India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has told all private satellite TV channels to broadcast messages encouraging people to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour and not let their guards down during the festive season.

The ministry said India has achieved the landmark of administering over  one billion Covid vaccine doses, but remaining vigilant remains crucial, especially during the festivals, which should be celebrated with utmost precautions, PTI reported from New Delhi.

It noted that media has been at the forefront of informing people about the need to adhere to COVID-19 norms.

“In the context of the upcoming festive season, it is advised that private satellite TV channels may broadcast messages and other content to inform people about the crucial need to adhere to COVID appropriate behaviour, exercise due precautions, avoid crowded places, adhere to limits on public gathering, and not let our guards down,” the MIB advisory stated.

“As you all are aware, with continued and collaborative efforts of the central and state governments, India has achieved the landmark of administering over 100 crore vaccine doses.

“While vaccination is one of the prime interventions against COVID-19, the Prime Minister has emphasised that we must continue to exercise precaution by following Covid-appropriate behaviour (maintaining physical distance, wearing masks, regular handwashing, etc.) to prevent the risk of future resurgence of COVID-19,” the advisory elaborated.

India added 15,906 new COVID-19 cases, taking the total tally to 3,41,75,468, while the active cases declined to 1,72,594, according to the Health Ministry data updated on Sunday. The death toll climbed to 4,54,269 with 561 fresh fatalities.