Federation of Indian Export Organisations – FIEO has welcomed the government move to resume export-oriented manufacturing units as the first step to relax the coronavirus-driven lockdown. FIEO President Sharad Kumar Saraf said, the move will help in opening of 80-85 percent of manufacturing units gradually and helping the sector back on track.

In a statement, Mr. Saraf said, the move would also give a positive signal to the world that India is confident to contain COVID-19 through its well thought and early measures. Describing the move as a psychological boost to migrant workers who have been getting desperate with extended lockdown, he said, it was a big relief for the industry too as wages and other charges will be a lesser burden now.

Earlier in the day, the Union home ministry issued revised guidelines allowing opening of economic activities by units in rural areas, export-oriented units, special economic zones, units in industrial townships and industrial estates.