Lockdown 2.0: Centre To Lift Curbs On These Activities From Tomorrow

New Delhi: The Union Home Ministry has released a new list of services and activities that will be allowed to operate from April 20 (Monday).

However, the exemptions will be applicable only in those areas where the effect of coronavirus is negligible or the areas that are less affected.

The sectors listed under the exemption are:

Rural Areas

The government has exempted projects and activities related to co-operative credit societies, non-banking financial institutions, water supply, electricity and communication in rural areas.

Besides, cultivation, harvesting, processing and packaging of bamboo, coconut, betel nut, cocoa and spices will be allowed. Cold storage and warehouse service will also begin.

Work in brick kilns and food processing has been approved in villages.

Shops & Carts

Fruit and vegetable carts, ration outlets, shops selling sanitary items, grocery, poultry, meat, fish and fodder as well as dairy and milk booths

Handyman Services

Electricians, IT repairs, plumbers, motor mechanics, carpenters, couriers, DTH and cable services are allowed with certain restrictions.

E-Commerce

E-commerce companies can start operations, but will have to get clearance for delivery vehicles. However, they won’t be able to deliver non-essential items.

IT Services

Data work and call centres for the government activities, offices with IT and related services can resume operations. The condition is that they should not have more than 50 per cent staff.

Highways

Activities will also be increased on highways from Monday. Motor mechanic shops and dhabas will also open on highways for truckers with some restrictions.

Fisheries

The Centre has allowed resumption of fishery business including fish feeding, maintenance, processing, packaging, marketing and sales. Hatchery and commercial Aquarium will also open.

MGNREGA & Construction

Work under MGNREGA will also be exempted. Construction work on roads, irrigation, building, renewable energy and all kinds of industrial projects outside the city will also resume.

In urban areas, the labourers working on a construction project should be available on site.