BHUBANESWAR: Having made wearing of masks compulsory for people stepping out of home, the Odisha government on Thursday decided to impose a fine of Rs 200 for first-time offenders. “The amount will remain the same for the next three violations before going up to Rs 500 for the fourth offence,” chief secretary Asit Tripathy said on Thursday.The government announced the fine after bringing an amendment to the Odisha Covid-19 (Amendment) Regulations 2020 on Thursday.The order making it mandatory for people to wear masks also came into effect on the same day. The government’s move elicited positive response from the public. Many were seen wearing masks made at home or covering their faces with handkerchiefs , dupattas and gamcha (cotton towel) while stepping out.In the morning, police were seen distributing masks to those who did not have one. However, by evening, police started collecting fines.On Thursday, Rajasthan also decided to make masks mandatory in urban areas as cases continued to spike in the state. The decision was taken at a review meeting chaired by CM Ashok Gehlot . Those who violate the provision will invite legal action.