Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
The Chamber of Marathwada Industries and Agriculture (CMIA) has received positive signals from both Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis and union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for its proposal to establish a Defence Manufacturing Park in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. This initiative aims to align with the national goal of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ by enhancing domestic defence production capabilities.
In a high-level meeting attended by rajasthan governor Haribhau Bagde, maharashtra ministers Atul Save and Jaykumar Rawal, MP Dr. Bhagwat Karad, and CMIA office-bearers including president Arpit Save and secretary Atharveshraj Nandavat, the industrial strengths of the region were highlighted. The CMIA projected Marathwada as a viable defence production hub, given its infrastructure, skilled workforce, and strategic location.
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Proposed locations & connectivity
AURIC Bidkin, Arapur MIDC, and a site along the Samruddhi Expressway have been proposed for the Defence Park, offering excellent connectivity by road, rail, air, and the nearby Jalna dry port. Defence minister Rajnath Singh backed the proposal, highlighting the sector’s growth from ₹600 crore in 2014 to ₹24,000 crore in 2024, with a ₹50,000 crore target by 2029. CM Fadnavis pledged full support, proposing a dedicated defence cluster and 8,000 acres for industrial expansion.
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Industrial strength & skilled workforce
With over 5,000 industries and a top rank in exports and GST contributions, City offers a robust industrial base. Backed by 3 lakh skilled workers under the ESIC scheme, the region is well-positioned for defence manufacturing. Entrepreneurs have called for faster licensing, domestic testing facilities, and access to the CSD network.
Defence production readiness
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar has proven capabilities in electronics, battery systems, missile carriers, and military vehicles. Existing clusters like the Marathwada Auto and Deogiri Electronics Clusters support this potential. With India aiming to scale defence production to Rs 3 lakh crore, local entrepreneurs are prepared to contribute, especially in aviation and allied technologies.