Grant approvals in 21 days for industries: Naidu

Hyderabad, Dec 16 (INN): Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed the industries department to grant clearances within 21 days of application.

In a review meeting on the state's new industrial policy that is yet to be unveiled, the Chief Minister said that (28 types of) approvals needed for industries should be granted within 21 days.

Industrialists and investors should get clearances in a hassle-free way for their projects, the Chief Minister added. This, according to him, will make the industrial environment conducive in Andhra Pradesh.

Industries department officials informed the Chief Minister that according to the current industrial policy, building plan, concern for establishment, power and fire approvals are being granted within 90 days.

Reacting to this, the Chief Minister said that clearances have to be granted within 21 days and added that there cannot be any further delay.

The Chief Minister suggested the industries department to prepare a manual with a set of rules that will serve as a guide to investors. He added that escort executives will be appointed to act as a bridge between the government and industrialists.

These executives will be responsible for clearances for the project. He urged that the new industrial policy should also clarify the role of service sector (that generates more jobs) than just focusing on manufacturing sector alone.

He directed officials to set up a control room which will update investors about their applications' status. The Chief Minister also suggested that a time-period be framed for clearances from the Pollution Control Board.

Stating that the industrial development should be decentralised, the Chief Minister has asked officials to ensure that one industry should not be granted 1000s of acres in one area.

However, he suggested an alternative solution where land for the industry is granted in different areas of the state which would allow decentralized development.

The Chief Minister also asked the industries department to coordinate with IT, tourism, infrastructure, power, R&B and other departments. He directed industries officials to study the land utilization, potential for setting up new industries, identify non-utilized lands which could be used to re-allocate them to other industries.

With an aim to encourage entrepreneurs and create a start-up ecosystem, the Chief Minister suggested that every industrial zone should house an incubation centre.

The new policy, Chief Minister said, should keep the interests of BC, SC, ST, Muslims and Minorities women to become entrepreneurs. He has asked officials to encourage industries that contribute a part of their revenues for skill upgradation.

The Chief Minister also discussed on the incentives on Stamp Duty and VAT exemption and power subsidies.

Finance Minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, Chief Secretary IYR Krishna Rao, Principal Secretary (Industries) JSV Prasad, Principal Secretary (Finance) PV Ramesh, AP Skill Development Corporation director K. Lakshminarayana, Principal Secretary to CM Satish Chandra and Secretary to CM Sai Prasad and other officials were present at the meeting.