Ludhiana, March 21: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday inaugurated Tata Steel’s second-largest Indian plant in Ludhiana, marking a significant milestone in Punjab’s industrial expansion. The facility, which represents an investment of ₹3,200 crore, is the first in the country to utilize an Electric Arc Furnace for steel production, powered entirely by green energy and recycled steel scrap.
The Chief Minister stated that the project will provide direct employment to approximately 2,700 youth, while an additional 10,000 indirect jobs are expected to be generated through the associated supply chain. During the ceremony, the Chief Minister affirmed that the presence of a global entity like the Tata Group reflects a renewed trust in the state’s economic environment. He declared that while previous policies led to industrial flight, current reforms are successfully bringing major manufacturers back to Punjab.
Government officials noted that the plant aligns with global shifts toward sustainable manufacturing. The Chief Minister declared that Punjab has become a pioneer in eco-friendly steel production, utilizing 100% steel scrap as raw material. He maintained that the state’s robust connectivity via air, rail, and road makes it an ideal destination for future-ready investments.
In his address, the Chief Minister also shared that he has requested the Tata Group to consider expanding direct flight operations from Punjab to Western countries to assist the Punjabi diaspora. He affirmed that his administration has secured investments worth ₹1.58 lakh crore over the past four years, which has helped create opportunities for over five lakh young professionals within the state.
The Chief Minister asserted that the government aims to act as a facilitator for growth rather than a hurdle. He maintained that when the industry thrives, the youth find meaningful roles at home, preventing the need for talented graduates to seek employment abroad.
