Ludhiana to host Punjab’s new industrial showcase: Minister

Ludhiana: Punjab minister for industries and commerce, investment promotion, local bodies and power, Sanjeev Arora, stated today that a new exhibition centre is being established on a 10-acre land parcel near the Jalandhar Bypass. During an interaction with leading Ludhiana industrialists at a local hotel, he confirmed that the tender for this project will be opened this Monday, with the work expected to be completed within a single year.Addressing the gathered industrialists, the cabinet minister revealed that Punjab has witnessed the highest-ever investment in its history during the 2025-26 period, securing commitments worth ₹60,256 crore. This surge is projected to create 1.35 lakh jobs for the youth, reflecting the government's resolve to provide a conducive environment for growth. "Our target for next year will be ₹75,000 crore, and we are sure that we will surpass this target," Arora asserted.He noted that major industrial groups have announced investments. Arora announced that the Punjab government will roll out a new industrial park policy within a month, focusing on developing large parks spread across at least 25 acres.Rs 10cr incentive for industries with zero liquid dischargeUnder this policy, industrialists and real estate developers will jointly participate in development, while investors will receive all necessary approvals simply by registering for investment. Industries shifting to these new parks will receive major incentives. Existing units adopting zero liquid discharge norms will be eligible for incentives up to Rs 10 crore, while new industries will receive 100% incentives. Similarly, industries setting up paddy straw boiler plants will receive incentives of up to Rs 7.5 crore.Arora further stated that a new operation and maintenance policy has been approved by the Cabinet, allowing industrialists to collect maintenance charges and use those funds directly for the upkeep of focal points and industrial hubs. He emphasised that the newly launched Industrial Policy was crafted with all stakeholders on board. Regarding law and order, he confirmed that 29 new PCR vehicles have been added to the fleet to intensify patrolling. He also urged industrialists to pay staff salaries via bank accounts to prevent snatching cases.Speaking on the issue of mixed land use areas in Ludhiana, Arora said the government is very close to finding a permanent solution. Clarifying questions regarding Halwara Airport, he stated that flight timings were fixed by Air India to ensure travelers can book connecting flights globally. He remarked that some "latecomers" are creating confusion among the public regarding these schedules. "I assure that the timing has not changed," he concluded.