The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) released guidelines for ‘Unlock 5.0’ on September 30, allowing more activities to open up outside of containment zones. The relaxations will come into effect from October 15.
Strict lockdown will continue to be imposed in the containment zones, the MHA said. Adding to existing relaxations made during the first four stages of ‘Unlock’, the Centre has permitted cinema halls and multiplexes to operate at 50 percent of their seating capacity.
Additionally, states and union territories have been given the free hand to decide after October 15, 2020, if they wish to re-open schools and coaching institutions in a graded manner. The decision shall be taken in consultation with the respective school/institution management, based on their assessment of the situation. However, online/ distance learning will continue to be the preferred mode of teaching and shall be encouraged.
Nagaland has recorded 6,318 confirmed cases of COVID-19 so far, while 22 people have died of the novel coronavirus infection in the state. The number of active cases in the state stands at 1,085, while 5,161 people have recovered.
The Nagaland government issued an order dated September 30, stating that existing guidelines with regard to unlock and lockdown as per the order dated 31.8.2020 will continue to remain operative until further orders.
Besides, odd and even scheme for the movement of private vehicles in Kohima Municipal areas will continue to be operational. The rule will be implemented on all days except Sundays, the Nagaland government order stated. Odd number private vehicles will be allowed to ply on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and even numbered vehicles will be allowed on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This order shall remain in force till October 31, 2020.
The Nagaland government had already allowed partial reopening of schools from September 21. Nagaland Chief Secretary Temjen Toy had said students of Classes 9 to 12 will be permitted to visit their schools in areas outside containment zones only on a voluntary basis for taking guidance from their teachers, subject to the written consent of their parents/guardians.
Nagaland government is yet to announce if it is looking to reopen schools in a graded manner from October 15 as per MHA guidelines.
Follow our coverage of the coronavirus crisis here
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend.
Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.