Guidelines for Unlock 2.0 announced: Schools, colleges, international flights to remain shut till 31 July

June 29: Guidelines for Unlock 2.0 was issued by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs on 29 June for across the country between 1 July and 31 July. As per the guidelines, lockdown will continue to remain in force in containment zones till 31 July. Saying that the schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions to remain shut till July 31, the Centre also prohibited operation of international flights, metro rail, cinemas, gyms, pools, religious gatherings till July end.

The new guidelines are based on feedback received from States and Union Territories, and extensive consultations held with related Central Ministries and Departments. The operations of domestic flights and passenger trains will be further expanded in a calibrated manner, the Centre said.

Shops depending upon their area, can have more than 5 persons at a time. However, they have to maintain adequate physical distance. Training institutions of the Central and State Governments will be allowed to function with effect from July 15, 2020.  SOP in this regard will be issued by the Department of Personnel and Training, Government of India.

The MHA has also issued national directives for COVID-19 management and made wearing of face cover compulsory in public places, workplaces and during transport. It said that the social/ political/ sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/ religious functions and other large congregations will remain prohibited till 31 July.

However, it needs mention that these directives will come into force, once separate directions are issued by the respective state governments. Till no new directive are issued by Assam government, the earlier rules and regulation will continue to exist in the state.