India records 44,111 new cases, lowest count in 86 days

India reported 44,111 new cases of coronavirus on Saturday, taking the tally of total infections in the country to 3,05,02,362, according to data released by the Health Ministry. This is the lowest single-day rise in 86 days as India continues to report higher recoveries everyday. Active cases have declined to below the 5-lakh mark and comprise less than 2% of total cases.

India's daily positivity rate has been under 5% for 26 consecutive days, says the ministry. India's tally of those recovered/discharged has increased to 2,96,05,779.

18,76,036 COVID tests were conducted on Thursday, and India continues to administer vaccines to Indians as part of its massive inoculation drive. As of Saturday, 34.46 crore doses have been administered.