Chandigarh. Providing relief to Punjab’s industries and industrialists, the government has implemented a new framework aimed at accelerating services, simplifying procedures, and strengthening administration. Under this initiative, efforts are being made to resolve pending issues related to industries through a focus on “Fast Service,” decentralization, and an Operations and Maintenance (O&M) policy.
This information was shared by Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora and Surabhi Malik, Director of the Department of Industries. Sanjeev Arora explained that services had been slowing down—and industrialists were facing difficulties—due to issues related to policy interpretation. Now, by clarifying all these aspects, a “Fast Service” mechanism has been implemented to expedite administrative processes.
Processing Time Reduced from 15 to 10 Days
He stated that under the new framework, the stipulated time for delivering services—which was previously set at 15 days—has been reduced to 10 days. Furthermore, provisions have been made to deliver services within an even shorter timeframe, offering additional benefits to industries operating on freehold land. The objective is to ensure that all administrative processes are completed within four weeks.
Arora further explained that decentralization has been promoted through the “Delegation of Powers” initiative. This empowers a single official with greater responsibility, eliminating the need for them to seek approvals at multiple hierarchical levels. This measure is expected to accelerate workflow and minimize delays.
Speaking on the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) policy, he noted that its primary objective is to authorize technical officials and engineers to make decisions regarding infrastructure upgrades at their own level. Previously, issues arose regarding the collection of funds; however, this responsibility has now been entrusted to the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL).
Charges to be Collected Along with Electricity Bills
He stated that these charges will now be collected concurrently with electricity bills, thereby ensuring a 100% collection rate. Subsequently, these funds will be transferred to the relevant Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), which will determine where and how the money is to be spent. Government representatives will serve in an advisory and reporting capacity, while the authority to make decisions will remain at the local level.
Surbhi Malik stated that should any issues arise, they may be raised with the relevant authority, headed by the Deputy Commissioner.
Permission to Develop Additional Sources of Income
She further clarified that the SPV has been authorized to develop additional sources of income—such as parking facilities, leasing out small spaces for commercial use, or generating revenue through advertisements—provided that all such activities are conducted in strict compliance with the Corporation’s regulations.
She noted that, previously, taxes collected from industries were remitted to the local government; however, the industrial zones themselves often failed to receive the necessary developmental attention. Now, measures have been put in place to ensure that the revenue generated from industries is reinvested within those very zones, thereby improving infrastructure and directly benefiting the industrialists.
