India begins easing restrictions of Covid-19

India has begun easing some of the restrictions imposed on the country as part of a nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19.

The measures are targeted at increasing the output of farming, which employs more than half the nation's workforce and is seen as essential to avoid food shortages.

The measures will not affect areas that are still considered "hotspots" for the virus, including all major Indian cities. Domestic and international flights and inter-state travel will also remain suspended.

To restore the supply chain in these industries, cargo trucks will be allowed to operate across state borders to transport produce from villages to the cities. Public works programs such as building roads and water lines in rural areas will also reopen, but under strict instructions to follow social distancing norms.

Banks, ATMs, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies and government offices will remain open. And the self-employed - such as plumbers, electricians and carpenters will also be allowed to work.

Some public and even private workplaces have been permitted to open in areas that are not considered hotspots.

But all businesses and services that reopen are expected to follow social distancing norms.