Jharkhand seeks major trade infrastructure push
Industry Minister writes to Centre with 7-point charter
PNS
Ranchi
Jharkhand Industries Minister Sanjay Prasad Yadav has written to the Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, urging the Centre to approve a seven-point proposal aimed at strengthening the state’s trade, export and industrial ecosystem.
In his letter, the minister highlighted Jharkhand’s strategic contribution to the national economy, stating that the state possesses nearly 40% of the country’s mineral resources and accounts for around 25% of India’s steel production. He also noted that more than 700,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are registered in Jharkhand and are actively contributing to industrial and economic growth.
Emphasising the need for improved trade facilitation, Yadav requested the establishment of a Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) office in Jharkhand. He said the move would enable exporters and businesses to obtain licences and government approvals locally, reducing delays and improving ease of doing business.
The minister also sought the creation of a customs clearance facility and a dry port in the state, allowing exporters to complete customs procedures within Jharkhand instead of relying on neighbouring states. He further proposed setting up a large inland container depot (ICD) to strengthen logistics and streamline export operations.
Among the other key demands, Yadav called for the establishment of Export Promotion Council offices in Jharkhand and the development of international-standard testing laboratories to support exporters in meeting global quality and certification requirements.
The letter also urged the Centre to upgrade Ranchi and Deoghar airports to international standards to improve global connectivity and facilitate exports.
In addition, the minister proposed organising export and international trade training programmes in Ranchi, Jamshedpur and Deoghar to equip local entrepreneurs, exporters and MSMEs with the knowledge and skills required to access global markets.
According to the minister, these initiatives would significantly enhance Jharkhand’s export potential, improve industrial competitiveness, generate employment and position the state as a major trade and manufacturing hub in eastern India.
