India reports 34,457 COVID-19 cases
Active COVID-19 cases in India stand at 3,61,340, the lowest in 151 days. 36,347 recoveries in last 24 hours.
Taj Mahal to reopen for night viewing from August 21
After remaining closed for over a year for night viewing, the Taj Mahal in Agra will reopen from August 21 for visitors who want to explore the monument under moonlight, officials said.
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) superintending archaeologist (Agra circle) said that there are three time slots for visitors between 8:30 and 10 pm. In every slot, 50 tourists would be allowed.
Zydus Cadila’s ZyCoV-D becomes first COVID-19 vaccine in India to receive DCGI’s approval for emergency use in children aged 12 and above.
It is world’s first and indigenously developed DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine and it showed showed 66.6% efficacy in Phase-III trial.
This three-dose vaccine which when injected produces the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and elicits an immune response.
AIIMS director Randeep Guleria urges people not to step out unless necessary
‘Avoid stepping out of house unless absolutely necessary’ as festive season might lead to 3rd wave, said AIIMS director Randeep Guleria. Directors of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) across the country have asked people to continue following Covid appropriate behaviour to avoid any possible spike in the daily caseload.
“Whenever you step out of the house, wear a mask. Keep washing your hands with soap. After touching anything, definitely use sanitiser. Health is important now,” he said.