Former Governor of Maharashtra and former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, Mr. Bhagat Singh Koshyari, emphasised the need for sustainable economic growth and industrial investment in Uttarakhand while attending the Rajputana Business Summit in Ramnagar on Sunday. The summit brought together top industrialists, entrepreneurs, and social leaders from across the state to explore opportunities for balanced regional development.
Uttarakhand Emerging as a Promising Business Destination
Mr. Koshyari expressed optimism about Uttarakhand’s rapid growth in the business and industrial sector, stating that the state has made commendable progress despite its geographical limitations. He recalled that the foundation for this development was laid during the leadership of former Prime Minister Mr. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had envisioned Uttarakhand as a hub for sustainable industrial growth.
Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi and Union Minister Mr. Nitin Gadkari, connectivity and road infrastructure in the region have significantly improved, accelerating investment and business opportunities across the hill state.
Rajputana Community’s Rising Role in Economic Development
While addressing the gathering, Mr. Koshyari praised the Rajputana community for its increasing contribution to India’s business sector. He noted that several industrialists from the community are now actively involved in nation-building through enterprise, highlighting their growing presence in business leadership and innovation.
Call to Investors: Harness Uttarakhand’s Potential
Mr. Koshyari extended an open invitation to the business community to invest in Uttarakhand, emphasizing the state’s efforts to ensure environmental sustainability alongside industrialization. While acknowledging that Uttarakhand cannot be directly compared to major industrial centres like Mumbai or Maharashtra, he stated that the state’s progressive and responsible development model makes it an attractive destination for new industries.
He reiterated that Uttarakhand’s government is facilitating growth while maintaining ecological balance, and investors can play a key role in this unique model of development.
Key Focus: Industry with Environmental Balance
The summit also featured in-depth discussions on how new industries can be developed in Uttarakhand without disturbing its fragile ecology. Participants explored innovative strategies to promote eco-friendly manufacturing, tourism-based enterprise, and local employment generation.
Mr. Koshyari aligned himself with this vision, stating that Uttarakhand’s balanced approach to economic development is what sets it apart from traditional industrial hubs.
Koshyari Avoids Political Controversy
When asked about recent remarks by Shiv Sena leader Mr. Uddhav Thackeray regarding playing cricket with Pakistan, Mr. Koshyari declined to comment, saying, “This is Shiv Sena, it can say anything. We are volunteers, so I cannot comment.” He refrained from further political engagement and kept the focus on development and investment.
Summit Attended by Key Stakeholders
The Rajputana Business Summit saw the participation of many prominent business leaders, social reformers, and community representatives from across Uttarakhand. The event successfully fostered dialogue on economic, social, and cultural advancement with a clear message: Uttarakhand is open for responsible business.
