MHA expands the exemption list: Transportation of all essential and non-essential goods allowed

In the wake of covid-19, Narendra Modi announced a 21-day lockdown on March 24. Soon after the announcement, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) shared a list of guidelines on the measures to be taken by authorities for the containment of COVID-19.

The list mentioned the essential services that will be available during this lockdown period. But later, it further expanded the list of essential supplies and services while allowing transportation of non-essential items also during the 21-day period.

Earlier, the list of exemptions had

-ration shops,

-groceries

-fruits and vegetables

-dairy

-medicines

Now, the new directive includes hygiene products such as

-hand wash

-soaps

-disinfectants

-oral care items

-battery cells and chargers.

The Centre also included the services of the Indian Red Cross Society under the Establishment of National Disaster Management Authority.