Punjab Government Announces Major Industrial Infrastructure and Policy Initiatives
In a significant development for Punjab's industrial landscape, Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora has revealed comprehensive plans for new infrastructure and policy frameworks designed to boost economic growth and investment in the state.
New Exhibition Centre and Record Investment Figures
During an interactive session with prominent industrialists in Ludhiana, Minister Arora confirmed that a state-of-the-art exhibition centre will be constructed on a 10-acre plot near the Jalandhar Bypass. The tender process for this ambitious project is scheduled to commence this Monday, with construction expected to be completed within a single year.
The minister disclosed that Punjab has achieved unprecedented investment success during the 2025-26 period, securing commitments worth ₹60,256 crore - the highest in the state's history. This substantial influx of capital is projected to generate approximately 1.35 lakh employment opportunities for the youth, demonstrating the government's commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment.
"Our target for the upcoming year has been set at ₹75,000 crore, and we are confident that we will not only meet but exceed this ambitious goal," Arora asserted during his address to the industrial community.
Upcoming Industrial Park Policy and Substantial Incentives
Arora announced that the Punjab government will introduce a comprehensive industrial park policy within the next month. This policy will focus on developing large-scale industrial parks spanning at least 25 acres each, with collaborative participation from both industrialists and real estate developers.
The new framework includes streamlined approval processes, where investors will receive all necessary clearances simply by registering their investment intentions. Industries relocating to these designated parks will benefit from significant incentives, while existing units adopting zero liquid discharge environmental standards will be eligible for incentives up to ₹10 crore. New industries establishing operations in these parks will receive 100% incentive benefits.
Additionally, industries implementing paddy straw boiler plants as part of their environmental initiatives will qualify for incentives reaching up to ₹7.5 crore.
Operational Improvements and Infrastructure Updates
The minister confirmed that the state cabinet has approved a new operation and maintenance policy that empowers industrialists to collect maintenance charges and directly utilize these funds for the upkeep of focal points and industrial hubs. Arora emphasized that the recently launched Industrial Policy was developed through extensive consultation with all relevant stakeholders.
Regarding law and order enhancements, Arora revealed that 29 new Police Control Room vehicles have been added to the existing fleet to strengthen patrolling capabilities across industrial areas. He also urged industrialists to implement salary payments through bank accounts as a preventive measure against potential snatching incidents.
Addressing Specific Regional Concerns
Speaking on the persistent issue of mixed land use areas in Ludhiana, Arora indicated that the government is nearing a permanent resolution to this complex challenge. When questioned about Halwara Airport operations, the minister clarified that flight timings were established by Air India to facilitate global connecting flights for travelers.
"Some individuals who arrived late to the planning process are creating unnecessary confusion among the public regarding these flight schedules. I want to provide complete assurance that the timing arrangements have not undergone any changes," Arora concluded definitively.
