The Meghalaya Cabinet on Tuesday approved an ordinance aimed at simplifying clearance procedures for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enabling entrepreneurs to apply for multiple approvals simultaneously. The move is intended to reduce delays involved in establishing business operations in the state.

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the Meghalaya Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Facilitation and Establishment of Operations Ordinance would make it easier for businesses to obtain required clearances. He clarified that the measure would not remove or dilute any existing regulatory requirements applicable to MSMEs.

The ordinance is part of Meghalaya’s efforts to improve the ease of doing business and follows guidelines issued by the Centre to simplify regulatory procedures across states. The government’s approach is intended to streamline the process while retaining the checks and permissions required under existing rules.

The facilitation will be available only to white-category industries. Such industries do not require pollution-related Consent to Establish or Consent to Operate approvals, meaning the new process will not cover businesses that need these environmental permissions.

The proposed system will cover clearances and registrations issued by bodies including the Meghalaya Urban Development Authority and municipal authorities. By allowing applications for eligible approvals to be submitted at the same time, the state government expects entrepreneurs to face a more coordinated establishment process, although the underlying requirements will remain in place.