THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, June 3: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Wednesday directed officials to accelerate key industrial infrastructure projects, including the proposed Logistics Park and World Trade Centre, while emphasising innovation in Jharcraft and stronger support for traditional artisans. During a detailed review of the Industry Department’s schemes and projects, the Chief Minister stressed that industrial growth, investment promotion, and artisan empowerment must go hand in hand to boost economic activity and generate employment opportunities across the state.
Today, Chief Minister Hemant Soren conducted a detailed review of the functions, schemes, and projects of the Industry Department at the Jharkhand Mantralaya. During the high-level meeting, extensive discussions were held on industrial development, investment promotion, employment generation, and the progress of various departmental initiatives.
Reviewing departmental performance, the Chief Minister directed officials to make the industrial development process more effective, transparent, and result-oriented. He said industrial growth would strengthen the state’s economy and create new opportunities for employment and self-employment, particularly for young people. He also stressed the need to systematically showcase Jharkhand’s industrial potential at the national level to attract investors.
Innovation and Youth Engagement in Jharcraft
While reviewing the activities of Jharcraft, Hemant Soren placed special emphasis on innovation and creativity. He directed officials to develop market-oriented products and actively engage young people in the sector.
The Chief Minister also instructed Jharcraft to integrate product display and sales centres with tourist destinations to enhance visibility and market reach. He called for the development of contemporary products inspired by Jharkhand’s rich art and cultural heritage and asked officials to prepare a long-term roadmap for the sector.
Focus on Traditional Artisans and Market Linkages
Reviewing the work of the Mati Kala Board, the Chief Minister stressed the need to empower artisans engaged in traditional crafts such as ironwork, woodwork, and pottery.
He noted that these traditional occupations are an important part of Jharkhand’s cultural heritage but are facing challenges due to the growing influence of modern technology and industrial products. He said efforts should be made to preserve traditional skills while creating new livelihood opportunities for artisans.
Soren directed the Mati Kala Board to undertake focused initiatives for the identification, training, and capacity building of artisans. He also emphasised the integration of modern designs and technology to improve product quality and utility.
The Chief Minister instructed officials to formulate a strategy for organising artisans and strengthening market linkages to ensure higher incomes and sustainable livelihoods.
Value Addition, Branding and Marketing
Hemant Soren directed Jharcraft and the Mati Kala Board to promote value addition in wood and clay-based products so that they become more attractive, modern, and market-oriented.
He also stressed the importance of effective branding, packaging, and marketing to ensure that these products gain recognition at both state and national levels. Such efforts, he said, would help artisans secure sustainable employment and expand their market reach.
Push for Logistics Park and World Trade Centre
Reviewing the progress of major industrial infrastructure projects under development in the state, particularly the Logistics Park and World Trade Centre, the Chief Minister directed officials to speed up implementation.
He said timely and quality execution of these projects is essential for strengthening the industrial ecosystem in Jharkhand.
According to Soren, the Logistics Park will improve transportation, storage, and distribution systems, helping industries reduce operational costs and improve trade efficiency. The World Trade Centre, he said, will strengthen national and international trade linkages and create fresh investment opportunities for the state.
The Chief Minister instructed officials to remove all obstacles related to these projects and ensure their completion within the stipulated timelines through coordinated efforts. He said these initiatives would play a key role in establishing Jharkhand as an emerging industrial and investment destination.
The meeting was attended by Industry Minister Sanjay Prasad Yadav, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Development Commissioner Ajay Kumar Singh, Industry Secretary Arva Rajkamal, Jharcraft Managing Director Garima Singh, Directors Vishal Sagar and Preeti Rani, along with other senior officials.