THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The first industrial policy of Pinarayi government will focus on ‘ease of doing business’ after the slip in rank among the list of business-friendly states. Ending the ‘Inspection Raj’ to switching to single window system for entrepreneurs and extension of licence period are included in the policy to be unveiled by January next year. Entrepreneurs are expected to get a breather from the constant inspections by various departments, including Factories and Boilers, local bodies etc. At present, factory licences are subject to annual renewal.
The government plans to introduce a new legislation to streamline the amendments and statutes governing various departments, said Additional Chief Secretary, Industries and Power, Paul Antony. The new policy is likely to have a mechanism to make the existing industries competitive. According to industry experts, the state has the best chance to draft a comprehensive law as most of the licensing departments are under ministers from a single party. “There have to be clearly laid out rules that check the arbitrary use of powers by officials under Inspection Raj. Local bodies should use their power to close a factory only based on clear violation of laws,” said an industrialist.