Two key economic ministries — finance and commerce — met exporters across key affected sectors, and suggested relief measures similar to those put in place during Covid, to tide over the current crisis. The sources said deliberations at the highest levels over relief measures have not made much headway since unknowns such as the end date for sops and concessions, make it difficult to announce an open-ended package. “The exporters have started feeling the pain because, till now, front loading was happening and quite a few sectors were protected by the US importers. More recently, on September 24, Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council Chairman Kirit Bhansali met her in Delhi to seek urgent relief measures for the gem and jewellery sector. However, the process may take time, and until a resolution is achieved, it is essential to introduce relief measures to help the sector survive and sustain employment,” Bhansali said.