THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The cabinet Wednesday evaluated that COVID-19 is under control in the state. The state cabinet which convened here today decided to take a decision on relaxation of lockdown in the state after knowing centre’s stand. The union cabinet is expected to take a decision by April 10. A final decision will be taken at the cabinet meet convened on April 13. The demand of Kerala is to ease restrictions in a phased manner without withdrawing in one-go. A decision has not been taken on the guidelines of salary challenge.

Meantime, Minister P Thilothaman said twice as much grains will be obtained in this month and next two months for priority card holders and Antyodaya Anna Yojana card holders. Only the first phase of it has been delivered. An additional five kg of rice obtained from the centre will be supplied from April 20. An amount of Rs 97.1 crore will be the expense for delivering and supplying it to shops.

There has been a decrease in the number of COVID cases in two days. The situation has improved in many districts where there has been an increase in the number of cases of COVID. In seven districts of Kerala declared as hotspots, Thrissur, Kannur, Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram, the health department has been relieved of any signs of spread of the disease.

The service of the special medical team from Thiruvananthapuram Medical College to Kasargod and the decision to facilitate movement of vehicles carrying the sick traveling to Mangaluru in Karnataka for treatment have eased concerns and tensions.