Updates on 21-day lockdown announcement (scheduled to end on 3 May 2020).
MEASURES
- The existing lockdown continues to 3 May with the strict implementation of the consolidated guidelines published. On 24 April, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the amendments in the consolidated revised guidelines for strict implementation to contain COVID-19 in India. The amendments made give more relaxations in the category of commercial and private establishments, where all shops registered under Shops & Establishment Act of respective States/Uts, except shops in multi-brand and single brand malls, will be allowed to operate during the lockdown period with strict requirements (50% manpower with wearing of masks and social distancing).
IMPACT ON FOOD SUPPLY CHAIN
- Amid the lockdown, the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) has been regularly seeking inputs on the challenges faced by industries at the state and district level with the support from the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
- On 24 April, in the meeting between MoFPI and FICCI, main concerns faced by food industry during the lockdown were raised. These concerns include the interpretation of legislation by the enforcement officials on the ground, logistics issues due to the timing and inter & intra state movement restrictions, and the availability of labour due to the migration of workforce. These concerns have led to the manufacturing plants not being able to operate at full capacity.
- Some key actions were suggested, including enhancing capacity utilisation limit, unlocking state operation, continuously address the inadequate availability of labours. FICCI will continue to work closely with the government authorities in order to ensure the operation of food supply chain is unhampered during the lockdown.
FIA RECOMMENDATIONS/ACTIONS
- FIA is working closely with local industry association FICCI, to monitor the progress of development of the lockdown situation in India.