The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has announced a significant reform aimed at simplifying business operations and enhancing the ease of doing business within the national capital. In a move designed to reduce procedural hurdles, the civic body has decided to integrate the general trade and storage licence fee directly with the property tax system, thereby eliminating the requirement for a separate application process for trade licences.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that under the revised framework, property owners and occupiers will no longer need to secure a distinct general trade licence as mandated by the Delhi Municipal Corporation Act, 1957. Instead, the applicable licence fee will be remitted alongside the annual property tax payment through the MCD’s online portal. This integrated payment system will utilize the Unique Property Identification Code (UPIC) for processing.
Officials from the Municipal Corporation of Delhi stated that this integration is anticipated to substantially decrease the time taken for compliance and alleviate the administrative burden on businesses and property holders across Delhi. The reform is a key component of the city’s ongoing efforts to streamline regulatory processes.
As part of this simplification, the fee structure for the general trade and storage licence has been rationalized. It has been fixed at 15 percent of the property tax assessed for the respective premises. Upon successful payment of property tax through the portal, a receipt will be generated which will serve as a valid “deemed licence” for the premises for the duration of one financial year. This period is aligned with the property tax payment cycle, ensuring consistency.
While the process for obtaining the licence has been streamlined, the MCD has emphasized that all pre-existing regulatory mandates will continue to be enforced. Property owners and business operators remain responsible for securing necessary clearances related to fire safety, environmental pollution control, and adherence to other statutory norms applicable to their operations. The responsibility for these clearances does not diminish with the integrated payment system.
The civic body further underscored that ultimate accountability for safety standards and regulatory compliance will rest squarely with the property owner or the occupier. Any instance of negligence that results in loss or damage may lead to both civil and criminal liabilities. A formal declaration acknowledging this responsibility will be an integral part of the property tax payment process, ensuring that individuals are fully aware of their obligations.
This integration is expected to foster a more business-friendly environment in Delhi by reducing bureaucratic complexities. The consolidation of licence fee payment with property tax is a practical step towards achieving greater efficiency in municipal governance and service delivery. The move reflects the MCD’s commitment to leveraging technology and administrative reforms to benefit its citizens and the business community.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
