Haryana Cabinet Approves Major Amendments to Industrial Licensing Policy
The Haryana cabinet, in a significant move on Tuesday, approved amendments to the Industrial Licensing Policy-2015. This decision aims to rationalize regulations, reduce costs for developers, and foster planned industrial growth across the state. The changes come in response to long-standing industry demands and seek to align the policy with other sectoral frameworks while enhancing the ease of doing business.
Key Changes in External Development Charges (EDC)
A pivotal amendment involves the External Development Charges (EDC) in agricultural zones. The cabinet has approved that no EDC will be levied for industrial licences granted beyond 500 metres of the urbanisable limit, provided completion or part-completion certificates have already been issued. This exemption applies even if such land is later included in the urbanisable zone. However, EDC will remain applicable to any remaining undeveloped portions of the land, in accordance with prevailing norms.
Enhanced Land Use Flexibility
The policy now permits industrial use in Transport and Communication zones, bringing licensing norms in line with the Change of Land Use (CLU) policy. This allows for industrial colonies and CLU permissions on up to 25% of the net planned area within such zones, offering greater flexibility for developers and investors.
Expansion to Urban Centres
Furthermore, these amendments have been extended to hyper and high potential towns, broadening industrial opportunities in fast-growing urban centres. This expansion is expected to stimulate economic activity and infrastructure development in these key areas.
Summary of Policy Adjustments
- EDC Relief: No charges for completed or part-completed units beyond 500 metres if later included in the urbanisable zone.
- Partial Liability: EDC applicable only on remaining undeveloped land.
- Infrastructure Cost Rule: Only actual costs charged for government-provided infrastructure.
- Land Use Flexibility: Industrial use allowed in Transport and Communication zones.
- 25% Cap: Industrial or CLU use permitted on up to 25% of such zones.
- Wider Coverage: Policy extended to hyper and high potential towns.
These strategic adjustments are designed to streamline industrial processes, attract investment, and support sustainable development in Haryana, positioning the state as a more competitive and business-friendly environment.
