India’s Active Covid-19 Cases Cross 4,000; Kerala, Maharashtra Report Most New Infections
India’s active Covid-19 caseload surpassed the 4,000-mark on Tuesday, a rapid increase occurring within just three days of crossing the 3,000-case threshold, according to the latest data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW). The country also reported five Covid-related fatalities in the last 24 hours.
As of Tuesday morning, the total active cases in the country stood at 4,026. Kerala continues to report the highest number of infections, logging 1,416 active cases. Maharashtra followed with 494 active cases, and Gujarat reported 397. Other states like Delhi (393 active cases) and West Bengal (372 active cases) also contributed to the national tally.
In the preceding 24 hours, India recorded a net increase of 65 active cases, with 512 people recovering or being discharged during the same period.
The five deaths reported between Monday and Tuesday include one each from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, and two from Maharashtra. The health ministry provided details on the deceased, noting underlying health conditions:
- Kerala: An 80-year-old male with severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and coronary artery disease.
- Maharashtra: A 70-year-old female with diabetes mellitus (DM), and a 73-year-old female with DM and hypertension (HTN).
- Tamil Nadu: A 69-year-old female with type 2 diabetes mellitus and Parkinson’s disease.
- West Bengal: A 43-year-old female with acute coronary syndrome, septic shock, and acute kidney injury. This was reported as the first Covid-related death in Kolkata for 2025.
Health officials, including ICMR Director General Dr. Rajiv Behl, have indicated that genome sequencing of samples from southern and western India suggests the current rise is driven by sub-variants of Omicron, which are not classified as severe. While vigilance and adherence to Covid-appropriate behaviour, especially for vulnerable populations, are advised, authorities have stated there is no cause for immediate alarm, as hospitalization rates remain low. States like Kerala and Maharashtra are reportedly reviewing hospital readiness and ensuring adequate supplies.
Experts attribute the current increase to newer Omicron sub-variants such as LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and NB.1.8.1, which are being monitored by the World Health Organization. While these variants may be more transmissible, they have not yet been shown to cause more severe illness. Health authorities continue to recommend precautionary measures like wearing masks in crowded places and maintaining good hygiene.
