Coronavirus Outbreak: Gem and jewellery sector comes to 'standstill'; seeks prompt govt relief

The indigenous gem and jewellery sector in the country has come to a "standstill" amid the coronavirus pandemic and is in immediate need of relief measures from the government, an industry body said

|Mar 23, 2020, 17:11:44 IST

The indigenous gem and jewellery sector in the country has come to a "standstill" amid the coronavirus pandemic and is in immediate need of relief measures from the government, an industry body said.With virtually no footfalls, many jewellers might have to even shut down their shops, the All India Gem & Jewellery Domestic Council said."Considering the crisis situation, the domestic gem & jewellery sector seeks immediate relief measures to enable the trade to function smoothly," chairman of the council Anantha Padmanabhan said in a statement.[caption id="attachment_3890257" align="alignleft" width="380"]

Representational image. Reuters[/caption]March, being the last month of the financial year, there are also many due dates of payments for businesses in the sector, it said."We have sent a recommendation to the prime minister stating our concern... and we have received a prompt and favourable response from the PMO," Padmanabhan said.The council also urged the government for deferring the GST return and extending the time limit for filing it."We have also sought reduction in customs duty to 4 percent. If rate of tax is not kept at this level, it shall encourage smuggling and unorganised business," the statement added.

Stroke in young adults, silent symptoms and late diagnosis: India's growing brain health challenge

Neurologists warn that stroke is increasingly affecting people in their 30s and 40s, while many brain disorders progress silently before symptoms appear. They say early diagnosis, timely referrals and healthier lifestyles are key to reducing India's growing neurological disease burden.

5 min read

Brain tumours aren't always fatal, but delayed diagnosis can be: Experts explain the key warning signs

Brain tumours are frequently mistaken for common headaches, stress or age-related cognitive changes. Doctors say recognising warning signs early and adopting a brain-healthy lifestyle can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term neurological complications.

2 min read

Spices, health and the Indian plate: Why chilli can be good for you—but moderation is still key

From boosting metabolism to supporting heart health, chillies offer several surprising health benefits. But experts say the amount you eat matters, and too much spice can do more harm than good.

4 min read

Organ donation: 5 myths you need to stop believing, according to a transplant specialist

Organ donation has the power to transform and save lives, but this can happen only when myths are replaced with facts. Building awareness, having open conversations and understanding the process can help families make informed decisions.

2 min read

Fish over meat: Why a pescatarian diet may help people with obesity live longer

A large UK study tracking over 150,000 adults with clinical obesity found pescatarians outlived regular meat-eaters, while vegetarians and vegans saw no similar benefit, but experts say the findings don't translate simply to Indian diets.