Gadchiroli's Transformation: From Naxalism to Steel Hub

Gadchiroli is evolving into a steel hub with investments of Rs 21,830 crore, generating 7500 jobs. Infrastructure developments and incentive packages are planned. Maharashtra also aims to become a global textile hub and will introduce new industrial policies to attract further investments and boost job creation.

Gadchiroli, a region once grappling with the challenges of Naxalism, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The district is emerging as a steel hub, with investment agreements worth Rs 21,830 crore signed at the recent World Economic Forum in Davos, as revealed by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar during the state budget presentation.

These investments are expected to create 7500 jobs, Deputy CM Pawar, also the state's finance minister, informed the assembly. To bolster transportation, a network of mining highways is in the pipeline, with an initial investment of Rs 500 crore for its first phase, he added.

The budget highlights include a package scheme of incentives aimed at fostering regional development, with a proposed allocation of Rs 6400 crore for 2025-26. The 'Maharashtra Technical Textile Mission' is set to position the state as a global hub, benefiting Vidarbha cotton farmers, while an 'Urban Haat' in Nagpur will aid handloom weavers. A new industrial policy targeting Rs 40 lakh crore in investments and the creation of 50 lakh jobs in five years is also on the horizon, with specific sectoral policies set to follow.

(With inputs from agencies.)