Context:

Kerala has secured the top position in two business-centric and seven citizen-centric reform categories in the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry's latest rankings. 

Key Highlights: 

• The results were announced at ‘Udyog Samagam’, a conference of industries and commerce ministers of states, in Delhi. 
• Kerala's Industries Minister received the Business Reforms Action Plan 22 (BRAP 22) award from the Union Minister of Commerce. This is the first time that Kerala is ranked number one in creating an industry-friendly environment. 
• Out of 30 reform areas, Kerala got top achiever status in 9 categories

BRAP 22

• The Business Reforms Action Plan 2022 (BRAP 22) is an initiative by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) in India. 
• It aims to improve the ease of doing business by implementing reforms across various regulatory processes, policies, and practices.

Achievements in Business-Centric Reforms

• Kerala was recognised as the top performer in facilitating utility permits for businesses and tax payments. 
• These achievements highlight the state's effective policies and implementation strategies, which have created a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.

Excellence in Citizen-Centric Reforms

• The state also led in seven citizen-centric categories, including the online single window system, issuing various certificates through Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), issuing certificates by the Department of Revenue, utility permits, public distribution system improvements, enhancements in the transport sector, and efficient employment exchange operations. 
• Feedback was gathered from existing businesses in the state, with Kerala receiving over 95% positive responses across these 9 reform areas.

• It was stated that Kerala's high rankings reflect its progress in "Ease of Doing Business," driven by effective policies and local-level implementation. 
• The state has upgraded its service delivery systems by leveraging digital tools and cutting-edge technology.
• Andhra Pradesh secured second place, having successfully implemented five citizen-centric and five business-centric reforms, while Gujarat ranked third by carrying out three citizen-centric reforms and two business-centric reforms.

Citizen-Centric Reforms: Putting People First

• Citizen-centric reforms are policies and practices that prioritize the needs, interests, and well-being of citizens in the design and delivery of public services. 
• This approach shifts the focus from government-centric to citizen-centric governance, emphasizing accountability, transparency, and responsiveness.