India logs 306 Covid cases in 24 hours; Centre launches hospital preparedness drills

Covid-19 is seeing a slow but steady rise in India, with 306 new infections reported across the country in the past 24 hours, according to data released by the Union Health Ministry. The national active caseload now stands at 7,121. In the same time frame, six Covid-related deaths were reported—three from Kerala, two from Karnataka, and one from Maharashtra.

Kerala recorded the highest single-day surge with 170 new infections, followed by Gujarat (114) and Karnataka (100). Delhi also logged 66 fresh cases, pushing its active tally to 757. Among the deceased were elderly individuals and patients with existing comorbidities like hypertension, diabetes, and respiratory distress.

Jharkhand reported its first Covid death of the year—a 44-year-old man undergoing treatment at RIMS, Ranchi. Officials confirmed the patient had multiple health issues in addition to testing positive for the virus. As of now, Jharkhand has six active cases, with nine recoveries since January.

In response to the rising numbers, the central government has initiated nationwide mock drills to evaluate hospital readiness. States have been directed to ensure oxygen supply, functional isolation wards, ICU beds, and availability of essential drugs. Health authorities emphasise that most cases remain mild and are being managed at home.