<span style="color: #222222;">Under the third phase of the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown beginning today, Sikkim government has allowed several relaxations. Sikkim, with no COVID-19 cases so far, has kept its interstate borders sealed and has initiated the process of bringing back stranded people from other states.<br />'' <br />'' All standalone shops and business establishments are allowed to be open during 10 am to 4 pm. Hardware shops, salons, stationary and other stores were open in Gangtok during these hours today, with a higher number of people stepping out of their homes.<br />'' <br />'' The state government has also allowed private vehicles to operate on certain days  based on their registration numbers. However, public transport, hotels, bars, restaurants, shopping complexes, gyms and cinema halls continue to remain closed.<br />'' <br />''<br />''The government has also made it mandatory for all to wear masks when they step out, besides  practicing  social distance and other basic guidelines.</span><br />