News for 'Covid'

World Happiness Report 2025: Finland tops the list, India ranks...

World Happiness Report 2025: Finland tops the list, India ranks...

Rediff.com20 Mar 2025

India has improved its ranking in the World Happiness Report 2025, climbing to 118th from 126th last year. However, it still lags behind neighbouring countries like Nepal, Pakistan, and Ukraine. Finland has topped the list for the eighth consecutive year. The report emphasizes the impact of caring and sharing on happiness, highlighting how sharing meals increases happiness. It also notes a decline in wellbeing in the United States, which has dropped to its lowest ever position at 24th.

The pivotal decision facing India's steelmakers

The pivotal decision facing India's steelmakers

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

The "weaponisation" of economic activity - through tariffs and sanctions - is now a reality, with countries leveraging these tools strategically, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said at the Raisina Dialogue recently.

'Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji': Uddhav's reply to BJP's 'Jai Shri Ram'

'Jai Bhavani, Jai Shivaji': Uddhav's reply to BJP's 'Jai Shri Ram'

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Thackeray also drew a comparison between the current regime and Hitler.

'No Politics When It Comes To The Country's Finances'

'No Politics When It Comes To The Country's Finances'

Rediff.com2 Apr 2025

'Each state is unique, but when it comes to finance, the fundamentals cannot be different.'

New COVID variant Eris spreading fast in UK: Report

New COVID variant Eris spreading fast in UK: Report

Rediff.com5 Aug 2023

The UK Health Security Agency said EG.5.1, which has been nicknamed Eris, makes up one in seven new COVID cases.

The COVID-19 Murals Are Back!

The COVID-19 Murals Are Back!

Rediff.com29 Mar 2023

Active COVID-19 cases in India surpassed the 10,000 mark after 134 days.

India's daily Covid count lowest since March 2020

India's daily Covid count lowest since March 2020

Rediff.com20 Jun 2023

India witnessed a single-day rise of 36 fresh COVID-19 cases, the lowest since March 2020, while the active caseload declined to 1,844, according to Union health ministry data.

'HMPV Has Been Circulating For Decades'

'HMPV Has Been Circulating For Decades'

Rediff.com14 Jan 2025

'But it is only now being detected more via a test that costs about Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000.' 'The HMPV virus typically causes mild respiratory symptoms in most people, but can be more severe in young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immunity.'

Covid no longer a global health emergency: WHO

Covid no longer a global health emergency: WHO

Rediff.com5 May 2023

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, made the announcement while addressing a media briefing on COVID-19 and global health issues.

SC refuses stay on Adani's Dharavi redevelopment project

SC refuses stay on Adani's Dharavi redevelopment project

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

The Supreme Court of India has refused to halt the redevelopment project of Dharavi in Mumbai, allowing the Adani Group to proceed with their project. The court rejected a plea from Seclink Technologies Corporation, the original highest bidder for the project in 2018, which challenged the tender process and the award to Adani Properties Pvt Ltd in 2022. The court directed Adani Properties to make payments through a single bank account and ordered Seclink Technologies to file an affidavit detailing their increased offer for the project. The project work has already commenced, with constructions underway and 2,000 people employed on the site.

India, Sri Lanka sign major defence pact

India, Sri Lanka sign major defence pact

Rediff.com5 Apr 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a tri-services ceremonial welcome in Colombo, Sri Lanka, marking the first time such an honor has been bestowed upon a foreign leader. The welcome took place at the historic Independence Square, the venue for national day celebrations. Modi's visit comes as Sri Lanka shows signs of recovery from a recent economic crisis, with India playing a significant role in providing assistance. During the visit, both leaders are expected to discuss a range of issues, including defense cooperation, energy, and digital initiatives.

'Goa Beach Shacks Can't Sell Idli-Sambar'

'Goa Beach Shacks Can't Sell Idli-Sambar'

Rediff.com28 Feb 2025

'These beach shacks were meant to protect the employment of local Goans who in turn would showcase Goan cuisine and culture on the beaches of Goa.'

IPL 2025: Why Siraj is excited about lifting of saliva ban

IPL 2025: Why Siraj is excited about lifting of saliva ban

Rediff.com20 Mar 2025

Team India pacer Mohammed Siraj welcomed the BCCI's decision to lift the ban on using saliva to shine the ball ahead of IPL 2025, saying it will aid "reverse swing" even in unfriendly conditions.

For how long freebies can be given to migrant workers? SC asks Centre

For how long freebies can be given to migrant workers? SC asks Centre

Rediff.com9 Dec 2024

The Supreme Court of India expressed concerns about the long-term sustainability of providing free rations to migrant workers, emphasizing the need for job creation and capacity building instead. The court's remarks came during a hearing on the ongoing issue of providing relief to migrant workers, a matter that gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. The court questioned the government's reliance on freebies and stressed the importance of creating opportunities for migrant workers to become self-sufficient. The debate highlighted the challenges of balancing immediate relief with long-term economic solutions for vulnerable populations.

COVID-19 Surges In China

COVID-19 Surges In China

Rediff.com23 Dec 2022

Health data firm Airfinity estimates more than 5,000 people are probably dying each day from COVID-19 in China.

Return of Covid: Karnataka makes masks mandatory for...

Return of Covid: Karnataka makes masks mandatory for...

Rediff.com18 Dec 2023

The Karnataka government on Monday asked those above 60-years of age, with comorbidities, and symptoms of cough, phlegm and fever to mandatorily wear face masks, in the wake detection of a case of COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 in neighbouring Kerala.

India's creative plan for 2026 Commonwealth Games

India's creative plan for 2026 Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com21 Feb 2025

India has proposed to conduct all those disciplines that were axed from the 2026 Commonwealth Games to ensure that the country's medal tally is not affected when the event is held in Glasgow.

HEX20 Elevates India With Nila Launch

HEX20 Elevates India With Nila Launch

Rediff.com7 Apr 2025

'The launch of Nila, our very first satellite was very emotional as well as nerve wracking. We tried to calm ourselves by cracking some poor jokes!'

Does India have enough vaccine reserves to combat another Covid wave?

Does India have enough vaccine reserves to combat another Covid wave?

Rediff.com27 Dec 2023

According to CoWIN data, only 73 vaccination centres are currently active in India, of which 32 are government-run.

Govt fixes capex at Rs 11.21 lakh cr for FY26

Govt fixes capex at Rs 11.21 lakh cr for FY26

Rediff.com2 Feb 2025

Having missed the target for the current financial year, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Saturday proposed to spend Rs 11.21 lakh crore towards capital expenditure (capex) for FY26. However, the capex target is going to be missed by about 93,000 crore for the current financial year.

ED arrests Sanjay Raut's aide in Covid centres case

ED arrests Sanjay Raut's aide in Covid centres case

Rediff.com20 Jul 2023

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested businessman Sujit Patkar, a friend of Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray MP Sanjay Raut, and another person in connection with a money laundering case related to alleged irregularities in setting up of jumbo COVID-19 treatment facilities in Mumbai, an official said on Thursday.

Hero Moto says sales may rebound in 'big way'

Hero Moto says sales may rebound in 'big way'

Rediff.com16 Jan 2025

Hero MotoCorp anticipates a big rebound in two-wheeler (2W) sales in rural India over the next four to eight quarters, driven by favourable factors such as a decent monsoon, rising crop prices, improved employment conditions, and increasing consumer confidence, its chief executive officer (CEO) Niranjan Gupta said on Wednesday. Amid tepid rural sales, he stated that there is a "strong case" for GST (goods and services tax) on entry-level two-wheelers, which are under 125 CC, to be moved down from 28 per cent to 18 per cent as they are used by "masses".

'Being In The Fauj Is Most Glorious'

'Being In The Fauj Is Most Glorious'

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

'No matter how much you get paid or how successful you get, nothing can match the fauj.'

Shaktikanta Das appointed principal secretary to PM

Shaktikanta Das appointed principal secretary to PM

Rediff.com22 Feb 2025

P K Mishra, a retired IAS officer of the Gujarat cadre, is currently serving as the principal secretary to the prime minister.

Brand ambassador, cricket...: How Maldives aims to attract 3L Indians in 2025

Brand ambassador, cricket...: How Maldives aims to attract 3L Indians in 2025

Rediff.com4 Feb 2025

The Maldives government has set a target of attracting 300,000 Indian tourists in 2025, aiming to regain its position as a top destination for Indian travelers. The country's tourism sector has been impacted by strained relations between Male and New Delhi, which led to a decline in Indian tourist arrivals in 2024. To revive the Indian tourist market, the Maldives is planning a major campaign, including a brand ambassador, cricket summer camps, and expanded flight routes from more Indian cities.

Will Nirmalaji Target Fiscal Deficit?

Will Nirmalaji Target Fiscal Deficit?

Rediff.com28 Jan 2025

The Budget should undertake further reductions in import tariffs and seriously consider an announcement of India's intention to join one or both of the two Asian mega-regional free trade agreements, suggests Shankar Acharya, former chief economic adviser to the Government of India.

US SC rejects Tahawwur Rana's plea against extradition; files fresh one

US SC rejects Tahawwur Rana's plea against extradition; files fresh one

Rediff.com7 Mar 2025

Tahawwur Rana, accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has renewed his plea for a stay on his extradition to India, citing health concerns and alleging potential torture. He argues that his extradition would violate US law and the UN Convention Against Torture. Rana's lawyers claim he is at risk of being subjected to torture in Indian detention facilities due to his Pakistani origin, Muslim religion, and medical conditions. The US Supreme Court had previously denied his emergency bid for a stay, but he has now appealed to Chief Justice John Roberts. The US government has declined to provide information on any commitment from India regarding Rana's treatment, further fueling his concerns.

IPL 2025: Cricket carnival returns as KKR face RCB in opener

IPL 2025: Cricket carnival returns as KKR face RCB in opener

Rediff.com21 Mar 2025

New rules, new captains, but same excitement as two months of cricket extravaganza kicks off in Kolkata.

Tahawwur Rana seeks stay on extradition, fears torture

Tahawwur Rana seeks stay on extradition, fears torture

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

Mumbai terror attack accused Tahawwur Rana has moved an 'emergency application' with the United States Supreme Court against his extradition to India, claiming that he will be tortured there since he is a Muslim of Pakistani origin.

US top court to hear Tahawwur Rana's new plea against extradition

US top court to hear Tahawwur Rana's new plea against extradition

Rediff.com21 Mar 2025

Tahawwur Rana, accused in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, has renewed his application to the US Supreme Court seeking a stay of his extradition to India. The Supreme Court will hear the application next month. Rana, currently detained in Los Angeles, claims his extradition would violate US law and expose him to torture in India due to his health and Muslim background. The US government has denied these claims and authorized his surrender to India, citing the Extradition Treaty between the two countries. The Supreme Court's decision will determine if Rana will face justice in India or remain in the United States.

Meet Delhi's new cabinet: A diverse power mix

Meet Delhi's new cabinet: A diverse power mix

Rediff.com20 Feb 2025

The cabinet of the new government led by Rekha Gupta balances representation of all major communities that propelled the Bharatiya Janata Party to power in Delhi with a massive majority after over 26 years.

Indians Work More Than Chinese!

Indians Work More Than Chinese!

Rediff.com14 Feb 2025

The average Indian works 46.7 hours per week, surpassing even China's 46.1 hours. In some sectors, the numbers are even more staggering.

Covid centre scam: ED files chargesheet against Sanjay Raut's bizman aide

Covid centre scam: ED files chargesheet against Sanjay Raut's bizman aide

Rediff.com16 Sep 2023

The chargesheet against the associate of Shiv Sena-UBT MP Sanjay Raut was submitted before the court's registry and it will come up before the special judge for cases under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act after scrutiny of papers.

No unusual HMPV surge in India but precautions must: Experts

No unusual HMPV surge in India but precautions must: Experts

Rediff.com12 Jan 2025

Amid growing concerns over the detection of human metapneumovirus cases in India, health experts have emphasised the virus is not new, and advised people to stay calm and take basic precautions.

RSS returns to old office in Delhi, rebuilt with Rs 150 crore

RSS returns to old office in Delhi, rebuilt with Rs 150 crore

Rediff.com12 Feb 2025

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh has moved back its office in New Delhi to its old address following the near completion of the rebuilding project spread across over 3.75 acre premises, housing three 13-storey towers and around 300 rooms and offices in total.

Cong leaders' remarks on Prez Murmu unfortunate: Rashtrapati Bhavan

Cong leaders' remarks on Prez Murmu unfortunate: Rashtrapati Bhavan

Rediff.com31 Jan 2025

The President's office has condemned comments made by Congress leaders regarding President Droupadi Murmu's address to Parliament, stating that they hurt the dignity of the high office. The statement clarified that the President was not tired during her speech and that the comments were in "poor taste" and "unacceptable." The Congress leaders had reportedly discussed the speech, with Sonia Gandhi commenting on the President's alleged tiredness. The statement suggested that the leaders may have misunderstood the President's speech due to their unfamiliarity with Indian languages.

Having family on tour important for players: Buttler

Having family on tour important for players: Buttler

Rediff.com21 Jan 2025

England captain Jos Buttler has defended the presence of families on long overseas tours.

Djokovic says he was 'poisoned' during 2022 Melbourne detention

Djokovic says he was 'poisoned' during 2022 Melbourne detention

Rediff.com10 Jan 2025

Novak Djokovic was "poisoned" by the food he ingested while detained during his 2022 Australian Open visa saga.

Disquieting Deeds Can't Wipe Out Work AAP Has Done

Disquieting Deeds Can't Wipe Out Work AAP Has Done

Rediff.com13 Feb 2025

'A government whose policies are focused around making the life of ordinary citizens, specially the most deprived sections, richer; a government that prioritises education, health and transport, that doesn't treat its citizens as subjects who must come to it for everything, is rare in our country.' 'When such a government is thrown out, one is left stunned,' notes Jyoti Punwani.

New Covid-like pandemic 'highly likely': China's 'batwoman'

New Covid-like pandemic 'highly likely': China's 'batwoman'

Rediff.com26 Sep 2023

The research revealed that coronaviruses and their hosts are engaged in an evolutionary arms race that promotes genetic variety in the virus.