Chandigarh, September 24
The Punjab Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, on Wednesday approved several transformative initiatives aimed at accelerating the state’s economic growth by fostering a business-friendly environment and enhancing industrial and commercial activities.
1. Punjab One-Time Settlement Scheme for Outstanding Dues, 2025
The Cabinet approved the Punjab One Time Settlement Scheme for Recovery of Outstanding Dues, 2025, effective from October 1, 2025, to December 12, 2025. This scheme targets legacy tax cases under pre-GST laws, including the Punjab General Sales Tax Act, 1948, Central Sales Tax Act, 1956, Punjab Infrastructure Development and Regulation Act, 2002, Punjab VAT Act, 2005, Punjab Entertainment Duty Act, 1955, and Punjab Entertainment Tax Cinematography Shows Act, 1954. Taxpayers with assessments framed by September 30, 2025, including rectified, revised, or amended orders, are eligible.
Waiver Structure
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Tax due up to Rs 1 crore: 100% waiver on interest and penalties, 50% waiver on tax amount.
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Tax due between Rs 1 crore and Rs 25 crore: 100% waiver on interest and penalties, 25% waiver on tax amount.
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Tax due above Rs 25 crore: 100% waiver on interest and penalties, 10% waiver on tax amount.
This initiative aims to reduce compliance burdens, streamline tax administration, and support trade and industry by resolving pending legacy cases.
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2. One-Time Settlement Policy for Rice Mills, 2025
The Cabinet approved the One Time Settlement (OTS) Policy for Rice Mills, 2025, addressing outstanding dues owed by rice millers to State Procurement Agencies. This policy seeks to:
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Minimize litigation by settling long-pending cases in courts and arbitration forums.
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Revive defunct rice milling units, boosting industrial activity and employment.
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Facilitate faster paddy lifting from mandis during Kharif Marketing Seasons, benefiting farmers.
The OTS ensures defaulting millers can clear dues, enabling eligibility for future paddy allotments for custom milling.
3. Amendments to Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation Act, 1995
The Cabinet approved amendments to Section 5(1), 5(3)(ii), and 5(8) of the Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation Act, 1995. These changes aim to promote planned development of colonies and areas, addressing public grievances and ensuring organized urban growth.
4. Amendments to Punjab Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017
The Cabinet gave its concurrence to the Punjab Goods and Services Tax (Amendment Bill), 2025, aligning with amendments to the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, as recommended by the GST Council. These changes will enhance tax compliance and simplify processes for taxpayers.
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5. Establishment of Exclusive NIA Court in Mohali
The Cabinet approved the creation of an exclusive Special Court at SAS Nagar, Mohali, for cases under the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, as well as matters involving the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and other special cases. One post at the District and Sessions Judge/Additional District and Sessions Judge level will be created to expedite trials and reduce delays.
6. Prosecution Sanction Against Former Minister
The Cabinet approved prosecution sanctions against former Minister Sadhu Singh Dharmsot under Section 197(1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Section 218 of BNSS, 2023) and Section 19 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, as amended in 2018.
These decisions reflect the Punjab Government’s commitment to fostering industrial growth, reducing legal and compliance burdens, and promoting a robust economic ecosystem in the state.
