The state will concentrate on decentralisation of industries so that more units come up in rural areas that would facilitate development and create job opportunities, said chief minister, Prithviraj Chavan.

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He was speaking at the inauguration of a mega project by Cummins, the leading manufacturer of engines, generators and related technologies near Phaltan in Satara district on Friday.

Chavan said the 330-acre project would lead to development of Phaltan taluka and Satara district. “The government intended to make the state a prime destination for investors,” Chavan said adding that the state had adopted the policy to encourage industries to spread out in rural areas.

“Phaltan, which is a dry land area difficult to cultivate, will benefit from the project. The state has all the facilities for high investments. Now, we have seven ports coming up which will further cater to the need of industries,” he said.

The chief minister appreciated Cummins for following the latest standards of environment conservation and ensuring that the plants coming up at the site are zero-discharge plants with recycling facilities.

“The companies are now serious about avoiding damage to the environment while setting up plants. They should be welcomed in the state. Maharashtra government fully supported Cummins in their venture and the company launched their project in record time. It will now become Maharashtra’s brand ambassador so that more investors come to the state,” Chavan said.

Union agriculture minister, Sharad Pawar said no more industries will now go to Baramati but they will be encouraged to go to places in Satara district which will soon develop as a good option for investors.

“It will shift the pressure on agriculture to industries. From every agricultural family at least one person should be working in the industry. Cummins’ first venture in the state was with Kirloskars in 1962 and it has come a long way to setting up one of its largest projects which will also benefit small entrepreneurs,” he said.

The agriculture minister said opposition to big projects hampers the state’s development.

“We need to welcome projects like Jaitapur to move forward,” he said. Chairman and CEO of Cummins, Tim Solso, said rapidly growing economy, vast talent pool India has helped the company grow. Megasite, which is the largest project of Cummins, will see an investment of approximately US$300 million in the next few years. He appreciated the government’s support for the project and ensured the company’s contribution to development of Phaltan region. He said women would get equal opportunity of employment at the project and with the special permission of the state government they have been employed to work in two shifts.

Managing director of Cummins group in India, Anant Talaulicar, said, “We are working to develop skilled workforce by sponsoring the local ITI, forming relationships with colleges in Baramati and adopting nearby villages. We are looking at sustained industrial growth around Phaltan.” he added.

MP Supriya Sule, cooperation minister Harshavardhan Patil, forest minister Patangrao Kadam, minister of state for home Satej Patil and others were present.