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Business
Himachal Pradesh allows shops and commercial establishments to run 24x7 for a year
✍️ Hindustan Times
🗓 23 Sep 2026, 12:36 PM
👁 11
The Himachal Pradesh government has issued an order permitting shops and other commercial establishments to remain open round the clock for a period of one year, aiming to boost local commerce.
In a recent order, the Himachal Pradesh state government announced that all retail shops and commercial establishments will be allowed to operate continuously, 24 hours a day, for a period of twelve months.
The decision is aimed at stimulating economic activity, particularly in tourist hubs and urban centres, by giving business owners greater flexibility and catering to the needs of residents and visitors.
Industry bodies welcomed the move, suggesting that extended hours could lift sales and create jobs, while consumer groups warned of possible challenges such as security concerns and staffing requirements.
The order requires establishments to adhere to existing safety, labour and licensing norms, with municipal authorities tasked with monitoring compliance.
The 24‑hour operating permission will take effect immediately and will be reviewed after the one‑year term to gauge its impact on the state’s economy.
The decision is aimed at stimulating economic activity, particularly in tourist hubs and urban centres, by giving business owners greater flexibility and catering to the needs of residents and visitors.
Industry bodies welcomed the move, suggesting that extended hours could lift sales and create jobs, while consumer groups warned of possible challenges such as security concerns and staffing requirements.
The order requires establishments to adhere to existing safety, labour and licensing norms, with municipal authorities tasked with monitoring compliance.
The 24‑hour operating permission will take effect immediately and will be reviewed after the one‑year term to gauge its impact on the state’s economy.