India crossed 20 million reported cases of Covid19 on Tuesday. There were 357,229 new cases reported over a span of 24 hours, bringing the total to 20.28 million, according to health ministry data. Indias first cases were detected in late January last year and the countrys total did not cross 10 million infections until December, according to Johns Hopkins University data. But the next 10 million cases were reported in the span of just under five months, mostly in April.

So far, at least 222,408 people have died from the disease, but that number is likely lower than the actual death toll. Media reports suggest crematoriums and burial grounds are overwhelmed with bodies of those who died from Covid19. During the first wave last year, India imposed a strict national lockdown between lateMarch and May, which derailed the countrys growth trajectory and left millions without a source of income.

While the central government appears reluctant to impose a second nationwide lockdown, several states have stepped up restrictions in recent weeks, including local lockdowns and curfews. That includes Maharashtra, which is Indias worsthit state, Delhi, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka and others. Some health experts have suggested that India needs a national stayathome order and a medical emergency declaration to address current healthcare needs.

Indias healthcare system has been overwhelmed by the sharp rise in cases as it faces a shortage of hospital beds, oxygen…