Punjab emerges as a fully industry-friendly state
Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): A comprehensive set of reforms has been implerncntcd to make Punjab a highly industry-friendly state, resulting in growing satisfaction among indust[ialists and entrepreneurs. With industry-related approvals now easier to obtain, business operations across the state have become significantly smoother and more efficient.
Punjab, long known for its hardworking and entrepreneurial spirit and rich industrial heritage, has witnessed notable transformation in its industrial sector. The state has now firmly positioned itself as a major industrial hub, with leadership in sectors such as food processing, textiles, auto parts, hand tools, bicycles, information technology, tourism, and several other industries.
To streamline approvals and enhance transparency, the 'Fasttrack Punjab Portal' has been launched as the country's most advanced single-window system. Through this digital platform, more than 150 government-to-business services are being provided, ensuring a fully online, transparent, and timebound approval process.
Under the Right to Business Act, industrial projects with an investment of up to X 125 crore are approved within just five days. Punjab has also become the first state in India to implement major regulatory reforms for investors, including time-bound approvals within 45 days, deemed approval provisions, an escalation mechanism, and extended validity periods for key licenses.
In addition, investors are being provided real-time support through WhatsApp alerts, Al-based chatbots, and dedicated call centers, further simplifying communication and decision-making.
Recognizing electricity as the backbone of economic growth, the Punjab Government is ensuring uninterrupted power supply for industries, farmers, and consumers alike. Adequate coal reserves have been secured to support continuous power generation, strengthening industrial confidence in long-term operations.
TO further encourage industrial growth, significant changes have been introduced in the state's industrial policies. These policy reforms are expected to deliver strong results in the coming years, reinforcing Punjab's image as a business-friendly destination.
For industries being established in pre-identified industrial parks, industrial estates, or government project areas, all required permissions are being granted within five days through the single-window system, removing procedural delays.
Since Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Mann assumed office, an investment-friendly ecosystem has been systematically developed. As a result, Punjab has moved to the forefront in creating a robust ease-ofdoing-business environment, strengthening trust among industrialists and positioning the state for sustained industrial growth.