The Delhi government is planning to introduce a policy that will simplify the process of obtaining licences for cloud kitchens through a single-window system. This policy will also incorporate suggestions from citizens and entrepreneurs. To ensure transparency and public participation, the government intends to release a White Paper and invite feedback from stakeholders.
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal chaired a high-level meeting to discuss the Independent Food Outlets (Cloud Kitchen) Policy, which was also attended by Industries Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj. The policy will allow independent food outlets, including cloud kitchens, ghost kitchens, dark kitchens, base kitchens, satellite kitchens, and virtual kitchens, to operate around the clock. Smaller outlets below 250 square feet will not require a licence.
The statement from the Delhi government also mentioned the establishment of a state-level banking committee to provide financial assistance to businesses in the sector. The typical size of an independent food outlet ranges from 600 square feet to 2,000 square feet.
The new policy aims to regulate independent food outlets and generate employment opportunities in the sector. By introducing a single-window portal for licence applications, operators and entrepreneurs running cloud kitchens will have a simplified process. Currently, cloud kitchen operators have to apply for licences from multiple government organizations, including the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, the police, the fire department, and the Delhi Development Authority, which causes difficulties and a lack of proper licencing.
It is estimated that there are around 20,000 cloud kitchens and independent food outlets operating in different parts of Delhi, employing approximately 4 lakh people. The implementation of this policy is expected to enhance Delhi’s economy and create new job opportunities in the sector.