India celebrates Dussehra on October 15. The festival comes as the governments – state and central – are trying to curb and contain the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Well ahead of the festive season, the Union Health Ministry had issued guidelines for celebrations amid the coronavirus pandemic. The authority prohibited festive events in areas that fall under containment zones, advising people residing in such areas to observe festivals inside their homes and not move out. Wearing masks and maintaining a six-feet distance from one another was mandated. 

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After Navratri, COVID-19 cases doubled in Gujarat – from 18 on October 10 to 34 Thursday. Maharashtra and Kerala also  recorded a rise of 4% and 17% during the same period.

Hence, it is of utmost importance for people to follow strict COVID protocols as the country celebrates Dussehra – celebrating the victory of good over evil.

Here are some guidelines issued by states:

Delhi

– No more than 200 people are allowed in a closed space for celebrating the festival

–  The spaces should not be filled more than 50% of its capacity

–  Separate exit and entry gates should be maintained to ensure social distancing

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Uttar Pradesh

–  Only small vehicles will be allowed to be used for the immersion of idols

– Social distancing norms should strictly be followed during the festival

Maharashtra

– The BMC, in Mumbai, has asked people to hold low-key celebrations

– All garba events have been banned in the city

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West Bengal

–  The state government has not organised any cultural programmes during Durga Puja

– Carnivals have also been restricted around the pandal premises

Gujarat

– COVID-19 norms were relaxed in eight cities. Garba events in housing societies and streets allowed

– A cap of 400 people has been imposed on the number of participants who can take part in the events

While celebrating the festival we must take the following precautions:

– It is compulsory to wear a face mask every time you step out of your home

– Ensure that one follows the social distancing norms in place

– Do not crowd around the pandal or event site to witness the festivities

–  One needs to try staying indoors and ensure that they are not travelling unnecessarily

India reported 16,862 new COVID-19 cases and 379 new deaths in the last 24 hours, according to Indian Health Ministry data released on Friday.