Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal delivered a clear message to industrialists to speed up operations, create jobs, and leverage government support. Speaking at the Auric City auditorium on Wednesday, he assured that all approvals and processes would be executed with zero corruption and no delays. However, he warned that unused industrial plots would be repossessed if projects did not commence within the stipulated timeframe.
Goyal emphasized that the Shendra and Bidkin industrial zones hold immense potential, and their success depends on active participation from entrepreneurs. "The government is fully committed to providing maximum facilities, but industries must take the lead in driving progress," he said. The meeting saw participation from key stakeholders, including Rajya Sabha MP Dr Bhagwat Karad, MLA Anuradha Chavan, MIDC CEO P. Velarasu, CII representative Rishikumar Bagla, NICDC CEO Rajatkumar Saini, industrial representatives Arpit Save, MASSIA President Chetan Raut, and entrepreneur Ram Bhogale.
Goyal highlighted that under the PM GatiShakti National Plan, multimodal connectivity would be strengthened, integrating expressways, national highways, railways, and air transport to enhance logistics efficiency. Industrial bodies urged the government to link these zones with skill development initiatives. Goyal responded by directing officials to draft a comprehensive training program. Additionally, he encouraged industries to collaborate on workforce housing, transportation, and food services. Recognizing challenges posed by the pandemic, he approved a 16-month extension for delayed industrial projects. However, he made it clear there would be no further leniency. He also instructed authorities to fast-track fire safety clearances, project approvals, pollution control certificates, and land acquisition processes to eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks. With industries keen on expansion and the government pushing for faster execution, Auric’s transformation into a high-tech industrial hub appears inevitable provided businesses act swiftly.