27-acre industrial zone launched with ₹10.59-crore investment; project expected to attract industries and create jobs for local youth
TFP Bureau, Raipur, April 18, 2026: The foundation stone for a new industrial area in Gopalpur village of Darri tehsil in Korba district was laid on Friday in the presence of Chhattisgarh’s Commerce, Industry, Labour, Excise and Public Undertakings Minister Lakhan Lal Dewangan. The ceremony marked the formal launch of infrastructure development works aimed at establishing a modern industrial hub that is expected to strengthen the region’s economy and open new avenues for investment and employment.
The groundbreaking ceremony (Bhoomi Pujan) was performed with traditional rituals, signalling the beginning of a major industrial development initiative in the district. The proposed industrial area will be developed over approximately 10.900 hectares (about 27 acres) at an estimated cost of ₹10.59 crore.
Several public representatives and officials attended the event, including Chhattisgarh State Industrial Development Corporation (CSIDC) Chairman Rajiv Agarwal, Katghora MLA Premchand Patel, Korba Mayor Sanju Devi Rajput, District Panchayat President Dr. Pawan Singh, Korba Collector Kunal Dudawat, CSIDC Managing Director Vishwesh Kumar, Municipal Commissioner Ashutosh Pandey, and Additional Collector Devendra Patel, along with representatives of the Chamber of Commerce, officials and local residents.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Dewangan said the project marks not just the start of a new industrial complex but the laying of a strong foundation for Korba’s long-term economic growth. He highlighted that this is the first major industrial area being developed in the district since 1980, describing it as a historic step toward diversifying the local economy.
He stated that the new industrial zone will encourage the establishment of small, medium and large-scale industries in the region, which will significantly increase investment opportunities and generate employment for local youth. The minister added that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the state government is prioritising industrial expansion and infrastructure development.
Highlighting the state’s new industrial policy, Dewangan said it has been designed to make the process of setting up industries simple, transparent and time-bound. Through the Single Window System, investors can now complete required procedures more efficiently. He also noted that the land allotment process has been made fully online to improve transparency and reduce administrative hurdles.
To encourage entrepreneurship among Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste communities, the government has introduced a provision allowing eligible entrepreneurs to obtain industrial land at a nominal price of ₹1. According to the minister, this initiative will help promote inclusive growth and enable more people to participate in industrial development.
CSIDC Chairman Rajiv Agarwal said the new industrial area will accommodate around 44 industrial units once completed. He added that the state government is providing incentives and subsidies covering up to about 65 percent of the total investment for eligible units under the new policy.
Agarwal further stated that Korba, traditionally known for coal mining and power generation, is now being developed into a diversified industrial centre. The establishment of new industries will not only strengthen the regional economy but also provide employment opportunities for local residents within their own district.
CSIDC Managing Director Vishwesh Kumar said the development of the new industrial zone is currently moving through procedural stages, from initial proposals to tendering. He assured that all processes will be carried out in a transparent and systematic manner.
He also emphasised that the state’s industrial policy offers special incentives to MSMEs, new industries and startups. Through the “One Click Single Window” system, investors will be able to access approvals and services on a single digital platform, making the process faster and more convenient.
Officials said the Gopalpur industrial area is expected to play a crucial role in accelerating industrial activity in Korba district, strengthening local infrastructure and creating significant employment opportunities in the coming years.
