On Diwali And Eid, Government's Advisory On How To Celebrate Amid Covid

India reported the biggest single-day rise in COVID-19 cases in two months on Thursday, amid concerns about the virus spreading from the most-affected Kerala, schools reopening, and the start of the festival season.

India is still not out of the woods when it comes to the second wave of COVID-19 and people should celebrate festivals like Diwali, Eid and Ganesh Chaturthi at home without gathering in large numbers, the Health Ministry said on Thursday. "Festivals are like Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Eid coming. This year too, like the last year, they will need to be celebrated in a restrictive manner, and it is our appeal to all to stay at home," Dr VK Paul, member of the government's think tank NITI Aayog and chief of the COVID-19 task force on COVID-19 said. "Like last year, festivals need to be celebrated in a subdued manner. Wearing masks is an absolute must while in any public place," he added, speaking at the Health Ministry's news briefing on the coronavirus pandemic. Dr Balram Bhargava, Director-General at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), said, "We are still in the second wave of COVID-19 and hence appeal to all in the country to continue with all Covid restrictions in your area. Follow COVID-19 SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) and maintain Covid-appropriate behaviour."