On Friday, amid continuing speculation regarding the continuation of the nationwide lockdown, Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar has asked all the states to be ready to continue the MNREGA work from April 15 if conditions allow. Talking to reporters through video conferencing, Tomar said, "All the states have been asked to keep the action plan ready so that MNREGA work can be resumed from April 15 if conditions allow."

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He also said that the fruits and flowers cultivation have been damaged due to the lockdown. However, only the state governments can assess it. The Union Minister said that the lockdown had no effect on the harvesting of crops. In view of the harvesting and sowing season, the Center has exempted it from lockdown for agricultural work. There is an exemption for opening of Mandi, Agricultural Product Marketing Committees, fertilizer, seed and pesticide shops.

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The agricultural sector has been badly affected by the lockdown. There has been a delay in wheat procurement. The horticulture industry is also badly affected. In view of the outbreak of Coronavirus, the lockdown is on till 14 April in the country and there is speculation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi may extend its duration. After Tomar's statement, a new dimension has been added to it.

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