Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh has emerged as the top-ranked state in the Centre’s Deregulation 1.0 exercise, securing the number one position nationwide for business-friendly reforms.
The ranking is based on the implementation of 23 priority reform areas identified by the central government across land, construction, labour, utilities and regulatory approvals.
According to the state-wise report, Uttar Pradesh is the first state to fully implement all identified reforms. The measures focus on simplifying regulations, reducing compliance burdens and improving transparency to attract investment.
Key land reforms include flexible mixed-use zoning, digitised land-use change processes and integration of a GIS-based land bank with the India Industrial Land Bank. In construction, regulatory changes reduced land loss in industrial plots and expanded third-party involvement in approvals and inspections.
Labour reforms enabled night shifts for women, eased restrictions in hazardous industries and raised compliance thresholds under the Shops and Establishments Act. Additional steps covered digital licensing, faster utility connections and streamlined environmental clearances.
According to reports, state officials and industry representatives said the reforms significantly improve the ease of doing business and position Uttar Pradesh as a preferred investment destination.
