Karnataka makes masks mandatory in public places, increases Covid testing

State govt tells revellers to end New Year celebrations before 1 am; Centre readies for mock drills today

The Karnataka government on Monday made masks mandatory in educational institutes, theatre and public places where crowds are likely to gather for New Year celebrations.

Its decision came at a time as the Centre readied states for a mock drill across health facilities on Tuesday to assess the country’s readiness in the event of another wave of Covid-19.

Taking the lead among states in terms of precautionary diktats, Karnataka has made masks mandatory at theatres, schools and colleges apart from closed places, air-conditioned rooms and crowded public spots. Besides, New Year revellers have to wear masks at pubs, restaurants and