The Centre on Tuesday said it is consulting state governments on the ICRIER study, which recommended a uniform national licensing policy for big retail chains and support to small kirana shops.

"The state governments and other stakeholders are being asked for their comments and views," a statement from the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) said in New Delhi.

ICRIER had yesterday submitted its report to DIPP on the impact of organised retail on neighbourhood stores. It stated that while small grocery shops were initially affected by big retail chains, the impact gradually wears out.

The study recommended, among other measures, a nationwide uniform licensing policy to facilitate "modern retailing" in the country. With the economy growing by 8 per cent, the retail sector would show a growth of 13 per cent, it said, adding, if retail is not modernised, growth in the sector would not be possible.

The report would be posted on the websites of DIPP and ICRIER for eliciting views of concerned stakeholders.