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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   

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

New COVID-19 Subvariants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 Detected in India: INSACOG Report

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India has recorded the presence of two newly emerging COVID-19 subvariants—NB.1.8.1 and LF.7—according to recent data released by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG). While these variants are currently categorized as Variants Under Monitoring by the World Health Organization (WHO), they have been linked to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases across China and parts of Asia. As per the INSACOG data, a single case of NB.1.8.1 was identified in Tamil Nadu in April, while four cases of LF.7 were reported from Gujarat in May 2025. Despite these new detections, the dominant strain circulating in India remains JN.1, accounting for approximately 53% of the tested samples. It is followed by BA.2 (26%) and other Omicron-related variants (20%). Preliminary assessments by WHO suggest that NB.1.8.1 poses a low global public health risk, but the subvariant carries spike protein mutations—A435S, V445H, and T478I—that may enhance both transmissibility and the ability to evade immune responses. As of May 19, India reported 257 active COVID-19 cases. A high-level review meeting was recently convened, chaired by the Director General of Health Services, with participation from the ICMR, National Centre for Disease Control, and other leading health agencies to monitor the evolving situation. Meanwhile, certain states have shown localized spikes. Delhi reported 23 new cases, Andhra Pradesh had four, Telangana confirmed one, and Bengaluru recorded a positive case in a nine-month-old infant, reflecting a steady rise over the last 20 days. Kerala, in particular, reported 273 cases in May alone. Source: PTI

New COVID-19 Subvariants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 Detected in India: INSACOG Report Read More »

Dr. P. Krishnakumar, CEO & Secretary, Nehru Group of Institutions emphasized on the future progress on Nehru Group of Institution

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“We strongly believe in molding true citizens, which means not only giving an opportunity to complete graduation but also upskilling their abilities to meet industry requirements.” Said Dr. P. Krishnakumar Could you tell us more about your group of institutions? We have completed our 50 years of existence, starting in 1968 in Coimbatore. We have a presence in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala with over 24 institutions, ranging from schools to a medical college. How do you ensure sustainability in education within your diverse group of institutions? We strongly believe in molding true citizens, which means not only giving an opportunity to complete graduation but also upskilling their abilities to meet industry requirements. We emphasize training and employability. For example, we have Technology Business Incubation (TBI) funded by DST (central government) to create startups, and we also have the NewGen IEDC initiative, which central government funds up to 2.5 lakhs for students’ projects to help them move from prototype to commercialization. Could you elaborate on the skill development and teacher training programs in your institution? We believe in training our faculty frequently. We have quarterly training sessions where we invite trainers from different industries and academia. We also encourage our faculty to upskill through various online certification programs as we evolve from traditional education to digitalization. Are there any new initiatives in technology within your institution? We are one of the few institutions in Kattur with multiple multiplex theaters on campus. This allows students and teachers developing e-content to see their work in a theater setting, enhancing the learning experience by creating an entertaining yet educational environment. What about global collaborations and exposure to international universities? As an affiliated institution, our ability to collaborate with foreign universities is limited due to state and central government policies. Universities have more freedom to engage in student exchange programs and faculty development programs abroad, but affiliated institutions must follow strict guidelines. What are your thoughts on employment versus employability? Employability is more important because it’s not just about getting a qualification but about ensuring that students are absorbed by the best industries. This is crucial for an educational institution’s survival. Top institutions maintain their status by ensuring high employability for their graduates. We focus on incubation and entrepreneurship, promoting a startup culture that allows students to understand entrepreneurship and take risks while still studying. What does the term ‘New Normal’ mean to you? New Normal means introducing new changes and ways of thinking and executing programs. It involves changing the traditional system to adapt to new methods and ideas, reflecting a fresh approach to education and leadership. Any message for ArdorComm Media Group? ArdorComm Media is doing an excellent job of connecting educational institutions and stakeholders. Networking and sharing knowledge are crucial in today’s world. Your role in connecting people from different age groups, experiences, and industries is invaluable. I’ve had the opportunity to meet many people from top institutions today, which is beneficial for information and networking. This positively impacts the education sector and brings about new changes. Keep up the good work. Any final thoughts? Thank you so much for inviting me to this event. It was impressive talking with you, and I appreciate the opportunity to be a part of this forum. Thank you.  

Dr. P. Krishnakumar, CEO & Secretary, Nehru Group of Institutions emphasized on the future progress on Nehru Group of Institution Read More »

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.

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

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

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

Health Ministry Issues Alert on Covid-19 Subvariant JN.1: Guidelines and Concerns Amid Rising Cases

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The Indian government has issued an alert to states regarding the emergence of the new Covid-19 subvariant, JN.1, as cases continue to rise in Kerala and 15 cases have been detected in samples from Goa. The Health Ministry emphasized that it is not yet clear whether an infection caused by JN.1 produces different symptoms or is more severe than other variants. The ministry stated that there is currently no indication of increased severity from JN.1, and there is no evidence that it presents an increased risk to public health compared to other circulating variants. Experts, including Dr. GC Khilnani, reassured that the elderly and those with comorbidities are not at an increased risk compared to other variants. General precautions such as handwashing and avoiding crowded areas during the festive season are recommended. The existing treatment for COVID-19 is expected to be effective against JN.1, and updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide increased protection. RT-PCR tests remain the most reliable method for detecting the new subvariant. As the festive season approaches, the Health Ministry stressed the importance of adhering to respiratory hygiene norms, including wearing masks in enclosed and crowded spaces, frequent handwashing, and social distancing. States, such as Karnataka, are taking additional measures, mandating face masks for the elderly and those with comorbidities. The Health Ministry is conducting intensified surveillance at various levels, including laboratories, communities, and sewage, to monitor and report cases of influenza-like illness and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness. The global concern over JN.1 is due to its immunity-evading capacity, leading to rapid spread, with outbreaks reported in the US, China, and Singapore. JN.1 is a descendant of the BA.2.86 lineage of SARS-CoV-2.

Health Ministry Issues Alert on Covid-19 Subvariant JN.1: Guidelines and Concerns Amid Rising Cases Read More »