What Steps Are Punjab and Kejriwal Taking to Boost Industry?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 24 advisory committees launched to boost various sectors.
- The Punjab Right to Business Act enables quick approvals.
- Reforms include a single-window clearance system.
- Government emphasizes stakeholder collaboration.
- Active participation from industries is encouraged.
Chandigarh, Aug 8 (NationPress) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Friday launched 24 sector-wise industrial advisory committees, aimed at transforming the state into a prominent hub for industry and commerce.
During the launch event of this innovative initiative, Kejriwal declared it a historic milestone for Punjab. He noted that the period before 2022 was marked by extortion, where business owners faced pressure from political figures to relinquish portions of their enterprises.
Kejriwal pointed out that as a consequence, many industries departed the state, leading Punjab into a crisis, particularly with the drug issue.
Emphasizing the advancements made since 2022, he remarked that under Chief Minister Mann's leadership, the government has implemented transformative measures to rejuvenate and expand the industrial sector.
He praised the fast-track portal as India's most advanced single-window clearance system, providing over 150 business services and eliminating the necessity for offline applications.
Under the Punjab Right to Business Act, Kejriwal mentioned that investment proposals up to Rs 125 crore now receive in-principle approval within just three days.
He added that the government has rolled out several significant reforms, including colour-coding of stamp papers, a 45-day deadline for granting approvals, and an automatic approval system if timelines are not adhered to.
In his speech, Chief Minister Mann stated that Punjab is already taking the lead nationally across various sectors and is swiftly becoming a model for others.
Reflecting on the government-industry dialogue in September 2023, he noted that the concept of these 24 sector-specific committees emerged from those discussions.
Mann explained that these committees will be tasked with formulating detailed strategies tailored to each industrial sector.
The Chief Minister mentioned that many industrialists present at the event are also committee members and expressed his belief that these groups will create the roadmap for Punjab's industrial future.
He emphasized that while drafting the new industrial policy, these committees will guarantee equal participation from industry stakeholders.
Mann encouraged all industrialists to actively share their ideas and valuable feedback in shaping industry-friendly policies.