India on Thursday saw an uptick in Covid-19 cases, with 358 fresh infections recorded in the past 24 hours, according to the data by the Union Health Ministry. The surge in cases comes amid a rise in Covid sub-variant JN.1, which was first detected in Kerala.

The death toll was recorded at 5,33,327 with three deaths reported from Kerala in a span of 24 hours, the data updated at 8 am showed.

Similarly, the fresh infections were mainly reported from Kerala, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease increased to 4,44,70,576 and the national recovery rate was pegged at 98.81 per cent, according to the health ministry's website.

The Union Health Ministry on Wednesday held a meeting to review the sudden increase in Covid-19 cases and deaths in several parts of the country. The meeting was chaired by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya who said it was important to remain alert and be prepared against new and emerging strains of Covid-19.

He called for the need for joint efforts between the Centre and states to ensure efficient management of the virus. "Let us undertake mock drills once every three months at both Central and State levels and share best practices," he said