KOCHI: The delay in getting approval for a building permit in the state will become a thing of the past with the state government launching an online system for the approval within 30 days.
Minister for industries and commerce E.P. Jayarajan on Monday launched the Intelligent Building Plan Managem ent System (IBPMS) that provides single-point, integrated and holistic online development permission to applicants in specified timelines.
Speaking after launching the system at ASCEND Kerala 2019 investment summit aiming to develop the state as a top investment destination, the minister said, “building permission is critical in starting an enterprise. The introduction of the online system will facilitate quick clearances. Permits will now be available in 30 days of the application."
The minister also presented certificates to four beneficiaries of Thrissur Corporation, which is the first local body in Kerala to implement this system.
Additional chief secretary (LSGD) T.K. Jose gave a detailed account the efforts taken by the government for ease of doing business (EODB) in the state. This included the formulation of the Kerala Investment Promotion & Facilitation Act, 2018 that revised seven redundant laws.
“Only two documents are now needed for getting a trade licence in Kerala now: an identity proof and lease deed or legal occupancy certificate,” he pointed out.
KSIDC managing director Dr Sharmila Mary Joseph, who is also secretary, industries, said Kerala's EODB index was 47.4 per cent. With the launch of K-SWIFT, IBPMS and InvestKerala portal at ASCEND2019 today, the EODB has risen to 62.8 per cent.
Later, addressing the valedictory session of the day-long event attended by industry leaders and members of the local bodies, Mr Jayarajan said Kerala is looking forward to attain its EODB index to 95 per cent next year from the existing levels of 62.8 percent.
The government's efforts on entrepreneurship promotion won the appreciation of industry bodies including CII, FICCI and Kerala State Small Industries Association, which praised the initiatives to promote ease of doing business and ease of running a business in Kerala.
