Application for grant of licence.

1. (1) Every application for licence shall be made to the

competent authority in such form and manner and accompanied by such licence fee as may be prescribed.

1. (2) On receipt of such application, the competent authority shall make such inquiry as it considers necessary and if he is satisfied,—
   • (a) that the fruit and ornamental plant nursery is suitable for proper propagation of fruit and ornamental plants in respect of which licence has been applied for;
   • (b) that the applicant is competent to conduct or establish any such fruit and ornamental plant nursery;
   • (c) that the applicant fulfills all other conditions as may be prescribed;
   • (d) that the applicant has paid the fee prescribed for the licence and has also furnished the prescribed security deposit, if any, shall grant the licence in the prescribed form. – 3 –
2. (3) If the competent authority is not satisfied, it may, after giving a reasonable opportunity of

being heard, refuse to grant the licence, after recording the reasons for such refusal, and shall furnish to the applicant a copy of order made thereunder.

1. (4) Every licence granted under this section shall be valid for a period of five years from the date

conditions as may be prescribed.

1. (5) Where the competent authority refuses to renew a licence, it shall record in writing the reasons for such refusal and furnish a copy thereof to the applicant: Provided that no order refusing to renew a licence shall be made, unless the applicant is given a reasonable opportunity of being heard.