TFP Bureau, Mumbai, April 24, 2025: Chhattisgarh is poised to play a pivotal role in transforming India into a global steel powerhouse, declared State Commerce and Industries Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan during his address at the India Steel 2025 conference held at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai.
Speaking on the opening day of the prestigious three-day event, Minister Dewangan emphasized that Chhattisgarh, often dubbed the “Steel Capital of India,” is central to achieving Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious target of producing 300 million tonnes of steel annually by 2030.
“Chhattisgarh contributes 18% of the nation’s iron ore reserves, and the high-grade ore from Bailadila is globally acclaimed. With robust policies, a strong industrial base, and forward-thinking leadership, the state is uniquely positioned to drive India’s steel mission,” Dewangan stated, while inviting major investors to be part of the state’s industrial transformation.
The India Steel 2025 conference, jointly organized by the Ministry of Steel and FICCI, was inaugurated with a video address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Union Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma was also present.
Highlighting the state’s proactive approach, Dewangan detailed the new industrial policy rolled out by the Chhattisgarh government, which offers up to 15% incentives to sponge iron and steel units. The policy also includes streamlined single-window clearances and measures to promote green steel technology adoption.
He announced that a 118-acre industrial zone is being developed near the Nagarnar Steel Plant in Bastar to boost MSME participation. “Ease of doing business, infrastructure support, and investor-friendly governance have placed Chhattisgarh among the top ten states in terms of attracting industrial investments,” he added.
Dewangan also showcased the success of recent investment summits held across Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Raipur, which collectively drew investment proposals exceeding Rs 4.5 lakh crore. He cited the foundation-laying of a semiconductor plant as a symbol of the state’s rapid industrial progress.
On the sidelines of the conference, the minister held roundtable discussions with key industrialists, exploring opportunities in logistics, industrial clusters, and workforce development. Senior officials from Chhattisgarh, including Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain and Principal Secretary to the CM Subodh Singh, were also present to support investment dialogues and reinforce the state’s commitment to economic growth.
With its abundant resources, progressive policies, and investor-focused governance, Chhattisgarh is fast emerging as a central pillar in India’s global steel ambitions.
