BS EDIT: Rules for growth

By Business StandardPublished On Sep 8, 2026

Growth constraints

The IMF estimates medium-term G20 growth at just 3%, near its weakest level since 2009. Restrictive regulations remain a major drag on growth

India’s opportunity

India’s 7.8% Q1 growth and 11.9% rise in investment are encouraging. Sustaining this momentum will require stronger institutions and a more enabling regulatory environment

The regulatory maze

Different approvals, licences and procedures across government levels raise compliance costs and make it harder for businesses, especially MSMEs, to scale

Reform gains

India has reduced over 47,000 compliances through simplification, digitisation and decriminalisation. The Jan Vishwas Act further advances a more trust-based regulatory framework

Regulation and AI

Market-friendly telecom regulation can spur ICT investment and technology diffusion

For an AI-intensive economy, simpler rules can strengthen the foundations for innovation and productivity

Beyond fewer rules

The goal should not merely be fewer regulations, but clearer and more predictable ones

Faster implementation, stronger coordination and better institutions are vital for sustained growth