Chhattisgarh, a land of opportunities, is among the richest States in the country in terms of mineral and forest resources, with a large untapped potential for industrialization. The State has economic and political stability. It is conclusively known that good governance and excellent infrastructure carry a much higher weight than incentives in attracting investments. With its emphasis on good governance and good infrastructure, Chhattisgarh is on its way to economic prosperity through industrial investments.

Chhattisgarh has adopted its five-year Industrial Policy in 2001. The four basic strategies identified in the policy are Cluster based industrial development, Good governance and excellent infrastructure, Improving the competitiveness of small scale industries, and Directed incentives. The State has formulated and is implementing stable macro-economic policies, and ensuring transparency and accountability in the administering of rules and regulations. Government has enhanced allocations including by way of public- private- partnerships, for providing basic and specialised physical infrastructure, especially in industrial parks. It is also focussing on concerted human resource development.

Incentives, in keeping with our Industrial policy, are directed only at thrust industries, Mega projects and small scale industries. Additional incentives are being provided to industries that employ a large number of women workers, industries that are set up by Scheduled Tribes/Scheduled Castes, and those units investing in quality control and innovation.

Mega Projects (with investment in fixed assets in excess of Rs.1000 million-Rs 100 crores) will be eligible for infrastructure support outside Industrial Estates, up to 25% of the infrastructure cost subject to a maximum of 5 years’ sales tax. Such units would be allowed to have captive power plants, to generate power from waste heat recovery, and to wheel power to sister concerns. They will also enjoy exemption from Electricity Duty for a period of 15 years.
Small-scale industries enjoy Interest subsidy at 5% per annum for 5 years upto Rs 5 lakhs. For change of land use, conversion fees has been waived for the land converted from agricultural to industrial use. A Technology Upgradation Fund of Rs 30 crores over the next 5 years is providing financial assistance to small and medium industries. Quality certification is being encouraged by underwriting 50% of the cost of obtaining such certification inclduding ISO9000 and ISO14000, with a ceiling of Rs 75000 per unit.

Units set up in Scheduled Areas will get infrastructure support equal to 10% of the project cost. All industries, irrespective of size, will be exempted from Entry Tax, and payment of stamp duty.

As a 21st century State, we will provide good governance to investors.Our natural wealth, surplus power and commitment to excellent infrastructure have already resulted in attracting large investments in the very first year.