A&N Administration launches Online Services on National Single Window System to enhance ‘Ease of Doing Business’

    A&N Administration has made thirty essential Government services available exclusively through the National Single Window System (NSWS) Portal (https://www.nsws.gov.in/portal/andamans). This integration marks a significant step toward achieving the objectives of digital governance, compliance reduction, and improving the Ease of Doing Business (EoDB) in the Union Territory. The NSWS Portal, an initiative by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India, is a one-stop platform for accessing Central and State/UT-level approvals and clearances. Stakeholders including investors, entrepreneurs, service providers, and members of the general public can now avail services through a unified interface without the need for multiple physical visits or departmental interactions.

       In a communication, the District Industries Centre (DIC), Department of Industries, has informed that the services currently on-boarded span across seven Departments, covering regulatory and operational requirements for tourism, power, education, fire safety, labour compliance, consumer affairs, and fisheries. The Directorate of Information, Publicity and Tourism now offers online permission for film shooting, registration of parasailing and sea kart services, registration for tour and travel agents, tourist transport operators, and home-stay accommodations under the Bed and Breakfast scheme. Additionally, scuba diving centres and sea walk service providers can also register through this platform. The Department of Electricity has made applications for new electric connections-both low-tension and high-tension-available online. The Directorate of Education facilitates provisional recognition for schools, while the Fire Department processes online fire clearance certificates.

       The Labour Department has enabled digital submission for factory layout approvals, construction and expansion permissions, licensing under the Factories Act, and various registrations under the Contract Labour and Inter-State Migrant Workmen Acts. Shops and Establishments registration, registration for building workers, and contractor licensing can now be completed digitally through the NSWS Portal. The Directorate of Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs offers dealer and repairer licenses under the Legal Metrology Act, as well as registration for packers, manufacturers, and importers of commodities. Applications for the verification and calibration of weights and measures, as well as new Fair Price Shop allotments, are also available online. From the Department of Fisheries, sport fishing permits, permit for transporting fish from mainland, and registration of fish traders, cooperatives, and Self-Help Groups can all be processed on the NSWS Portal.

      To access the portal, applicants must begin by registering using their email address and mobile number and PAN verification through DigiLocker credentials or DSC (Digital Signature Certificate), simplifying identity verification and linking personal details to the applicant profile. After successful registration, users create a business profile by entering essential details such as the nature of the enterprise, its legal structure, proposed activity, and location. This profile becomes the base for all subsequent applications.

     The NSWS portal also features an integrated Know Your Approvals (KYA) module, where users can input information about their planned business or service. Based on the provided details, the system automatically generates a customized list of required approvals and licenses across relevant Government Departments. This intelligent system removes uncertainty and provides a clear compliance path. Applications for services are submitted through the dashboard by filling in structured forms, uploading supporting documents, and making necessary payments online where applicable. Users can monitor the real-time status of applications and receive updates directly through the portal interface. Once approvals are granted, certificates and licenses can be downloaded digitally without any manual intervention.

      To support applicants at every stage, NSWS has published official guidance documents in the portal (https://www.nsws.gov.in/portal/user-guide). These include detailed instructions on registering and creating a business profile, understanding and applying for state approvals, and onboarding via DigiLocker, etc. The guides are publicly accessible through the NSWS website and are designed to help new and existing users transition to the digital system with ease.

     Investors, entrepreneurs, and public users have been encouraged to utilize the portal for all applicable services. Departmental websites are also being updated to redirect users to the NSWS platform for a streamlined experience. For further support, applicants may visit the District Industries Centre, Udyog Parisar, Middle Point or contact over phone no. 03192-232819/232601 or at dicandaman@gmail.com.

      This reform reaffirms the Administration's commitment to enhancing transparency, responsiveness, and efficiency in public service delivery. The successful integration of Government services with the NSWS marks a decisive move towards accountable, digitally inclusive governance, promoting A&N Islands as a business-friendly and investor-ready destination, a press release from DIC said.