Varanasi: Sonbhadra, once synonymous with Naxal violence in the late 1990s, is poised for a dramatic transformation into one of Uttar Pradesh‘s largest industrial hubs.In a major push to curb migration by creating local employment opportunities, the Yogi Adityanath govt has unveiled plans to develop a state-of-the-art industrial township in the district, combining skill development, manufacturing and entrepreneurship under one roof.The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Employment and Industrial Area will be developed over 50 acres in the Markundi area, Sonbhadra DM Charchit Gaur said.“As part of the Yogi govt’s unique initiative to stop the migration of youth by creating abundant employment opportunities, the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Employment and Industrial Area will be developed. With all hi-tech facilities in the ultra-modern industrial area, local youths will be able to access training, employment and self-employment on a single platform. For better connectivity, a road will also be built from Gurma turning to the industrial area at Rs 16 crore,” Gaur said.To transform the fortunes of Sonbhadra, popularly known as Uttar Pradesh’s energy capital because of its numerous power generation units, chief minister Yogi Adityanath had outlined his vision for the district in 2023. Gaur said the chief minister’s initiatives have already led to the implementation of several major projects, creating employment opportunities for thousands of youths.“In this sequence, with the objective of providing world-class skill development training, employment and self-employment opportunities to youth on a single platform, the Yogi govt will develop the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Employment and Industrial Area. The land has been selected,” Gaur said, adding that work will begin on a war footing once the project receives the govt’s approval.Gaur said the proposed industrial area will be developed with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, ensuring adequate green cover. The project will house a skill development centre, industrial units and product outlets. Youths will receive industry-oriented training in emerging sectors such as IT, artificial intelligence, robotics, manufacturing, electronics, automobiles, energy, logistics and hospitality. After completing their training, they will be provided employment opportunities within the industrial area itself.The project will also promote local MSMEs, startups and new industries, leading to a significant increase in investment, employment and economic activity in the district, Gaur said. He added that the industrial area will be developed under the plug-and-play infrastructure policy, with all essential facilities for the quick establishment of industries. Basic infrastructure, including electricity, water supply, roads, sewerage and high-speed internet, will be available, while ready factory sheds will enable entrepreneurs to install machinery and commence production immediately.Gaur said the project would prove to be a historic step towards establishing Sonbhadra as a major industrial, skill development and employment hub for Purvanchal and the Vindhya region.He added that alongside the development of the industrial area, efforts are also being made to ensure seamless connectivity.“A road will be constructed between Gurma turning and the industrial area at a cost of Rs 15.99 crore to make it easier for industries to receive raw materials and deliver finished goods on time. This will reduce transport costs and increase the competitiveness of industries,” Gaur said.
