Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai embarked on a 10-day investment tour to Japan and South Korea on Thursday, aiming to transform the state into a global industrial hub. Departing from Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur, Sai’s first foreign trip as CM is set to attract major investors in electronics, automobiles, and food processing, leveraging Chhattisgarh’s new Industrial Policy introduced in November 2024.
Speaking to reporters before boarding his flight to Delhi, from where he will travel to Japan, Sai highlighted the immense potential of these sectors. “Japan and South Korea excel in electronics, automobiles, and food processing, and Chhattisgarh offers vast opportunities in these areas. Our new Industrial Policy is designed to make the state an attractive destination for global investors,” he stated. The policy has already secured investment proposals worth ₹6.5 lakh crore, with several projects underway and others in the pipeline.
A key highlight of the trip is Sai’s participation in the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, where Chhattisgarh will showcase its rich cultural heritage and modern advancements. The state’s dedicated stall at Yumeshima Island’s expansive Expo site will feature its globally renowned Dokra art, a traditional metal craftsmanship under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, which has already captivated international audiences. The Expo, themed “People’s Living Lab,” is a global platform for innovation and sustainable development, hosting over 160 countries and nine international organizations.
Also Read: Chhattisgarh Cabinet Grows: 3 New MLAs Join
Accompanied by Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain, Principal Secretary Subodh Singh, and Industry Secretary Rajat Kumar, Sai will meet with top industrialists, technology partners, and infrastructure developers to promote Chhattisgarh as a prime investment destination. The Chhattisgarh Investment Authority (CIA) initiative will be a focal point, aiming to secure Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) that could boost the state’s economy and create thousands of jobs, particularly in manufacturing, technology transfer, and green energy.
In a post on X, Sai expressed gratitude to his cabinet colleagues who saw him off at the airport, emphasizing the state’s rapid progress. “Chhattisgarh is emerging as a hub for industrial development. With your support, this visit will unlock new opportunities for investment and employment,” he wrote. The CM’s return on August 31 is anticipated to bring announcements of significant investment deals, potentially marking a turning point for Chhattisgarh’s economic growth.
This strategic tour aligns with Sai’s broader vision of a “Viksit Chhattisgarh,” building on the state’s recent successes, including its fight against Naxalism and initiatives like the Krishak Unnati Yojana for farmers. By showcasing Chhattisgarh’s unique blend of cultural heritage and industrial potential, Sai aims to position the state as a key player in India’s economic landscape.
Also Read: New Raipur-Jabalpur Train Boosts Connectivity