Gujarat to introduce Single Window Clearance Act

With a view to cutting down on redtapism in the state, the state government has for the first time decided to formulate a Single Window Clearance Act.

While many states have made attempts in this direction, Gujarat claims to be the first state to come up with such an Act to promote single window clearance.

Gujarat has constituted a state-level committee for Doing Business (Under the chairmanship of the chief secretary) and district level committee comprising five collectors for ‘Doing Business´.

The committees will prepare a plan for standardising application forms, preparing checklists, time lines and clear flowcharts.

"Gujarat has been at the top when it comes to attracting investments. The previous investment summits have helped the state mop up investments to the tune of over $ 100 billion. Now the real challenge is to streamline the investments and projects. The government has decided to come up with a Single Window Clearance Act," said a senior government official.

The main objective will be to carry out measures for reduction in time cost and procedures for the projects which are in the pipeline.

Currently, the state government has roped in Tata Teleservices to prepare a software which helps various department keep a track of projects which are under different stages of implementation. The move is aimed to maintain a regular updating of information and revising the existing procedures.

"We are also in the process of evolving a system wherein online submission of application forms created. We are planning to create an exclusive portal for the purpose," he said.

Besides, the committee will also suggest other innovative ideas taken up, especially in PPP mode to have greater accountability in the system.

"The Act will also set a time-frame for giving clearances to projects. For instance, a time-frame will be set for clearing a project of a particular size or nature," he said.