New Delhi, Oct 30 (PTI) The Delhi government will establish affordable and modern infrastructure to boost independent food outlets, streamline licensing and expand employment opportunities, a statement said on Wednesday.

Led by the vision of former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, the initiative will ease regulations and provide modern and affordable infrastructure through the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation ( DSIIDC), thereby fueling the growth of local food outlets, cloud kitchens and delivery-only services. he declared.

This initiative should come into force in the next 15 days, the press release specifies.

Delhi Industries Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said, “The policy introduces a pioneering approach to support the growing segment of independent food businesses, including cloud kitchens, ghost kitchens and other non-catering delivery points. “Designed to simplify business operations and promote sustainable growth, the policy will be in effect from 2024 to 2029. It aims to reduce regulatory barriers, streamline licensing processes and create opportunities for business growth. employment and skills development throughout the National Capital Territory,” he said. .

In response to the growing demand for food delivery services, the Delhi government’s new policy provides a robust regulatory framework that addresses the specific needs of non-catering food outlets, which currently number over 20,000 in the capital, the press release indicates.

This initiative aims to facilitate business, streamline compliance and improve operational efficiency, fostering an environment that supports entrepreneurial growth, skills enhancement and employment opportunities, the statement said.

The policy introduces a dedicated one-stop portal for licensing, facilitating hassle-free approvals and simplifying compliance. This portal is designed to facilitate the establishment and efficient operation of independent food outlets, it says.

Outlets with an area of ​​less than 250 square meters are exempt from the requirement to obtain a fire department NOC, provided they meet essential fire safety standards through self-certification. The Ministry of Labor will allow licensed food outlets to operate 24 hours a day, processing applications within 30 days for timely approval, the statement said.

“Through DSIDC, the city government will establish affordable and modern infrastructure in industrial areas. These will include communal kitchens, food testing laboratories, temperature-controlled warehouses and co-working spaces, all aimed at supporting small businesses and start-ups,” the statement said.

The policy aims to create fertile ground for independent food businesses, by equipping them with essential resources and simplifying regulatory requirements, thereby unlocking the sector’s growth potential, it says.

Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University (DSEU) will be instrumental in providing targeted training and skill development programs for entrepreneurs and employees, by providing 75 per cent subsidy on training costs for recognized institutions , he indicated.

To foster excellence and encourage best practice, the policy introduces an annual awards program. Independent food outlets demonstrating exemplary standards in hygiene, compliance and safety will be recognized with prestigious awards, including cash prizes of up to Rs two lakh, he added. PTI NIT NB

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