economy was tant, but it is comparatively eas- tion of the UNFCCC climate as big States make strong com- 2005 levels in this decade. pledges aren’t achieved, it is dif- promise to install 450 gigawatts propagated to attract other ier as the global and domestic summit in 2020 due to the pan- mitments, others often follow to Especially, as other developed ficult to believe that the long- of renewable energy capacity by countries to pledge more. politics will change by then. The demic delayed many climate The writer is a PhD prove themselves. US President nations like the UK have term obligations will bear 2030 and also announced the Biden said, “The countries short-term goals of the US goals. So the US bid to bring cli- Researcher, JNU. The Joe Biden made numerous pledged to reduce emissions by results. The commitments from ‘India-US Climate and Clean that take decisive actions now must be monitored and it views expressed mate front and centre was a are personal. commitments and put climate 68 per cent by 2030. Democrats the US will push other Energy Agenda 2030 to tackle climate change will be should be made accountable for welcome step. But, making the change at the centre of its poli- like congresswoman Alexandria economies to follow suit. It is Partnership’. Japan also pledged the ones that reap the clean its huge emissions. VIJAYAWADA | TUESDAY | APRIL 27, 2021 Money 08 A month of national lockdown can eat up 1-2% of GDP PNS n MUMBAI

A month-long national lock- ‘Fresh wave of down to arrest the spread of Oxford Economics lowers India’s Covid 2.0 could shave off 100- Covid may pull 200 bps of GDP, leading to a 300 bps risk to annual growth, down growth 2021 GDP growth forecast to 10.2 pc a brokerage report has flagged below double digit’ while expressing doubts over New Delhi: Global forecasting the ability of local lockdowns to New Delhi: Former Finance firm Oxford Economics on control the pandemic. Secretary SC Garg on Monday revised downwards The second wave of the Monday said the fresh Covid- its India GDP growth forecast coronavirus inflection has 19 wave and consequent local for 2021 to 10.2 per cent caught the government off- lockdowns may bring down from 11.8 per cent previous- guard with the daily cases the economic growth to less ly, citing the country’s escalat- jumping over 6.5 times in the than 10 per cent in the current ing health burden, faltering past 30 days. fiscal. vaccination rate and lack of a With close to 3.53 lakh fresh Earlier this month, convincing government strat- daily infections, the country is International Monetary Fund egy to contain the pandemic. the worst hit globally. Death toll (IMF) projected an impressive Oxford Economics also jumped to 1,95,123 as of 8 am 12.5 per cent growth rate for said that notwithstanding the Monday, with a daily new peak the country in 2021. The likelihood of further mobili- of 2,812 deaths in the past 24 Economic Survey projected a ty restrictions, it expects tain the pandemic have lockdowns like Maharashtra, hrs, according to the govern- India economists Indranil Sen Bank to come to aid by fund- They expect the RBI to growth rate of 11 per cent, India’s targeted lockdown prompted us to downgrade we will likely lower our ment data. Gupta and Aastha Gudwani ing government’s remain on hold in FY22 and while RBI retained its growth approach, less stringent our 2021 GDP growth fore- growth forecast further,” it “It remains to be seen if the said in an note Monday welfare measures like hike rates by 100 bps in FY23. forecast at 10.5 per cent for restrictions, and resilient con- cast to 10.2 per cent from 11.8 added. second wave subsides without evening. resumption of free food grains “To slow rise in yields, we the ongoing financial year. sumer and business behaviour per cent previously,” it said. Oxford Economics said a national level lockdown. A Given this high economic to the needy expect the RBI to conduct to mitigate the economic The global forecasting firm India’s health system has col- month of nationwide lock- cost, they expect the Centre in May-June, for which it USD 68.7 billion of OMOs/G- said. impact of the second wave. added it expects GDP to con- lapsed in the worst-hit states, down costs 100-200 bps of and the states to try to contain needs an additional Rs 26,000 Saps and hike and extend On the vaccination front, “India’s escalating health tract sequentially in the sec- with even the national capital GDP. This poses a 300 bps risk the spread with further tight- crore or 0.1 per cent of GDP, banks’ HTM limits by 2 per they said while 8.7 per cent of burden, faltering vaccination ond quarter. “But if struggling Delhi facing acute shortage of to our 9 per cent real GVA ening of night curfews and through OMOs/G-Saps and cent of their books to FY26, the total population has rate, and lack of a convincing health systems force more oxygen and COVID-19 hos- growth forecast for FY22,” localized lockdowns. other liquidity infusing mea- and continue forward forex received the first dose, only 1.6 government strategy to con- states to resort to stricter pital beds. Bank of America Securities They also expect the Reserve sures to arrest the rise in yields. intervention,” the brokerage per cent have got both doses. Covid: Steel plants cut liquid Govt to frame policy on project RBI imposes ceiling of 70 oxygen storage to boost supply PTI n NEW DELHI ical oxygen) in their storage tanks. Through continuous financing in coal mining: Official yrs for MD, CEO of banks Steel plants have reduced their engagement with the steel pro- PTI n MUMBAI more than 15 years. The maximum age limit for oxygen stock to just half a day ducers, the stock has been PNS n KOLKATA ernment said that it will come Meanwhile, the government “Thereafter, the individual chairman and non-executive from 3.5 days earlier to fulfil the reduced to 0.5 days because of out with a policy on project indicated to the prospective The Reserve Bank of India will be eligible for re-appoint- directors has been fixed at 75 shortage of the life-saving gas which LMO supply has signif- A government policy on pro- financing in coal mining," the bidders during the pre-bid (RBI) on Monday fixed the ment as MD & CEO or WTD years. being used in the treatment of icantly increased,” the Ministry ject financing in coal mining official told PTI. meeting that the Ministry of tenure of MD, CEO and whole- in the same bank, if considered The total tenure of an NED, Covid-19 patients, an official of Steel said in the statement. is on the anvil to support A policy on this issue is Coal will decide on the auction time director (WTD) in a pri- necessary and desirable by continuously or otherwise, on statement said on Monday. The steel plants supplied development of private com- being discussed in the govern- according to the coronavirus vate sector bank at 15 years and the board, after a minimum the board of a bank, shall not Steel plants usually keep a min- 3,131.84 tonnes LMO on mercial mining in the country ment as financing coal mining situation, the official said. prescribed the maximum age of gap of three years, subject to exceed eight years. After com- imum stock of over three days Sunday to various health facil- amid increasing opposition projects is gradually becoming The government in March 70 years for such functionaries. meeting other conditions,” the pleting eight years on the board, of liquid oxygen from which in ities across the states for treat- to back such projects over a challenge in wake of growing offered 67 coal mines for sale, These directives form part of RBI said. the person may be considered an emergency situation gaseous ment of COVID-19 patients, the environmental concerns glob- opposition globally. launching the second tranche the instructions issued by the It added that during this for re-appointment only after a oxygen is extracted and sent for ministry added. At 3,131.84 ally, an official said on Protestors claim that such of commercial coal mining RBI with regard to the chair and three-year cooling period, the minimum gap of three years. steel making process. tonnes, the supply was over 8 Monday. dirty projects cause damage to auction and termed it a step meetings of the board, compo- individual shall not be This directive will not preclude “The plants are normally per cent higher from 2,894 The government also indi- the environment. towards 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. sition of certain committees of appointed or associated with him/her from being appointed required to keep 3.5 days of safe- tonnes dispatched by steel plants cated that, in all possibility, the A nationalised bank has This is the highest number the board, age, tenure and the bank or its group entities as a director in another bank ty stock of LMO (liquid med- on Saturday, the statement said. second tranche of commercial reportedly been unable to of mines on offer in a partic- remuneration of directors, and in any capacity, either direct- subject to meeting the require- coal mining auction will not make a final decision on ular tranche after commence- appointment of the WTDs on ly or indirectly. With regard to ments. be postponed due to the financing a major coal mining ment of the auction regime in Monday. upper age limit for MD & The RBI directives also COVID-19 pandemic, but the project in Australia due to 2014. The RBI said it would come CEO and WTDs in the private stipulate that the fixed remu- Ministry of Coal will monitor such opposition. The blocks on offer are a out with a Master Direction on sector banks, the RBI said that neration for an NED, other the situation and make a deci- Owing to mounting pres- mix of mines with small and Corporate Governance in banks no person can continue on than the chair of the board, sion accordingly, the official sure, global mining majors large reserves, coking and non- in due course. such positions beyond the age shall not exceed Rs 20 lakh per said after a virtual meeting the have not shown any interest in coking mines and fully and “Subject to the statutory of 70 years. The banks’ boards, annum.The board will be authorities had with prospec- the commercial coal block partially explored blocks approvals required from time to however, will be free to pre- required to constitute an nom- tive bidders. auctions by India. Mining of spread across six states - time, the post of the MD & scribe a lower retirement age ination and remuneration "At the virtual pre-bid meet- the dry fuel has been a monop- Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, CEO or WTD cannot be held for the WTDs, including the committee (NRC) made up of ing for the second tranche of oly to state-owned Coal India Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, by the same incumbent for MD & CEO. only NEDs. coal mining auction, the gov- Limited. Maharashtra. FPIs sold Sensex surges 508 pts as banks, States need to come on board for success healthcare and IT stocks RIL zoom; Nifty tops 14,450 of PLIs: Manufacturers’ Association of IT PNS n NEW DELHI in March PNS n MUMBAI PNS n MUMBAI Besides incentives, manufactur- Market benchmarks made a Rupee recovers World shares mixed ers also need infrastructure on oreign portfolio winning start to the week on as pandemic worries ground for the successful imple- Finvestors (FPI) sold Monday as investors snapped by 28 paise on mentation of the PLI scheme for stocks in the healthcare and up banking, consumption and cloud outlook which states need to come on IT sectors in March, showed energy stocks despite a grim sit- weak dollar; ends board, a senior official of indus- a report by Kotak uation on the Covid-19 front. Bangkok: World shares try body MAIT said. Institutional Equities. A rebounding rupee, which were mixed on Monday as The Manufacturers' Stocks worth $223 mil- climbed 28 paise against the US 4-dday losing run worries over the pandem- Association of Information lion were sold last month by dollar, added to the momentum, Mumbai:The rupee ic clouded the outlook for Technology (MAIT), whose the foreign investors in the traders said. strengthened by 28 paise to a recovery from the coro- members include Apple, Dell, healthcare segment, while The 30-share BSE Sensex close at 74.73 against the US navirus crisis. Lenovo, Cisco and HP, said sin- FPIs pulled out net invest- opened on the front foot and dollar on Monday, ending Tokyo and Paris gle-window clearance system in ments worth $330 million remained in the positive terri- its four-session losing run advanced, while Frankfurt several states has become an in March from IT stocks, tory throughout the session, on the back of weakness in and London were almost additional window, which showed the ‘Foreign fund- closing at 48,386.51 - up 508.06 the greenback and positive unchanged. Benchmarks makes investors to run after Nadu, Telangana, Maharashtra, ture for manufacturing. In most the IT hardware production- flow tracker, April, 2021’. points or 1.06 per cent. domestic equities. fell in Hong Kong and individual departments for Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Punjab of the states, a single-window linked incentive (PLI) scheme The largest quantum of On similar lines, the broad- A fall in crude oil prices Shanghai and US futures clearances. and Haryana on board," MAIT investment system has become till April 30. FPI AUC (assets under cus- er NSE Nifty jumped 143.65 and improved risk appetite were mixed. Government "Larger issue is that states President Nitin Kunkolienker an additional system. The scheme, with an outlay tody) came from US-based points or 1 per cent to finish at supported the local unit precautions to battle surg- have to come on board. told PTI. "Even ease of doing business of Rs 7,350 crore, will provide investors, followed by those 14,485. Axis Bank was the top even as worries over surg- ing outbreaks point to an Without (their) active partici- He said these states account rating is more investment cen- an incentive for manufacturers from Mauritius and performer in the Sensex pack, ing COVID-19 cases uneven global recovery, pation, the scheme will not be for 70-80 per cent of electron- tric. What are the responsibil- of laptops, tablets, all-in-one Singapore. rallying 4.40 per cent. ICICI restricted the gains economists say. successful. ic hardware manufacturing and ities? No one is talking about PCs and servers. Fund allocations to India Bank spurted 3.63 per cent "It will create massive tax and they have to come up with a running and earning of the Kunkolienker said incentives by global emerging market after the company reported a Cement, SBI, HUL, PowerGrid, hand, HCL Tech, HDFC Bank, non-tax revenue for the states. proactive policy. operations and issues that come provided by the government are (GEM) funds increased to nearly four-fold jump in March Bajaj Auto and Reliance Maruti, Sun Pharma, TCS, The government needs to take "The Centre has a PLI up," Kunkolienker said. not enough, and factors that can 10.6 per cent in March from quarter consolidated profit over Industries were among the other NTPC and ITC were the lag- calls and get states like Andhra scheme but you need land, The electronics and IT min- lead to demand aggregation are 10.2 per cent in February. the weekend. UltraTech prominent gainers. On the other gards, dropping up to 2.87%. Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil electricity and other infrastruc- istry is inviting applications for missing in the policy. Lockdowns, travel restrictions dampen fuel, ATF sale: ICRA Olectra Greentech PNS n MUMBAI said. leading to elevated levels of "Refining and marketing fuel and losses, Majumdar Lockdowns and travel restric- companies are cutting down added. bagged Rs 30 cr tions imposed by states such on capacity utilisation Besides the impact of low as Maharashtra, Delhi, although the demand slow- GRMs, the marketing mar- Jharkhand and Rajasthan have down is not as severe as gins of oil marketing compa- order for insulators dampened the sale of auto April 2020. nies have remained low as no fuels and aviation turbine "Nevertheless, the capaci- increase has been done in the PNS n NEW DELHI fuel, leading to refining and ty utilisation and revenues retail prices of auto fuels marketing companies reduc- and profitability of the refin- since February 27, despite the The insulators division of ing throughputs, a report said ing and marketing companies international crude oil prices Olectra Greentech Limited on Monday. are likely to be adversely rising significantly during bagged orders worth Rs 30 Going forward, the possi- impacted owing to the this period, ICRA said. crores which includes Rs 15 bility of such a trend gather- demand slowdown,” said The ratings agency said crore export orders. The ing pace, as more and more Sabyasachi Majumdar, Group though it expects the retail domestic order worth approx states resort to lockdowns Head and Senior Vice- prices of auto fuels to be Rs 15 crores was received amid a surging case count and President at ICRA. hiked from May onwards, from reputed Indian Power strained healthcare system, The GRMs are expected to however, the said rise is like- Transmission Company to cannot be ruled out, ratings remain muted owing to the ly to be calibrated over a peri- supply composite long rod pandemic situation. We are agency ICRA said in a note. disproportionately higher fuel od of time, given the resurg- insulators of 765KV capacity. confident of good growth in ICRA also notes that the and losses and operating ing pandemic. The company has also bagged our operations and are hope- benchmark Singapore gross expenses on a per barrel basis Accordingly, the operating an export order worth approx. ful of winning few more orders refining margins (GRMs) at lower capacity utilizations, profitability of the refining Rs 15 crores to supply 15 KV to the tune of Rs 30 crores in remain subdued due to the he said. and marketing companies is to 35 KV capacity insulators the next couple of months. global supply overhang amid Additionally, internation- likely to be adversely impact- from US based company. The orders are a testament to a demand slowdown and are certain large economies such restrictions on flights from other countries. As more al crude oil prices have ed in Q1FY2022 owing to a "We have a positive out- our ability to deliver high unlikely to materially improve as India and Japan. India, the mutation, thought countries witness a virulent remained elevated due to the decline in capacity utilisa- look for this financial year quality Polymer Insulators," in the near-term, owing to the Additionally, though many to be behind India's second second wave, oil demand and active production manage- tions, subdued GRMs and with faith reposed by our said Mr Mahesh Balaiah, Vice- second wave of Covid-19 in countries have put travel wave, has spread to at least 10 GRMs could be dampened, it ment by OPEC+ countries, marketing margins, it stated. clients in spite of the global President, Electro Greentech. 9

Vijayawada Tuesday April 27, 2021 what’s brewing? Oscars: Nomadland is Best Picture, Anthony Hopkins Gurmeet Choudhary to open and Frances McDormand adjudged Best Actors a 1000-bed hospital, stars inema’s biggest night, Interestingly, this is Frances the 93rd Academy McDormand’s third Best Actress Awards, started off Oscar! She has previously won C with actor-director the golden statuette in 2018 for extend help during trying times Regina King grabbing Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, an Oscar statuette out- Missouri and for Fargo'in 1997. elevision actor soon.” Pednekar, Sonam side Union Station in downtown The 93rd Academy Awards Gurmeet Gurmeet and his Kapoor have come for- Los Angeles and walking it were held at both the Dolby Choudhary on wife Debina Bonnerjee ward to extend help. inside while credits rolled fea- Theatre and Union Station. The T Sunday took to had tested positive for While Akshay has turing the show’s presenters. ceremony was delayed due to his social the coronavirus in donated money to the The prestigious award ceremony the pandemic and took place media plat- September 2020. Gautam Gambhir saw Chloé Zhao set history yet two months after the originally forms to announce that Recently, the actor had Foundation to feed the again! Taking home the award planned date. he will be opening an shared that after being needy, Bhumi for best director for Nomadland, Interestingly, this year the “ultra modern 1000 inspired by Sonu Pednekar has appealed Chloé Zhao emerged as the first Academy Awards changed their bed hospital in Sood’s humanitarian people to donate plas- woman of color and the second tradition and Best Picture first, Patna and work during the pan- ma, Swara Bhaskar and woman to win the prestigious post which the last award for the Lucknow for the demic, he too wants to Sonam Kapoor, who is award. Korean actress Yuh-Jung evening, Best Actor was common man” to help people as the in London at the Youn picked up the trophy for announced. fight the Covid- country deals with the moment, has been Best Actress in a supporting role The nominations for the 93rd 19 pandemic. second wave of the sharing collated and floored everyone with her Academy Awards were unveiled Gurmeet pandemic. Debina too resources on her social acceptance speech. on March 15 by Priyanka wrote on had taken to her social media platforms for Celebrated veteran actor Hopkins personally didn’t pick Chopra and Nick Jonas. All Twitter he media platforms to people to visit in case Anthony Hopkins took home his up his trophy at the 93rd nominees and guests attending wrote, “I have appeal all that people of need. second Oscar for Best Actor for Academy Awards. the prestigious ceremony had decided I will who have recovered Sonu Sood who test- his performance in The Father. Frances McDormand bagged undergone a minimum of two be opening from Covid-19 should ed negative for Covid- He had previously won the tro- the Oscar for Best Actress for Covid-19 tests and were not ultra modern donate plasma for the 19 on Friday has con- phy for his performance in The her performance in Nomadland required to wear a face mask 1000 bed hos- treatment of patients tinued his philanthrop- Silence of the Lambs. Anthony at the 93 rd Academy Awards. while the cameras are rolling. pital in Patna are severely ill due to ic work in helping the and Lucknow the virus, she too has migrant workers and for the com- donated plasma. Covid-19 patients find mon man. As India continues necessary medicines, Followed by to record an alarming etc. Oscars 2021: Chloé Zhao makes other cities. rise in the daily num- Reportedly, he Need your ber of active cases recently also airlifted a blessings and every passing day, critically ill Covid-19 Support. Jai many actors like patient, from Nagpur history with best director win Hind. Details Akshay Kumar, Swara to Hyderabad, to get will be shared Bhaskar Bhumi special treatment done. efore Sunday, you busters, but that’s no roadblock. might have known Zhao's next project? Dracula. A Chloé Zhao as the new take on the Count for B director of Marvel’s Universal Pictures. A very dif- upcoming Eternals, ferent take, if Kevin Feige’s OSCARS 2021’S TRIBUTE but now she’s the comments on Eternals are any- Oscar-winning director of thing to go by. Marvel’s upcoming Eternals. “Not only does Chloe make Beijing-born Zhao just won best remarkable, small, personal TO IRRFAN KHAN AND director at the 2021 Oscars, movies in a remarkable, small, beating Emerald Fennell and personal way, but she thinks in David Fincher, among others. grand, cosmic, gigantic terms, BHANU ATHAIYA The victory makes her the which fit perfectly with what we first woman of color to take wanted to do,” Feige said of home the award, and only the Zhao’s pitch for the Marvel ike every year, India, taking home the second woman in the Cinematic Universe entry. The Academy trophy for Best Costume Academy’s 93-year history, after “Eternals is a very big, sweep- Awards’ In Design for the 1982 film Kathryn Bigelow for 2008’s The ing, multimillennial-spanning Memoriam sec- Gandhi. Irrfan Khan was Hurt Locker. story. And she just got it.” L tion paid trib- an international actor “This is for anyone who has sient community. Zhao’s Dracula promises to be utes to film- who died after a long bat- the faith and the courage to What was Chloé Zhao up to a sci-fi Western, with her singu- makers and artists who tle with cancer on April hold on to the goodness in before Nomadland? Aside from lar lens intact. departed the world in 29. Angela Bassett intro- themselves, and to hold on to spending the pandemic editing “I’ve always been fascinated 2020. And not surprising- duced the In Memoriam the goodness in each other, no Eternals, starring Angelina by vampires and the concept of ly for a year that took with a sombre reflection matter how difficult is to do Jolie, Richard Madden, Kumail the Other they embody,” Zhao away so many, the list was on the past year. that,” Zhao said. “You inspire Nanjiani and even more big said in a statement, following a long one. Cicely Tyson, Cloris me to keep going. Thank you.” names, the 39-year-old cut her the news she would be directing Among the notable Leachman, Yaphet Kotto, The film that landed her the teeth and cemented her natural- the monster film. deceased personalities Joel Schumacher, achievement: Nomadland, a istic and empathetic style in the “I’m very excited to work that got a nod were Ian Bertrand Tavernier, Jean- contemplative drama set in indie realm. 2015’s Songs My with Donna [Langley], Peter Holm, Sean Connery Max Claude Carrière, Olivia de America’s Midwest that also Brothers Taught Me and 2017’s [Cramer], and the team at von Sydow, Christopher Havilland, Paula Kelly, won best picture. It follows The Rider are both set in South Universal to reimagine such a Plummer, Chadwick George Seagal, were Fern —played by Frances Dakota and star untrained beloved character.” Boseman and our own among the other notable McDormand — a woman who actors. They tell fact-based sto- If you haven’t seen it yet, Bhanu Athaiya and Irrfan ones who passed away. and their fans on social remembered on the web- One other tweeted, loses her job in the Great ries, focused on the human Nomadland is out on Hulu in Khan. Rishi Kapoor and media have commented site of the Academy “Rishi Kapoor deserved to Recession and goes wandering. condition. the US and through Star on Bhanu Athaiya was the Sushant Singh Rajput on their absence. Awards in a special In me in the “In Memoriam” Taking odd jobs, meeting It’s a slight leap from quiet Disney Plus elsewhere in the first Oscar winner from were absent from the list, However, they were Memoriam section. section at the #Oscars.” nomads and living in a tran- character dramas to big block- world FUN

ARCHIE CALVIN AND HOBBES

GARFIELD REALITY CHECK SPEED BUMP CROSSWORD

NANCY

SUDOKU Yesterday’s solution

GINGER MEGGS

Rules l Each row and column can contain each number (1 to 9) exactly once. l The sum of all numbers in any row or column must equal 45. Follow us on @TheDailyPioneer facebook.com/ dailypioneer

Tuesday April 27, 2021

ere’s some A: Start easy, find the simplest great news for workout you can do in a day, and fashion afi- follow the 8 secrets of making fit- cionados — ness a habit as I have mentioned in H Vogue the book. They are — Awareness, Wedding Find Your Why, Go slow but Go Show — the annual GOING DIGITAL Forward, Add some Fun, Declutter extravaganza is poised to your Cue, Prep Your Environment be grander and bigger and Evaluate your Progress. Since than ever before this sea- fitness habit formation is a long- son, because will be host- term process, it needs a constant ed on a tailor-made, boost to keep you motivated till mobile-friendly platform you make it. The truth is you can and can be accessed on- make fitness an integral part of the-go 24/7 via any IS IN ‘VOGUE' your daily life only when you take device from almost every small steps consistently. part of the world! Families still consider Q: The pandemic has made The virtual edit of the weddings as one of the people both unfit, and also Vogue Wedding Show, most important parts of partly aware of this lack of allows one to enjoy per- their life and the memo- physical activity. How sonal interactions and ries it makes. would you say the book will directly inquire with The couple do not shy help? India’s leading wedding away from investing in couture designer brands creation of memories and FIT, FAB A: Covid or not, we all know like Amit Aggarwal, feeling which will last that a regular workout routine is a Anita Dongre, Falguni them more than a life- door to optimum health. The pan- Shane Peacock, Gaurav time. And clothing has a demic has just highlighted the fact Gupta, JADE by Monica very large part to play in that taking care of our health is & Karishma, Manish doing so. The brides not an option but a sheer necessity. Malhotra, Rahul Mishra, today though are more and Fantastic People want to stay healthy, but Sabyasachi, Shantanu & independent in their they do not know how to stay Nikhil, Shivan & choices and want cre- itness entrepreneur and hope to share a holistic approach healthy; and when we talk about Narresh, Shyamal & ations that celebrate their Gympik founder to fitness through the medium of staying healthy there are a lot Bhumika, and Tarun individuality and selves Amaresh Ojha’s recent- this book. many changes come along namely Tahiliani, amongst many and at Amit Aggarwal ly-launched debut Q: Getting started with fit- dietary changes, lifestyle modifica- others, who will be this has always been our F book, Fitness Habits — tions, limiting sugar and so on. All ness is often the hardest. showcasing their latest focus — to create designs Breaking The Barriers What does the book sug- these can be taken care of with Spring/Summer 2021 that celebrate the ‘you’. To Fitness breaks down the gest as a solution? only one single change i.e., when Bridal collections. What's the design nuances of everyday health and is you make fitness a habit. Once you A host of top philosophy behind a nudge towards developing last- A: In this new era of healthcare, have your fitness habits in place, menswear brands such as your latest edit? ing fitness habits. achieving your fitness goals you will automatically eat healthy, Herringbone & Sui, Co-authored by Subhra Moitra, requires a continuous practice of you will have better sleep, you will Kunal Rawal, In this latest collection this operating guide to fitness is certain habits that focus on the choose habits that will help you Raghavendra Rathore of dreamy silhouettes in published by Srishti Publications. action plan rather than the goal. become healthier. Jodhpur, Sarah & timeless statement fash- In Ojha’s words, “there is a funda- Most people fail not because they Q: It’s all in the mind — Sandeep will also be a ion, I explored the thera- mental drawback in the way peo- don’t have a goal, but they don’t What is your mind transfor- part of the Vogue peutic balance of botani- ple approach fitness and look have an action plan that deter- mation mantra to alter how Wedding Show this year. cals- the visual and men- down upon the nuances of form- mines their progress. There is a one looks at fitness? In an interview with tal unleashing rendered ing fitness as a habit.” With the fundamental drawback in the way The Pioneer, Founder of by flowers. The collec- pandemic changing lives in an people approach fitness and look A: Often people are trapped in one of the finest wedding tion ‘Euphor’ draws unprecedented way, Ojha’s new down upon the nuances of form- the vicious cycle of following some couture brands Amit heavily from scientific book spells why proactively invest- ing fitness as a habit. The book, irregular fitness routine and fad Aggarwal speaks about journals that describe the ing time for health is important. It Fitness Habits, is that guide you diets to get skinny in a short time. his plans, his style of physiological effects of serves as a guide on how to main- need to take the first step to create But soon it becomes painful, designing and more. nature on human health. tain an equilibrium with existing a sustainable habit through mini- exhausting, and wry because they Excerpts from the In bringing this collec- habits, while creating new fitness mal shifts and modifications in are unsustainable, unhealthy, and interview: tion to life I tapped into routines, and how to understand your life. forced. Your comment on Change is the only during these hard times. these colours together. this deep understanding and reshape your behavioural A ‘strategic planning the era of fast fash- constant and adapting to Embracing social media Ranging from bridal cou- of couture and an experi- pattern. ion it is the only key. Putting and E commerce is one ture and lehenga’s to mentation of traditional Amaresh Ojha speaks a couture show together of the biggest way for- saree gowns, our silhou- print and embroidery about his debut book, and I think this depends is like celebration for all ward. However, I feel ettes as always are techniques. embracing fitness for bet- on the sensitivity of the the five senses and hence Brick and Mortar stores focussed on being com- Could you tells us ter life: individual. I consciously it is always a challenge to will continue to be one of plimentary to all body more about your Q: How did the book decided on some things. weave the brand story of the most effective ways types and each ensemble future plans? ‘Fitness Habits’ Right now the world intricate craftsmanship to get the whole experi- is extremely lightweight. come about? Why mind- needs less, not more. I and hand embroidery ence of buying a couture Innovating with tech- At Amit Aggarwal, we have always stayed true did you want to didn’t want to add things and put together an product. nique, ‘Euphor’ prints write something set’, which focuses that people might not immersive experience for over hand embellished to our core belief; which on reaching smaller Tell us about your is to push forward Indian like this? need. At Amit Aggarwal, the viewers. We however latest edit fabric to create unique goals, can work as a huge we focus on creating love challenges and have surface textures unlike craftmanship while inno- A: In my experi- motivating factor and makes pieces that are timeless, had a lot of fun trying to The collection has any of our past collec- vating and experiment- ence, fitness is one of your fitness routine easily that become part of who recreate the quintessen- been a personal journey tions. The collection also ing with newer materials the most confusing doable. The more you tick off you are and your identity, tial Amit Aggarwal expe- but I also believe univer- uses metallic cording and adding a modern and scattered smaller goals the easier it is to you hold onto them for rience through a digital sal because at its core moulded to create organ- perspective to each industries. There achieve the bigger picture. your life lens and create an escape nature can be true and is ic patterns design. Though our jour- is no clear Repeat your routine — even ney as a brand, the most With the whole for- to set the mind free and therapy for the human How's the bridal advice on how when it is a 10 minutes’ walk or a help reimagine the wear- race. important aspect has to start, con- 5 minute jog, do it for the lowest mat of a fashion wedding fashion been to stick to our pur- show moving digital, ability of our signature Given our inspiration scene evolved by tinue, and suc- time and repeat the routine every textiles. has been nature and the pose and to continue ceed as every- single day. what are the novel the way? focussing on our craft in changes that you're Digital media plat- blooming of flowers, the body has their own Look at reaching smaller goals forms have simplified the colours we have focussed Bridal outfits have and order to create a signa- way of approaching and you will build the pillars to yearning to ture like no other, this is observe? Do you buying process and on range from blush to will always be aspira- fitness. A large part of my journey attain your bigger fitness goals. helped in mobilising fuchsia, mint to emerald, tional given the sacred- something that we will lies in my lifelong predisposition Q: What are your top tips to This way you feel more confident like this drastic continue to work towards get started with one’s fit- change? Why/(not)? financial support for the our signature silver mov- ness of the functions and to adopt good about your progress and that, in people affected most ing into a melange of all their importance in life. in the years to come. habits. It is my ness journey and keep at it? fact, works as a motivational perk.

were categorised gender-wise Surprisingly, the majority An online as well as age-wise. The three of people in all age groups age groups were 18-20, 21-30 i.e. 83 per cent would prefer dating and 31 and above. using a dating app to find Major concerns their soulmate, considering platform matrimonial apps will mostly When asked about the pressurise them for marriage major concern while using a and wouldn’t help much in shares some dating app, 65 per cent peo- finding their life partner. ple in the age group 18-20, And on the contrary, a key insights 52 per cent of people in the total of 17 per cent of people, age group 21-30 and 43.4 per in all age groups and gen- into daters’ cent people in the age group ders, said they would prefer 31 and above felt safety as matrimonial apps. behaviour their primary concern. Further, 82 per cent of On the other hand, fake men and women would pre- regarding the profiles were the major con- fer using a dating app to find cern for 41.5 per cent of peo- their soulmate as compared relevance and ple and 37 per cent of people to 18 per cent of men and in the age group 31 & above women who would prefer a safety of apps and 21-20 respectively. matrimonial app for finding Further, very few people their soulmate. to find their were bothered about Speaking about the survey friends/family finding their report, Ravi Mittal, founder special Made in profile on a dating app. and CEO of QuackQuack, Talking about gender-wise said, “Dating apps continue concerns, women (67 per to grow in popularity. Both someone cent) were most concerned men and women across dif- about safety while using a ferent age groups are equally nd, it’s a match! dating app whereas men using these apps to find a Online dating heaven... were equally worried about perfect date.” apps continue to safety (44 per cent) and fake He goes on to add, “While be much in profiles (43 per cent). they date online; there are A demand and use various concerns, trends and Willingness to tell among people of friends and family preferences that influence different age groups. In fact, their dating experience. Our many are constantly glued to or hell? Majority of people — 51 recent report provided these apps to find the one per cent, 52 per cent and 59 key insights into all that clicks with their vibe. per cent between the ages 18- these parame- Sure, these apps have made vance of dating apps in find- iour regarding the relevance 20, 21-30 and 31 above — ters. the search for a match faster ing a soulmate differ for and safety of dating apps to wouldn’t tell anyone about The and easier than before. everyone due to different find that ‘special someone’. using a dating app out of the statis- While dating is well and opinions. The report revealed users’ fear of being judged. tics alive, many factors influence A dating platform, opinion on three key para- On the contrary, 48 per were the behaviour of daters and QuackQuack, where one can meters — major concerns cent of people in the age inter- their online dating experi- meet several verified local while using dating apps, group 18-30 didn’t mind esting and ence. The major concerns singles and like-minded peo- sharing using dating app sharing if asked. reveal a lot while using a dating app, ple for dating and match- with friends and family and Using apps to find soul- about evolving preferences while searching making, has shared some key using a dating app to find a mates behaviour of today’s for a suitable match and rele- insights into daters’ behav- soulmate. The responses daters.” VIJAYAWADA | TUESDAY | APRIL 27, 2021 SOUND BITE 11

IT WAS A THRILLING GAME (VS SRH) & SHOULDN'T HAVE GONE TO THE SUPER OVER. WE SHOULD HAVE WON IT EASILY, BUT WE MADE FEW MISTAKES BUT THAT'S PART OF THE JOURNEY — SHIKHAR DHAWAN

LIVE FROM TODAYTODAY VS 7:30PM IST STAR SPORTS 1 NETWORK

boundarymeter IPL PLAYERS START PULLING OUT 4s 566 6s 254 Ashwin decides to take not yet spoken about their “personal rea- ation here. sons” for leaving, Tye said he feared get- “Everyone is sort of a bit nervous break & support family as ting locked out of his own country owing about whether they can get back into Cummins donates $50K in fight vs Covid PLAYER RUNS to mounting quarantine cases from Australia. I dare say there will be a few RCB’s Kane Richardson & India in his hometown Perth. other Australians a bit nervous about get- PTI n NEW DELHI good. With that in mind, I have made 1. Shikhar Dhawan (DC) 259 Zampa join Tye to walk out “I just thought to try and get on the ting back into Australia,” Hussey, a for- a contribution to the PM CARES Fund, 2. KL Rahul (PBKS) 240 front foot and get home before I got mer Australia international, told the olkata Knight Riders’ Australian specifically to purchase oxygen supplies 3. Faf du Plessis (CSK) 214 because of personal reasons locked out of the country...Think I’ve had Sydney Morning Herald. Kpacer Pat Cummins on Monday for India’s hospitals,” he stated. 11 days at home out of the bubble since However, not all Australians are will- announced a $50,000 donation towards He also said that he is aware of the PLAYER WKTS PTI n NEW DELHI August, so for me I just wanted to get ing to leave. PM CARES Fund for oxygen supplies ongoing discussion on whether the IPL 1. Harshal Patel (RCB) 15 home,” Tye told SEN Radio from Doha, Another pacer Nathan Coulter-Nile, in India’s Covid-19 ravaged hospitals should continue amid the destruction nxiety pierced through IPL’s bio- the transit point before his flight to Perth. who has a `5 crore deal with Mumbai and backed the IPL to continue, saying caused by the virus but has been told 2. Avesh Khan (DC) 11 secure bubble on Monday with The BCCI, on its part, insisted that Indians would rather be in the bio-bub- he has been “advised” that the Indian that the event offers some respite from 3. Rahul Chahar (MI) 9 Aleading Indian off-spinner the event will continue and it wouldn’t ble than risk a trip back home at this Government views it “as few hours of the gloom. Ravichandran Ashwin and some come in the way of those wanting to leave. point. joy” in a difficult time. “There has been a lot of discussion MOST SIXES Australian players withdrawing from the “As of now, IPL is going ahead. “I feel like it’s safer for me to stay in In a statement on his official Twitter over here as to whether it is appropri- 1. Jonny Bairstow (SRH) 14 league amid the escalating Covid-19 cri- Obviously, if anyone wants to leave, that’s the bubble than try and get home at the handle, he made the announcement and ate for the IPL to continue while sis in India even as the BCCI insisted that perfectly fine,” a senior Board official said moment,” he told cricket.Com.Au. urged other top players to do the same Covid-19 infection rates remain high,” 2. KL Rahul (PBKS) 11 the glitzy league will go on. on conditions of anonymity. Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting as the country battles a deadly second he said. “I am advised that Indian 3. Rohit Sharma (MI) 9 The 34-year-old Ashwin, competing While leg-spinner Zampa was said he is aware of the “grim” situation wave of the pandemic recording more Government is of the view that playing for Delhi Capitals, decided to take a bought for `1.5 crore, RCB spent `4 crore outside the IPL bio-bubble but would than 2,000 daily deaths for the past few the IPL while the population is in lock- break saying that his family is current- to buy pacer Richardson at the players’ want the league to continue for it is a wel- days. down provides few hours of joy and SUMMER SLAM ly “putting up a fight against Covid-19” auction. come escape for a few hours. “As players, we are privileged to respite each day at an otherwise diffi- and he wants to support them. He hopes Richardson featured in one match Several England and New Zealand have the platform that allows us to reach cult time for the country,” Cummins said MOTION PICTURE to return to the side “if things go in the for RCB against Rajasthan Royals in players are also competing in the event millions of people that we can use for in his statement. right direction”. Mumbai, but Zampa couldn’t make it to but haven’t yet spoken about their con- However, Andrew Tye (Rajasthan the playing XI this season. cerns. Royals) and the duo of Kane Richardson The 34-year-old Tye had also not got The players from New Zealand, The IPL final is scheduled to be held (SunRisers Hyderabad) and Pat and Adam Zampa (both Royal a game with the Royals so far and his including stars such Kane Williamson on May 30 in Ahmedabad. Cummins (Kolkata Knight Riders), as Challengers Bangalore) withdrew as contract with the franchise was worth `1 and Trent Boult, are expected to leave Australia, it is learnt, might arrange well as coaches Ricky Ponting (DC) and apprehension set in after a couple of crore. early in any case as they have a Test series a chartered flight for its IPL cricketers Simon Katich (RCB). weeks went by smoothly for the league Kolkata Knight Riders mentor David against England starting June 2. They will once their engagement is over. Commentators Matthew Hayden, being held in front of empty stands across Hussey acknowledged that Australians have to head back in last week of May As many as 14 Australian players Brett Lee, Michael Slater and Lisa six venues. in the IPL are a “bit nervous” about get- to be available for it because of quaran- now remain in the event, including stars Sthalekar are also among the Australians While Zampa and Richardson have ting back home in the wake of the situ- tine rules. such as Steve Smith (DC), David Warner involved with the league right now. Rajasthan seek to loan KKR hold Punjab to 123 players from other teams SCOREBOARD Mumbai Indians Kiwi players Jimmy Neesham, left, Trent PTI n NEW DELHI home citing bubble fatigue. The IPL loan window PUNJAB KINGS Boult, center and newly added reserve player Scott Kuggeleijn On Sunday, Andrew Tye left started on Monday and will enjoy beer as they spend time in pool Neesham/Instagram KL Rahul ajasthan Royals have for Australia, citing fear due to end with the conclusion of the c Narine b Cummins 19 Mayank Agarwal c Tripathi b Narine 31 Rapproached fellow IPL surge of Covid-19 cases in league stage. Chris Gayle c Karthik b Mavi 0 WILLIAMSON TIRED OF COMING 2ND teams to loan players after the India, making Royals the IPL rules state that a play- Deepak Hooda c Morgan b Prasidh 1 Be it in the World Cup or IPL, Kane Williamson is departure of their four foreign worst affected team from play- er who have played less than Nicholas Pooran b Chakravarthy 19 “getting tired” of finishing second in Super Overs. The players due to various reasons er pull-outs. two matches in the season can Moises Henriques b Narine 2 New Zealander's latest tryst with the Super Over came that include injuries, bubble “The team is looking to be loaned and cannot play Shahrukh Khan c Morgan b Prasidh 13 on Sunday when his team Sunrisers Hyderabad failed fatigue and Covid-19 fear. loan players and has written to against his home franchise. Chris Jordan b Prasidh 30 to achieve the desired result against Delhi Capitals. “I Ben Stokes and Jofra other franchisees but nothing Royals have two wins Ravi Bishnoi c Morgan b Cummins 1 am getting tired of coming second in the Super Overs,” Archer are out of the IPL due is decided at this point,” a from five games and play Mohammed Shami not out 1 Williamson said. “Throughout the game, whenever to injuries while Liam source close the team manage- their next game in Delhi on Arshdeep Singh not out 1 there is a Super Over, as a batting side chasing a score Livingstone had gone back ment said. Thursday. Extras (b 0, lb 1, w 4, nb 0, p 0) 5 that was very competitive, there are a lot of positives to Total (9 wkts, 20 Overs) 123 take out of it. “It is really uncanny in game of cricket Fall of wickets: 36-1 (KL Rahul, 5.4), 38-2 (Chris that things can end in a tie but I suppose it is very, very Gayle, 6.3), 42-3 (Deepak Hooda, 7.4), 60-4 exciting. A lot of positives, we move on really quickly to (Mayank Agarwal, 11.2), 75-5 (Moises Henriques, Delhi,” he added. 13.1), 79-6 (Nicholas Pooran, 14.2), 95-7 (Shahrukh ‘VOLUNTEERED TO BOWL SUPER OVER’ RCB, Delhi eye top spot Khan, 17.2), 98-8 (Ravi Bishnoi, 18.1), 121-9 (Chris Jordan, 19.4) Delhi Capitals' left-arm spinner Axar Patel said that he Kolkata Knight Riders pacer Prasidh Krishna celebrates with teammates Eoin had volunteered to bowl the high-octane Super Over in VENUE: NARENDRA MODI STADIUM, AHMEDABAD Morgan, Sunil Narine and Dinesh Karthik after he takes wicket @IPL Bowling KEY PLAYERS Shivam Mavi 4-0-13-1 their win over SRH, which was his first game since PTI n AHMEDABAD the top three KL Rahul (19), recovering from Covid-19. “When I was in the dressing AVESH KHAN Pat Cummins 3-0-31-2 HEAD TO HEAD Chris Gayle (0) and Deepak Sunil Narine 4-0-22-2 room, I knew that the pitch would assist spinners,” Khan has impressed everyone with Matches 25 superlative bowling effort Hooda (1) in space of 12 Prasidh Krishna 4-0-30-3 Axar said of the challenging Chepauk track. “When we his performance this time and he is by Kolkata Knight Riders balls for six runs to leave went down, there were a lot of discussions. We thought Delhi Capitals 11 A Andre Russell 1-0-2-0 second in the race for Purple Cap found Punjab Kings gasping PBKS in a disarray in the first Varun Chakravarthy 4-0-24-1 initially that we could go with a pacer since they will be Royal Challengers Bangalore 14 for breath as they managed a 10 overs. sending a left-right combination. “After that, just when we were going to the ground, I thought, even a spinner MOHAMMED SIRAJ platry 123 for 9 in an IPL On a pitch where ball Bowling with the new ball, the encounter here on Monday. stayed low and gripped a bit, youngster was superb in the Powerplay, could be effective. So I told Rishabh ‘Even I can bowl, Siraj looked a completely different LAST YEAR’S MATCHES After suffering four the Punjab batsmen failed to conceding just nine runs from his think about it'. So he spoke to (coach) Ricky (Ponting) player in 2021 and is a key Delhi Capitals defeated Royal defeats on the trot in Chennai apply themselves with Sunil three overs, never allowing the two star and it was decided at the last moment that I will bowl.” component of RCB's bowling unit and Mumbai, the bottom- Narine (2/22) and Varun Punjab openers, Mayank Agarwal and Challengers Bangalore by 59 placed KKR’s campaign final- Chakravarthy (1/24) further KL Rahul, to express themselves. POINTS TABLE PTI n AHMEDABAD runs in Dubai ly got some boost as the bowl- denting their progress during The pressure was evident on Rahul Delhi Capitals beat Royal ing unit led by Pat Cummins the middle overs as well as when he perished after trying to break P W L NRR PTS eeing the loss in their previous game as a blip, fired in unison. back-end. free against Cummins in the final over 1 8 SVirat Kohli-led Royal Challengers Bangalore Challengers Bangalore by 6 Youngster Shivam Mavi Prasidh has the best fig- of Powerplay. CSK 5 4 1 +1.612 will have to be at their best to beat a formidable wickets in Abu Dhabi (1/13) started it all, tying ures as he ended Chris The dangerous Deepak Hooda (1) 2 DC 5 4 1 +0.334 8 Delhi Capitals unit here on Tuesday. things down with the new ball, Jordan's 18-ball 30 cameo got out courtesy a stunning low catch While RCB will have to shrug off their 69-runs bowling 15 dot balls in his which took the total past 120- by Eoin Morgan as Punjab had a terri- 3 RCB 5 4 1 +0.096 8 thrashing at the hands of Chennai Super Kings four overs on the trot, before run mark. ble start losing three wickets in 12 balls 4 MI 5 2 3 -0.032 4 in their last game and start afresh, Delhi’s confi- Cummins (2/31) and Prasidh Mavi capped a fine open- for six runs. dence would be boosted by their thrilling ‘Super 199 Krishna (3/30) tightened the ing spell of four overs dismiss- Amid ruins, opener Mayank 5 KKR 6 2 4 -0.305 4 Over’ win against Sunrisers Hyderabad. noose sharing five wickets ing Chris Gayle for a golden Agarwal scored a painstaking 31 off 34 6 PBKS 6 2 4 -0.608 4 Up against Delhi Capitals, RCB will need to Rishabh Pant who hit 199 fours in between them at the death. duck with the Universe Boss balls which also halted the team’s 7 4 address their middle-order woes, to return to win- 73 innings of as many matches, The pace troika removed taking a bottom edge. momentum. RR 5 2 3 -0.681 ning ways, in what could be touted as a battle of 8 SRH 5 1 4 -0.180 2 equals. needs just one four to become For the RCB, it will be important that the only second batsman after openers- the in-form Devdutt Padikkal (171 runs) Virender Sehwag (266 fours) to and Kohli (151 runs) continue to provide a solid shortpasses Atletico Madrid start. complete a double century of But the opening duo would need the much- fours for Delhi Capitals in IPL RANI, 6 OTHER PLAYERS TEST +VE needed support from the middle-order, NEW DELHI: Seven members of the Indian lose to Bilbao which crumbled against CSK. women's hockey team, including captain Rani The likes of Glenn Maxwell (198 Rampal, and two support staff members on runs), Ab de Villiers (129 runs), and the 22 Monday tested positive for Covid-19 ahead of misfiring all-rounder Washington a training camp at the SAI Centre in Bengaluru. Sundar (25 runs), will have to perform in unison against a strong Delhi attack. Ab de Villiers with 4978 runs at INDIA QUALIFY FOR CWG 2022 Australian Maxwell did justify his an average of 40.47 in 160 NEW DELHI: India is among six teams which high price tag in the first few matches and innings of 174 matches, needs have qualified for the women's T20 would be raring to go once again. 22 runs to become sixth competition of the 2022 CWG as cricket The RCB bowlers will have to forget returns for the second time in the event. the hammering received at the hands of batsman to complete 5000 the CSK batters, especially league’s lead- runs in IPL history 12TH BARCELONA OPEN FOR RAFA Bilbao: Atletico Madrid’s title ing wicket-taker Harshal Patel, who was Faisel Features BARCELONA: Rafael Nadal saved a hopes suffered a setback on taken apart by Ravindra Jadeja, as he con- championship point to beat Stefanos Tsitsipas Sunday as a shock 2-1 defeat at ceded 37 runs in his final over. 6-4, 6-7 (6/8), 7-5 and claim a 12th Barcelona Athletic Bilbao handed Pacers Mohammed Siraj and Kyle runs under his belt. Open title in the ATP's longest match of 2021. Barcelona the upper hand in a Jamieson will have to step DC boast of a strong middle-order Deepika-Atanu shoot triple Gold thrilling race at the top of La up and deliver while spin- comprising skipper Rishabh Pant (125 HENRY, SHEARER IN HALL OF FAME Liga. ners Yuzvendra Chahal and runs), Australians Steve Smith and Marcus LONDON: Thierry Henry and Alan Shearer PTI n GUATEMALA CITY The two are now automatically Real Madrid’s draw with Washington Sundar, will also Stoinis and Shimron Hetmyer, who can were named as the first players inducted into qualified for this season’s most-coveted Real Betis on Saturday gave have to bowl tightly to contain be highly destructive on their day. the official Premier League Hall of Fame in ndian archery’s star couple Deepika Archery World Cup Final. Atletico the chance to pull recognition of a combined 435 goals. a strong DC batting-line, full of In case the openers fail, the onus T IKumari and Atanu Das led the show “We travel together, train together, further clear but instead they hard-hitters. will be on Pant and Smith to steer the with two individual Gold medals as the compete together and win together,” ended the weekend with their RCB could also be tempted to innings. R CRISIS IN SA CRICKET AVERTED country capped its best ever perfor- Das, who got married to Deepika in June lead reduced, a loss at San play left-arm tweaker Shahbaz Ahmed in Delhi will miss the services of ace O DURBAN: SA cricket stepped back from the mance in a World Cup, claiming three last year after a two-year courtship, said Mames the latest twist in place of either Navdeep Saini or Dan off-spinner Ravichandra Ashwin, who has P brink of an international crisis when officials Golds and a Bronze in the tournament’s after claiming the Gold medal on Europe’s most unpredictable Christian, as the track could be conducive left the team to support his family in the S announced that the differences between the first stage here. Sunday. domestic chase. for the spinners. fight against Covid-19. two rival factions had been resolved. Former world number one Deepika “She knows what I like, and I know Barcelona now can go top For Delhi, their opener and tourna- In his absence, left-arm spinner Axar R claimed her career’s third individual what she likes.” of the table if they win their ment’s leading run-scorer Shikhar Patel and experienced leg-spinner Amit E LILLE RETAKE TOP SPOT World Cup Gold to add to the team’s tri- This was the best ever World Cup game in hand at home to Dhawan (259 runs), would be eager to Mishra, who had wreaked havoc against PARIS: Burak Yilmaz scored twice and set up umph, while her husband Das grabbed finish by India’s recurve archers with two Granada on Thursday, even if carry forward his fine form, while his Mumbai Indians, will need to shoulder greater H another as Lille staged a brilliant comeback to his first ever World Cup individual individual and one team Gold medals in Atletico might have a way back opening partner Prithvi Shaw (166 responsibility. T claim a thrilling 3-2 victory at title rivals Lyon medal in style winning the men’s recurve their return to the top International cal- given they are still to play at runs), would be looking to get more O and reclaim top spot in Ligue 1. Agencies individual final. endar year event after almost two years. Camp Nou on May 8. AFP 12

Vijayawada Tuesday April 27, 2021 tollywood SALMAN KHAN PENS Pooja Hegde DOWN FOND WORDS FOR ALLU ARJUN tests positive

he internet is set on fire as super- star Salman Khan for Covid T takes to his social media to thank ctress Pooja Hegde, tive for Covid-19. Following all the Icon Star Allu one of the most busiest protocols I have isolated, and home- Arjun for Seeti Maar (a and sought-after quarantined myself.” The Radhe song that originally fea- actress of Telugu cine- Shyam actress also requested people tured in Allu Arjun’s ma, has tested positive to get tested for Covid-19 who have Duvvada Jagannadham A for Covid 19. The recently come in contact with her. “I and now in Khan’s actress took to her request all those who have come in upcoming film social media handles to announce contact with me recently to get test- Radhe). Khan the same. The actress is currently ed too.” also expressed under home quarantine and has Pooja also thanked her well-wish- admiration for requested those in contact with her, ers for the love and support and the latter’s danc- to get tested too. While she said she shared that she is feeling well. ing skills and is recuperating well, she has been in She added, “Thank you for your unmistakable touch with the doc- love and support I am currently style. tors and has fol- recuperating well. Please stay home, As revealed lowed all the stay safe and take care.” by the trailer, BMC proto- On the work front, Pooja Hegde Khan’s highly cols so far. was last seen in Ala anticipated “Hello Vaikunthapurramuloo last year film Radhe everyone. alongside Allu Arjun. Pooja is has a re-created Allu u r simply fantastic...tk care with fans doing SEETI This is to now gearing up for Most Arjun's chartbuster song n b safe.Rgds to ur fami- MAAR for you. Thank you inform Eligible Bachelor, Radhe Seeti Maar originally com- ly...Love u brother.” for your love.” you all Shyam, Acharya, Cirkus posed by Devi Sri Prasad. Replying to Khan, Icon The banter between that I and Salman took to his Staar wrote, “Thank you soo India’s biggest superstars have test- Thalapathy Twitter addressing Allu much Salman Garu. It’s a not only cheered their fans ed posi- 65. Arjun. He wrote, “Thank u pleasure to receive a com- but also created excitement Allu Arjun for Seeti Maar pliment from you. It’s such a about the song. What absolutely loved the way u sweet gesture. remains to be seen is if it have performed in the song, Looking forward for the can recreate the magic the the way u dance, your style, RADHE magic on screens original did four years ago MAHESH BABU GETS FIRST JAB OF THE KARTHI COVID-19 VACCINE AS fter Mohanlal aged 18 years and above and Nagarjuna are eligible to get theirs Akkineni, from May 1st. SARDAR A superstar #GetVaccinated. Stay safe Mahesh Babu everyone.” has taken the Many Indian celebs first jab of the Covid-19 like Mohanlal, Nagarjuna vaccine on Monday. The Akkineni, Kamal actor had isolated himself Haasan, Rakesh Roshan, a few days back after his Hema Malini, Satish arthi has created a it has Venky Mama and World Subbarayan is the stunt direc- stylist had tested positive Shah, Johnny Lever, niche for himself Famous Lover fame actress tor. Sardmear is penned by for Covid-19. Now days Upasana Kamineni even amongst Raashi Khanna as the leading M.R Pon Parthipan, and Roju, after, he has taken the among others have taken K Telugu audiences lady. In this upcoming film Bipin Ragu whereas it is first dose of the vaccine the Covid-19 vaccine. with films like Karthi will make his screen bankrolled by S.Lakshman and has also requested Meanwhile, after a few Oopiri, Yuganiki presence in a dual role. The Kumar. On the otherside, everyone above 18 age to members tested positive Okkadu, Khaidi, Avara. The makers of Sardar also Karthi also has Mani take theirs from May 1. on the sets of Mahesh actor who was last seen play- unveiled the first look poster. Ratnam’s magnum Taking to Twitter, he Babu starrer Sarkaru ing the lead in Sulthan with Apart from the lead pair, opus the multistarrer wrote, “Done with my Vaari Paata, the makers Rashmika Mandanna as the the film Sardar also has Ponniyin Selvan, vaccination! Please get decided to stop the leading lady opened to posi- Rajisha Vijayan in the crucial which also has yours!! The COVID-19 shoot. tive response even in the roles. George C Williams has Chiyaan Vikram, second wave has hit The shooting has been Telugu states. been roped in to handle the Jayam Ravi, everyone hard and get- postponed to May amidst The actor now released the cinematography department Aishwarya Rai ting vaccinated is the the rising cases of poster of his next project, whereas GV Prakash Kumar is Bachchan, need of the hour. Those Coronavirus. titled Sardar. Karthi starrer the music director. Aishwarya Lekshmi, Sardar is helmed by PS Ruben is the editor of Vikram Prabhu, Mithran who earlier made Sardar, K Kadhir is the art Trisha and others Irumbu Thirai and Hero, and director and Dhilip in the crucial roles. Thank You Brother to release on aha on May 7 T-town mourns After a rollicking Sarath Chandra Reddy revolves start to 2021 with around a hot-blooded youngster Krack, Gaali and a pregnant woman stuck in a Sampath, Naandhi, a non-functional lift. Though 11th Hour, Mail, the film was slated to release in Potti Veeraiah’s demise Thellavarithe theatres later this month, the Guruvaram and Chaavu Kaburu makers have opted for a direct ctor couple Dr The news of his demise Challaga, an intriguing thriller, digital release on aha, keeping Rajasekhar and is a matter of grief," the Thank You Brother, is set to in view the unprecedented situ- Jeevitha along Acharya actor said. have a direct OTT premiere ation caused by the second wave with several Veeraiah made his act- across the globe on aha on May of the Covid-19 pandemic. a others from the ing debut with 7. Thank You Brother, featuring Thank You Brother is filled industry people Vittalacharya’s 1967 film Viraj Ashwin and Anasuya in with several twists and turns paid floral tributes to the Aggi Dora and went on the lead roles, has been directed and is complemented by the mortal remains of veter- to feature in Radhamma by Ramesh Raparthi. The right blend of emotions and an actor Potti Veeraiah, Pelli, Jaganmohini, thriller, produced by Magunta drama. who passed away on Yugandhar, Gaja Donga Sunday following a heart and others. He acted in stroke. Jeevitha and over 500 films across Rajashekar interacted Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, with his daughter and and Malayalam lan- extended their condo- guages. lences to his family. Expressing condo- lences, Megastar Chiranjeevi recalled his association with Veeraiah. “Personally and professionally, Veeraiah faced lot many struggles in his life. Acting in vari- ous south Indian language films for five decades, Veeraiah created his own mark in Telugu film industry,” Chiranjeevi said in a statement. “Veeraiah acted in 300 movies despite insurmountable per- sonal and profes- sional challenges.