The government has directed the deputy commissioners (DCs) to include mangoes, litchis and some vegetables in the list of relief items being distributed amid the Covid-19 situation.

The Disaster Management and Relief Affairs Ministry yesterday gave the directive while allocating Tk 6.30 crore and 9,750 metric tonnes of rice for the DCs of 64 districts to operate the ongoing relief activities during Covid-19 pandemic. In the direction, the ministry said, "Vegetables, mangoes and litchis can be bought and distributed as relief items." Besides, the ministry also said each relief recipient may be requested to plant at least five trees.

Earlier on May 16, Agriculture Minister Abdur Razzaque in a virtual meeting with experts, business leaders and economists requested authorities to market seasonal fruits and agricultural products, including mangoes and litchis, during this crisis.