On January 16, 2025, the Department of Labour, Employment, and Skill Development in Meghalaya issued the Meghalaya Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2025, which amends the existing Meghalaya Factories Rules, 1980.
This change is aimed at updating procedures for licensing and renewal of factories across the state.
The newly issued rules are titled the Meghalaya Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2025 and are applicable statewide.
These changes are effective from the date of publication, January 16, 2025.
Changes in License Validity (Rule 6)
The amendment to Rule 6 (Grant of License) introduces a crucial change in the duration of factory licenses. Under the new rule:
- Licenses granted or renewed will be valid for a minimum of 1 year and a maximum of 10 years, depending on the circumstances.
- The license will remain valid until the end of the tenure period, providing more clarity and stability for businesses regarding their operations.
Online Renewal Process (Rule 8)
A significant change is made to Rule 8 (Renewal of License) with the following key points:
- Renewal applications must be submitted online, and factory owners are required to apply at least 2 months before the expiry date of their current license.
- If the renewal application is submitted on time, the premises will be considered to have a valid license for 1 year, and it may be extended up to 10 years on a case-to-case basis with the approval of the Chief Inspector.
Impact on Factory Operations
The amendments are expected to streamline the licensing process, enhance transparency, and improve efficiency for factory owners and operators. By extending the validity of licenses and implementing an online system for renewals, the government aims to reduce administrative delays and ensure smoother business operations in Meghalaya’s industrial sector.
Conclusion
The changes introduced by the Meghalaya Factories (Amendment) Rules, 2025, represent a significant step toward modernizing the state’s factory licensing system. With an easier and more efficient online renewal process and extended license durations, these amendments will offer long-term stability for businesses. Factory owners should be mindful of the new online renewal procedures and ensure they apply for renewal in advance to avoid any operational disruptions.
