The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced a Tatkal (instant) issuance process for licenses and registrations, aiming to enhance Ease of Doing Business (EODB) for specific food business operators (FBOs). This new provision allows businesses such as wholesalers, distributors, retailers, transporters, storage providers (without atmospheric control), importers, food vending agencies, direct sellers, and merchant-exporters to obtain licenses/registrations instantly. Initially, the feature will be available in Assam, Gujarat, Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, and Kerala, except for partnership or registered firms.
Eligible Categories and Digital Verification
Only FBOs falling under specific categories listed in Annexure-1 of the advisory are eligible for Tatkal licenses/registrations. The digital verification process includes:
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Proprietorship Firms: Verified through GST and Aadhaar.
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Partnership/Registered Firms: Verified via CIN, GST, and Aadhaar.
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Petty FBOs: Verified through PAN and Aadhaar or just Aadhaar.
Application Process and Validity
Applicants must declare they do not hold a valid license for the same premises or have had a license suspended/canceled in the last three months. Photographs of the business unit must be uploaded as part of the process. The Tatkal license/registration is valid for one year, with renewals following existing procedures. The full annual fee must be paid at the time of application.
Boosting Business Efficiency and Market Entry in the Food Sector
The Tatkal issuance of licenses/registrations is expected to significantly benefit food businesses by reducing the time and effort traditionally required for regulatory approvals. This fast-tracked process will allow businesses, especially small and medium-sized operators, to enter the market more quickly, improving operational efficiency and promoting growth. By minimizing delays in obtaining necessary approvals, the initiative supports the expansion of the food sector, fostering a more favorable environment for entrepreneurship and investment in India’s food industry.
