Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday i.e. 14 July, pitched Mohali as one of India's most promising investment destinations, urging industrialists to invest in Punjab while highlighting the government's efforts to improve the business climate, strengthen infrastructure and create employment opportunities.
In an industry gathering, Mann said Punjab has become an investor-friendly state with a time-bound single-window clearance system that ensures all necessary approvals are granted within a fixed timeline. He confirmed that the state now ranks among the country's leading performers in ease of doing business.
Investments in Punjab
The Chief Minister claimed that Punjab has already attracted investments worth nearly ₹2 lakh crore, resulting in the creation of around five lakh jobs. He said the government is committed to making the state a preferred destination for industries by offering policy stability, improved infrastructure and uninterrupted support to investors.
Mohali: State’s biggest growth engine
Calling Mohali the state's biggest growth engine, Mann said the city is rapidly developing into India's Silicon Valley. He noted that industries located near the international airport have access to world-class connectivity and modern infrastructure. He also highlighted the creation of a dedicated startup department to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship among young professionals.
Punjab’s connectivity
Highlighting Punjab's connectivity, Mann said the state has six airports, including two international airports, while railway infrastructure is also being upgraded to improve the movement of passengers and goods.
Textile sector
The Chief Minister also underlined Punjab's strength in the textile sector, saying Ludhiana continues to dominate India's hosiery and garment industry, accounting for nearly 90 per cent of the country's production. He added that Jalandhar and Amritsar remain key industrial hubs, making Punjab an attractive destination for textile investments.
Business relationship
Speaking about the government's relationship with businesses, Mann said industrialists should be viewed as partners in Punjab's development rather than as a source of political funding. Recalling a conversation with an investor after his government assumed office, he said the businessman had only one request—to be allowed to operate without unnecessary interference. According to Mann, the incident reflected the challenges faced by industries under previous administrations.
The Chief Minister alleged that an unfavourable business environment in the past had forced several industries to shift to neighbouring states such as Himachal Pradesh's Baddi. He claimed his government has reversed that trend by ensuring transparent governance and investor confidence.
Power surplus state
On the power front, Mann said Punjab is now a power-surplus state with adequate coal reserves and no restrictions on electricity supply to industries. He added that the government has also constituted over 20 sector-specific advisory committees to maintain regular dialogue with businesses and address their concerns.
Investments in Punjab
Mann further revealed that Tata Steel has invested ₹3,200 crore in Punjab, while Aichi Steel has invested ₹2,600 crore. He announced that another steel company is expected to begin operations in the state later this month.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister said Punjab's hardworking people, skilled workforce and strong entrepreneurial culture make it an ideal destination for investment. He urged industrialists to take advantage of the opportunities available in the state and become partners in its growth story.
