E-commerce firms may get to sell secondary essentials in red zones: Reports

Consumers in red zones say they want to buy gadgets, home supplies and office and school supplies post upcoming lockdown relaxations.

In a major relief to consumers, e-commerce companies such as Amazon, Flipkart and local retailers, might soon be allowed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to sell secondary essentials in red zone areas across the country, except high virus load districts and containment zones, according to industry sources. If allowed, these firms would be allowed to sell secondary-essential items such as phones, laptops, electronic devices and appliances, which comprise most of their sales. Even for high virus load districts and containment zones, the government is evaluating to expand the list of essentials which might now include products such as