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Scientists Worried About COVID-19 Variant BA.2.86

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified the COVID-19 variant BA.2.86 as a ‘variant under monitoring’ due to its extensive array of mutations.

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Scientists Worried About COVID-19 Variant BA.2.86
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The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified the COVID-19 variant BA.2.86 as a ‘variant under monitoring’ due to its extensive array of mutations. This decision was announced on Thursday in response to concerns about the potential implications of these mutations.

Detected through genetic sequencing, only a limited number of instances of this variant have been recorded so far. Initially identified in Israel, subsequent cases were reported in Denmark and the United States. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has now confirmed the presence of the variant in the United Kingdom, marking the fifth known instance of this sequence globally.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed on Thursday that it is closely monitoring the recently discovered COVID-19 strain, BA.2.86. This comes after the detection of a case involving this highly mutated variant in Michigan, according to CBS News.

In a statement to CBS News, CDC spokesperson Kathleen Conley stated, “Our current level of preparedness to detect and respond to changes in the COVID-19 virus is stronger than ever. Scientists are actively investigating the newly identified lineage within these four cases, and we will communicate further details as information becomes available.”

Experts emphasize that the sighting of variant BA.2.86 across multiple continents, including Denmark, Israel, the UK, and the US, implies its potential for wide transmission. This suggests the variant might have been circulating undetected for an extended period, as reported by CBS News.

Dr. Meera Chand, deputy director at UKHSA, acknowledged the presence of BA.2.86 in the UK, assuring that UKHSA is evaluating the situation and will provide additional details in due course.

Professor Francois Balloux, director of the UCL Genetics Institute, has noted that BA.2.86 stands out as a particularly striking COVID-19 strain, comparable to the emergence of the Omicron variant. He postulates that the most likely scenario involves the lineage accumulating its mutations during a prolonged infection within an immunocompromised individual over a year ago. This variant could have subsequently spread within regions with limited viral surveillance, potentially finding its way to other parts of the world, as reported by The Guardian.

Balloux also mentioned that the coming weeks will shed light on how BA.2.86 compares to other subvariants of Omicron in terms of transmissibility and virulence. However, at this early stage, little is known about these intrinsic qualities of the variant.

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Two electronics clusters worth ₹1,112 cr to be set up in Tamil Nadu: Union Minister Vaishnaw

The new facility, part of a Rupees 1,000 crore investment, will produce electronic components for various sectors, including consumer durables and IT hardware, and will serve both domestic and international markets in the future. Video Credit: BusinesslineUnion Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said two electronics manufacturing clusters worth ₹1,112 crore […]

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Two electronics clusters worth ₹1,112 cr to be set up in Tamil Nadu: Union Minister Vaishnaw
Photo kind courtesy ANI

The new facility, part of a Rupees 1,000 crore investment, will produce electronic components for various sectors, including consumer durables and IT hardware, and will serve both domestic and international markets in the future.

Video Credit: BusinesslineUnion Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnaw on Saturday said two electronics manufacturing clusters worth ₹1,112 crore will be set up in Tamil Nadu.”One facility will come up in Pillaipakkam (Kancheepuram) and the other at Manalur (Thiruvallur district). They will be large electronics manufacturing clusters and these two will give a big growth to Tamil Nadu and to the country,” he said in his brief address.After unveiling the plaque to mark the inauguration of the Zetwerk electronics plant, Vaishnaw emphasised how the electronics industry had rapidly grown, overtaking several long-standing export industries in the last 10 years.

Speaking at the inauguration of Zetwerk Electronics’ seventh manufacturing facility in Sriperumbudur, about 55 kms from here, Vaishnaw highlighted that the electronics industry has become the country’s second largest export sector, surpassing several traditional industries in the past decade.In an effort to give fillip to electronics manufacturing, Vaishnaw said the government will invest ₹1,112 crore to establish two electronics manufacturing clusters in Tamil Nadu.Vaishnaw, who is also the Union Railways Minister, took a dig at the previous UPA regime saying the budget allocation for Tamil Nadu railways was ‘miniscule’ whereas it was ₹6,636 crore to the state. The Union Minister also thanked state governments, including Tamil Nadu, for their support in boosting India’s electronic exports and acknowledged their efforts in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming the domestic electronics market into a 0 billion industry.

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Aamir Khan Confirms Relationship with Gauri

In a recent revelation that has caught the attention of Bollywood fans, veteran actor Aamir Khan has shared that he and Gauri are in a serious, committed relationship. The actor, known for his exceptional performances in iconic films such as Dangal, PK, and 3 Idiots, opened up about his relationship in a candid interview. A […]

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Aamir Khan Confirms Relationship with Gauri

In a recent revelation that has caught the attention of Bollywood fans, veteran actor Aamir Khan has shared that he and Gauri are in a serious, committed relationship. The actor, known for his exceptional performances in iconic films such as Dangal, PK, and 3 Idiots, opened up about his relationship in a candid interview.

Aamir Khan said, ‘It’s a personal and emotional confession.’

Aamir Khan expressed that his bond with Gauri has grown stronger over time. The actor shared that their relationship is built on mutual respect, trust, and understanding. While Aamir has always maintained a private stance about his personal life, this heartfelt disclosure has sparked interest among fans and the entertainment industry alike.

Embracing Love After Challenges

The Bollywood star acknowledged that life has presented its fair share of challenges, but finding love with Gauri has been a source of strength and joy. Aamir emphasized that their commitment is rooted in honesty and dedication, showcasing a strong emotional connection.

Fans React with Support and Love

Following the revelation, social media platforms were abuzz with messages of support and admiration from fans. Many expressed their happiness for Aamir and Gauri, appreciating the actor’s transparency. The Bollywood fraternity has also extended warm wishes to the couple.

What’s Next for Aamir Khan?

On the professional front, Aamir Khan is gearing up for his upcoming projects, promising fresh and impactful performances. His dedication to his craft continues to inspire millions, while his latest personal revelation has given fans a deeper insight into his life off-screen.

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Supreme Court to Review Kolkata Doctor’s Rape and Murder Case on March 17

The Supreme Court of India, under the leadership of Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, is scheduled to review the suo motu case concerning the rape and murder of a junior doctor from R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on March 17. In August of the previous year, the Court addressed the tragic incident, emphasizing […]

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Supreme Court to Review Kolkata Doctor’s Rape and Murder Case on March 17
Supreme Court of India

The Supreme Court of India, under the leadership of Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, is scheduled to review the suo motu case concerning the rape and murder of a junior doctor from R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata on March 17.

In August of the previous year, the Court addressed the tragic incident, emphasizing the critical need for enhanced safety measures for medical professionals nationwide. The Bench appealed to protesting doctors to resume their duties, assuring them of protection against any punitive actions related to their participation in the protests.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been actively probing the case. In October, they filed the initial charge sheet against Sanjay Roy, a civic volunteer associated with Kolkata Police, implicating him in the heinous crime. The CBI‘s investigation suggests a potential broader conspiracy, highlighting concerns about evidence tampering during the early stages when the Kolkata Police were overseeing the investigation. Subsequently, two additional arrests were made: Sandip Ghosh, the former Principal of R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, and Abhijit Mondal, the former Station House Officer of Tala Police Station. Both are accused of obstructing the investigation and tampering with evidence.

The upcoming hearing on March 17 will further address these developments, underscoring the Supreme Court‘s commitment to ensuring justice and reinforcing workplace safety for medical professionals across the country.

Note: For a comprehensive understanding, readers are encouraged to refer to official Supreme Court records and updates from the Central Bureau of Investigation.

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