In a significant move to simplify regulations and promote ease of doing business, the Odisha Cabinet has approved the repeal of the outdated “Odisha High Speed Diesel (Dealers’ Licensing) Order, 1979.”
The decision aligns with the Union Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas’s advisory to abolish the Retail Sale License (RSL) requirement for High-Speed Diesel (HSD) across the country.
The new “Odisha High Speed Diesel (Dealers’ Licensing) Repeal Order, 2026” will eliminate the mandatory state-level licensing for diesel dealers, marking a major shift from a nearly five-decade-old regulatory framework enforced under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955.
This reform is expected to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, attract more investment in the petroleum retail sector, and create a more liberalised business environment in Odisha.
Retail outlets will, however, continue to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Collector and District Magistrate. The NOC process already incorporates clearances from departments such as Fire, Works, Revenue, and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). With the repeal, dealers will no longer need to seek these clearances separately for licensing purposes.
Importantly, the Essential Commodities Act will continue to regulate the sale and distribution of HSD to ensure consumer protection and prevent any misuse.
Benefits at a Glance
- Faster establishment of new petrol pumps and diesel outlets
- Reduced paperwork and regulatory burden
- Alignment with national policy for uniform petroleum sector reforms
- Continued oversight to safeguard public interest
This step is part of the state government’s broader push toward regulatory simplification while maintaining essential safeguards in the sensitive fuel sector.
