PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Jan 16: Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth on Friday said Jharkhand has strong potential to emerge as a defence manufacturing hub, with Jamshedpur, Ranchi and Bokaro well-suited for developing a defence corridor on the lines of Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, provided the state government demonstrates clear political will.
Addressing the Defence Expo-cum-State Level MSME Conclave at the Adityapur Auto Cluster in neighbouring Seraikela-Kharsawan, Seth said Jharkhand’s rich mineral base, established industrial ecosystem and cosmopolitan cities give it a natural advantage in building a defence production network.
The two-day conclave is being jointly organised by the Adityapur Small Industries Association, the Singhbhum Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Laghu Udyog Bharti.
MSMEs key to defence manufacturing
Highlighting the role of small industries, Seth said India has nearly four crore MSMEs, but only about 16,000 are currently linked to the defence sector. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi envisions a significant expansion of MSME and startup participation in defence manufacturing, and Jharkhand can play a vital role in achieving this goal.
Infrastructure, law-and-order critical
Seth said defence corridors are feasible in Jharkhand, but emphasised the need for improved infrastructure, stronger road connectivity, better law-and-order and a robust single-window clearance system to attract investors.
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He expressed disappointment over the absence of the Chief Minister at the conclave, noting that he had expected a concrete announcement on the proposed defence corridor. The minister remarked that while the state government is reaching out to investors abroad, local entrepreneurs and industrialists are gradually losing confidence and even considering relocating outside Jharkhand.
Concern over kidnapping incident
The Union minister also voiced concern over the kidnapping of young entrepreneur Kairav Gandhi, calling the incident deeply disturbing for both the public and the business community. He said the abduction of a youth who returned to Jamshedpur after completing his studies has shaken investor confidence and prayed for his safe return.
Seth urged the state government to ensure a secure environment for entrepreneurs, adding that while the police are doing their job, the Chief Minister should personally take cognisance of the matter to restore confidence among investors.
