Understanding the Shops Act for Home-Based Businesses
The Shops Act is a state-specific Act. First, decide which of the State Shops & Establishment Acts may be applicable to you. Thereafter, go through the definition of a "shop" under that State Shops Act to determine whether you are covered under the definition of a shop or not.
In general, if you are taking work orders on your mobile and have not declared your home or any portion of it as premises for the use of your office, business, or service work, then, in my opinion, you are not required to have a Shops Act license or registration from any competent authority under this Act. There must exist premises for the use of business, trade, service, or office.
Opinion submitted as requested.
Regards,
R.N. Khola