Srinagar: In another landmark decision, the State Administrative Council (SAC), approved the “J&K Single Window (Industrial Investment and Business Facilitation) Act, 2018”.

The Act is an initiative, under the flagship program of Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) of Government of J&K, aimed at comprehensive and unprecedented overhaul of the outdated processes and procedures involved in setting up and operation of businesses in the state.

The legislation aims at making the doing of business in the State much easier and to create a hassle-free business friendly environment here.

Earlier, Pre-establishment approvals/NOCs would take months/years to obtain. The approvals/NOCs can now be obtained in a matter of week(s) through on-line mode in a time bound manner. Under a single umbrella, services of more than 12 departments have been brought to the door steps of the people through on-line mode. All services from Pre-establishment, Pre-Operation to Renewals will be available at the Single Window Portal.

The legislation also provides for a three level Committee at the State, Division and District level, fast clearances within the stipulated timeframe; minimum physical touch points with the official hierarchy; provision of deemed clearances; better compliance and transparency and an inbuilt grievance redressal mechanism.

The enactment of this ‘Single Window Act’ would ensure an improved EoDB ranking of the State of J&K during 2018.