Govt Working To Simplify, Decriminalise And Remove Redundant Laws To Reduce Compliance Burden: Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal

A big exercise is being carried out by Central Ministries & States/UTs to reduce compliance burden and the aim of this exercise is to simplify, decriminalize & remove redundant laws, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal said on Tuesday (28 September).

Addressing the National Workshop on Reducing Compliance Burden organised by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Goyal said that India, under PM Modi, has come a long way from red-tapism to laying the red carpet for businesses.

The mindset has evolved from “Not able to understand complexities” to “It’s so simple to start a business”, he said.

Goyal said that numerous regulatory compliances only confused the new prospects and built hesitation in investors but today the government is creating a most conducive environment for entrepreneurs.

The minister said that the soft launch of the National Single Window System (NSWS) is an outstanding example of government's commitment to simply and rationalise things, according to a Commerce Ministry release.

The NSWS portal hosts approvals across 18 central departments and nine states and another 14 central departments and five states will be added by December this year.

Goyal said that through a participative and consultative approach with all stakeholders, the government is identifying and eliminating hurdles in a timebound manner.

Speaking on the occasion, DPIIT secretary said that more than 22,000 compliances have been reduced by Union Ministries, States & UTs so far under the initiative and about 13,000 compliances were simplified while more than 1,200 processes have been digitised.

According to the ministry, during last few years 103 offences have been decriminalized and 327 redundant provisions/laws removed.

Goyal said that the National Workshop on Reducing Compliance Burden will showcase the progress, achievements and notable initiatives under the exercise of Reducing Compliance Burden to ensure Ease of Living and Ease of Doing Business.

During the workshop Ministries and States showcased iconic reforms, shared Best Practices and highlighted impact created in continuous endeavour to reduce compliance burden and improve quality of living for citizens.

On the occasion, Piyush Goyal also released the Stakeholders Booklet on Reduction of Compliances.

The Workshop is going to promote peer learning among ministries and States/UTs to facilitate swift adoption of best practices for improved service delivery to citizens and businesses.