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Chhattisgarh News Updated Sep 12, 2025

Lot of scope of investment in Bastar, say local entrepreneurs at Chhattisgarh Investor Connect

Local entrepreneurs at the Bastar Investor Connect revealed surprising international investment interest from London-based companies. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized how these events will boost small-scale industries and benefit local communities. The new industrial policy specifically provides special incentives for SC/ST individuals and women entrepreneurs. The approach balances economic development with preserving Bastar's unique tribal heritage and cultural identity.

Jagdalpur, September 12

In an effort to develop the Bastar region into an industrial and employment hub and align it with Chhattisgarh's Industrial Development Policy 2024-30, the state government hosted the Bastar Investor Connect. The event was organised by the state's Commerce and Industry Department.

At the Investor Connect event, the founder of Bastar Food Firm, Raziya Shaikh, said that the region has received investments from companies based in London as well.

"Bastar is a natural region, so we expect that whatever investment comes in should be in this segment while maintaining its natural heritage so that the tribal culture for which we are known in Bastar should be known in the world in the same way," Raziya Shaikh stated on Thursday.

"Many people were afraid to invest in Bastar, but we have received investments from companies from London as well... There is a lot of scope for investment in Bastar," she added.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday announced that Investor Connect events are being organised continuously across the state.

While speaking to reporters, the Chief Minister also said that an Investor Connect event was held in Bastar. He emphasised that such events would significantly boost small-scale industries in the area.

"After introducing the new industrial policy in Chhattisgarh, Investor Connect events are being held continuously.... Today, an Investor Connect event is also being held in Bastar. This will greatly promote small-scale industries there, and local people will benefit from it..." Sai told reporters.

Discussing the new industrial policy, the Chief Minister stated that it provides special incentives for SC/ST individuals and women who wish to pursue entrepreneurship. "If someone from the SC/ST category or women entrepreneurs wishes to become entrepreneurs, there are special incentives arranged for them in the new industrial policy," he added.

According to the state government, the Chhattisgarh Industrial Policy 2024-30 has not only opened new doors of investment, innovation, and jobs in Bastar but across the state. The Bastar Investor Connect reflects the state's commitment to balanced regional development. The policy ensures job creation, promotes entrepreneurship, and empowers communities, while also preserving Bastar's tribal heritage and cultural identity. It provides special incentives for projects over Rs 1,000 crore or creating more than 1,000 jobs, prioritising pharmaceuticals, agro-processing, textiles, IT & digital tech, advanced electronics, aerospace & defence, and Global Capability Centres. Tourism has been given industry status, with subsidies up to 45% for hotels, eco-tourism, wellness centres, adventure sports, and sports facilities.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

Great initiative! But I hope they ensure that the tribal communities actually benefit from these investments and don't get displaced. Sustainable development is key for Bastar's unique heritage.

Aman W

London companies investing in Bastar? That's impressive! Shows the global potential of our tribal regions. Hope this brings more international attention to Chhattisgarh's natural resources and crafts 🚀

Sarah B

The special incentives for SC/ST and women entrepreneurs are commendable. This is how inclusive growth should happen in India. Hope many local women from Bastar come forward to start businesses!

Vikram M

Tourism getting industry status with 45% subsidies is a game-changer! Bastar has incredible potential for eco-tourism and adventure sports. This could really put Chhattisgarh on the tourist map 🇮🇳

Michael C

While the policy looks good on paper, implementation will be key. Hope the government ensures transparency in allocation of incentives and that benefits actually reach the intended communities.

Nisha Z

As someone from the region, I'm cautiously optimistic. We need development but not at the cost of our forests and tribal culture. Hope the government maintains the balance they're promising 🌿

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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