Covid: Health minister's speech in Parliament on China situation, India's status, govt's decisions

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday addressed the Parliament regarding the country's Covid-19 situation.

Speaking in Lok Sabha, Mandaviya said random RT-PCR sampling of passengers arriving at International airports has once again been kickstarted.

"We are committed to tackling the pandemic & are taking appropriate steps," Health Minister told the House

Also watch: 'Mask up': Govt's advice as Covid-19 surge in China raises concern

He also advised states to ensure wearing of masks, use of sanitisers and social distancing during new year celebrations.

Taking note of the ongoing global Covid situation, Mandaviya also asked states to increase genome-sequencing to timely identify the new variant of Covid-19.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to chair a meeting to discuss the Covid situation in India on 22 December 2022.

The meeting comes a day after the Union government advised people to begin wearing face masks once again in crowded places.