India has been under a nation-wide lockdown from March 25th and after the first phase ended on April 14th, the second phase has been in effect from April 15th, till today (May 3rd)! However, the Central Government announced a couple of days back that the lockdown has been extended for the third phase, for the next 2 weeks, till May 17th! All business activities had been closed down during the lockdown and most of the industries had been facing severe losses. However, there seems to be some relief in sight for the Tamil Nadu people. After discussions with the Collectors of all the districts in Tamil Nadu, the Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisamy also conducted a Cabinet meeting and has decided to roll back the lockdown norms and allow some relaxations in the rules!

A latest report states that almost all businesses, except those specifically announced by the Central Government, would be allowed to open, from May 6th (Wednesday), in all regions of Tamil Nadu, except in the containment regions! Educational institutions, religious places and places of worship, spas & saloons, theatres, malls, shopping complexes, zoological parks, gyms, bars, beaches, museums and sports auditoriums will continue to remain closed. However, all industries, including textiles, construction works, road works, SEZs, export units, IT, ITES, restaurants (takeaways only), standalone and small shops including hardware stores, electricals, sanitaryware, household materials, computers, mobiles and plumbers, electricians, mechanics, carpenters and domestic workers would all be allowed to function but with some restrictions in staffing and with prior permission from proper authorities. However, as of now, all liquor shops under the TASMAC, would continue to remain closed.

Stay tuned for updates...