Kerala, Haryana and Puducherry are the states that began implementing the compulsory face mask rules, according to domestic press reports.

India on Sunday reported 5,357 new infections, a slight dip from Saturday´s figures, taking the total toll to 44,756,616. On Saturday, 6,155 new coronavirus cases were reported.

According to Health Ministry´s latest report, the active infections stand at 32,814. 11 deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours, taking the death tally to 53,09,65 deaths. The fatality rate stands at 1.19%.

In Kerala, where 1,801 new infections were informed on Saturday, face coverings will be mandatory to wear for pregnant women, the elderly and vulnerable people with non-communicable diseases, the Kerala Health Minister Veena George said.

In Haryana, face masks will have to be worn in public spots, over-100-person meetings, government offices, shopping malls and other facilities.

State authorities urged locals to be more responsible and to respect protocol health measures to halt fresh Covid-19 outbreak.

In Puducherry, face masks are also compulsory to wear for people working in hospitals, hotels, restaurants, tourist centers and malls.

Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday chaired a review meeting with health ministers of all states and Union Territories and urged to conduct mock drills at public and private hospitals on April 10 and 11 to assess their preparedness in handling a surge in the Covid-19 cases.

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