Ease of Doing Business in India: Transforming the Regulatory Landscape
India has achieved a remarkable transformation in its business environment, climbing from 142nd position in 2014 to 63rd rank in 2019 among 190 countries in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Report. This unprecedented improvement of 79 ranks in just five years represents one of the most dramatic business climate reforms witnessed globally, positioning India as the highest-ranking South Asian country and third among BRICS nations.
Strategic Reform Framework Under BRAP 2024
The Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) 2024 has emerged as India's flagship initiative for comprehensive business environment transformation. Unlike previous editions, BRAP 2024 introduces 434 state-level reforms and 57 central-level reforms, covering critical areas including labor regulation, environmental clearances, land administration, and digital service integration.
The innovative assessment methodology under BRAP 2024 blends evidence-based and feedback-driven evaluations, ensuring reforms translate into real improvements for businesses on the ground. This approach aligns with the National Single Window System (NSWS) and PM Gati Shakti initiatives, creating a more transparent and efficient regulatory ecosystem.
Leading States in Business Reforms Implementation
Kerala has emerged as the national leader in ease of doing business reforms, topping the BRAP 2024 rankings for the first time. The state achieved first position in nine out of 30 reform categories, including online single window systems, utility permits, and tax compliance processes.
Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat continue their strong performance, ranking second and third respectively. These states have demonstrated consistent excellence in implementing single window systems, construction permit reforms, and digital service delivery. Notably, Uttar Pradesh achieved a dramatic jump from 12th position in BRAP 2017-18 to 2nd position in BRAP 2019, showcasing how focused reforms can yield rapid improvements.
Fifteen states have successfully completed comprehensive ease of doing business reforms, gaining access to additional borrowing permissions totaling Rs. 38,088 crore. This financial incentive structure has created healthy competition among states, driving nationwide improvement in business environments.
Sector-Specific Policy Frameworks
Digital India and Technology Integration
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GST Reforms and Tax Simplification
Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation in 2017 marked a watershed moment for India's tax system. The recent announcement of next-generation GST reforms focuses on three pillars: structural reforms, rate rationalization, and ease of living.
Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes
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Regulatory Infrastructure and Compliance Reforms
India achieved its most dramatic improvement in construction permits, jumping from 181st rank in 2017 to 52nd in 2018—an improvement of 129 positions in a single year. Trading facilitation measures have dramatically reduced compliance time and costs. Importers now spend only 97 hours at borders compared to 264 hours in 2017-18.
State-Level Innovation and Best Practices
Maharashtra
Maharashtra maintains its position as India's top FDI destination, attracting 39% of total foreign investment. The state's Industrial Investment Policy 2022 provides comprehensive incentives while maintaining stringent environmental and labor standards.
Gujarat
Gujarat's Industrial Policy 2020 offers substantial financial incentives including VAT reimbursements for up to 11 years for ultra-mega enterprises. The state has implemented risk-based inspection systems and centralized random allocation of inspectors.
Karnataka
Karnataka's Industrial Policy 2020-25 specifically targets high-technology sectors including biotechnology, aerospace, and IT services. The state offers interest-free loans reaching 85% of Value Fixed Assets (VFA) for qualifying projects.
Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu's Industrial Policy 2021 provides capital subsidies up to 45% for women and SC/ST entrepreneurs, demonstrating inclusive growth principles while maintaining competitive incentive structures.
National Single Window System Implementation
The NSWS represents India's most ambitious digital governance initiative for business facilitation. Key features include Know Your Approvals (KYA) module providing intelligent guidance on required licenses, common registration forms eliminating duplicate information submission, and real-time application tracking across multiple departments and states.
Startup India and Innovation Ecosystem
The Startup India initiative has created a comprehensive ecosystem supporting entrepreneurship. DPIIT-recognized startups access multiple benefits including:
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Challenges and Future Roadmap
EoDB 2.0 Vision
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B-READY Preparation
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Economic Impact
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