The Indian government on Thursday placed restrictions on the import of laptops, tablets, personal computers and servers with immediate effect.

The order issued by the federal ministry of commerce and industry said the imports would be allowed against a valid licence for restricted imports.

The restriction will not apply to passengers carrying the mentioned devices in their baggage.

As per the notification, up to 20 of these items per consignment are also eligible for an import licence exemption for the purpose of research and development, testing, evaluation, repair and re-export.

Although the government has not elaborated on its rationale behind the move, industry experts say the step is likely to help boost local manufacturing.