J&K Removes Duplicate Local Licence Requirements

On 9 November 2026, Jammu and Kashmir notified provisions under the Jammu and Kashmir Ease of Doing Business Act, 2026 that exempt businesses from specified local permissions when the activity is already covered by a statutory registration.

Licences covered by the notification

Food establishments holding a valid registration or licence from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) do not need separate municipal trade, health trade, eating house, restaurant or hotel licences for activities covered by the notification. Businesses registered under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) need no additional municipal or local trade licences for matters covered by that registration.

Authorities have been directed not to demand additional licences or charge fees for matters covered by the Act’s provisions. The exemptions apply only to activities and registrations specified in the notification. Food-safety standards and tax requirements remain in force.

Important Facts for Exams

• Consolidated food law: The Food Safety and Standards Act brought earlier food-safety laws and orders, previously administered by different ministries and departments, under one framework.
• Dual GST structure: Within a state, GST is divided between central and state levies; inter-state transactions and imports attract centrally levied Integrated GST.
• Destination-based taxation: GST revenue goes to the state where goods or services are consumed, rather than the state where they were produced.