Resuming smartphone manufacturing is up to the State Governments during extended lockdown

In a recent development, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs has allowed the manufacturing of IT hardware in the country. The latest government notice gave some hope to the mobile phone manufacturers. However, the final decision will still await for state government's approval, says India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA), as per PTI.

For those unaware, the Indian Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA) is an industry body of mobile and electronics manufacturers, brand owners, technology providers, VAS application & solution providers, distributors, and retail chains of mobile handsets and electronics devices.

Like most businesses, the thriving Indian mobile phone market is hit massively by the nationwide lockdown, and the industry has been requesting to allow the sale of non-essential items like mobile phones. The PTI report quotes ICEA Chairman, Pankaj Mahindroo praising the decisions of the MHA where he sys the notification undertakes necessary measures whereby economic and manufacturing activities are resumed with an alert system in place that doesn't involve risk of virus infection.

Mr Mahindroo, in his statement, said " "The latest notification gives clarity on opening of retail shops and e-commerce sales for non-essential items. We support the decision and agree that there should be minimal activity in red zones. MHA has already clarified on movements of trucks that serve as lifeline of industry. Now restoration of mobile device production will depend on d action of state governments."

The latest MHA notice, also mentions the sale and delivery of essential items in the green zones (areas with less or no Covid-19 impact) and orange zones ( recovering areas). However, the restrictions on non-essential items like mobile phones, laptops, and tablets are still an ongoing concern. It is being said that work from home and shutting down of schools and colleges is leading to increased demand for products like laptops and tablets.

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