Pune: Entrepreneurs in Pimpri-Chinchwad have long sought a streamlined process for obtaining the necessary permissions to set up and expand businesses. Despite the introduction of an online single-window scheme by MIDC in 2016, several permissions still require visits to government offices in Pune, causing delays and inconvenience.

The Pimpri-Chinchwad MIDC office, which oversees industrial hubs like Pimpri, Bhosari, Talegaon, Chakan, and Hinjewadi, serves approximately 15,000 industries.

While some permissions, such as new company plan approvals, construction permits, and fire NOCs, are issued online through the single-window system, entrepreneurs still need to approach other agencies like the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), GST office, and Registrar of Companies for additional approvals.

New MIDC Office in Chinchwad Offers Hope

A state-of-the-art four-storied MIDC office is under construction in Chinchwad, with 75% of the work completed. The new office aims to centralize MIDC-related services.

Entrepreneurs have urged the authorities to expand the scope of this office to include representatives from all relevant government departments, ensuring that all necessary permissions can be obtained under one roof.

Challenges in the Current System

Despite the single-window scheme’s introduction, bureaucratic delays persist. Entrepreneurs have raised concerns over the slow pace of processes due to red tape. Setting up a company typically takes about a month, but delays often arise from the need to visit multiple offices for different approvals.

Stakeholder Perspectives

Entrepreneurs and industry representatives have highlighted the importance of a truly comprehensive single-window system:

• Dinesh Waghmare, Entrepreneur: “The current system requires us to visit various offices for permissions. A single-window system will not only save time but also foster industrial growth.”

• Sandeep Belsare, President, Pimpri-Chinchwad Small Industries Association: “All necessary permissions, including those from MPCB and GST departments, should be facilitated at the new MIDC office in Chinchwad to reduce inconvenience for entrepreneurs.”

Sanjay Kotwad, Executive Engineer, MIDC Chinchwad: “Since 2016, we have been implementing the single-window system for permissions under MIDC’s jurisdiction. Entrepreneurs can avail themselves of these services online.”