Confirmed COVID-19 cases climb to 24,506 in India, death toll at 775
NEW DELHI | April 25:
The number of COVID-19 cases in the country has climbed to 24,506 while the death toll rose to 775. Health Ministry data said, the number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 18,668. As many as 5062 have been cured or discharged and one had migrated.
Home Ministry today clarified that all shops in rural areas, except those in shopping malls, are allowed to open. In urban areas, all standalone and neighbourhood shops and shops in residential complexes are allowed to open.
Shops in markets, market complexes and shopping malls are not allowed to open. Home Ministry in its clarification, further said, sale by E-commerce companies will continue to be permitted for essential goods only. Sale of liquor and other items continues to be prohibited as specified in the National Directives for COVID-19 management.
Meanwhile, no shops will be permitted to open in hotspots and containment zones. Amending its April 15 order, the Home Ministry said the shops will mandatorily have 50 per cent strength of workers wearing masks and following social distancing. The opening of neighbourhood shops is being seen as a relief to people who have been under lockdown since 24th of March to contain the spread of novel coronavirus. The Home Ministry order came on the eve of Muslim holy month Ramzan.
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Government declares banking industry as public utility service till October 21
Government has declared banking industry as a public utility service for six months till October 21 under the provisions of the Industrial Disputes Act.
Bringing banking services under the provisions of this Act means that the banking sector would not see any strikes by employees or officers during the operation of the law starting from April 21. In a circular, Department of Financial Services said the labour and employment ministry through a notification has declared "banking industry as a public utility service" for six months.
The notification was issued by the labour ministry against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic which has significantly impacted economic activities.