Amaravati, Aug 19 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Wednesday approved the Andhra Pradesh Omnibus (Speed of Doing Business) Bill-2026, aimed at simplifying regulations, easing approval procedures, and creating a more investor-friendly industrial ecosystem.
Minister for Law and Minority Affairs NMD Farooq introduced the Bill on the third day of the monsoon session.
Minister Farooq explained its primary objective and the simplified procedures it would facilitate. He stated that the government aims to foster a trust-based regulatory framework, enhance the ease of living for citizens, and expedite operational activities through this Bill.
The minister revealed that the Bill’s main objective is to implement reforms—suggested by the Government of India—aimed at relaxing regulations and reducing the compliance burden.
He revealed a proposal to establish a two-tier institutional system—comprising state and district committees—under the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Single Window Clearance Act, 2002. This system is designed to ensure systematic monitoring of industrial clearances and includes clear authority as well as a mandatory escalation mechanism.
Minister Farooq announced the introduction of an ‘auto-appeal’ mechanism under the Andhra Pradesh Public Services Delivery Guarantee Act-2017, eliminating the need for applicants to manually file appeals when services are denied or not delivered within the stipulated timeframe.
He explained that if a service is rejected or not provided by the deadline, the appeal will be deemed automatically filed, and the appellate authority will be required to resolve the matter within 21 days.
The Assembly unanimously passed the Bill, which stipulates that, in addition to directing the provision of a service, orders can also be issued for the payment of compensation.
Minister Farooq stated that under the Andhra Pradesh Fire Service Act, 1999, fire safety regulations have been aligned with international standards and guidelines, references to the National Building Code have been removed, and a new system involving third-party fire audit agencies for the renewal of fire safety certificates has been introduced.
He said provisions regarding the empanelment, qualifications, standards, duties, supervision, and disciplinary rules for these agencies have also been included.
MLA Ramanjaneyulu praised the key features of the Bill and urged the House to pass it.
Speaker Chintakayala Ayyanna Patrudu announced that the Speed of Doing Business Bill was passed following the members’ approval of the proposals.
–IANS
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