Mumbai, March 29: In a significant move to enhance the “Ease of Doing Business” in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced crucial reforms in the state’s industrial licensing process on Saturday.
The reforms include transforming 20 out of the 33 mandatory permits into a self-certification model, thereby streamlining the approval process for businesses. Fadnavis assured that efforts are underway to reduce the remaining 13 permits in the near future.
Additionally, the Chief Minister stated that electricity rates in the state would systematically decrease over the next five years. These announcements were made during a seminar focused on the establishment of a bulk drug park and a life sciences hub.
Fadnavis aimed to boost investor confidence by dismissing rising cost estimates, noting that while electricity rates were expected to rise to ₹15.87 per unit, government intervention would reduce the current rate from ₹10.88 to ₹9.97 per unit. He claimed that by 2028-29, Maharashtra would become the state with the lowest electricity rates in the country.
To ensure a conducive environment for industries, the Maitri portal has been granted extensive statutory powers for single-window approvals, transparency, and accountability. The Chief Minister emphasized that all permits would now be available in one location, with real-time monitoring of each application. Strict action will be taken against agencies that fail to provide services within the stipulated timeframe.
Fadnavis reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), stating that incentives would not be limited to large-scale industries but would also extend to their suppliers and vendors.
The goal is to create a world-class, affordable, and competitive industrial ecosystem through public-private partnerships. Fadnavis reaffirmed the government’s firm stance on industrial development, expressing confidence that these initiatives would position Maharashtra as a strong global competitor and set a benchmark for the rest of India.