Karnataka unveils new retail policy to attract investment

The Karnataka government on Wednesday announced a new retail trade policy to attract fresh investments into the state.

"The policy relaxes retail norms and listing of food and grocery business under 'essential services' to protect establishments from closing during shutdowns and increases stocking limit," state Law Minister T.B. Jayachandra told reporters here after the cabinet approved the policy.

The new policy also allows the state labour department to simplify labour laws and prevent workers of retailers from resorting to strike or agitation under the Shops and Establishments Act.

"The policy enables business establishments to work long hours and engage women workforce in night shift with conditions to ensure their safety and security," Jayachandra said.

The government is of the view that the new policy would generate jobs and create opportunities for taking retail trade to rural areas and expand its presence in cities and towns across the state.

--IANS

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