THE NUMBER OF daily coronavirus infections in India has dipped below 100,000 for the first time in more than two months as an overall downturn prompted some states to ease restrictions.

The 86,498 cases added in the past 24 hours pushed India’s total past 29 million on Tuesday, second only to the United States, which has more than 33 million.

The Health Ministry also reported 2,123 new fatalities in the past 24 hours, raising the overall death toll to 351,309.

Press Association Images Press Association Images

Both figures are believed to be vast undercounts.

India peaked at adding more than 400,000 cases a day in May, but new infections and deaths have declined across the country since then.

The downturn has led some states to ease restrictions on commercial activities to spur consumption.

Multiple states have, however, extended lockdowns and have been reluctant to reopen.

Commuters use the Delhi Metro, which serves the Indian capital and adjoining areas, after it resumed operations Ishant Chauhan / AP Ishant Chauhan / AP / AP

Meanwhile, the federal government is going to take over vaccine procurement from the states and ensure vaccines are provided free of cost to every adult Indian.

India’s vaccination drive has been marred by delays and shortages.

Less than 5% of the population is fully vaccinated.

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More