Covid-19: Odisha makes wearing masks mandatory while venturing out of house

It further stated that Covid-19 is "assuming grave threat to the health of the general public in the state" and the virus is "believed to be spreading through droplets."

Odisha has become the first state in the country to make a face mask or use of cloth in "at least two layers" mandatory for the citizens when they come out of home for any purpose. The order shall come into effect from 7 am on April 9.

"The general public is directed to cover their mouth and nose with any available form of the mask while stepping out of the house for any purpose. A handkerchief or any other piece of cloth in at least two layers can also be used for the purpose, until further orders," read