Chandigarh, Oct 3: Under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Punjab is transforming from India’s traditional ‘food basket’ into a thriving hub for global investment, attracting companies from Japan, the United States, Germany, the UK, UAE, Switzerland, France, Spain, and other major economies.
“Punjab is no longer just an agricultural state. Today, it is an investment destination that welcomes global businesses and fosters economic growth,” Mann said Tuesday while addressing industrialists, urging them to participate in the socio-economic development of the country.
Since March 2022, the state has received investment proposals worth ₹1.23 lakh crore, which are expected to generate approximately 4.7 lakh jobs. “These figures not only reflect our economic strength but also promise to empower families by creating opportunities for youth right here at home,” Mann added.
A tangible example of this international confidence is the 100-year-old Dutch firm De Heus, which recently established a ₹150-crore plant in Rajpura. The plant, whose foundation was laid in 2023, will start production within two years and provide over 300 direct jobs. Millions across Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh are also expected to benefit indirectly through related business opportunities.
The Mann government has introduced a series of reforms aimed at making Punjab one of India’s most business-friendly states. The ‘FastTrack Punjab Portal’, the country’s most advanced single-window system, eliminates the need for offline applications. Additionally, under the ‘Punjab Right to Business Act’, eligible units with investments up to ₹125 crore receive in-principle approval in just five days. The state has also pioneered time-bound approvals within 45 days, deemed approvals, escalation processes, and extended validity for key licenses.
“Punjab is the sacred land of Gurus, Saints, and Prophets. Anything can grow here,” Mann said. He emphasized that despite challenging times, the state’s industry has strengthened significantly. “Although Punjab occupies only 1.5% of India’s total land, it contributes 3% to the national GDP, a reflection of our industry-friendly policies and the determination of our people,” he noted.
The state is expanding beyond traditional sectors like agriculture and textiles. Food processing, auto parts, IT, tourism, and the film industry are all witnessing rapid development, signaling Punjab’s readiness for further industrial growth. Mann invited investors to participate in the Progressive Punjab Investors Summit scheduled in Mohali on March 13–15, 2026. “This summit provides a platform to showcase Punjab’s potential, explore collaborations, and strengthen networking. Together, we can build a sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive industrial ecosystem,” he said.
With a combination of investor-friendly policies, rich resources, and a proactive administration, Punjab now offers open opportunities for international investors, entrepreneurs, and businesses seeking to tap into its growing industrial capacity.
