Chhattisgarh promotes AI and manufacturing growth via new industrial reforms

…‘Made in Bastar’: How state known for coal is now building AI data centres With NITI Aayog rankings an affirmation, the state's Secretary, Commerce & Industries, says: “ A state known for coal, steel is now building chips, AI data centres, garments ”. * Investment proposals worth Rs 8 lakh crore across 290 projects received since the release of an Industrial Development Policy in November 2024, offering 1.9 lakh jobs. * Of these 175, or about 60%, amounting to Rs…

…and claiming state incentives. Officials talk of a surge in applications from previous Maoist heartlands such as Sukma, Dantewada and Kondagaon, by “102%”. Says Minister for Commerce and Industry Lakhan Lal Dewangan: “ Chhattisgarh is no longer just a land of resources, but a state that turns possibilities into industry and employment. ” What the govt did Kumar cites five specific measures that have boosted Chhattisgarh to the top in the category of Regulatory Ease and Institutional Environment: a) Chhattisgarh was the first state to enact a second…

…Association, representing around 500 businesses in Chhattisgarh, calls the steps taken by the government “positive and commendable”. However, he urges that there should be focus on existing MSMEs as well, adding: “ Land availability and affordability remain major concerns, particularly for MSMEs. Industrial areas are becoming crowded and land prices have risen. High power costs and shortage of skilled manpower in Chhattisgarh are other concerns. Value addition is needed and there is scope for it in food processing, herbal products, textiles, pharmaceuticals, aluminium and automobile components.” Mahesh Kakkad, President of the Chhattisgarh Udyog Mahasang that…

…textiles, pharmaceuticals, aluminium and automobile components.” Mahesh Kakkad, President of the Chhattisgarh Udyog Mahasang that represents 1,400 businesses, says what Chhattisgarh needs is a “mother industry”, “ which can attract a large network of ancillary industries ”. Kakkad gives the example of Tamil Nadu, where the arrival of global and Indian vehicle manufacturers has led to factories manufacturing products such as tyres, brakes, engines etc. Incidentally, even in the NITI…

…brought out a new Industrial Policy (since then). The eradication of Maoism will have a positive impact too.” Rajendra Jaggi, the Congress’s business cell in-charge, says the government’s words have to match reality. “ If Chhattisgarh is No. 1 in Regulatory Ease and Institutional Environment, the government should tell us if that is translating into investment. New Raipur could not be developed as expected. Why?… How many industries have actually been brought to Bastar? ” Jayprakash S Naidu is a Principal Correspondent for The Indian Ex... Read More…