Declare Mixed Land Use Areas as Industrial Areas: FICO Demands to Industry Minister

Ludhiana, August 26, 2026: A delegation of FICO (Federation of Industrial & Commercial Organization) met the Aman Arora Industry Minister of Punjab and raised the important issue of industries operating in Mixed Land Use (MLU) Areas. The delegation was led by Gurmeet Singh Kular President FICO and Rajeev Jain, Senior Vice President FICO. They also submitted a Written Memorandum to Industry Minister Punjab. 
Declare Mixed Land Use Areas as Industrial Areas: The delegation demanded a permanent policy for industries operating in Mixed Land Use (MLU) areas before the existing Consent to Operate (CTO) expires in September 2026. Repeated temporary extensions create uncertainty and discourage investment and expansion. Existing MLU areas with established industrial activity should be regularized and declared as Industrial Areas. It was also highlighted that many micro and small-scale industries operating in MLU areas are important vendors and suppliers to large industries in Ludhiana. Any disruption or restriction on their operations will directly affect the production and supply chain of large industries and may have a serious impact on Ludhiana’s industrial sector.
NOCs for Industrial Establishments on Malerkotla Road: The delegation demanded immediate NOCs and statutory approvals for existing industrial units located on Malerkotla Road in Gill, Rania, Sangowal and Alamgir. These industries have been operating for the last 35–40 years and have created employment while contributing to industrial development and Punjab’s economy. However, they continue to face difficulties in obtaining approvals from GLADA and PPCB. It was highlighted that the notification dated 24.09.2021 applies to new industrial establishments and should not be applied retrospectively to long-existing units. The Government was requested to intervene and facilitate approvals without further delay, subject to applicable rules and environmental compliance.
The delegation urged the Industry Minister to take up the matter on priority and ensure providing certainty and relief to the industries operating in MLU Areas and on Malerkotla Road, in Ludhiana.