The State of Karnataka announced a 14-day state-wide lockdown which kicked off on Tuesday, April 27, 2021. Just like the rest of the nation, Karnataka is also struggling to cope with the exponential rise in Covid cases. The lockdown is a welcome and much-needed move during these unprecedented times. The situation in Bengaluru is looking grim with 200,000 fresh cases on Sunday, the 25th of April. But the Karnataka government has given relief to the people by allowing ALL home deliveries during this 14-day lockdown period.
Win-win for Brick-and-mortar stores and online traders
Lockdowns spell bad news for both online as well as offline traders. Last year, offline traders protested about their establishments being shutdown while ecommerce firms were allowed to function unhindered. The Karnataka government has come up with a new strategy to balance out their demands.
As per the guidelines issued, home deliveries, irrespective of whether they are for essential or non-essential products, will be allowed. This is a positive development compared to other states. Maharashtra, Delhi and a few other states have made the distinction between essential and non-essential products which is sure to impact both online and offline traders.
It’s a win-win for ecommerce marketplaces as well as offline stores.
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As per the guidelines issued, home deliveries irrespective of whether they are for essential or non-essential products will be allowed.
Uninterrupted home delivery will ensure the economy doesn’t crumble
The focus by all Governments including the Karnataka Government this time around has been to support the economy. Since the economy last year was severely impacted due to nationwide lockdowns, Governments want to prioritise businesses to ensure that it doesn’t crumble once again. Despite cases going through the roof and the situation being worse than it can ever be, the Government is trying hard to ensure that the lowest rungs of society are not impacted due to closures.
Items covered under ‘ALL’ home deliveries.
The fact that all kinds of home deliveries are supported is tremendous since it will be simpler for consumers to get all their necessary goods delivered to their doorstep. Ordering from food delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato will be uninterrupted during the lockdown.
The next most important item on the list of consumers is liquor. The Karnataka Government has already anticipated the importance of liquor supply which is why they have given the go-ahead for liquor shops and outlets to provide home deliveries. Liquor shops will also stay open for takeaways.
E-commerce firms supplying all kinds of goods like clothing, electronics, groceries, medicines and food are being allowed to deliver goods.
Restaurants Hotels, and Eateries will stay open and will operate their kitchens for takeaway/home delivery of food items.
