Kerala has achieved a landmark victory by securing the top spot in 'Ease of Doing Business'. In the latest national rankings, the state has emerged first in both categories of business and citizen-centric reforms. The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry unveiled these rankings at the Conference of State Industries Ministers in New Delhi on Thursday.

Industries Minister P. Rajeev received the Business Reforms Action Plan ’22 (BRAP 22) award from Union Minister of Commerce Piyush Goyal. Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada also attended the conference.

Kerala shines in this areas

Kerala’s top performance in business-centric reforms includes facilitating utility permits and streamlining tax payments. In citizen-centric reforms, the state excelled in nine areas: the online single window system, ease of issuing certificates through Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), certificate issuance by the Department of Revenue, providing utility permits, the public distribution system managed by the Department of Food and Civil Supplies, transport sector improvements, and employment exchanges.

The state received over 95% positive feedback in these nine reform areas, reflecting significant strides in improving the 'Ease of Doing Business'. Minister Rajeev attributed this success to effective policy implementation and local body involvement, praising the collaborative efforts of various departments and entrepreneurial organisations.

Speaking at the event, Goyal said if all states and Union Territories (UTs) come to one platform for approvals and facilities, it would attract global investment in each state.

Kerala outperforms these States

Kerala's exceptional performance has elevated it from 28th to 1st place in industry friendliness. The state topped the rankings in nine out of 30 sectors, outperforming Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat, which secured second and third places respectively. Andhra Pradesh excelled in five areas, while Gujarat shone in three.

Minister Rajeev further highlighted that the achievement was a result of comprehensive reviews by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Chief Secretary, underscoring a united effort across departments. This accolade represents a significant milestone for Kerala’s entrepreneurial community and is a source of pride for every Malayali.