E-commerce companies can resume all their services from today, waiting for the guidelines of the states

New Delhi , 18 May 2020 – To prevent coronavirus infection, the lockdown implemented from March 25 across the country has been extended. The fourth phase of lockdown has started since Monday. It will remain till 31 May. There are many exemptions in this phase. Meanwhile, there is good news for online shoppers. E-commerce companies are expected to resume all their services in most parts of the country from Monday. However, industry watchers believe that they are waiting for the decision of the states in this regard.

According to the latest order of the Union Home Ministry, ‘All other activities will be allowed, except those which are specifically prohibited’. However, only necessary activities will be allowed in Containment Zones. The order states that states and union territories may prohibit certain other activities in different zones based on their assessment of the situation.

Paytm Mall Senior Vice President Srinivas Mothe said the move would enable the company to roll out services even in metros that are in Red Jones. He said, ‘We thank the government for deciding to allow delivery of non-essential goods even in the Red Zone areas across the country. This step will help us deliver in various metros currently coming in the Red Zone areas. He said that the company has received large-scale orders of consumer electronics wish lists from metros.

Srinivas said, “People have been waiting to buy many items of daily use including laptops, mobile phones for the past several weeks. This decision of the government will also help in opening up the supply of consumer electronics in Red Jones as well. He said that the company has already held discussions with its business and logistics partners and will start taking orders and delivery from Monday. Simultaneously, Srinivas said that the company will ensure that all the guidelines of the Center and states in Red Jones are followed.