J&K allows businesses to operate through self-declaration
Eligible enterprises will receive protection from routine inspections for three years under the new Ease of Doing Business Act.
The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday permitted eligible enterprises to begin operations using a self-declaration system via a single window setup, according to the Kashmir Observer. Under the Jammu and Kashmir Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026, these businesses will also be exempt from routine inspections for a period of three years.
The Executive Committee has been appointed as the primary agency to handle all investment-related approvals for enterprises across the Union Territory. This includes businesses located in notified clusters, parks, and industrial areas.
Enterprises can secure a Certificate of In-Principle Approval (CIPA) by submitting a declaration of intent to the district empowered committee. A notification issued by M Raju stated that the CIPA can be obtained based on a self-declaration furnished in accordance with the Act.
The CIPA will remain valid for three years, allowing businesses to establish, construct, and operate while they seek regular approvals. For enterprises in approved industrial parks, the certificate must be issued within three working days, while those outside such parks must receive it within 30 days.
The government has introduced time-bound approvals, where delays will result in deemed approval. The new rules also include provisions for third-party or self-certification to streamline regulatory clearances.
The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly passed the Ease of Doing Business Bill, 2026, on October 29. During the debate, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the government should create conditions for private industry instead of running commercial establishments itself.