Get food license a day after application is received: FSDA

To clamp down on prevailing corruption in the food safety department, the state government has directed it to issue food licenses within one day after applications are received online. Earlier, it used to take two months for obtaining a license. After issuing the license, the FSDA will conduct a spot inspection of the establishment and in case they find any discrepancy, they will have the authority to suspend or cancel the permit.

The decision will benefit lakhs of retail shop owners across the state who were earlier forced to make several rounds of the FSDA office. However, those who are involved in sale of meat related products have been kept out of this category.

FSDA assistant commissioner Vinit Kumar said, “The move is aimed at curbing harassment of businessmen in the state. Licenses to retail shops, except for those who are involved in meat business whose establishments (restaurants) require hygiene evaluation, will be issued without any delay. Moreover, they will not be required to visit the office for this purpose as the license will be issued online.”

Earlier, it took one month for issuing registration and two months for issuing the license. In case the deadline is not met, the official concerned will be held responsible and have to give reasons for denying a permit, the FSDA official added.

On why meat vendors and restaurants were not in this category, Kumar said they need an NoC from various departments.
According to officials, the new system is likely to benefit small business houses and fruits and vegetable sellers, who otherwise avoid taking a license. A fee is Rs 100 will have to be paid by those whose business turnover is below Rs 12 lakh per annum. If the turnover is above this limit, the applicant will have to pay Rs 2,000. License would be for a period ranging from one to five years.

Kumar said, “If anyone faces any sort of problem or is asked to pay a bribe, they can directly call on my number and register a complaint. I will ensure that such cases are resolved immediately.”