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Sindhudurg, known for its pristine coastline and eco-sensitive zones, is now poised to emerge as Maharashtra’s next big pharmaceutical hub. In a strategic move to strengthen the pharmaceutical sector and drive industrial growth, the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) has unveiled plans to establish a dedicated Pharma Hub at the Adali Industrial Area. This ambitious initiative aims to attract investments, generate employment, and bolster the region’s economic landscape.
Sindhudurg's geographical advantage makes it an attractive destination for industrial development. The proposed Pharma Hub enjoys excellent connectivity via multiple transport modes via road, rail and air transport access. The National highways provide seamless connectivity to major cities and ports. The Manohar International Airport in Mopa, Goa is merely 14 kilometres away, facilitating quick access for logistics and business operations. The Sawantwadi railway station, located 21 kilometres from the site, ensures efficient transportation of goods and workforce.
Additionally, the region boasts an uninterrupted power and water supply, ensuring smooth industrial operations without infrastructural bottlenecks.
One of the key factors driving this initiative is the availability of skilled manpower. Sindhudurg is home to numerous educational institutions, including engineering colleges and Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), producing a steady stream of qualified professionals. Currently, many local graduates migrate to Goa in search of employment due to limited industrial opportunities in Sindhudurg. The Pharma Hub is expected to reverse this trend by creating ample job openings in pharmaceutical and allied industries.
MIDC has already completed substantial infrastructure developments at the Adali Industrial Area, including internal road networks for seamless mobility within the industrial estate, adequate power supply to support energy-intensive pharmaceutical operations, and reliable water facilities to meet the stringent requirements of the pharma industry.
Furthermore, MIDC has committed to establishing a Central Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) if many pharmaceutical companies set up operations, ensuring adherence to environmental norms and sustainable industrial practices.
Given Sindhudurg's designation as an eco-sensitive zone, only non-polluting industries will be allowed to operate in the Pharma Hub. The permitted industries include pharmaceutical formulation units, pharmaceutical machinery manufacturing, printing and packaging solutions for the pharma sector, HDPE bottle and allied component manufacturing
As the Adali Industrial Area falls under the Zone D Category of MIDC, the government offers substantial incentives to attract investments. These incentives include financial assistance, tax benefits, and relaxed regulatory norms to ensure ease of doing business for pharmaceutical firms.
The Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council of India (Pharmexcil) has taken a keen interest in the initiative. Speaking on the project, Raja Bhanu K, Director General of Pharmexcil, highlighted the immense potential of the Pharma Hub, stating, “The proposed Pharma Hub at Adali Industrial Area presents a tremendous opportunity for the pharmaceutical industry. With a strong infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and attractive incentives, this initiative will drive industrial growth and employment in Sindhudurg. We encourage stakeholders to engage actively and capitalise on this strategic expansion.”
The establishment of the Pharma Hub in Sindhudurg signals a paradigm shift in the region’s economic trajectory. By fostering industrial growth while maintaining environmental sustainability, the initiative is set to transform Sindhudurg into a thriving pharmaceutical and allied manufacturing hub, reinforcing Maharashtra’s position as a leader in the pharma sector.
Bhagwati Prasad
