Home Ministry has asked all states and UTs to issue necessary directions to the concerned authorities for effective management of COVID in wake of rising cases. Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla has written to chief secretaries of all States and UTs, saying all States and UTs must observe precautions and not let the guard down. Due to the current COVID wave led by the new variant, Omicron,  there has been a rise in number of cases across the country and the active cases have increased to over 22 lakh. <br />''<br />'' The letter stated that though the majority of active cases are recovering fast and a low percentage of cases are in hospitals,  it is still a matter of concern that that 407 districts in 34 states and UTs are reporting a positivity rate of more than 10 percent. It said there is  therefore a need to exercise caution and vigilance.<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">  <br />''The Union Home Secretary also emphasised that there should be continued focus on the five fold strategy of Test-Track-Treat-Vaccination and adherence to COVID appropriate behaviour.  <br />''<br />''The state enforcement machinery has been asked to strictly enforce the norms of COVID appropriate behaviour like wearing masks,  and maintaining safe social distancing in all public areas and gatherings. </span><br />