make masks compulsory," Tope was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The minister also informed that the authorities are currently following a "wait and watch" response.
He said that the government's focus is vaccination of children in the age group of 12-14 and 15-17 years. “There are some challenges in this as schools are now closed.
If any protocols are issued by the Centre for the 6-12 years age group, we will implement them at a fast pace," said Tope. The minister also said that though the vaccination is not mandatory, "we have to show people the advantages of getting inoculated and convince them to take the jabs".
His statements came as Maharashtra reported 155 new coronavirus infections on Saturday, as against 148 on Friday. There are 998 active cases in the state currently.