Centre Announces Unlock 4: Functions Allowed, Educational Institutions To Remain Closed

New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Saturday issued new guidelines, allowing more activities outside the containment zones during the Unlock 4 which will come into effect from September 1.

The MHA in a release stated that the guidelines were issued on the basis of feedback from states and Union Territories and in consultation with Central ministries and departments.

As per the new guidelines, the Metro Railways will start operation in a graded manner from September 7. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs will issue the standard operating procedure (SOP) in this regard.

Social, academic, sports, entertainment, cultural, religious and political functions will be permitted with a ceiling of 100 persons from September 21. But all the protocols of COVID-19 have to be followed at these congregations.

Open air theatres are also allowed to open from September 21.

However, schools, colleges, educational and coaching institutions will remain closed for students and regular class activities till September 30. Online learning will continue as present.

The states may permit 50% of teaching staff and non-teaching staff to be called to the schools at a time for online teaching tele-counselling and related work from September 21.

The MHA has directed the governments of states and UTs not to impose any local lockdown outside the containment zones, without prior consultation with the Central Government.

It has also that there shall be no restriction on inter-state and intra-state movement of
persons and goods. No separate permission/ approval e-permit will be required for such movements.

Directives for COVID-19 management:

• National Directives for COVID-19 management shall continue to be
followed throughout the country, with a view to ensure social distancing.
Shops will need to maintain adequate physical distancing among customers.
MHA will monitor the effective implementation of National Directives.
Protection for vulnerable persons
• Vulnerable persons, i.e., persons above 65 years of age. persons with co-
morbidities, pregnant women and children below the age of 10 years, are
advised to stay at home, except for meeting essential requirements and for
health purposes.