Jagdalpur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced that Bastar, endowed with rich mineral and natural resources, will be the cornerstone of Chhattisgarh’s industrial transformation under the state’s new industrial policy. Speaking at the Chhattisgarh Investor Connect programme in Jagdalpur, CM Sai highlighted that decades of Naxalism, which had hindered Bastar’s development, are now being overcome. He expressed confidence that by March 2026, the region will be completely free from Maoist influence, paving the way for accelerated growth.
Industrial Policy Focuses on Diverse Sectors and Regional Development
The new industrial policy of Chhattisgarh provides wide-ranging incentives aimed at boosting investments across sectors including core industries, IT, artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, textiles, electronics, green energy, agro-based industries, and tourism. Bastar has been prioritized, with around 88% of its blocks classified under Group-3, making them eligible for the highest subsidies.
New industrial zones are already operational or under development at key locations such as Fraserpur, Geedam Road, Niyanar, Lakhanpuri, Teknar, Pakela, and Fandiguda. The policy also accords industry status to tourism, offering up to 45% subsidy for ventures in hotels, eco-tourism, adventure sports, and wellness, empowering local entrepreneurs and promoting sustainable tourism.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Ease of Doing Business
To complement investment incentives, the state is fast-tracking infrastructure projects including an expressway to Visakhapatnam, the Raoghat–Jagdalpur railway line, a new rail link connecting Kirandul with Telangana, and upgrades to Maa Danteshwari Airport in Jagdalpur under the UDAN scheme. The government is also improving digital connectivity by installing new mobile towers across Bastar.
Under a streamlined single-window approval system, industries can commence operations rapidly after receiving clearances, supported by model industrial parks such as the AI Data Center Park, Pharmaceutical Park, Medicity, and Global Capability Centre in Nava Raipur.
Inclusive Development with Focus on Employment
CM Sai emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, offering additional subsidies to SC/ST entrepreneurs and industries employing surrendered Naxalites, with a 40% salary subsidy for five years for such workers. Enterprises investing over ₹1,000 crore or generating more than 1,000 jobs are eligible for further benefits.
Skill development is another key priority, with new centres being set up across Bastar’s 32 blocks to ensure a ready supply of trained manpower aligned with industry needs.
Strong Investor Response and Future Outlook
Since the policy launch, Chhattisgarh has received investment proposals worth nearly ₹6.95 lakh crore, reflecting growing investor confidence. At the Bastar Investor Connect event, incentive certificates were awarded to 34 industries, further signaling the state’s readiness to support large-scale industrialization.
Commerce & Industries Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan and Deputy CM Vijay Sharma also highlighted ongoing projects like rice mills and reopening of key markets, underscoring the government’s focus on boosting local economies.
Chief Minister Sai concluded that Bastar is poised for a golden era of growth, with abundant resources, improved infrastructure, and generous incentives creating a conducive environment for investors. He reaffirmed that development in Bastar will not only uplift the region but also script a prosperous future for the entire state of Chhattisgarh.
