India has recorded a total of 3,395 active COVID-19 cases, on 31 May, according to updated data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The country also reported four new deaths linked to the virus in the past 24 hours, down from seven the day before.
The latest health bulletin confirms that 685 fresh COVID-19 infections were reported in the span of a day, while 1,435 individuals recovered and were discharged. Since 1 January 2025, India has seen 26 virus-related fatalities.
The four deaths reported on Friday were registered in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Karnataka and Kerala — one in each state. The overall active case load continues to see fluctuations, with health authorities keeping a close watch on regional outbreaks.
Eight states currently have over 100 active cases each. Kerala continues to be the worst affected, reporting 1,336 cases. Maharashtra follows with 467 cases, while Delhi has 375. Gujarat has registered 265 active cases, Karnataka 234, West Bengal 205, Tamil Nadu 185, and Uttar Pradesh 117.
In light of the growing numbers, Karnataka has issued a health advisory concerning schoolchildren. As schools reopen, the state government has asked parents not to send children to school if they are experiencing symptoms such as fever, cough, or cold.
The circular, issued on Friday and cited by the media, urges that “children should attend school only after they have completely recovered.” It further instructs schools to send students back home and inform their parents if such symptoms are observed.
Similar guidelines apply to teaching and non-teaching staff. The health department has advised that those showing symptoms should follow appropriate precautionary and treatment protocols, in consultation with medical professionals.
Union Minister of State for Health and AYUSH (Independent Charge), Prataprao Jadhav, on Friday reassured the public that the Central government is fully equipped to respond to any surge in infections.
“The Health Ministry and AYUSH Ministry are monitoring the situation closely across all states,” Jadhav said in a statement to news agency. “We are in regular contact with state health secretaries and relevant ministers.”
He added that infrastructure developed during earlier waves — including oxygen generation plants, ICU beds and ventilators — has been reviewed and is operational. “Our healthcare systems are alert and ready to handle any situation that may arise,” he stated.
The government has also indicated that continued coordination between state and central agencies will be crucial in managing the evolving situation, especially in states with rising case counts.
Health officials have urged the public to remain vigilant, practice hygiene protocols, and seek timely medical advice in the event of symptoms.
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