Himachal emerges as a global investment destination
Punjab Newsline, Shimla-
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu here today detailed a transformative vision for Himachal Pradesh’s industrial landscape, highlighting the success of the 'Industry through Invitation' initiative'. Under this proactive outreach strategy, the state has successfully positioned itself as a premier destination for high-tech, sustainable and rural-based industries.
"Our government is not merely waiting for investment, we are inviting it with a clear roadmap," said Chief Minister Sukhu. By engaging with global markets in Dubai and Japan and domestic hubs like Mumbai, we have secured memoranda of commitment exceeding Rs.5,000 crore in the last three years, he said. The present State Government have approved 683 industrial projects worth Rs.14,000 crore, which are set to generate employment for approximately 32,000 of our youth."
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state is diversifying beyond traditional sectors. The State Government is establishing the necessary infrastructure to support eco-friendly transport, empowering MSMEs and Startups. The Chief Minister said that Strategic focus was being placed on green energy & green hydrogen for attracting the investors in leading the transition toward a sustainable economy. Besides, through tourism, harnessing Solar energy, building the digital infrastructure of the future and transforming the agriculture sector by modernizing dairy, food processing to benefit rural farmers will go a long way in strengthening industrial sector.
Recognizing MSMEs as the backbone of the state's economy, the government has moved proposals worth Rs.1,642 crore to the Central Government to strengthen rural industries, already securing Rs.109.34 crore in initial funding.
"We are fostering a strong culture of innovation," the Chief Minister stated. Through 14 incubation centers at prestigious institutions like IIT Mandi, IIM Sirmaur, and AIIMS Bilaspur, we are nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs, he stated adding that currently, 107 startups have successfully launched, with another 407 in the development pipeline.
Sukhu stated that under the Chief Minister’s Swavalamban Yojana, the state has approved 1,607 self-employment units with an investment of Rs.373.87 crore, creating immediate livelihoods for over 3,500 people.
He stated that to ensure a seamless investor experience, the state has integrated 180 services into a unified single-window portal. Significant policy shifts have also been implemented, including revised construction regulations that allow for 70% land utilization for industrial buildings. Furthermore, the government has notified 13 new large and micro-industrial areas to accommodate the surge in demand.
The Chief Minister said that Himachal Pradesh’s efforts have received national recognition, with the State winning the Best Performer Award in the State Startup Ranking 2023, Aspirant State Award for Ease of Doing Business 2024, and first prize under the PM formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME) Scheme. The State has also been recognized by DPIIT in 2025 for excellence in the Health and Services sectors, and for outstanding performance in Construction Permit Enablers.
"These awards are a testament to our commitment to transparent and efficient governance," Chief Minister said. He said that Himachal Pradesh was open for business and we are dedicated to ensure that industrial growth translates into prosperity for every citizen of our state.455/2025 शिमला 29 दिसम्बर, 2025