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India Sees Uptick in COVID-19 Cases: Active Infections Near 4,000, Deaths Reported Across Key States

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India is witnessing a steady rise in COVID-19 infections, with active cases reaching 3,961 as of Monday, June 2—a jump of 566 cases from the previous day, according to data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). The recent surge is driven primarily by states like Kerala, Maharashtra, and Delhi, which are reporting the highest case numbers. Since the start of the year, the country has registered 32 COVID-related deaths, including four in the last 24 hours. One fatality each was reported from Delhi, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. The deceased include a 22-year-old woman from Delhi with a history of post-tuberculosis complications and a 44-year-old man from Maharashtra suffering from acute respiratory distress and aortic valve problems. While Kerala confirmed another death, specific details are awaited. Delhi Records Steepest Daily Spike; Tamil Nadu, Karnataka Also Report Fatalities Delhi saw the most significant daily rise in active infections among major states, adding 47 new cases and logging one death. Tamil Nadu, with 189 active cases, reported the passing of a 25-year-old man with underlying bronchial asthma and acute kidney complications. Karnataka, currently reporting 253 active cases, recorded a fresh fatality, while Uttar Pradesh reported two deaths and has 157 active cases. In total, 16 states and Union Territories have recorded COVID-related deaths in 2025. However, the majority of cases remain mild, with limited hospital admissions. Kerala Leads in Caseload; Maharashtra, West Bengal Also on High Alert Kerala continues to report the highest number of active COVID-19 cases at 1,435, rising from 1,336 the previous day. Maharashtra follows with 506 active cases, and Delhi with 483. West Bengal has also seen a surge, reporting 331 active infections. Other notable figures include: Gujarat: 338 Karnataka: 253 Tamil Nadu: 189 Uttar Pradesh: 157 Rajasthan: 69 States like Madhya Pradesh (23), Haryana (28), and Odisha (12) have recorded smaller increases. In the last 24 hours, 203 patients have recovered, pushing the total number of recoveries and migrations this year to 2,188. Authorities Urge Caution, Not Panic Health experts and officials maintain that the situation is under control, emphasizing that most new cases are mild and manageable at home. Dr. Rajiv Behl, Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), reassured the public that while increased vigilance is necessary, there’s no immediate cause for alarm. The rise in cases coincides with the detection of new Omicron sub-variants—LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1—identified in genome sequencing studies from western and southern India. These have been classified by the World Health Organization as “Variants Under Monitoring,” indicating they don’t currently pose a significant global threat. Preparedness Measures in Place as Precaution In response, state health departments—particularly in Delhi, Maharashtra, and Kerala—are ramping up hospital readiness and reviewing medical supply logistics. Citizens, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health issues, are being encouraged to wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated settings. Experts stress that while the virus is spreading faster due to more contagious but less severe sub-variants, preventive strategies such as timely testing, vaccination, and community awareness remain key to containing its impact. Though the overall caseload is still far lower than during peak waves, the recent tenfold increase over two weeks underscores the need for continued monitoring, public cooperation, and proactive measures to avoid another significant outbreak. Source: Economic Times Photo Credit: iStock   

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Dengue Cases Rise in Karnataka Ahead of Monsoon, Over 1,100 Infections Reported

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Dengue infections are rising steadily across Karnataka even before the onset of the monsoon, with 1,186 cases reported between January and April 30, 2025. Health officials are particularly concerned that over 50 of these cases are in infants under one year of age, while 553 infections are among children below 18. Early summer showers, stagnant water, and construction activity have led to increased mosquito breeding, with Bengaluru alone accounting for 513 cases—43% of the state’s total. The number of infections spiked significantly in April, rising from 707 cases in early March to 1,186 by the end of April. Though this year’s numbers are lower compared to the same period last year, the memory of 2024—when Karnataka recorded 32,826 dengue cases, the highest in India—has health officials on alert. The state had also reported 20 dengue-related deaths in 2024, trailing only Kerala (99 deaths) and Maharashtra (26 deaths). State Joint Director of the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme, Dr Ansar Ahmed, confirmed that all six hospitalised cases so far this year were from Bengaluru. He urged the public to prevent water stagnation and remain vigilant, as monsoon conditions favour the spread of mosquito-borne, waterborne, and airborne diseases. Dr Haleema Yezdani, a Bengaluru-based physician, warned that water stagnation after rains becomes a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes. She emphasized early detection, noting that dengue symptoms—high fever, severe headache, fatigue, nausea, and rash—should not be ignored. In response to last year’s outbreak, Karnataka declared dengue a notifiable epidemic disease and imposed a price cap on diagnostic tests. The Health Department also reserved beds in government hospitals and launched a toll-free helpline. With more rains forecast, health authorities are stepping up awareness and surveillance efforts to prevent another outbreak. Source: Hindu  

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VTU Revolutionizes Engineering Education with Liquid Instruments’ Reconfigurable Technology

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Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), one of India’s largest and most prestigious technological universities, is set to transform engineering education in Karnataka by integrating reconfigurable instrumentation from Liquid Instruments. This move will impact more than 150 affiliated colleges, equipping thousands of engineering students with hands-on experience in modern technology, starting this fall. Liquid Instruments’ innovative Moku platform, originally developed using technology from NASA’s space-based gravitational wave detection projects, offers a suite of 14 test and measurement instruments in one compact device. Powered by a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), the platform delivers everything from basic tools like an oscilloscope to advanced instruments like a lock-in amplifier. This all-in-one solution allows students to perform real-time experiments in diverse fields, such as digital signal processing and control systems. Dr. R. Sundaraguru, head of the electronics and communication engineering department at Sir M. Visveshwaraiah College of Engineering in Bengaluru, hailed the Moku platform for its flexibility and usefulness. “It is excellent in all functions,” he said. “It will be easy to operate and very much useful to students.” Traditionally, such advanced tools have only been available in high-end research labs due to cost and space constraints, leaving undergraduate students reliant on simulations. Liquid Instruments’ Moku platform changes that by providing affordable, real-time experimentation capabilities. With API support and the ability to configure multi-instrument test setups, the platform bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making it an invaluable addition to the curriculum. Daniel Shaddock, co-founder and CEO of Liquid Instruments, is excited about the partnership. “We’re thrilled to equip Indian students with state-of-the-art tools to accelerate their education. This approach allows students to explore how signals evolve and interact with the physical world, giving them practical skills essential to today’s workforce,” he said, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience in preparing students for careers in India’s rapidly expanding tech industry. To ensure the successful rollout of this new technology, Liquid Instruments, along with regional partners Tessolve and Spruha Solutions, will offer training sessions for faculty members and help establish learning labs at each institution. This initiative ensures that professors are well-equipped to guide students, helping them gain the skills needed for internships and future employment opportunities in the modern workforce. By integrating such advanced technology into the curriculum, VTU is not only enhancing the academic experience but also setting the stage for a new generation of engineers who will shape the future of India’s booming tech landscape.

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Karnataka Government Hints at Hiking Water Tariff in Bengaluru

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Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced a potential increase in water tariffs in Bengaluru, following a recent hike in petrol and diesel prices in Karnataka. The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) faces significant financial challenges, and Shivakumar emphasized the need for a review after 10 years. The completion of the fifth phase of the Cauvery project is expected to impact the decision on the water tariff hike. After the recent increase in petrol and diesel prices in Karnataka, residents of Bengaluru may also face a water tariff hike. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar mentioned on Wednesday that the water tariff had not been revised for the past decade, necessitating a review. “We are suffering huge losses. We’ve taken up new projects, and no bank is coming forward to finance the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB),” said Shivakumar, who is also the Bengaluru development minister. Last week, the state government increased sales tax on fuel, making petrol and diesel costlier by Rs 3 and Rs 3.5 per litre, respectively. Shivakumar added that he has instructed officials to review the BWSSB’s financial position and provide a report. “Let them give a report first. We will place it before the public before taking a call. The fifth phase of the Cauvery project is going to be completed. In 10-15 days, I’ll ensure completion of BWSSB work in this regard. At least 70% of the water bill is incurred through power bills and labor charges. Every year, we suffer a big loss. Hence, there is no option. I am working out possibilities and discussing how to stabilize the company (BWSSB),” he said. Justifying the necessity of the hike, Shivakumar stated: “Even the financing committee, World Bank, and others are telling us we are politicizing the issue and not even trying to bring it to a breakeven level. This is what various officials and international banking staffers are conveying. We must expand the water distribution system. I have now allotted 6 TMC ft of more water to Bengaluru. We must undertake the work of one more phase. There is no option unless we show them that BWSSB is an independent company and works as an independent entity.”

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Karnataka Government to End Four-Year Honours Degree Programme Implemented Under NEP

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The Karnataka state government has announced its decision to discontinue the option for students to pursue a four-year honours degree programme, which was implemented under the National Education Policy (NEP). An official order to this effect is scheduled to be issued on May 8, following the completion of the second phase of polling in Karnataka on May 7. The higher education department, awaiting the conclusion of the state’s elections, will issue the order, effectively ending the four-year honours courses. This decision will impact the current batch of students admitted under the NEP, who are currently in their third year and will be the last to have the option to continue into the fourth year. During a recent meeting, officials from the higher education department communicated this decision to the vice-chancellors of all state-run universities. The vice-chancellors have been instructed to inform students during the admissions process for the academic year 2024-25 that there will be no four-year honours programmes available, and to admit students only for three-year degree courses. The decision is based on the interim report submitted by the State Education Policy (SEP) commission, led by former chairperson of the University Grants Commission, Sukhadeo Thorat. While the commission requested until August 2024 to submit its final report, it submitted the interim report on the four-year honours programme to address the confusion among students admitted under the NEP. As students are currently in their final year, universities need to clarify whether they will receive a degree certificate or be allowed to continue for the fourth year. The issuance of an official order after the state elections aims to provide clarity on this matter and streamline the higher education system in Karnataka.  

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Karnataka Health Minister Accuses Centre of Disrupting Anti-TB Drug Supply

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Karnataka’s Health Minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, has voiced concerns over interruptions in the supply of anti-tuberculosis (TB) drugs by the Central government. Rao highlighted the critical shortage of medications, putting the lives of over 80,000 TB patients at risk annually in the state. Expressing dismay over the lack of adequate drug quantities, Rao emphasized the detrimental impact of delayed communications and directives from the Union Government, especially during the model code of conduct period. He urged immediate action to rectify the situation, stressing that neglecting people’s health amid electoral considerations is unjustifiable. Rao’s assertions come amidst accusations of “stepmotherly treatment” towards Karnataka by the Centre regarding funding for various development projects, particularly in drought-affected regions. State Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also criticized the Centre for not providing the mandated extra 50 days of work under the MGNREGA program for drought-hit taluks, despite repeated appeals from state officials. Shivakumar underscored the urgency of addressing these issues, pointing out the legal obligation to provide additional support during times of crisis. Despite appeals to Union Ministers, including the Prime Minister and Home Minister, Shivakumar lamented the lack of financial assistance for drought relief efforts in Karnataka.

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Tamil Nadu Health Department Issues Advisory Amid Monkey Fever Surge in Karnataka

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The Tamil Nadu Public Health Department has raised concerns over the increasing cases of Monkey Fever (Kyasanur Forest Disease) in neighbouring Karnataka districts, prompting the issuance of an advisory to Tamil Nadu forest authorities and local bodies in bordering areas. As Monkey Fever cases surge in Karnataka, with two fatalities and 103 hospitalizations reported in Shivamogga, Uttara Kannada, and Chickmagaluru districts, the threat looms large over Tamil Nadu’s border villages. A joint study by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Institute of Virology (NIV) has confirmed the presence of the virus in Mysore and Hassan districts of Karnataka, adjacent to Tamil Nadu. To mitigate the risk, health and forest authorities have intensified surveillance along the Tamil Nadu-Karnataka border, particularly targeting forest personnel, anti-poaching watchers, and guards, who are at higher risk due to their proximity to wildlife habitats. The Mudumalai Tiger Reserve (MTR) in the Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu, shares borders with the Bandipur National Park in Karnataka, where about 200 field staff operate daily, potentially exposing themselves to the virus carried by monkeys, rodents, and shrews. With the approaching dry season and forest fires, which can exacerbate the spread of ticks carrying the virus, the coming months pose heightened risks for field staff. Although vaccination against Monkey Fever was administered to forest personnel in the Nilgiris until 2020, the practice was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Monkey Fever typically manifests symptoms like chills, fever, headache, severe muscle pain, vomiting, gastrointestinal issues, and bleeding. While there’s no specific treatment, early hospitalization and supportive therapy are crucial for managing the disease.

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Delhi Reports First Case of JN.1 COVID Variant: Live Updates and Emerging Trends in India’s Pandemic Landscape

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Delhi has reported its first case of the JN.1 COVID variant, as per live updates on the pandemic. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi has promptly issued guidelines in response to this new case. As of December 26, India has recorded a total of 109 JN.1 COVID variant cases, according to sources from the Health Ministry. The distribution of cases reveals 36 in Gujarat, 34 in Karnataka, 14 in Goa, 9 in Maharashtra, 6 in Kerala, 4 in Rajasthan, 4 in Tamil Nadu, and 2 in Telangana. Wednesday witnessed a spike in the daily COVID-19 cases in India, with 529 new infections reported in a single day. The active infection count in the country stands at 4,093, with three new fatalities documented within 24 hours – two in Karnataka and one in Gujarat. This surge in cases follows a period of relative decline, with daily case numbers dropping to double digits until December 5. The resurgence is attributed to the emergence of a new variant and cold weather conditions. Internationally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified JN.1 as a variant of interest, distinct from its parent lineage BA.2.86. However, the WHO has emphasized that, based on current evidence, the overall risk posed by JN.1 remains low. The classification of JN.1 as a variant of interest underscores the ongoing efforts to monitor and understand the evolution of the virus.

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COVID-19 Update: Rising Cases, Advisory in Himachal, JN.1 Variant Spreads

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Amid a surge in COVID-19 cases, several Indian states are urging citizens to adhere to coronavirus protocols. As of December 25, Kerala leads with 3,096 active cases, followed by Karnataka (436), Maharashtra (168), Gujarat (56), and Tamil Nadu (139). The Union Health Ministry reported 69 cases of the JN.1 COVID subvariant in the country. In response to the variant’s presence, Himachal Pradesh health officials issued an advisory. Chief medical officers are instructed to test individuals with COVID-19 symptoms, emphasizing vigilance. Dr. Sanjeev Kumar from Una recommended immediate testing for those with symptoms like cold, fever, or cough, while stressing the importance of mask-wearing. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao confirmed 34 cases of the JN.1 variant in the state, reassuring the public that the situation is under control. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar urged citizens not to panic, emphasizing that the health minister would provide updates. In a surprising turn, BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal threatened to reveal a purported ₹40,000-crore “Covid scam” if expelled from the party. Yatnal alleges that the Karnataka BJP government, led by B S Yediyurappa, engaged in massive corruption during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Delhi’s Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj stated that the city’s COVID positivity rate is around 1%. While advising caution during winter festivals, he assured the public that additional genome sequencing is being conducted. Meanwhile, a new COVID-19 case surfaced in Khurda district, Odisha, bringing the state’s total to three. All three individuals exhibit mild symptoms and are undergoing home treatment. Responding to the escalating cases, the Karnataka government’s coronavirus sub-committee implemented measures, including mandatory mask-wearing, home isolation, and caution against sending symptomatic children to schools. Dr. Shekhar C Mande, former Director-General of CSIR, emphasized the significance of disease surveillance in India, not only for COVID-19 but also for tracking the spread of various infections, including antimicrobial resistance. He highlighted the usefulness of surveillance methods such as wastewater analysis in detecting variants like JN.1. The World Health Organization (WHO) has labeled JN.1 as a ‘variant of interest,’ distinct from its counterpart BA.2.86. Despite this, WHO maintains that the risk from JN.1 remains low for now

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Dr. Malini Dutta, Principal, BGS National Public School, Emphasizes on Karnataka as an Education Hub

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“The dynamic and ever-changing mindset of the people in Karnataka makes it an ideal environment for innovation and technological advancements,” says Dr. Malini Dutta, Principal, BGS National Public School, in an interview with Pratik Ghosh, Content Writer, ArdorComm Media at the ‘New Normal – Education Leadership Summit & Awards 2023’ #ELSABengaluru #ELSAKarnataka How are you feeling to witness the New Normal Education Leadership Summit and Awards in Bengaluru? It is an excellent opportunity. When we see these leaders coming together, thanks to platforms like this, it brings together knowledge, thought processes, and the drive to create innovative changes in our schools and campuses. It’s not just about sharing knowledge; it’s also about the amalgamation of knowledge, experience, and competency. This synergy is a boost for us to move forward. Thank you for organizing such events, and thanks to ArdorComm Media for making it happen. As you know, the theme of our event is New Normal Karnataka. What’s your take on this? There is no doubt that Karnataka serves as a hub for education and learning. It’s worth noting that Karnataka was among the first states to adopt the National Education Policy (NEP). Setting aside political agendas, the focus should be on how education policies, coupled with new technologies, innovations, and creativity, can positively impact our children. This impact should extend beyond academics to encompass co-scholastic fields. Karnataka stands at the forefront of educational innovation, largely due to its association with Silicon Valley and the influx of talent and companies from abroad. Notable organizations like De Facto, Aids London, and others have set up operations here, offering recognition and certifications to our students. These certifications, recognized by the government of the United Kingdom, provide our students with a competitive edge. Certificates that hold such value often become key factors in securing scholarships. Karnataka is a preferred destination for innovative organizations and digital technology-based companies. They recognize the state’s potential because of its diverse population and cosmopolitan cities where technology is readily embraced. The dynamic and ever-changing mindset of the people in Karnataka makes it an ideal environment for innovation and technological advancements. So, I think Karnataka is rocking and it will rock in the future as well How are you implementing technology in your school? Technology is integrated into every aspect of our school, from assemblies to classes and skill development. We have one of the highest numbers of technology implementations in our school in Bangalore. We have an Atal Tinkering Lab, and our students have been winning national-level projects for the past six to seven years. We have technology in design thinking, CD Labs, computer education, and even in issuing books through our ERP system. The content library allows students to access practice materials and clear doubts from the comfort of their homes. ArdorComm Media has recently completed two years of its existence, any message for us? Many congratulations! I hope and can see that you are exceeding your own expectations. I have a suggestion: create a separate segment where you exclusively promote schools and students. Highlight the marvellous achievements, innovations, and contributions of students. This encouragement and acknowledgment from media can boost the morale, enthusiasm, and energy of students. Media plays a pivotal role in our democracy, and it should extend its support to students and schools. I look forward to seeing ArdorComm Media more involved in the student and school segments.

Dr. Malini Dutta, Principal, BGS National Public School, Emphasizes on Karnataka as an Education Hub Read More »