LG reviews progress of Delhi deregulation reforms

New Delhi: Lieutenant governor TS Sandhu on Friday reviewed the progress of amendments proposed and implemented under Delhi’s deregulation exercise, aimed at simplifying governance procedures and improving ease of living and ease of doing business in the capital.

Officials said key reforms implemented under Phase I of the deregulation exercise for 2025-26 include simplification of the building plan approval process, deemed approval by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi for factory licences, integration of general trade licences with property tax, reforms under the Jan Vishwas Act, measures allowing women to work night shifts — including in hazardous industries — and permission for 24x7 business operations in Delhi.

Reviewing the progress, Sandhu directed departments to complete all pending reform measures under Phases I and II by June 30.

Officials informed Sandhu that the deregulation exercise is being carried out in two phases in line with Cabinet Secretariat directions. Phase I was launched in Jan 2025, followed by Phase II in Jan 2026.

Most of the pending Phase I reforms relate to the Delhi Development Authority, or DDA, and are linked to the proposed Master Plan for Delhi 2041. Of the 28 reforms proposed under Phase II of the deregulation exercise, three have already been implemented, while the remaining have been assigned to departments concerned.

“While we are fast-tracking the Omnibus Ease of Doing Business Bill, 2026, to streamline approvals, it is equally important to ensure that quality of service and safety standards are upheld across all sectors,” Sandhu said.