Shillong, October 13: The Meghalaya Cabinet on Tuesday approved a proposal to promulgate an ordinance aimed at simplifying procedures for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), along with the State Government’s official holiday list for 2027.

Briefing reporters after the meeting, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma said the proposed ordinance would make it easier for eligible enterprises to apply for licences, clearances, registrations and no-objection certificates.

Under the proposed system, businesses would be able to pursue applications at different levels simultaneously instead of waiting for one clearance to be completed before applying for another. The measure would also provide greater flexibility and time to complete the required formalities.

Sangma clarified that the proposed ordinance would not exempt enterprises from applicable legal requirements. Instead, it seeks to simplify procedures and reduce administrative delays.

The initiative would apply to enterprises falling under the “white category”, which, according to the Chief Minister, do not require Consent to Establish (CTE) or Consent to Operate (CTO). Other applicable permissions, including municipal clearances and registrations, would remain relevant.

He said the proposal formed part of the government’s efforts to improve the ease of doing business in Meghalaya and facilitate the establishment and operation of eligible enterprises.

The Cabinet also approved the official holiday list for 2027. Sangma said the holidays would remain the same as in the previous year, although their corresponding dates and days would differ.

The Chief Minister also explained that the Cabinet’s decision to write off outstanding government dues would not have a financial impact on the State Government, as settling the liabilities through the entities concerned would involve funds being transferred between government-linked accounts.