Nationwide Lockdown: Home Ministry guidelines on what is open, what is shut

March 24: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a complete three-week long India lockdown across the country for 21 days from Tuesday midnight, asserting that social distancing is the only way out for the country in its decisive battle against the coronavirus. In his address, the prime minister said that the nationwide lockdown will be just like a curfew. “If you won’t follow this lockdown for 21 days then your family may face setback of 21 years, some families will be devastated forever,” the PM said. While the prime minister said that the nation must forget about leaving the house for 21 days, he assured that essential services would be not be affected.

What is open? Hospitals, nursing homes, police, fire stations, Fair price shops and those dealing with food, groceries, fruits, vegetables, dairy, meat, fish, animal fodder Banks, ATMs, insurance offices, print and electronic media, Private security services, Cold storage and warehousing services, Capital and debt market services as notified by SEBI, Petrol pumps, LPG and petroleum and gas retail and storage outlets, Telecommunications, internet services, broadcasting and cable services. IT and IT-enabled services only essential services, Delivery of all essential goods including food, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment through e-commerce.

What is shut? All transport services — road, rail and air — to remain suspended- Suspension of Railway services to be extended till April 14, Hospitality services to remain suspended. (Exceptions: Hostels, homestays, lodges and motels.) All educational, training, research, coaching institutions to remain closed. All places for worship shall be closed for public. No religious congregations will be permitted, without any exception. All social/ political /sports/ entertainment/ academic/ cultural/ religious functions /gathering shall be barred Not more than 20 people permitted during funerals.

By converging around shops, you are risking the spread of COVID-19.

No panic buying please.

Please stay indoors.

I repeat- Centre and State Governments will ensure all essentials are available. https://t.co/bX00az1h7l

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 24, 2020

In case you violate the rules: Punishment for not abiding by with govt directive, or making false alarm may result in imprisonment up to one year. Making false claim to get any relief during lockdown may result in imprisonment up to two years.

Also Read: 21 days national lockdown in India from Tuesday midnight: PM Modi