In a significant move, Belagavi traders are now required to obtain a municipal trade license in addition to their UDYAM certificates, as per the directive of Municipal Commissioner Shubha B. On Wednesday, the Commissioner visited key market areas in the city, including Kalamath Road and Maruti Galli, to address traders regarding the new rule. She warned that strict actions would be taken against those who fail to acquire or renew their municipal licenses.
Accompanied by Health Officer Dr. Sanjeev Nandre, Assistant Executive Engineer Hanmant Kaladgi, and other officials, the Commissioner pointed out that over 4,000 traders in the central market and 8,000 across the city had yet to renew their licenses. While renewal opportunities will be provided, non-compliance will lead to enforcement actions.
The municipal corporation has formed 21 teams tasked with land recovery and business license verification to streamline the process. Health department staff have begun inspecting licenses, and during the visit, many traders presented their UDYAM certificates and old municipal licenses. However, Commissioner Shubha clarified that UDYAM certificates apply only to manufacturing units and not trading establishments, which must adhere to municipal licensing rules.
“All trade and business activities must be licensed by the municipality, regardless of possessing a UDYAM certificate,” the Commissioner emphasized. She also expressed frustration over traders using the UDYAM certificate as an excuse to bypass municipal licensing.
This issue had been contentious in the past, especially during the tenure of former Health Officer Dr. Sanjay Dumgol, when the Belagavi Chamber of Commerce had argued that businesses with UDYAM certificates were exempt from municipal licenses. This stance led to widespread non-renewal of licenses. However, the municipal corporation has now reversed its position, reinstating the requirement for trade licenses.
With the Commissioner’s renewed focus, businesses in Belagavi are urged to promptly comply to avoid penalties and ensure smooth operations.
