LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the top-performing state in India in implementing deregulation and ease of doing business (EoDB) reforms, according to the Union Government’s Deregulation 1.0 report. The state has become the first in the country to implement all 23 priority reform areas, aimed at simplifying business operations and improving the investment climate. It has achieved the No. 1 position in the state-wise national deregulation ranking by successfully implementing comprehensive reforms across key sectors including land, building and construction, labour, utilities, and regulatory permissions.
Under land-related reforms, UP under CM Yogi adopted a flexible framework to encourage mixed-use development and simplified the land-use change process through digitisation. The minimum road width norms for industries in rural areas were rationalised, while a GIS-based Industrial Land Bank (ILB) was integrated with the India Industrial Land Bank, allowing investors to access real-time information on available plots.
In the building and construction sector, the state made significant amendments to reduce land loss in industrial and commercial projects. It also expanded the role of third-party agencies for building approvals, joint inspections, and fire safety clearances. The introduction of online issuance of occupancy and completion certificates has notably cut down approval timelines, making the process more efficient.
Labour reforms formed another major pillar of UP’s deregulation success. The state government removed restrictions on women working in hazardous industries and permitted night-time employment of women in factories, shops, and commercial establishments. Additionally, working hour limits were rationalised, and the Shops and Establishments Act compliance threshold was raised to 20 workers or more, reducing the regulatory burden on small businesses.
Uttar Pradesh also introduced third-party certification for environmental consents and streamlined approvals for factories and trade licences through online systems. Further, the state expedited electricity and water connections via integrated digital platforms, ensuring faster and transparent service delivery.
Creating a Business-Friendly Ecosystem
Officials said these reforms are part of UP’s sustained push towards creating a progressive and business-friendly ecosystem. By focusing on regulatory rationalisation and process simplification, the Yogi Adityanath-led government has made it easier for entrepreneurs and industries to operate in the state.
The government’s efforts under Deregulation 1.0 are expected to attract more domestic and foreign investments, boost industrial growth, and support job creation in key sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and services. With the successful implementation of all 23 priority reform areas, Uttar Pradesh has not only set a benchmark for other states but also reaffirmed its position as one of India’s fastest-growing and reform-oriented economies.
