In a significant development for governance in Uttar Pradesh, the state government has been ranked first among states under the initial phase of compliance reduction initiatives. Following this achievement, the administration has now embarked on the second phase of the program, identifying nine comprehensive themes, 23 priority areas, and five optional priority areas for implementing reforms.
Chief Minister Reviews Progress and Sets Vision
At a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, officials informed him that the cabinet secretariat had declared Uttar Pradesh as the best state in the country for compliance reduction during phase-I in January. The Chief Minister emphasized that the government must work diligently toward providing trust-based, transparent, and time-bound administration to citizens. This involves offering relief from unnecessary procedures, permissions, and inspections that often hinder progress.
Land Use Reforms: Simplifying Complex Processes
Addressing reforms related to land use, the Chief Minister was briefed on efforts to simplify complex permissions, particularly changes in land use. Special focus is being placed on eliminating the need for separate permissions in cases where land use aligns with the master plan in planned areas. Additionally, the land conversion process in unplanned areas is being streamlined to reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
Construction Sector: Risk-Based Approvals
For the construction sector, the government is implementing a risk-based system for processes such as map approval, layout approval, and completion certificates. This approach will provide relief to common citizens and builders by allowing self-certification, thereby reducing delays and enhancing efficiency.
Digital Integration and Energy Sector Reforms
The meeting outlined that processes across different departments are being integrated onto a unified digital platform with clear timelines. This initiative aims to prevent industries and institutions from making repeated visits to various offices. In the energy sector, the department is prioritizing online and auto-approval systems while simplifying procedures for electricity connections, load enhancements, and other technical permissions.
Environmental Permissions: Trust-Based Approach
In environmental permissions, a trust-based approach is being adopted by eliminating unnecessary clearances for low-risk activities. The government is ensuring time-bound processes while maintaining a balance with environmental protection in high-risk cases, thus fostering sustainable development.
Expanding Reforms to Tourism, Education, and Health
The review meeting also discussed reforms in the tourism, education, and health sectors. Officials informed the Chief Minister that investment and expansion of services are being encouraged by simplifying permissions related to tourism projects, educational institutions, and health services. This strategy is expected to increase employment opportunities and provide better facilities for citizens.
Phase-II Focus: Accountability and Digitization
A government spokesperson highlighted that under phase-II, the number of inspections is being reduced, old and irrelevant rules are being eliminated, and all processes are being completely digitized and time-bound. Clear responsibility for reforms is being assigned to each department to ensure accountability and effective implementation.
These comprehensive reforms underscore Uttar Pradesh's commitment to enhancing governance and fostering a business-friendly environment, building on its top ranking in compliance reduction efforts.
