Government Approvals Services

Government Approvals Services – White Business Consultant (WBC)

Government approvals are one of the most critical and complex stages of setting up and operating a business in India. Delays, incorrect sequencing, or improper documentation can stall projects, increase costs, or lead to rejection. White Business Consultant (WBC) acts as a single-window partner, managing planning, coordination, and execution of approvals so promoters can focus on building and running their business.

    Our role goes beyond filing applications. We strategically map approvals to your
    business model, location, scale, and future expansion plans to ensure long-term
    operational success.
  

Change of Land Use (CLU)

Description

Change of Land Use (CLU) approval is a statutory permission required to convert land from its existing classification—agricultural, residential, or mixed-use—into industrial, commercial, or institutional use, as per state town planning laws.

Who Requires It

Manufacturing units, warehouses, logistics parks, dairy and agro-processing units, commercial complexes, educational institutions, hospitals, and infrastructure projects.

Eligibility & Process

Eligibility is assessed based on land zoning, ownership, plot size, infrastructure availability, proposed activity, and policy compliance. The process includes land record review, preparation of layouts, filing applications, departmental scrutiny, inspections, and issuance of approval with conditions.

How WBC Can Help

Land feasibility and zoning assessment
End-to-end CLU application management
Coordination with town planning and revenue authorities
Alignment with pollution, factory, and building approvals

Pollution NOC / Consent to Establish & Operate

Description

Pollution NOC (CTE / CTO) is a mandatory clearance issued by the State Pollution Control Board confirming compliance with environmental norms for air, water, waste, and emissions.

Who Requires It

Manufacturing units, food processing, dairy, poultry, chemical, plastic, packaging, logistics, and pollution-impacting service industries.

Eligibility & Process

Based on pollution category (White, Green, Orange, Red), location, scale, and environmental safeguards. Includes technical documentation, portal filing, inspections, and approval issuance.

How WBC Can Help

Pollution category assessment
Technical documentation preparation
PCB coordination and inspections
Faster approval through structured filings

Pollution Certificate (Annual Environmental Compliance)

Description

The Pollution Certificate is an annual statutory compliance issued by the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB), certifying that an operational unit continues to comply with prescribed environmental standards. Unlike Pollution NOC (CTE / CTO), which is obtained at the project initiation stage, the Pollution Certificate is required every year to confirm ongoing adherence to approved pollution control measures for air, water, noise, and waste management.

Who Requires It

Operational manufacturing and industrial units
Factories, processing plants, and warehouses
Agro, dairy, poultry, and food processing units
Any business already holding Pollution NOC and actively operating

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility is based on the unit’s operational status and prior Pollution NOC approvals. The annual process typically includes:

Submission of yearly operational data, production details, and pollution control records
Environmental parameter monitoring reports (air, water, effluent, waste, etc.)
Verification by the Pollution Control Board, including inspection if required
Issuance of the Pollution Certificate confirming continued environmental compliance

How WBC Can Help

Annual compliance planning and pollution reporting support
Preparation and submission of Pollution Certificate applications
Coordination with Pollution Control Board officials
Assistance in inspections, renewals, and compliance rectifications to avoid penalties or shutdowns

Invest Punjab Approvals

Description

Invest Punjab is the nodal agency of the Government of Punjab responsible for facilitating and approving industrial and business investments in the state. It functions as a single-window clearance system, integrating approvals and permissions from multiple state departments to ensure faster project implementation and promote ease of doing business.

Who Requires It

Invest Punjab approvals are required for a wide range of projects, including:

Industrial and manufacturing units established in Punjab
Commercial and service sector projects above prescribed thresholds
New business setups, unit expansions, and capacity enhancements
Medium to large-scale investment proposals seeking state-level facilitation

Eligibility & Process

Eligibility is evaluated based on parameters such as the proposed business activity, project location, land status and zoning, scale of operations, investment value, employment generation, and compliance with sector-specific policies and incentives.

The approval process generally includes:

Registration of the project on the Invest Punjab portal
Submission of project reports, land details, and statutory documents
Mapping of applicable departmental approvals under the single-window system
Departmental scrutiny and inter-departmental coordination
Site inspections, where required
Issuance of approvals, clearances, or timelines for compliance

Delays often arise due to improper project structuring, incomplete submissions, misclassification of activities, or lack of alignment between Invest Punjab approvals and parallel clearances such as CLU, pollution consent, factory license, or building plan approvals.

How WBC Can Help

Structuring projects to meet Invest Punjab eligibility and policy requirements
End-to-end management of applications and documentation
Single-point coordination with Invest Punjab and all concerned departments
Proactive follow-ups to ensure timely approvals and smooth project execution

Right to Business Approvals

Description

Right to Business approvals are granted under state-level facilitation laws to ensure time-bound issuance of statutory clearances for eligible businesses. The framework is designed to reduce procedural delays, improve regulatory transparency, and provide deemed approvals within prescribed timelines for qualifying industrial and commercial establishments.

Who Requires It

New industrial establishments
New commercial and service sector units
Eligible projects seeking time-bound statutory clearances

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility is determined based on sector classification, project size, and nature of activity as notified under the applicable Right to Business framework. The process involves submission of an integrated application through the designated single-window system, identification of applicable departmental approvals, coordinated scrutiny by authorities, and issuance of approvals within defined timelines.

How WBC Can Help

Mapping of applicable approvals under the Right to Business framework
End-to-end preparation and filing of applications
Active coordination and follow-up with authorities to ensure time-bound clearances

Factory Map Approval & Factory License

Description

Factory Map Approval and Factory License are mandatory statutory approvals under the Factories Act, 1948, ensuring that manufacturing units comply with prescribed building standards, worker safety norms, health provisions, and operational regulations. These approvals validate the factory’s layout, machinery placement, fire safety measures, and labor welfare infrastructure prior to commencement of operations.

Who Requires It

Manufacturing and processing units employing the prescribed number of workers
Engineering, textile, food processing, chemical, and other industrial factories
New factories as well as existing units undergoing expansion, alteration, or change in manufacturing process

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on the nature of the manufacturing activity, number of workers (with or without power), and covered area as defined under the Factories Act, 1948.

The process generally includes:

Preparation and submission of factory building plans, site layout, and machinery layout
Compliance with zoning regulations, fire safety norms, ventilation, lighting, sanitation, and welfare provisions
Scrutiny and approval of plans by the Chief Inspector of Factories or designated authority
Physical inspection of the premises, if required
Grant of Factory License upon satisfactory compliance, followed by periodic renewal and ongoing statutory compliance

How WBC Can Help

End-to-end factory layout planning as per statutory and safety requirements
Preparation and filing of factory map approval and license applications
Liaison and coordination with Factory Inspectors, Labour Department, and allied authorities
Support in inspections, compliance rectifications, and license issuance or renewal

DTP Map Approval

Description

Town Planning (DTP) Map Approval is a statutory clearance granted by the Department of Town & Country Planning, certifying that the proposed construction complies with approved land use, zoning regulations, development control rules, and applicable Master Plans. This approval ensures orderly development and lawful utilization of land for industrial, commercial, or institutional purposes.

Who Requires It

Industrial sheds and factory buildings
Commercial complexes, offices, and retail establishments
Institutional buildings such as schools, hospitals, and training centers
Projects involving new construction, expansion, or layout modification

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility is determined by the land’s zoning classification, permissible land use, Floor Area Ratio (FAR), ground coverage, building height, setback requirements, and compliance with the applicable Master Plan or Development Plan.

The process generally includes:

Verification of land use and zoning feasibility
Preparation and submission of detailed building plans and site layouts
Scrutiny by the Town Planning authority for compliance with development control norms
Issuance of DTP Map Approval or observations for modification, followed by final approval

How WBC Can Help

Pre-check and advisory on zoning feasibility and permissible development norms
Preparation and submission of DTP-compliant drawings and documents
End-to-end coordination with Town Planning authorities
Follow-up management until final DTP Map Approval is obtained

Fire NOC

Description

A Fire No Objection Certificate (Fire NOC) is an official approval issued by the Fire Department, certifying that a building or facility meets prescribed fire safety standards, including prevention, detection, evacuation, and emergency response systems. It ensures occupant safety and compliance with applicable fire safety regulations.

Who Requires It

Industrial units, factories, and warehouses
Commercial complexes, shopping malls, and office buildings
Educational institutions, hospitals, hotels, and other public buildings
High-rise or large-scale residential buildings

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on the building type, occupancy load, height, and installation of adequate fire safety systems such as alarms, sprinklers, extinguishers, emergency exits, and firefighting equipment, as per the National Building Code (NBC) and local fire safety norms.

The process typically includes:

Preparation of fire safety plans and layouts
Submission of building drawings, safety layouts, and equipment specifications to the Fire Department
Inspection and audit by fire officials
Issuance of Fire NOC upon satisfactory compliance, or recommendations for corrective actions

How WBC Can Help

Fire safety planning and layout advisory as per statutory norms
Preparation and submission of Fire NOC documentation
Coordination and follow-up with Fire Department officials
Assistance during inspections and compliance rectifications

Forest NOC

Description

A Forest No Objection Certificate (Forest NOC) is a statutory clearance required for projects that involve forest land, are adjacent to forest areas, or may impact forest ecosystems. It ensures compliance with the Forest Conservation Act, 1980 and safeguards ecological balance by regulating diversion or use of forest land for non-forest purposes.

Who Requires It

Industrial and infrastructure projects located on or near forest land
Warehouses, agro-industrial units, and real estate projects adjacent to forest areas
Renewable energy projects, road construction, or developments affecting forest boundaries

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility is determined by land classification, presence of forest land within or near the project site, and the potential environmental impact of the proposed activity.

The process generally includes:

Verification of land ownership and forest land status
Preparation of Forest Land Diversion Proposal and environmental assessments, if applicable
Submission to the State Forest Department and, where required, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)
Site inspections and compliance verification
Issuance of Forest NOC upon approval

How WBC Can Help

Pre-verification of land to assess forest clearance requirements
Strategic advisory for efficient Forest NOC approvals
Preparation and submission of statutory documentation and proposals
Coordination with forest and environmental authorities for timely approvals

Udyam (MSME) Registration

Description

Udyam Registration is the official recognition of a business as a Micro, Small, or Medium Enterprise (MSME) under the MSME Development Act, 2006. It enables enterprises to access government schemes, priority sector lending, subsidies, and statutory protection benefits. Although the registration process is simple, strategic planning in classification and documentation plays a crucial role in maximizing long-term financial and policy advantages.

Who Requires It

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises in manufacturing and service sectors
Startups and growing businesses seeking formal recognition
Enterprises aiming to access bank finance, government grants, or policy incentives

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility is based on investment in plant & machinery or equipment and annual turnover as prescribed under MSME norms.

The process generally includes:

Verification of entity details with PAN and Aadhaar linkage
Correct classification of business activity (manufacturing or services)
Submission of investment and turnover information for validation
Issuance of Udyam Registration Number enabling access to MSME benefits

How WBC Can Help

Assessment of current and future eligibility to maximize MSME benefits
Correct activity classification to avoid denial of incentives
Integration of Udyam Registration with loans, subsidies, and state incentive schemes
End-to-end support for application preparation and submission

Trademark, Patent & Logo Registration

Description

Intellectual Property (IP) Registration safeguards a business’s brand identity, innovations, designs, and logos by providing exclusive legal rights and protection against infringement. Strong IP assets enhance brand reputation, commercial value, licensing potential, and investor confidence.

Who Requires It

Startups and established brands seeking brand protection
Manufacturers, exporters, and product-based businesses
Technology, design, and innovation-driven enterprises
Businesses seeking competitive advantage through exclusive rights

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on originality, prior usage, and appropriate classification under applicable laws such as the Trademark Act, Patent Act, and Designs Act.

The process generally includes:

Comprehensive IP search to avoid conflicts
Application filing with the appropriate registry
Examination and response to objections, if any
Publication, opposition period, and final registration

How WBC Can Help

IP strategy aligned with business growth and commercialization
Accurate class identification and protection planning
End-to-end management of filings, responses, and registrations
Guidance on licensing, enforcement, and IP portfolio management

FSSAI License

Description

FSSAI License is a statutory requirement for businesses involved in food manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, or sale. Beyond legal compliance, it builds consumer trust, enables institutional tie-ups, and is often mandatory for exports and organized retail access.

Who Requires It

Food manufacturers, processors, and distributors
Dairy, poultry, cold storage, and wholesale food traders
Restaurants, cloud kitchens, caterers, and food exporters
Any entity involved in packaging or selling food products

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on business type, turnover, and operational scale.

The process generally includes:

Selection of Basic, State, or Central license category
Preparation of statutory and premises-related documentation
Application submission and inspection, where applicable
Issuance of FSSAI License upon compliance verification

How WBC Can Help

Strategic guidance on selecting the correct license category
Alignment of plant layout and hygiene practices with FSSAI norms
End-to-end application filing and authority coordination
Assistance during inspections, renewals, and compliance

Import Export Code (IEC)

Description

Import Export Code (IEC) is a mandatory registration issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), enabling businesses to legally engage in international trade. It is essential for accessing global markets and availing export incentives and benefits.

Who Requires It

Exporters and importers of goods or services
Manufacturers targeting international markets
Traders, e-commerce businesses, and service exporters

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility is based on legal entity status, PAN, and bank account linkage.

The process generally includes:

Verification of business and banking details
Online submission of IEC application
Issuance of IEC number with lifetime validity
Integration with customs, GST, and trade systems

How WBC Can Help

Trade readiness advisory and export planning
End-to-end IEC application filing and follow-up
Integration guidance with GST, banking, and logistics
Support for future export expansion and compliance

ISO Certification

Description

ISO Certification validates adherence to internationally recognized standards for quality, safety, environmental management, and operational efficiency. It enhances credibility, supports tender eligibility, facilitates exports, and strengthens internal systems.

Who Requires It

Manufacturing and service organizations
Export-oriented and institutional suppliers
Businesses aiming for global recognition and process excellence

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on process readiness, documentation, and operational scope.

The process generally includes:

Selection of relevant ISO standard
Documentation and process implementation
Pre-audit and certification audit by accredited bodies
Certification issuance and periodic surveillance audits

How WBC Can Help

Advisory on selecting suitable ISO standards
Documentation planning and audit preparedness
Coordination with certification bodies
Support for ongoing compliance and recertification

Drug Controller (DC) License

Description

A Drug Controller (DC) License regulates the manufacture, sale, storage, and distribution of drugs, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical devices, ensuring compliance with the Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and safeguarding public health.

Who Requires It

Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturers
Drug distributors, wholesalers, and retailers
Medical device, cosmetic, and healthcare product businesses

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on premises standards, qualified personnel availability, and product category.

The process generally includes:

Verification of premises layout and storage conditions
Appointment of qualified technical staff
Application submission with product details
Inspection and issuance of DC License

How WBC Can Help

Licensing feasibility assessment and compliance roadmap
Coordination with Drug Control Authorities
Preparation and submission of applications
Support for renewals, compliance, and regulatory updates

GST Registration

Description

Goods and Services Tax (GST) Registration is a statutory requirement enabling businesses to legally collect and remit GST, ensuring compliance with India’s indirect tax framework. Proper GST registration facilitates smooth business operations, utilization of input tax credit, strengthened vendor relationships, and participation in inter-state trade, e-commerce, and exports.

Who Requires It

Businesses exceeding prescribed annual turnover thresholds
Inter-state suppliers and e-commerce operators
Manufacturers, traders, service providers, and exporters/importers

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on turnover, nature of business activity, and location of operations.

The registration process generally includes:

Verification of business entity documents, PAN, and proof of principal place of business
Determination of applicable GST registration type (Regular, Composition, or Casual)
Online submission of application through the GST portal with supporting documents
Issuance of GSTIN upon successful verification, enabling lawful GST collection and compliance

How WBC Can Help

Strategic GST registration planning to optimize tax and compliance benefits
End-to-end application preparation, submission, and follow-up
Integration guidance with accounting systems and business operations
Advisory on ongoing compliance, filings, and statutory obligations

PAN / TAN Application

Description

Permanent Account Number (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number (TAN) are essential identifiers issued by the Income Tax Department. PAN serves as the primary identity for taxation and financial transactions, while TAN is mandatory for entities responsible for tax deduction or collection at source (TDS/TCS).

Who Requires It

All types of business entities including companies, LLPs, partnerships, and proprietorships
Employers and entities responsible for TDS/TCS compliance
New businesses and existing entities updating statutory records

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility is based on legal incorporation or registration of the entity and authorization of signatories.

The process generally includes:

Submission of incorporation/registration documents and identity proofs
Online application filing through the Income Tax Department portal or authorized centers
Verification and issuance of PAN and/or TAN to the entity

How WBC Can Help

Preparation and submission of PAN and TAN applications
Linking PAN/TAN with other statutory registrations such as GST and IEC
Guidance on ongoing compliance and statutory obligations

Punjab State Development Registration

Description

Punjab State Development Registration enables businesses to access state-specific incentives, subsidies, and policy benefits under Punjab’s industrial and commercial development schemes. It facilitates structured engagement with government programs and ensures compliance with local development policies.

Who Requires It

Industrial units and manufacturing plants operating in Punjab
Commercial establishments seeking state-level benefits
Enterprises aiming to leverage location-based incentives and subsidies

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on the project’s sector, size, investment value, and compliance with district-level and state policy norms.

The process generally includes:

Verification of project eligibility under applicable Punjab development schemes
Preparation and submission of registration applications with supporting documents
Coordination with state authorities for verification and approval
Issuance of registration enabling access to incentives and policy benefits

How WBC Can Help

Mapping applicable state schemes and strategic registration advisory
End-to-end preparation and submission of registration applications
Liaison with state authorities to ensure smooth approvals
Guidance on leveraging registration for incentives and subsidies

Shop & Establishment Registration

Description

Shop & Establishment Registration is a statutory requirement under the respective State Shop & Establishment Act, governing the rights and responsibilities of commercial establishments and their employees. It provides legal recognition to businesses and establishes a framework for labor law compliance, working hours, leave policies, and employee welfare.

Who Requires It

All shops, offices, and commercial establishments
Retail outlets, restaurants, service providers, and offices employing staff
Startups and newly incorporated entities operating in Punjab

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Any business entity with a physical place of operation and employees is required to obtain registration.

The process generally includes:

Submission of business registration documents and premises proof
Filing of application with the local labor or municipal authority
Verification of information and compliance with labor norms
Issuance of Shop & Establishment Registration Certificate

How WBC Can Help

Eligibility assessment and registration advisory
Preparation and submission of applications and documents
Coordination with local authorities for approvals
Ensuring compliance with labor laws and statutory requirements

RERA Registration

RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) Registration is a mandatory statutory approval under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. It regulates real estate projects to ensure transparency, timely delivery, financial discipline, and protection of homebuyers’ interests. RERA registration enhances project credibility and provides legal safeguards for both developers and buyers.

Who Requires It

Real estate developers and promoters of residential or commercial projects
Builders launching new projects or selling units in ongoing developments
Developers marketing or selling plots, apartments, or commercial units

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Eligibility depends on project size, land ownership, approvals from local authorities, and compliance with RERA regulations. The process generally includes:

Preparation of project documents, including land title, building plans, and financial disclosures
Online filing of the project application with the State RERA Authority
Scrutiny and compliance verification by RERA authorities
Issuance of RERA Registration enabling lawful marketing and sale of units

How WBC Can Help

Comprehensive eligibility assessment for RERA registration
End-to-end preparation and submission of RERA documentation
Coordination with RERA authorities for approvals and clarifications
Guidance on ongoing compliance, project updates, and statutory reporting

Shop & Establishment Registration

Shop & Establishment Registration is a statutory requirement under the Shop & Establishment Act of the respective state. It regulates the rights and responsibilities of businesses and their employees, provides legal recognition to commercial establishments, and ensures compliance with labor laws, working hours, leave policies, and employee welfare norms.

Who Requires It

All shops, commercial establishments, offices, and service providers
Small businesses, retail outlets, restaurants, and offices employing staff
Startups and newly incorporated entities operating in Punjab

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Businesses with a physical presence engaging employees
Submission of business registration documents, proof of premises, and owner/authorized signatory details
Filing application with the local labor or municipal authority
Verification of submitted information and compliance with labor norms
Issuance of Shop & Establishment Registration Certificate

How WBC Can Help

End-to-end guidance on eligibility and registration requirements
Preparation and submission of all required documents and application
Coordination with local authorities for approvals
Ensuring ongoing compliance with labor laws to avoid penalties or legal issues

School Affiliation

School Affiliation is a statutory recognition granted by educational boards such as CBSE, ICSE, or State Education Boards. It ensures that schools meet prescribed academic, infrastructural, safety, and operational standards. Affiliation validates the institution’s authority to offer recognized curricula and issue board-approved certificates.

Who Requires It

New schools seeking to offer recognized academic curricula
Existing schools upgrading or switching educational boards
Institutions intending to issue board-recognized certificates

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Compliance with infrastructure, safety, and sanitation norms
Qualified teaching staff and academic framework
Submission of land, building, faculty, and curriculum documents
Inspection and verification by board authorities
Grant of affiliation upon successful compliance

How WBC Can Help

Eligibility assessment and affiliation readiness advisory
End-to-end preparation and submission of applications
Coordination with education boards for inspections and approvals
Compliance support and renewal assistance

Legal Entity Identifier (LEI)

A Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) is a globally recognized 20-character unique identification code used to identify legal entities involved in financial transactions. Mandated by regulators such as the RBI, LEI improves transparency, risk management, and regulatory reporting in the financial ecosystem.

Who Requires It

Companies, LLPs, and partnership firms involved in large-value transactions
Borrowers availing loans above RBI-prescribed thresholds
Entities participating in forex, derivatives, or capital market transactions
Businesses required by banks for regulatory reporting

Eligibility & Process (Brief)

Verification of entity incorporation and legal documents
Submission of ownership, management, and authorized signatory details
Application through an RBI-accredited Local Operating Unit (LOU)
Issuance of LEI code with mandatory annual renewal

How WBC Can Help

Advisory on LEI applicability under RBI guidelines
End-to-end LEI application and renewal assistance
Coordination with banks and accredited LOUs
Integration of LEI compliance with financial operations

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