The Government of Maharashtra issued the notification on 18th July, 2023 by introducing Maharashtra Industry, Trade and Investment Facilitation Act, 2023. The Act has come into force effectively from 3rd of July, 2023.
The Act contemplates the following objectives:
- To create an effective Single Window System for delivery of services related to issuing of permissions required for establishing and operating industries.
- To enhance State’s competitiveness on trade and investments.
- To develop an ecosystem to ensure Ease of Doing Business including grievance redressal mechanism in the State.
- To develop and maintain a portal for providing all necessary information required for investment in the State of Maharashtra and for the matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
The Act provides for the following salient features:
Filing and Disposal of Application: Individuals or entities, such as entrepreneurs, investors, or authorized representatives, can apply electronically through the Single Window System to establish a new industrial undertaking or continue operating an existing one in the state. The application should be accompanied by the prescribed processing fees. Once received, the Competent Authority will take necessary action based on the relevant laws and may request additional information if needed to process the application within a specified time limit.
If the application is rejected, the reasons for rejection will be provided by the Competent Authority. Constitution and Powers of Empowered Committee: This Committee will consist of the Development Commissioner (Industries) as the Chairman, along with other prescribed members. This committee is responsible for considering and processing applications for permissions under relevant laws, especially in cases where the Competent Authority fails to do so within the specified time limit.
The Empowered Committee has the authority to invite officers or experts to participate in its meetings, request reasons for delays or rejections of applications, and seek necessary information or personal appearances from the concerned Competent Authority. Additionally, the committee can appoint officers to inquire into delays or grievances raised by applicants. Furthermore, the committee may possess other powers as prescribed.
Nodal Agency: The Nodal Agency is responsible for the Single Window System in Maharashtra and it has the authority to appoint or seek assistance from experts in fields like Information Technology (IT), law, finance, economics, or any other relevant expertise as needed.
