As India enters 4.0 lockdown, the Narendra Modi led
government is looking in every possible way to slowly resume economic
activities. The Center has withdrawn its lockdown directive and only broad
central guidelines and allowed states to follow their strategies for the
gradual establishment of the economy. Therefore, the Modi government will have
to come up with a big financial package, which will put money in the hands of
the people so that they start spending on their essential needs.
To do this, workers must be assured that precautionary
measures have been taken that require a strong message. In addition, the
transport service is also required to return to the workplace with all health
protocols, including facilities for daily commuting.
The migrant labor population is widely engaged in the
transport, construction and MSME sectors. Getting them back to work is a
challenge as we get out of lockdown but we have to assure them of their safety
and health. Most people want to return home due to uncertainties combined with
fear. The industry can play a major role at this time. State governments have
started working towards restructuring the economy to allow for a regular job or
assisted living which in turn will help them earn income and reduce savings
after one month of lockdown.
The basic minimum living conditions will encourage them to
return to work quickly. Authorities are working with skill occupations in the
states, which map the skills of available laborers and accordingly ensure that
they reach the nearest places where these skills are required in the industry.
Some economic activities, such as construction, may still
require local labor from non-containment areas, and initially in small numbers.
In rural areas, long-distance demand and supply chains of essential commodities
are being opened through digital platforms by some state governments. But both
central and state agricultural agencies will need to coordinate with
district-level marketing boards to reroute supply chains to organized retail
chains in cities and towns.
The government is required to play the role of a market
proponent to improve economic duration. Manufacturing and construction
companies have to get on track with better credit availability. Once
manufacturing and manufacturing improve, more jobs will be possible. Better
credit for companies will add liquidity to the economy.
