ASSOCHAM proposes to set up 14 industrial clusters in Bihar

The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry in India (ASSOCHAM) has proposed to partner with the Bihar government in developing 14 industrial clusters with an estimated cost of Rs450 crore for employment and revenue generation.

ASSOCHAM general secretary DS Rawat said today that the proposed clusters will provide jobs to six lakh people, directly and indirectly at its industrial units.

Rawat, who was talking to reporters here while releasing the ASSOCHAM's study report on 'Cluster Development for Inclusive Growth in Bihar', said the 14 proposed industrial clusters have a capacity of about 25,000-28,000 units with each providing jobs to 8-10 persons.

He said the state government will also benefit from the development of proposed industrial clusters in terms of revenue to the tune of 12% annually.

The 14 proposed industrial clusters will be located at Patna, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Barauni, Muzaffarpur, Katihar, Madhepura, Bhagalpur, Munger, Nawada, Supaul, Gaya, Bhojpur and Hajipur (Vaishali), the ASSOCHAM office bearer said.

The ASSOCHAM study has suggested to the state government to constitute a statutory body 'Cluster Development Authority' to look after industrial activities in Bihar to be set up under industrial clusters, he said.

In order to give impetus to industrial development of Bihar, the ASSOCHAM, Bihar Chamber of Commerce (BCI) and Bihar Industries Association (BIA) have decided to hold three 'investmart' in Patna in 2011, 2013 and 2015 to facilitate investment in the industrial sector.