The Union Home Ministry on Saturday said in an order that neighbourhood shops in residential areas can be opened from today.

"In rural areas, all shops (except those in shopping malls) are allowed to open. In urban areas, all standalone shops, neighbourhood shops and shops in residential complexes are allowed to open. However, shops in markets, market complexes and shopping malls are not allowed to open till May 3," the order says.

These shops will not be permitted to open in areas (both rural and urban) which are declared as containment zones by respective States/UTs.

Sale by E-commerce companies will be permitted only in the case of essential goods till May 3. The sale of liquor and other items continues to be prohibited as specified in the National Directives for COVID-19 management, the order adds.

MHA issues clarification on order allowing the opening of shops. MHA release states, "In rural areas, all shops, except those in shopping malls are allowed to open. In urban areas, all standalone shops, neighbourhood shops & shops in residential complexes are allowed to open". pic.twitter.com/SnFT7L1k2j

— ANI (@ANI) April 25, 2020