Chandigarh, Oct 7 — To attract investment and generate jobs, the Punjab Government has announced sweeping reforms under the Right to Business Act, reducing the time required for mandatory industrial approvals from months to a maximum of 18 days. Officials said the move is part of a broader effort to make Punjab one of the most business-friendly states in India.
Under the new framework, industries located in pre-approved industrial parks, estates, or project zones will receive all required clearances within five days through a single-window system. For projects outside these areas, approvals will be granted within 18 days, failing which deemed approval will be automatically issued — a step aimed at eliminating bureaucratic delays and corruption.
Industry and Commerce Minister Sanjeev Arora said the reforms are designed to “boost investment and create large-scale employment for the youth.” He added, “Since the AAP government came to power, Punjab has received over ₹1.25 lakh crore in investments, generating direct jobs for nearly 4.5 lakh youths. This figure will grow further in the coming months.”
These investments span diverse sectors including steel, automobiles, food processing, IT and technology, healthcare, hospitality, textiles, logistics, and agri-business. Punjab’s proximity to Delhi, robust road connectivity, and a skilled workforce continue to make it an attractive hub for domestic and foreign investors.
Major players such as ITC, Info Edge (Naukri.com), Haldirams Foods, Frontline Group, LT Foods, and Reliance Retail have already invested in the state. Infosys is establishing a major Technology and Development Centre in Mohali, expected to provide direct employment to 5,000 youth. Fortis Healthcare is investing ₹950 crore in hospitals, medical colleges, and diagnostic centres, creating thousands of jobs in the healthcare sector.
The reform push has also attracted foreign investors from the USA, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Germany, UK, Canada, and Australia, particularly in auto parts, electronics, and food processing sectors.
To further streamline industrial growth, the government has formed 24 sector-specific committees focusing on key areas such as renewable energy, IT, steel, textiles, healthcare, real estate, and education.
For micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) — which form the backbone of Punjab’s economy with about 3.5 lakh units — the new law offers significant relief. Businesses can now start operations with a self-declaration and will be exempt from inspections for the first three years. The documentation burden has also been reduced from 15–20 certificates earlier to just 5–6 essential documents.
The government has also developed a land bank of over 50,000 acres ready for industrial use near major highways and urban centres. Currently, 78 industrial parks and estates are being upgraded, with new projects planned in Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Mohali, Amritsar, Patiala, and Bathinda.
For greater transparency, the government has launched the “Invest Punjab” digital portal, enabling entrepreneurs to submit documents, apply for permissions, and track applications online.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said he is personally meeting investors across the country to address their concerns. “Punjab has everything — hardworking youth, great connectivity, and now a government that believes in ease of doing business. We assure investors that setting up and running industries in Punjab will now be easier than ever,” he said.
