Invest India Business Immunity Platform

Can I get a list of testing centres?

India has 72 of its laboratories to test for the pandemic disease. In addition to these labs 49 more laboratories under organizations like Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and Defence Research, Development Organisation (DRDO) would be equipped to test for COVID19 by end of this week. Link
Are there any testing centres near me?

India has 72 laboratories to test for the pandemic disease. In addition to these labs, 49 more laboratories under organizations such as Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and Defence Research, Development Organisation (DRDO) would be equipped to test for COVID19 by end of this week
Who all need to get tested?

Unless you are travel history to a COVID affected country, or have been exposed to a person tested positive for COVID, there may not be a need to get tested. Currently, there has not been any case of community transmission of COVID19 in India.
What is the cost of getting tested?

There is no cost for individuals who are "required" to get tested.
When can I get the test?

All National Labs identified for COVID-19 testing shall remain open 7 days of the week.

If we don’t call a {Person} for only a day, our plant would be shut/ we would incur losses, can they come?

Government has issued advisory on Social Distancing as a measure to curb the spread of COVID-19 disease. Private sector organizations/employers should allow employees to work from home wherever feasible.
A manager has to travel urgently to India in the coming week, can he/she enter India?

All existing visas issued to nationals of any country have been suspended along with travel restrictions imposed on passengers coming from a few regions and compulsory quarantine. Kindly visit the link for more details.

Further, Government of India has imposed a blanket ban on incoming commercial flights from all countries for a week, starting March 22, 2020

How can I check more on permissions regarding international Trade?

Please reach out to Novel Coronavirus Help Desk for EXIM Trade
Whom can I contact for Micro Small and Medium Enterprise related Queries?

Government has set up a helpdesk for all MSME related queries. The queries may be directed to the following email id - rudrapmishra@sidbi.in

Karnataka

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Kerala

State Emergency Helpline number: 0471-2552056

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Madhya Pradesh

State Emergency Helpline number: 0755-2527177

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in certain states with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Maharashtra

State Emergency Helpline number: 020-26127394

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Manipur

State Emergency Helpline number: 3852411668

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Meghalaya

State Emergency Helpline number: 108

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Mizoram

State Emergency Helpline number: 102

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Nagaland

State Emergency Helpline number: 7005539653

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Delhi

State Emergency Helpline number: 011-22307145

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Jammu and Kashmir

State Emergency Helpline number: 01912520982, 0194-2440283

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Puducherry

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details
Lakshadweep

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Ladakh

State Emergency Helpline number: 01982256462

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Chandigarh

State Emergency Helpline number:104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands

State Emergency Helpline number:03192-232102

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
West Bengal

State Emergency Helpline number: 1800313444222, 03323412600,

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Uttar Pradesh

State Emergency Helpline number: 18001805145

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details
Uttarakhand

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details
Tripura

State Emergency Helpline number: 0381-2315879

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details
Telangana

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Tamil Nadu

State Emergency Helpline number: 044-29510500

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Sikkim

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Rajasthan

State Emergency Helpline number: 0141-2225624

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Punjab

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Odisha

State Emergency Helpline number: 9439994859

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Andhra Pradesh

State Emergency Helpline number:0866-2410978

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Arunachal Pradesh

State Emergency Helpline number:9436055743

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Assam

State Emergency Helpline number:6913347770

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Bihar

State Emergency Helpline number:104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Chhattisgarh

State Emergency Helpline number:9779558282

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details."
Himachal Pradesh

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Goa

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Gujarat

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.
Haryana

State Emergency Helpline number: 8558893911

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details
Jharkhand

State Emergency Helpline number: 104

As per the official notification by state government, a lockdown has been announced in the state with supply of essential services/ products being exempted. Kindly visit our 'Government Advisory and Notification' Section, and apply State Specific Filter for more details.

Will my DPIIT recognition still happen?

The Startup Recognition Process shall continue as before
Will there be a delay in IMB meetings?

We are awaiting official communication from DPIIT and shall inform applicants of all relevant developments.
What partnered resources can be utilised?

State wise helpline numbers
Will the results of any programs and challenges be delayed?

We will keep on updating the respective challenge pages for updated timelines.
What will be the process of IMB Tax Exemption- should we expect any delay in timelines?

We are awaiting official communication from DPIIT and shall inform applicants of all relevant developments
Will the DPIIT Helpline number and email ID be working for us to raise specific queries?

We are awaiting official communication from DPIIT and shall inform applicants of all relevant developments.
What are some relief measures for the startup affected by COVID?

1. The Finance Minister announced a number of relief measures to ease the regulatory and compliance burden of businesses including extension of timelines for filing income tax returns for (FY 18-19) from 31st March, 2020 to 30th June, 2020 and other due dates for issue of notice, intimation, notification, approval order, sanction order, filing of appeal, furnishing of return etc. under Income Tax Act, Wealth Tax Act etc. where the time limit is expiring between 20th March 2020 to 29th June 2020 shall be extended to 30th June 2020. Further relaxation is provided on interest rate for delayed payments of advanced tax, self-assessment tax, regular tax, TDS etc. made between 20th March 2020 and 30th June 2020, reduced interest rate at 9% instead of 12 %/18 % per annum ( i.e. 0.75% per month instead of 1/1.5 percent per month). No late fee/penalty shall be charged for delay relating to this period.

2. Certain relaxations have also been provided under the Companies Act to reduce the compliance burden, including financial burden of companies/ LLPs at large sch as waiver of additional fee for late filing etc.

3. An economic package of Rs. 1.7 lakh crore to address the present economic breakdown occurred due to spread of the highly contagious coronavirus or Covid-19 infection was announced on 26th March, 2020 covering Insurance scheme for Health Workers, Food Security and Direct Benefit Transfer.
What can the Indian Startup Ecosystem do in this critical time?

The Indian Startup Ecosystem can take a page out of the European and US-based startups' playbook and work together to fight this situation. Potential measures include knowledge sharing, leasing technical resources at no or low cost, directing funds towards developing effective tools to slow-down or stop the spread. Please visit the TechCrunch COVID-19 Webpage, Slush Webpage, GGVC Webpage, and VentureLab for learning more about global startups' response to the pandemic.

What is the CoronaVirus?

As explained by the WHO, the coronaviruses is a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. In humans, several coronaviruses are known to cause respiratory infections ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). The most recently discovered coronavirus causes coronavirus disease COVID-19.
How should I greet a person to avoid Covid-19 spread?

As per the WHO guidelines, the best way to greet a person in such unprecedented times is by a nod, wave or a bow.
Should I avoid shaking hands because of Covid-19?

Yes, please avoid shaking hands as respiratory viruses can be transmitted through shaking hands and touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Why should I wash my hands frequently?

It is very important to regularly wash and clean your hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer which will kill viruses that may be on your hands.
How do I know if it is COVID-19 or just the common flu?

A COVID-19 infection has the same signs and symptoms as the common cold so you can only differentiate between them through lab testing to determine the virus type.
Can the virus that causes COVID-19 be transmitted through the air?

Studies to date suggest that the virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly transmitted through contact with respiratory droplets rather than through the air. If new data arises, we will be sure to update you on it.
I am well and asymptomatic. Should I use a mask?

According to the WHO, for individuals without respiratory symptoms, a medical mask is not required, as no evidence is available on its usefulness to protect non-sick persons.If masks are used, people should be taught on how to wear, remove, and dispose of them and on the need of hand hygiene action after removal of mask.
What is the risk of my child becoming sick with COVID-19?

Based on the present data, children do not appear to be at higher risk for COVID-19 than adults. Although it is true that some children and infants have been sick with the virus but mostly adults are the ones contracting it to date.
Are the symptoms of COVID-19 different in children than in adults?

No. The symptoms of the virus are similar in adults and children. However, children with confirmed COVID-19 have generally mild symptoms.
Should I worry about COVID-19?

Yes ideally you should be worried about the spread of the virus. As suggested by the UN, about 1 in every 5 people who catch it need hospital care. It is therefore quite normal for people to worry about how the COVID-19 outbreak will affect them and their loved ones.To protect ourselves, as recommended by the UN, first and foremost is to regularly and thoroughly wash hands and maintain good respiratory hygiene. Secondly, keep yourself informed and follow the advice of the local central and state health authorities including any restrictions put in place on travel, movement and gatherings.
What is the community spread of Covid-19?

It is when people who do not have any travel history and are not in contact with people who have contracted the disease yet still show symptoms of the virus and are unaware of the source.
How long is the incubation period from Covid-19?

As per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the “incubation period” refers to the time between catching the virus and beginning to show the symptoms of it. In most cases the incubation period ranges from 1-14 days, most commonly around five days.
How do I manage my personal expenses during the lockdown period?/How can I ensure that the basic needs of my family are met during the lockdown period?
- The primary challenge in such times is to manage available cash and create avenues to generate cash.
- To manage available cash, streamline your expenses. Reduce or postpone expenses which are not essential now – one way could be to draw out a list of expenses and put them in buckets like ‘expenses that can’t be postponed’, ‘expenses that can be postponed’, ‘expenses that can be reduced’ and try to ration the available resources.
- Cash is generated from existing resources and from existing small assets as well (FDs, NSCs, gold, etc.) which businesses and individuals create active economic times when there are surplus incomes. The point is once the initial period is handled and situations stabilise, your regular cash flows shall enable you to once again create such assets. Please remember all of us create assets in times of surplus only to handle emergencies and this is a unique emergency.
- You can request some of your service providers for staggered payments or for a postponement of payments.
- The last option could be approaching a lending institution (your existing lender or a small finance bank which specialise in lending to small businesses) for emergency cash flow – but please bear in mind that while a new loan will bring in cash, it will also bring the interest burden which demands cash outgo. Be also very clear about the loan servicing required and your ability to take care of it. Ideally, this is best resorted to – if at all - when situation becomes clearer and activities restart and are stable. You may also try through the Fintech platform www.psbloansin59minutes.com for a loan from a number of available lending institutions of your choice.
- One of the critical things is to control cash outgo while finding ways to generate new cash.
What are the various relief measures provided by the Government of India to tackle the Covid-19 crisis?/What are the various flagship schemes by the Government of India to deal with the crisis?
The Finance Minister has announced a number of relief measures to deal with the crisis:
Income Tax
Last date for returns extended to 30-June-2020
Delayed payments, interest rate reduced from 12 to 9%
No extension but on delayed deposit of TDS, only reduced interest of 9% will be charged till 30-June-20. Reduced from 18%.
Aadhar- Pan linking date extended to 30-Jun-2020
Vivaad se Vishwaas Scheme has been extended to 30-Jun-20; Additional charge of 10% that would have been levied, is being removed till 30-June-20
Due Dates for Issue of Notice, Approval order, Filing of appeal, Furnishing of Returns, Return Statement, Applications, Reports, any other document or compliance, including investment in Savings instruments or investment for Roll Over benefit of Capital Gains, Wealth Tax, Benami Property, Black Money, STT Law, CTT Law, Equalisation Levy Law, Vivaas se Vishwas law, where the time limit was expiring on 20-Mar-20 shall all be extended

GST
Last date for March April and May returns and Composition Returns extended to 30-June 2020. (staggered as in the note)
For companies <INR 5cr turnover: no interest or late fee will be charged
Last date for opting composition scheme has been extended to June 30, 2020. Different staggering dates will be applicable, but all will end by June 30, 2020
Date for opting for composition scheme extended to 30-June-2020

Customs and Central Excise
Sabka Vishwas scheme that was extended to 31-March, is extended to 30-June-2020
No interest would be levied irrespective of amount involved
Customs clearance would operate 24x7

Companies Act
MCA registry: moratorium issued from 1st April to 31st September 2020
No additional fees for late filing
Board Meetings: Relaxing by a period of 60 days till the next two quarters
Applicability of the Companies Auditor’s Report Order 2020 will be made applicable from FY 2020-2021 instead of 2019-2020
If independent directors have not been able to hold even one meeting, the same shall not be a violation

Companies Provisions
For Newly incorporated companies: requirement to file COB within 6 months of incorporation; additional time of 6 months extended for them
Company director who does not comply with minimum residency requirement of 182 days u/s 149, would not be treated as a violation
Requirement to create a deposit reserve of 20% of deposits maturing in the year; this can be complied with by 30-June-2020

Department of Financial Services
Debit card holders withdrawing cash, can do it free of charge for next 3 months
No minimum balance needed
Reduce bank charges for digital trade transactions for all trade finance consumers

Commerce
For all practical purposes, principle adopted by any activity undertaken in commerce, for procedural and
eligibility related issues, timelines will be extended, however there will be no extension or modification of the schemes.

In case your business requires funding you may reach out to financial institutions and commercial banks for a more detailed discussion on your funding requirements. Depending upon your project nature, location and size, you can also explore financial help offered under various flagship schemes of the Government of India such as Mudra (http://www.mudra.org.in/Offerings), MSME schemes http://msme.gov.in/mob/Scheme-New.aspx) as well as State Financial Corporations (SFCs) ( http://sidbi.in/?q=state-financial-corporations) and State Industrial Development Corporations (SIDCs) (http://sidbi.in/?q=sidcs-siics).
In addition to this, please note that the Government has recently launched a debt fund called SIDBI Make in India Loan for Enterprises (SMILE), to provide soft term loans and loans in the nature of quasi-equity to MSMEs to meet debt-to-equity norms and pursue growth opportunities in existing MSMEs. Further details are available at the link: https://www.sidbi.in/en/products/smile
What are the activities in Containment Zones?
1. Perimeter control is stricter
2. Entry and Exit points have clear establishments
3. People can only move for medical emergencies or for maintaining supply of essential goods and services
4. Movement of a number of people and transport is significantly reduced
5. Movement of people in and out of the perimeter will be recorded
What are the measures and precautions taken for the safety and well-being of the person?
As per the MHA order guidelines:
1. Movement of individuals for all non-essential activities will be prohibited strictly between 7pm to 7 am. However, local authorities shall issue orders under appropriate provisions of the law such as prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC, for this purpose and ensure stricter compliance.
2. In all zones, people above 65 years, person with co-morbidities, pregnant women and children below age of 19 years, shall stay at home, except for meeting essential requirements and for health purposes.
3. In Containment Zones, Out-Patient Departments (OPDs) and Medical Clinics shall not be permitted to operate. However, these may be permitted to operate in Red, Orange, and Green Zones with social distancing norms and precuations.
Is delivery of non-essential goods possible through e-commerce companies?

No e-commerce of non-essentials will not be allowed in a Red Zone areas
Will offices be operational?

As per MHA guidelines, private offices can operate with up to 33% strength as per requirement, with the remaining persons working from home. All government offices shall function with senior officers of the level of Deputy Secretary and above at full strength, and the remaining staff attending up to 33% as per requirement. Most of the commercial and private establishments have been allowed in the Red Zones. These include print and electronic media, IT and IT-enabled services, data and call centres, cold storage and warehousing services, private security and facility management services, and services provided by self-employed persons, except for barbers, and manufacturing units of non-essential goods.
Will house helps be allowed to comes?

Yes, house help will be allowed in all zones except containment zones. However, society rules in the zones will apply
What offices are allowed to function in Red Zones?
1. Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Industrial Estates and Export Oriented Undertakings with access control.
2. Manufacturing plants of essential goods.
3. Manufacturing of IT hardware.
4. Jute industry units with staggered shifts and social distancing.
5. Manufacturing units of packaging material

I want to get my testing kits approved.

Thank you for inquiring. To get your testing kit approved, you need to get clearance from DCGI and CDSCO. Our recommendation would be for you to access the Sugam Portal - https://cdscoonline.gov.in/CDSCO/homepage

And write directly to CDSCO regarding your approval. You may email them on - dci@nic.in – with all existing approvals (European market approval, if present) as well.
I have testing kits, I want to supply

Thank you for sharing this information. You may fill up the Supplier information form available here: https://www.investindia.gov.in/bip/covid/supplies . The supply is accessible by State governments, who will reach out to you through their procurement channels. Additionally, we recommend you apply for various state/ national tenders open for sourcing testing kits.
I want to import my testing kits.

Thank you for inquiring. To get your testing kit imported and used in India, you need to get clearance from DCGI and CDSCO. Our recommendation would be for you to access the Sugam Portal - https://cdscoonline.gov.in/CDSCO/homepage

And write directly to CDSCO regarding your approval. You may email them on - dci@nic.in – with all existing approvals (European market approval, if present) as well.

Additionally, you may fill up the Supplier information form available here: https://www.investindia.gov.in/bip/covid/supplies . The supply is accessible by State governments, who will reach out to you through their procurement channels.
I’m unable to open my factory to ramp up production of testing kits

Please share details of where your factory is located. Each state government has made provisions to apply for temporary passes. Request you to please seek out your state policy department’s movement pass.

Each state also has a dedicated control room manning the movement of essentials. Please refer to the following link for your state’s details: https://www.investindia.gov.in/bip/resources/state-and-central-control-rooms
My raw material is stuck and my courier cant cross domestic borders

Please share details of where your factory is located. Each state government has made provisions to apply for temporary passes. Request you to please seek out your state policy department’s movement pass.

Each state also has a dedicated control room manning the movement of essentials. Please refer to the following link for your state’s details: https://www.investindia.gov.in/bip/resources/state-and-central-control-rooms

Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: What does this Scheme cover?

This accident insurance scheme covers;

• Loss of life due to COVID19, and

• Accidental death on account of COVID-19 related duty
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Who can be a volunteer under this scheme?

Volunteers are those who are drafted by the Government Official authorized by Central/State/ UT Government for care and may have come in direct contact of the COVID-19 patient
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Who are ‘Private persons’ under this scheme?

Private persons are those who are engaged by both public & private health care institutions/organization through an agency and were deployed /drafted for care and may have come in direct contact of the COVID-19 patient (with the proof that the service of the agencies were engaged by the institution/organization).
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: When does insurance coverage policy begins and ends?

The duration of the policy is for a period of 90 days, starting from March 30, 2020.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Is there any age-limit for health workers under this scheme?

There’s no age limit for this scheme.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Is individual enrolment required?

Individual enrolment is not required.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Is COVID-19 laboratory test mandatory for claiming the benefit?

Laboratory report certifying positive medical test is required for loss of life on account of COVID-19. However, it is not required in case of Accidental loss of life on account of COVID-19 related duty.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Whether expenses incurred on treatment or during quarantine are covered under the scheme?

Any type of expenses related to treatment or quarantine is not covered.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: If a person is having another Personal accident policy or life insurance policy, what is the effect of the same on claim under this policy?

The benefit/claim under this policy is in addition to the amount payable under any other policies.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Documents required to claim benefits under this scheme?

A. In case of Loss of life due to COVID19 following documents are required:

I. Claim form duly filled and signed by the nominee/claimant.

II. Identity proof of Deceased (Certified copy)

III. Identity proof of the Claimant (Certified copy)

IV. Proof of relationship between the Deceased and the Claimant (Certified copy)

V. Laboratory Report certifying having tested Positive for COVID-19 (in Original or Certified copy)

VI. Death summary by the Hospital where death occurred (in case death occurred in hospital) (Certified copy).

VII. Death Certificate (in Original)

VIII. Certificate by the Healthcare Institution/ organization/ office that the deceased was an employee of /engaged by the institution and was deployed/drafted for care and may have come in direct contact of the COVID-19 patient. For community health care workers, the Certificate should be from Medical Officer of Primary Health Centre (PHC) that ASHA/ASHA Facilitator was drafted for work related to COVID-19.

B. In case of Accidental loss of life on account of COVID-19 related duty following documents are required:

I. Claim form duly filled and signed by the nominee/claimant.

II. Identity proof of Deceased (Certified copy)

III. Identity proof of the Claimant (Certified copy)

IV. Proof of relationship between the Deceased and the Claimant (Certified copy)

V. Death summary by the Hospital where death occurred (in case death occurred in hospital) Page | 3 (Certified copy).

VI. Death Certificate (in Original)

VII. Post-mortem Report (Certified copy)

VIII. Cancelled Cheque (desirable) (in Original)

IX. FIR (Certified copy)

X. Certificate by the Healthcare Institution/ organization/ office that the deceased was an employee of /engaged by the institution and had an accidental loss of life on account of COVID-19 related duty.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Whom to contact in case of any claim?

The institution/department the insured person was working for has to be informed. Insurance company also be intimated at email id nia.312000@newindia.co.in
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: What is the process of submission of claim?

• The claimant needs to fill up claim form along with necessary documents as prescribed
and submit the same to Healthcare Institution/ organization/ office where the deceased
was an employee of /engaged by the institution.
• The respective institution will give necessary certification and forward it to competent
authority.
• Competent authority for State/UT is Director General Health Services /Director
Health Services/ Director Medical Education or any other Official specifically
authorised by the State/UT Government for this purpose.
• Competent authority for Central Government, Central Autonomous / PSU
Hospitals, AIIMS, INIs and Hospitals of other Central Ministries is Director or
Medical Superintendent or Head of the concerned institution.
• Competent authority will forward and submit claim to the insurance company for
approval.
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package: Whom to contact from insurance company?

Divisional office CDU 312000 of The New India Assurance Co.Ltd. located at B-401, Ansal Chambers 1, Bhikaji Cama Place, New Delhi-110066. Contact persons:-

1. Mrs.Sarika Arora, Divisional Manager, email sarika.arora@newindia.co.in or nia.312000@newindia.co.in

2. Mr.N.Ravi Rao, Deputy Manager, email id ravin.rao@newindia.co.in or niadelbroker20@gmail.com

3.Mr.Yogendra Singh Tanwar, Administrative Officer email id yogendra.tanwar@newindia.co.in
Swachhata-MoHUA App: Who is responsible for resolving complaints posted under COVID-19 categories in Swachhata-MoHUA App?

Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are responsible to resolve all complaints posted on Swachhata-MoHUA App. As the complaints posted under new COVID-19 categories are critical, ULBs need to take immediate action by either directly resolving the complaints or connecting the citizen with concerned departments. ULBs need to monitor the status of complaints and to ensure the resolution of same.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: Will the new Covid-19 categories be part of Swachh Survekshan/ GFC/ ODF score of ULB?

No, the complaints and resolutions under new COVID19 categories would not be evaluated under Swachh Survekshan / GFC / ODF protocols. These categories have been added only to assist citizens during the COVID-19 outbreak, and providing ULBs with another source of information about their citizens.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: Can Fumigation/Sanitation be separated into different categories?

The complaint category shall not change. However, the complainant may specify his/her request in the “More info” field, or the ULB may contact the complainant for specific requests.
Can a separate category be added for reporting unregulated disposal of COVID-19 waste?

This can be covered under the category 'Request Waste Pickup from Quarantine Area’
Can a separate category be added for reporting violation of social distancing?

This can be covered under new category ‘Violation of Lockdown during COVID-19’.
Can a separate category be added for not wearing mask in hotspot areas?

This can be covered under new category ‘Violation of Lockdown during COVID-19’.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: Who is responsible for resolving complaints posted under COVID-19 categories in Swachhata-MoHUA App?

Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) are responsible to resolve all complaints posted on Swachhata-MoHUA App. As the complaints posted under new COVID-19 categories are critical, ULBs need to take immediate action by either directly resolving the complaints or connecting the citizen with concerned departments. ULBs need to monitor the status of complaints and to ensure the resolution of same.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: Will the new Covid-19 categories be part of Swachh Survekshan/GFC/ODF score of ULB?

No, the complaints and resolutions under new COVID19 categories would not be evaluated under Swachh Survekshan / GFC / ODF protocols. These categories have been added only to assist citizens during the COVID-19 outbreak, and providing ULBs with another source of information about their citizens.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: What happens to existing categories under SwachhataMoHUA App with addition of new categories related to COVID-19?

All new COVID-19 and old categories under SwachhataMoHUA are active. Citizens may post complaints in any of these categories which need to be resolved by concerned Urban Local Body (ULB) at the earliest.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: How can a ULB monitor the complaints?

All complaints can be monitored at the Swachh.city dashboard in the same manner as the ULBs monitor other complaints on Swachhata App, on: www.swachh.city
Swachhata-MoHUA App: Can Fumigation/Sanitation be separated into different categories?

The complaint category shall not change. However, the complainant may specify his/her request in the “More info” field, or the ULB may contact the complainant for specific requests.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: Food demand may be avoided as it may lead to misuse by citizens

This is critical during COVID-19 outbreak and ULBs need to ensure food supply to needy citizens.Request for food, shelter, medicine, transport etc may be forwarded to the concerned agency / NGO / shop / vendor in that area and the complainant / citizen may be informed. However, such issues should be followed up and monitored for final disposal.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: What if violation of quarantine or lockdown etc. is being managed by police/ district administration, and not directly by ULB?

ULB can inform the relevant authority about the specific complaint, and reply may accordingly be given on Swachhata App.
Swachhata-MoHUA App: Is there any helpline for resolving technical issues related to App?

All queries may be mailed to: swachhbharat@janaagraha.org

Anushka Arora, Janaagraha: 9625514474

Escalation of unresolved issues may be taken up with:

Sumit Arora, Janaagraha: 9818359033;

Prabal Bhardwaj, National PMU, SBM(U):7838606896

INDIAN NATIONALS WHO WANT TO RETURN TO INDIA: Whether Indians transiting through UAE, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait be quarantined on arrival in India?

Yes.

With effect from 12.00 GMT on March 18,2020 (Port of Departure).
INDIAN NATIONALS WHO WANT TO GO ABROAD: Whether Indians are allowed to go abroad?

Indians are strongly advised to avoid non essential travel to Corona Virus affected countries. However as per latest notification passengers from certain countries shall not be allowed to enter India. Please refer to list of countries in Section A.1.
INDIAN NATIONALS WHO WANT TO GO ABROAD: Whether they will be quarantined upon arrival in India (quarantined for14 days)?

1. All passengers coming from/transiting through UAE, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait after 12.00 GMT on March 18,2020 (Port of Departure) will be quarantined.

2. Those who have visited China, Republic of Korea, Iran, Italy, Spain, France and Germany on or after Feb 15, 2020 will be quarantined.
FOREIGNERS WHO ARE PRESENTLY IN INDIA: Whether they can extend their Indian visas before expiry?

Yes, they should approach their jurisdictional FRRO/FROs through e-FRRO (https://indianfrro.gov.in/frro/)
FOREIGNERS WHO ARE PRESENTLY IN INDIA: Whether they can go out of India and return back?

Yes they can go out of India. However, they can return to India with fresh visa issued from Mission/Post only.
FOREIGNERS WHO WANT TO COME TO INDIA: Who are not allowed?

Restricted Countries All passengers coming from Austria,Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom effective 12.00 GMT on March 18,2020 (Port of Departure) and passengers coming from Philippines, Malaysia and Afghanistan effective 15.00 IST on March 17,2020 (Port of Departure).
FOREIGNERS WHO WANT TO COME TO INDIA: Whether Employment and project visa holders allowed from restricted countries?

Yes
FOREIGNERS WHO WANT TO COME TO INDIA: Are Nepal, Bhutan and Maldives passport holders allowed?

Nepal and Bhutan nationals are allowed. Maldives nationals would require visa.
FOREIGNERS WHO WANT TO COME TO INDIA: Are foreign nationals with RC/RP/Stay Visa allowed to enter?

Only those foreigners who have RC/RP/Stay Visa w.r.t. Employment/ Project Visas.
FOREIGNERS WHO WANT TO COME TO INDIA: Is COVID-19 Negative Certificate mandatory ?

Please see website of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India.
FOREIGNERS WHO WANT TO COME TO INDIA: Who is the competent authority to issue COVID-19 Negative Certificates in Italy and Republic of Korea?

Please see website of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Govt. of India.
FOREIGNERS WHO WANT TO COME TO INDIA: Whether foreigners transiting through restricted countries allowed to enter India?

Flights have been barred from taking passengers from restricted countries.
OCI CARD HOLDERS: Are OCI Card holders allowed?

No.

OCI Card holders are required to obtain fresh Indian visa from Mission/Post and allowed in India except from restricted countries. Restricted Countries All passengers coming from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom effective 12.00 GMT on March 18,2020 (Port of Departure) and passengers coming from Philippines, Malaysia and Afghanistan effective 15.00 IST on March 17,2020 (Port of Departure).
OCI CARD HOLDERS: Are infants/children who hold foreign passports with OCI cards but parents is Indian allowed?

No. Infants/Children are required to get fresh visa from Indian Mission/Post.
OCI CARD HOLDERS: Whether OCI Card holders after obtaining fresh visa coming from/visited Republic of Korea and Italy require COVID-19 Negative Certificates?

Yes
DIPLOMATS,OFFICIAL,UN/INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND OTHERS: Are Diplomats, Official, UN/International Organization passports holders allowed to enter India?

Yes
DIPLOMATS,OFFICIAL,UN/INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND OTHERS: Are Diplomats, Official, UN/International Organization passports holders required to carry COVID-19 Negative Certificates if they arrive from Italy or Republic of Korea?

Yes
DIPLOMATS,OFFICIAL,UN/INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND OTHERS: Which are the International Organizations allowed?

UN Bodies and other recognized International organizations.
DIPLOMATS,OFFICIAL,UN/INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND OTHERS: Foreign crew allowed on GD if they have visited China, Republic of Korea, Iran, Italy, Spain, France and Germany on or after Feb 15, 2020 in their personal capacity?

No
DIPLOMATS,OFFICIAL,UN/INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND OTHERS: Foreign crew allowed on GD if they are coming from the restricted countries ?

Yes

Whether spending of CSR funds for COVID19 related activities shall qualify as CSR expenditure?

Ministry vide general circular No. 10/2020 dated 23rd March, 2020 has clarified that spending CSR funds for COVID-19 related activities shall qualify as CSR expenditure. It is further clarified that funds may be spent for various activities related to COVID-19 under items nos. (i) and (xii) of Schedule VII relating to promotion of health care including preventive health care and sanitation, and disaster management. Further, as per general circular No. 21/2014 dated 18.06.2014, items in Schedule VII are broad based and may be interpreted liberally for this purpose.
Whether payment of salary/wages to employees and workers, including contract labour, during the lockdown period can be adjusted against the CSR expenditure of the companies?

Payment of salary/ wages in normal circumstances is a contractual and statutory obligation of the company. Similarly, payment of salary/ wages to employees and workers even during the lockdown period is a moral obligation of the employers, as they have no alternative source of employment or livelihood during this period. Thus, payment of salary/ wages to employees and workers during the lockdown period (including imposition of other social distancing requirements) shall not qualify as admissible CSR expenditure.
Whether payment of wages made to casual /daily wage workers during the lockdown period can be adjusted against the CSR expenditure of the companies?

Payment of wages to temporary or casual or daily wage workers during the lockdown period is part of the moral/ humanitarian/ contractual obligations of the company and is applicable to all companies irrespective of whether they have any legal obligation for CSR contribution under section 135 of the Companies Act 2013. Hence, payment of wages to temporary or casual or daily wage workers during the lockdown period shall not count towards CSR expenditure.
Whether payment of exgratia to temporary /casual /daily wage workers shall qualify as CSR expenditure?

If any ex-gratia payment is made to temporary / casual workers/ daily wage workers over and above the disbursement of wages, specifically for the purpose of fighting COVID 19, the same shall be admissible towards CSR expenditure as a onetime exception provided there is an explicit declaration to that effect by the Board of the company, which is duly certified by the statutory auditor.

How much money can I get from my EPF account under this new provision to fight
COVID-19 and do I have to refund it?

You can get non-refundable withdrawal to the extent of the basic wages and dearness allowances for three months or up to 75% of the amount standing to your credit in the EPF account, whichever is less. The amount standing to credit in EPF includes employee’s share, employer’s share and interest thereupon.

Since withdrawal is non-refundable, there is no requirement to refund the amount.
Please illustrate the calculation of benefits

If the balance in member’s EPF account as on date is Rs.50,000/- and monthly basic wage and dearness allowance is Rs.15,000/- 75% of balance of Rs.50000/- is Rs.37,500/- & amount of three months wage is Rs.45000/-. So member is eligible to get Rs.37,500/- the least of two amounts.
How can I claim this amount? Do I need to submit claim form to EPFO Office?

Like claim for all other types of advances, the claim for this advance also can be filed Online if your UAN is validated with Aadhaar and KYC of Bank account and Mobile number is seeded in UAN.
Where and how can I file Online Claim?

On the home page of website- www.epfindia.gov.in, under the TAB “COVID-19” on top right hand corner, instructions for filing online advance claim is hosted. The process is also noted below:

a. Login to Member Interface of Unified Portal (https://unifiedportalmem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface)

b. Go to Online Services>>Claim (Form-31,19,10C & 10D)

c. Enter last 4 digits of your Bank Account and verify

d. Click on “Proceed for Online Claim”

e. Select PF Advance (Form 31) from the drop down

f. Select purpose as “Outbreak of pandemic (COVID-19)” from the drop down

g. Enter amount required and Upload scanned copy of cheque and enter your address

h. Click on “Get Aadhaar OTP”

i. Enter the OTP received on Aadhaar linked mobile.

j. Claim is submitted
Can I file claim through my mobile phone?

Yes, from your mobile phone you can either i) login to (https://unifiedportal-mem.epfindia.gov.in/memberinterface) and follow steps a. to j as in Ans to Q9 to file claim OR ii) Through UMANG (Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance) Mobile APP Home> EPFO> Employee Centric Services> Raise Claim> Login with your UAN and OTP received on your mobile number registered with UAN to file claim
Who is eligible for the advance from EPF to fight COVID-19 Pandemic?

Any member of EPF Scheme, 1952 with UAN (Universal account number) employed in any establishment or factory covered under EPF & MP Act, 1952.
Under which provision of the EPF Scheme, 1952, a member is entitled for benefit?

That a new sub-para (3) has been inserted in Paragraph 68L of the EPF Scheme, 1952 through GSR No.225(E) published in the Gazette of India (Extraordinary), Part II- Section 3sub section (1) on 28.03.2020 to provide for benefit.
Can an employee working in an exempted establishment get the advance to fight
COVID-19 pandemic from PF Trust?

The “Terms and conditions of exemption” in Para 27AA of EPF Scheme, 1952, provides that any amendment to EPF Scheme, 1952, which is more beneficial to the employees becomes applicable to exempted establishments pending formal amendment of Trust Rules. So, employee of an exempted establishment can withdraw from his PF account maintained with the PF Trust of the establishment by making application to the PF Trust .
I availed advance recently for illness. Can I avail advance to fight COVID-19 pandemic?

Yes. This advance can be availed irrespective of advances availed earlier.
KYC is not complete for my EPF account and hence I am unable to file this claim.

The claim for this advance can be filed Online if your UAN is validated with Aadhaar and KYC of Bank account and Mobile number is seeded in UAN. You are requested to complete your KYC by submitting same on Member Portal. If your basic details that is name, date of birth and gender against UAN are same as that in Aadhar, you can link your Aadhar through eKYC Portal. In case of mis-match in KYC details and details in EPF account, please submit online request for demographic detail correction through your employer. The bank account details has to be digitally approved by the employer. For submitting your claim online your aadhar linked mobile will get OTP. So your aadhar should be linked with a mobile.
I do not have cheque book leaf for upload while filing online claims. Can I upload front page of bank passbook?

Front page of bank passbook pertaining to bank account seeded with your UAN can be uploaded. This page should clearly reflect your name, account number, bank, branch and IFSC code.
I have applied for availing advance under ‘Natural Calamity’ purpose. Will this be treated as advance to fight COVID-19 pandemic?

No. You have to apply specifically for advance to fight COVID-19 pandemic.

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