Economy, nightlife to get a boost in Delhi

NEW DELHI: Giving a major push to the night economy in Delhi, CM Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday gave his approval to 155 more shops and commercial establishments to operate 24x7, taking the total number of such entities to 523.
Delhi government in a statement said the move will not only boost the nightlife and night economy in the city but will also help in creating job opportunities and ensuring the welfare of workers. The 155 shops and commercial establishments are spread across the city.
"This decision comes as part of the government's ongoing efforts to promote a thriving business environment in the capital. Under the leadership of CM Arvind Kejriwal, the number of establishments permitted to operate round-the-clock has witnessed a remarkable increase," the government said in a statement.
"With the CM's intervention, a total of 523 shops have been granted permission to operate round-the-clock in the last two years. This marks a significant departure from the previous trend, where only 269 establishments were allowed such exemptions in the 68-year-long period spanning from 1954 to 2022," it added.
Officials said the file had now been sent to the lieutenant governor for a decision on whether he would like to express a difference of opinion with the decision of the elected government.
A senior Delhi government official said recognising the importance of creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, the chief minister had taken "proactive measures" to encourage commercial activities and facilitate economic growth. Officials said the extended operational hours would also provide convenience to the residents of Delhi, who could now access essential goods and services round the clock.
Officials said the labour department of the Delhi government gets online applications from commercial establishments seeking exemptions from Section 14, 15 and 16 of the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, 1954, which collectively put restrictions on hiring night-shift employees and impose related rules upon their opening and closing times and holidays.
"The Delhi government has completely digitised the application process, bringing an end to the Inspector Raj. Traders are not required to make a beeline at government offices and their applications are processed within four weeks after conducting necessary verification and onsite inspection," said an official.
"This is part of the chief minister's mission to bring administrative reforms in Delhi," the official added.
If an application is rejected, the applicant is given the opportunity to rectify the shortcomings and seek the approval again, officials said.
"By eliminating the restrictions on timings, the businesses will have greater flexibility in meeting the needs and demands of their customers, fostering growth and innovation across various sectors," the government said in a statement.