No more queues: Factory licence simplified

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on Wednesday launched the integration of the factory licence fee module with its property tax portal, aimed at simplifying procedures for industrial units and reducing compliance burdens.

The new framework, inaugurated by Delhi Mayor Raja Iqbal Singh at the Civic Centre, enables industrial units in designated areas to avoid filing separate applications for factory licences. Instead, the licence will now be auto-generated once the factory licence fee set at 5 per cent of the annual property tax is paid alongside property tax through a unified online portal.

“This reform marks a significant milestone in ending the era of ‘Inspector Raj’ by ensuring a transparent, simple, and time-bound process for entrepreneurs,” Singh said at the event. He added that the move would provide relief to industries and accelerate Delhi’s industrial growth.

Standing Committee Chairperson Satya Sharma highlighted the efficiency of the initiative, noting that the single-window system would save time for entrepreneurs while improving transparency. “By combining factory licence and property tax payments into one streamlined process, MCD has created a more business-friendly environment,” Sharma said.

Under the revised system, industrial units located in redevelopment or confirming areas will also be recognised as licenced based on MSME registration certificates or allotment and lease letters issued by the Government of NCT of Delhi (GNCTD) or the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC). These documents will serve as deemed factory licences.

Apart from meeting pollution control and fire safety requirements, industries will now face fewer procedural hurdles. With this integration, the number of active licences in Delhi is expected to increase from the current 30,000, providing greater formalisation and ease of operations for small and medium enterprises.