In a bid to enhance the ease of doing business, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is introducing a more accessible procedure for reactivating auto-rejected licensing or registration applications. According to Clause 2.1.4(2) of the FSS (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, applicants must respond to authority queries within 30 days in the Food Safety Compliance System (FoSCoS)—failure to do so results in automatic rejection of the application.
New Self-Reactivation System:
With the Food Authority’s approval, a self-reactivation option is now available on the FoSCoS portal for applications that were auto-rejected due to non-response within the specified timeline. Here are the key conditions:
- One-Time Provision:
- FBOs can self-reactivate an auto-rejected application only once, whether it’s for a new license/registration or a modification.
- Timely Reactivation:
- Within 30 days of auto-rejection, FBOs can self-reactivate without any intervention or fees, provided they provide a valid reason for the delay.
- 31 to 60 Days After Auto-Rejection:
- FBOs can self-reactivate during this period without authority intervention, but a fee is applicable. The fees are as follows:
- For Registration application: Rs. 50 + GST (as applicable)
- For License application: Rs. 500 + GST (as applicable)
- FBOs can self-reactivate during this period without authority intervention, but a fee is applicable. The fees are as follows:
Benefits of the New System:
This streamlined approach aims to significantly reduce waiting times for authorities to approve requests for reactivation of auto-rejected applications. It eliminates the need for FBOs to request reactivation through any other mode. However, it’s crucial to note that this provision doesn’t apply to cases where a license has been rejected by the Designated Officer under section 31(4) of the FSS Act, 2006. In such cases, appeals can be made through the FoSCoS portal to the Commissioner of Food Safety of the respective State/UT for SL and Registrations or to the CEO, FSSAI for Central License.
Conclusion:
This latest order takes precedence over previous orders or standard operating procedures related to the reactivation of auto-rejected licensing or registration applications. The move is a positive step toward fostering a more business-friendly environment while maintaining necessary regulatory oversight.
View & Download the FSSAI’s Document
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