The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued an order extending the last date for submissions of annual returns and renewal of licence/ registrations. This order was issued on 6th November, 2023.
The order takes into consideration the law and order situation in the state of Manipur in the past few months. It has also considered the non-availability of internet services to a large part of the population in the state.
The FSSAI recognises the adverse impact this would have on the ability of Food Business Operators (FBOs) to adhere to timelines for submission of annual reports and licensing/ registration renewal applications. In light of this, FSSAI has granted the following extensions:
- Licences/ registrations that have expired from 1st May, 2023 will not be subject to penalties if renewed before 15th November, 2023.
- The deadline for submission of annual returns for manufacturers and importers is extended to 15th November, 2023 without the levy of any late fee.
This extension in deadlines on humanitarian considerations seeks to bring about stability and consistency in the food processes for FBOs in Manipur, while sympathizing with their plight. FSSAI, upon due consideration, extended the deadlines for FBOs of the state for submission of returns and licence/ registration renewals to 15th November, 2023.