Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said on Thursday that Jharkhand is grappling with widespread corruption, migration, and lawlessness, emphasizing the urgency for a change in governance in the State.
Addressing a gathering here on Thursday, Sitharaman dismissed claims of neglect towards Jharkhand, stating that such assertions lacked merit. She lamented that despite being the homeland of tribal hero Birsa Munda and blessed with abundant natural resources, Jharkhand has fallen victim to pervasive corruption, migration, and lawlessness, while lacking a favourable environment for industrial growth.
Highlighting the potential of Eastern India to drive national economic growth, Sitharaman stressed the importance of reviving industrial sectors. She underscored the significance of adding value to mineral resources, noting that Jharkhand holds a substantial 40 per cent share of the country's mineral wealth.
Sitharaman pointed out the decline in Jharkhand's ease-of-doing-business ranking, attributing it to the prevailing disorder. She asserted that improved law and order would attract more investments to the state, reiterating the necessity for governance reform.
Refuting opposition claims of neglect by the central government, Sitharaman cited significant budget allocations, including a record Rs 7,200 crore for rail projects in Jharkhand in the 2024-25 fiscal year.
During the interactive session themed 'Eastern India - Engine of Growth for Developed India', Sitharaman also remarked on demographic shifts in certain areas of Jharkhand, attributing them to "infiltration."
Behtar Jharkhand initiative and the Federation of Jharkhand Chamber of Commerce and Industry jointly organised an interactive session titled 'Eastern India - Engine of Growth for Viksit Bharat' here on Thursday.
Former Chief Minister Babulal Marandi along with prominent personalities from various fields like civil society, healthcare, academia, arts, entrepreneurship, and local governance were also present on the occasion.
The theme of the event underscored a vision of leveraging the potential of the eastern region of India to drive the holistic development and progress of the nation as a whole. The wealth of natural and human resources, coupled with its vibrant cultural heritage, positions Eastern India as a significant catalyst for economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
Marandi praised the Behtar Jharkhand initiative for its instrumental role in shaping a development strategy that will benefit the people of Jharkhand in the long run. He commended the efforts of the Central Government, specifically mentioning the Vishwakarma Scheme which provides end-to-end support to artisans and craftspeople who work with their hands and tools. He also highlighted the importance of learning from various tribal communities across India and suggested the creation of a 'tribal cultural corridor' as a novel approach to promoting collective growth.
