Hit with Second Wave, India Becomes COVID-19 Hotspot  

NEW DELHI - India has become the global hotspot for the COVID-19 pandemic, counting the world’s highest numbers of daily new infections in recent days as it grapples with a second wave of the pandemic weeks after witnessing a dramatic decline.    The #Pandemic isn't over and there is no scope for complacency On #WorldHealthDay2021 infuse greater zeal to #Unite2FightCorona, get vaccinated on your turn & follow COVID appropriate behaviour scrupulously! @PMOIndia @MoHFW_INDIA #LargestVaccineDrive https://t.co/KSqfJ1xriq

The impact of the swift surge in the virus, in the world’s biggest vaccine maker, will be felt far beyond its shores as India slows vaccine shipments to other countries.      Health experts blame many people in the vast populous country for virtually abandoning COVID protocols as cases tumbled earlier this year.      Huge crowds, mostly without masks, have been jostling at massive political rallies being held in five states holding local elections. A month-long religious festival that sees hundreds congregate daily to take a dip in the river Ganges that Hindus consider holy is underway in the northern state of Uttarakhand. Weddings and family events have become bigger.