Maharashtra Signs 49 MSME MoUs Worth Rs 2,320.97 Crore for Pune Industrial Belt
Maharashtra is set to receive fresh industrial investments amounting to Rs 2,320.97 crore through 49 Memoranda of Understanding signed with Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Wednesday at Sahyadri Guest House.
The proposed investments are intended to expand production capacity, boost the industrial ecosystem in Pune, and create thousands of new employment opportunities, with a primary focus on strengthening the Chakan-Bhosari industrial belt.
The announcement came following criticism from the Opposition regarding the business environment for smaller enterprises in the state. Leaders of the NCP (SP) had previously claimed that around 20 MSME units relocated outside the Chakan area due to deficiencies in local infrastructure. In response, the state government presented the newly signed agreements as part of its ongoing efforts to support and expand the sector.
Speaking at the event, Fadnavis highlighted MSMEs as a vital pillar of Maharashtra's industrial economy, particularly within Pune's automobile and engineering supply chains. He noted that large manufacturing operations depend heavily on smaller local units for components, spare parts, and specialized services, while MSMEs also assist in lowering dependence on imported goods.
To better evaluate the sector's requirements, the state government has decided to conduct an MSME Census. The survey will gather data on the total number of operational units across Maharashtra, their specific fields of business, employment numbers, production capacities, and infrastructure requirements to guide future industrial policy.
The Industries Department and the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation will oversee the provision of land, infrastructure, and related amenities for the 49 signatory enterprises. State officials expect multiple facilities to begin production within the next one to two years.
Fadnavis also announced plans to modernize older industrial estates established three to four decades ago. Under the proposed 'Industrial Nagar' initiative, which will launch initially in Pune district, older industrial areas will receive dedicated administrative structures alongside upgrades to maintenance, cleanliness, and core infrastructure.
