Delhi Initiates Reforms to Boost Business Flexibility and Empower Women in Workforce

The Delhi government has taken a significant step towards reforming restrictive labor laws, aiming to facilitate women's employment during nighttime. Chaired by Lt Governor VK Saxena and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, a meeting reviewed the 'Ease of Doing Business' and 'Maximum Governance - Minimum Government' flagship schemes.

The reforms are intended to remove barriers that have historically discouraged businesses in the capital. Among those is a directive to the Labour Department to amend the Delhi Shops and Establishment Act, allowing women to work night shifts with their consent and enhancing safeguards. Other proposed changes include revising regulatory frameworks to ease business operations in Delhi.

Additional measures include extending the working hours of shops and establishments, changes in the Industrial Dispute Act to streamline operational permissions, and creating a single-window portal for various NOCs. The new guidelines are set to be implemented and reviewed over the coming months to ensure timely progress.

(With inputs from agencies.)