Deependra Singh Kushwah, IAS, Development Commissioner of Industries, shares insights on Maharashtra’s economic vision
By Rusen Kumar
MUMBAI (India CSR): Maharashtra is set to unveil a new industrial policy within a month that will focus on sustainability, technology adoption and social inclusion, Development Commissioner of Industries Deependra Singh Kushwah, IAS, Maharashtra’s Development Commissioner of Industries, has said.
In an interview with Rusen Kumar, Editor of India CSR, Kushwah said the state has extended the 2019 industrial policy which expired in 2024, and the draft of the new policy is under government consideration.
New Policy on the Horizon
When asked about upcoming changes, Kushwah said, “Maharashtra has always brought new revolutionary ideas in the country’s industrial policy. This time, our policy has a global vision. We are focusing on reducing carbon emissions, supporting sustainability, and green initiatives. We are making provisions so that industries complement the environment and not contradict it.” He confirmed that the 2019 policy, which expired in 2024, was extended, and the draft of the new policy will be finalized and released within a month.
Three Core Pillars
Explaining the thrust areas, Kushwah noted that the upcoming policy is built around three pillars — sustainability, technology and inclusion. “First, provisions have been made to incentivize sustainability initiatives. Second, the policy supports technology adoption to help industries remain competitive. Third, it encourages inclusion by bringing people from diverse sections into entrepreneurship and ensuring regional balance across the state,” he explained.
CSR as a Strategic Driver
On the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Kushwah said Maharashtra has aligned its approach with the Government of India’s policy. “To further streamline CSR activities, revised guidelines are being prepared in consultation with stakeholders. These will simplify implementation and ensure the impact is seen in a holistic manner,” he added.
FDI Leadership
Maharashtra continues to lead the country in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows, Kushwah pointed out. “Last year, the state attracted almost 40% of the total FDI into India. With favourable policy changes, a single window system and a positive ecosystem, we are confident of maintaining this leadership. If this trend continues, Maharashtra will reach the $1 trillion economy target by 2028,” he said.
Vision for $1 Trillion Economy
Looking ahead, Kushwah stressed that achieving the $1 trillion economy goal would require contributions from all sectors. “Along with industry and services, innovators and creators from rural Maharashtra will play a crucial role. Our goal is to make Maharashtra and India self-reliant in manufacturing and production, and to position the state as a global manufacturing hub,” he said.
Photo Caption: Deependra Singh Kushwah inaugurated the Brillio National STEM Challenge 2025 today at Ravindra Natya Mandir, Near Sidhivinayak Temple, Dadar West, Mumbai.
(India CSR)
