Industry gung-ho, sees momentum but flags execution as key

Bhopal: Beyond the headline numbers, industry leaders in Madhya Pradesh are reading this year's state budget as a signal of intent, one that places investment, infrastructure and MSME expansion at the centre of the growth narrative while attempting to resolve delays around incentives and working capital.A provision of Rs 5,957 crore has been proposed for the investment and industrialisation sector in FY 2026-27, covering MSME promotion, employment support and infrastructure. The scale of the allocation, industry representatives say, reflects a continued policy push to convert investment proposals into operational projects and strengthen manufacturing competitiveness across key clusters.Gautam Kothari, president of the Pithampur Audhyogik Sangathan, said, "The Pithampur Economic Corridor will slash logistics and freight costs by 12-15%, significantly enhancing the global competitiveness of our manufactured goods. Through robust credit guarantees and digital reforms, small and medium industries will be liberated from the chronic issue of working capital shortages."Industry bodies also pointed to the broader macro direction of the budget, noting that infrastructure spending, corridor-based development and sector-focused incentives could help stabilise long-term investor sentiment in the state.Kunal Giani, co-chair of FICCI Madhya Pradesh and chairman of Sarva Foam Industries Limited, said, "With an emphasis on infrastructure enhancement, capital investment and long-term rolling forecasts, the state is cultivating a stable and attractive investment climate. Preparations for the 2028 Ujjain Simhastha are set to further energise economic activities."Sector-specific stakeholders echoed similar expectations, particularly in pharmaceuticals and allied manufacturing, where infrastructure strength and policy continuity are seen as critical for scaling production and attracting fresh capital.Ajay Singh Dasundi, secretary of the pharma sector association, said, "This budget will ensure positive changes in investment and employment opportunities along with strengthening infrastructure and public welfare systems."Industry associations representing micro, small and medium enterprises said the proposed measures could also widen participation of women and youth in the industrial workforce through skilling and employment-linked initiatives.AIMP president Yogesh Mehta said, "The provision of Rs 5,957 crore for the development of new industrial parks is a positive initiative toward industrialisation. The plan to expand infrastructure, increase power capacity and promote skill development and employment-oriented training will help empower women and youth while strengthening the state's position as an emerging industrial hub."