**RT-PCR Test Mandatory for Ministers Meeting PM Modi Amid Rising COVID-19 Cases**
As active COVID-19 cases in India surpass 7,000, an RT-PCR test has been mandated for ministers meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This decision comes as approximately 70 BJP officials from Delhi, including the Chief Minister, all seven MPs, and MLAs, prepare for a dinner invitation from PM Modi at his residence this evening, following the party’s recent victory in the Delhi Assembly elections.
According to the Union Health Ministry’s latest report, the country has recorded 306 new COVID-19 cases and six fatalities in the last 24 hours. Among the reported deaths, three occurred in Kerala, while Maharashtra and Karnataka accounted for one and two deaths, respectively. Kerala has experienced the highest single-day increase, with 170 new cases, while Gujarat reported 114 new infections and currently has 1,223 active cases. Karnataka logged 100 new cases, and Delhi recorded 66 fresh infections, bringing the city’s total caseload to 757.
The overall situation shows Kerala leading in active cases, which have now exceeded 2,000, followed by Gujarat, West Bengal, and Delhi. In response to the uptick in COVID-19 cases, the central government has initiated mock drills nationwide to evaluate hospital readiness and has instructed states to ensure sufficient supplies of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medications. Health officials emphasize that most cases remain mild.
**FAQ**
*What measures are being taken to manage the rise in COVID-19 cases?*
The government has mandated RT-PCR tests for ministers meeting with the Prime Minister and is conducting mock drills to assess hospital preparedness while ensuring adequate medical supplies across states.
