Goyal Calls ChatGPT “Mechanical”, Plans ‘Soulful Office’ For Entrepreneurs

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday said the government is considering setting up a “soulful office facility” under the Commerce Ministry to provide end-to-end assistance to entrepreneurs and businesses , aiming to simplify access to government services and schemes.

Addressing media persons at SEEPZ in Mumbai , Goyal contrasted existing digital tools with the proposed system, saying users currently depend on a “mechanical platform like ChatGPT” for information. He said the new initiative would offer a more interactive and human-centred experience.

He added that the proposed facility would serve as a single integrated interface for trade and industry-related support , aligning with broader efforts to streamline governance and improve ease of doing business. The system is expected to connect users physically as well as through video conferencing support .

Goyal said the platform would provide guidance across a wide range of areas, including Startup India, Make in India, export promotion, global trade opportunities, and international exhibitions . It would also assist entrepreneurs in understanding procedures for setting up businesses, accessing incentive schemes, and securing infrastructure support such as land allocation and power connections .

He further said the initiative aims to bring together multiple services of the Commerce Ministry into one unified system , improving coordination across departments and reducing delays in information access.

The minister also indicated that the move is part of a broader administrative restructuring effort, including plans to integrate and consolidate multiple Commerce Ministry offices in Mumbai into a single hub to improve efficiency, coordination, and service delivery.

“This will ensure everything is available under one roof. It will not only serve stakeholders better but also transform the way government interacts with citizens,” Goyal said, adding that the initiative would make governance more responsive and accessible for the business community.

Officials said the proposed model is expected to strengthen India’s efforts to improve ease of doing business and enhance support for exporters and startups.