Govt Plans Major 23-Point Business Reform: Easier Permits, Flexible Work Hours & Faster Approvals!

The central government is rolling out a 23-point reform plan to ease business operations across India. Led by Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan, the initiative focuses on land, labour, utilities, and permits. A single-window clearance system, fewer inspections, and streamlined NOCs are key priorities. The plan includes extending permit validity and enabling self-certification and third-party verification. Land-use modifications and FAR adjustments will be made more transparent. GIS technology will be used for industrial land mapping.

Labour reforms aim to provide flexible working hours while maintaining the 48-hour weekly cap. Businesses may gain more control over daily work schedules. Measures to enhance workplace accessibility for women are also under consideration. The task force is leveraging technology to reduce bureaucratic visits. This initiative aligns with PM Modi’s push for state-level reforms. The reforms are distinct from the upcoming Deregulation Commission.

Govt Plans Major 23-Point Business Reform: Easier Permits, Flexible Work Hours & Faster Approvals!

The Indian government is actively working on a comprehensive 23-point reform plan designed to make business operations smoother and more efficient. This initiative, spearheaded by Cabinet Secretary T.V. Somanathan, is aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and simplifying regulations across various sectors, including land, labour, utilities, and permits. The move aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader agenda of encouraging state-level reforms, which was recently discussed in a meeting of chief secretaries and reflected in the Economic Survey.

 

A Push for Streamlining Regulatory Processes

Separate from the upcoming Deregulation Commission, this reform plan is being led by a dedicated task force focused on removing obstacles that hinder business growth. A major priority is establishing a single-window clearance system, which will enable businesses to complete various approvals through a single platform. Additionally, the government is working to minimize frequent inspections and expedite the issuance of no-objection certificates (NOCs), which are often seen as a bottleneck in business operations.

To further accelerate ease of doing business, the committee of secretaries recently convened to discuss process improvements and the integration of advanced technology to reduce in-person interactions with government offices. By leveraging digital solutions, the government aims to eliminate unnecessary delays and make business procedures faster and more transparent.

 

Simplifying Compliance Through Self-Certification

One of the key reforms under this initiative is the extension of permit and licence validity, which will reduce the frequency of renewals and save businesses significant time and effort. Additionally, the introduction of self-certification and third-party verification is being explored to ease compliance requirements.

Traditionally, businesses must go through multiple layers of approvals, which often result in inefficiencies and delays. Under the new framework, companies may be allowed to self-certify their adherence to various regulations or use third-party auditors for compliance checks. “The objective is to create a system where businesses can comply with regulations more efficiently while ensuring accountability,” said an official involved in the discussions.

 

Reforming Land Regulations for Investors

For years, land acquisition and usage rules have been a major concern for investors and businesses looking to expand. The government’s reform plan addresses these issues by proposing simpler land-use modification rules and enhancing transparency in floor area ratio (FAR) adjustments.

A key part of the initiative involves the use of geographic information system (GIS) technology to map industrial land-use patterns. This will help businesses make better decisions regarding land acquisition and ensure smoother urban and industrial planning. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and improving access to land data, the government hopes to attract more investments and boost economic activity.

 

Labour Law Reforms: Flexibility & Inclusivity

Labour regulations are also a major focus of the reform plan, with the government aiming to provide greater flexibility in working hours and overtime regulations. While the current 48-hour weekly cap on working hours will remain intact, businesses could be allowed more control over daily work schedules, enabling them to optimize productivity while staying within legal limits.

Additionally, the government is considering measures to make workplaces more inclusive for women. This could include flexible work arrangements, safer working environments, and policies that encourage greater workforce participation from women. Ensuring better working conditions for all employees is seen as a step toward improving overall labour efficiency and satisfaction.

 

Leveraging Technology to Reduce Red Tape

A key theme throughout these reforms is the use of technology to simplify processes. From online approvals to digital compliance monitoring, the government aims to reduce the need for businesses to physically visit government offices. By implementing digital workflows, approvals, permits, and inspections can be managed more efficiently, saving both businesses and authorities valuable time.

 

A Step Toward Business-Friendly Governance

The 23-point reform agenda is a significant step in India’s journey toward simplified and business-friendly governance. By reducing bureaucratic red tape, improving transparency, and leveraging technology, the government aims to create an environment where businesses can grow faster and operate with fewer hurdles.

While these changes are still being finalized, they represent a major shift toward ease of doing business, aligning with India’s larger economic growth strategy. If successfully implemented, these reforms could attract more investments, enhance industrial productivity, and strengthen India’s position as a global economic powerhouse.