Sanjay Pandey
Since its separation from Bihar in 2000, Jharkhand has been unable to establish itself as an industrial powerhouse despite its rich mineral reserves. The promise of economic prosperity that accompanied statehood has largely remained unfulfilled, leaving the youth in despair and forcing a large portion of the population to migrate in search of work. The state government’s repeated failures in attracting investments, coupled with bureaucratic inefficiencies and land-related hurdles, have turned Jharkhand into one of the least industrialized states in eastern India. While neighbouring states like Odisha and Chhattisgarh have made significant strides in industrialization, Jharkhand continues to struggle in providing employment and fostering industrial growth. The exodus of people from the state highlights the grim reality of its economic stagnation.
The lack of major industrial investments over the years has resulted in a severe employment crisis. The youth, particularly from rural areas, find themselves with no job opportunities in their home state and are forced to migrate to metropolitan cities or neighbouring industrial hubs for survival. Reports indicate that a significant portion of Jharkhand’s working population is engaged in low-paying jobs outside the state, primarily in construction, mining, and menial labor. The absence of large-scale industries has not only reduced employment opportunities but has also slowed the overall economic growth of the state. While Chhattisgarh has managed to attract IT firms and build a growing industrial economy, Jharkhand has lagged behind due to policy paralysis and a lack of strategic vision. The inability of successive governments to implement effective industrial policies has led to repeated failures in securing investment deals.
The issue of land acquisition remains a major obstacle in the state’s industrial development. Many companies have expressed interest in setting up units in Jharkhand, but the rigid land laws and administrative roadblocks have discouraged them. Large industries require vast tracts of land, yet the government’s inability to simplify the land acquisition process has resulted in investors looking elsewhere. Several companies, including steel and power corporations, have opted for Odisha due to its investor-friendly policies and better infrastructure. The failure to resolve land disputes and rehabilitate displaced communities has made it difficult for Jharkhand to compete with other states in attracting industries. Even top bureaucrats appear to lack the urgency needed to address these fundamental issues, further deepening the crisis.
Infrastructure is another major concern that has hindered Jharkhand’s industrial growth. The state continues to face challenges in providing adequate roads, electricity, and transport networks required for industries to thrive. While Odisha has successfully developed its industrial corridors and improved connectivity, Jharkhand remains stuck with outdated infrastructure that does not meet modern industrial standards. Companies prefer to invest in states where logistical challenges are minimal, making Jharkhand a less attractive option. The government’s failure to modernize its infrastructure has added another layer to the already complex problem of industrial stagnation.
The state’s declining industrial prospects have had a profound impact on its youth. The lack of employment opportunities has led to a sharp increase in migration, with young men and women leaving in search of better economic prospects. Many end up in exploitative work conditions, far away from their families, with no security or stable income. The inability to provide its youth with local employment has led to a brain drain, depriving the state of its most productive workforce. Meanwhile, neighbouring states have taken proactive steps to build industries and generate jobs, further widening the gap between Jharkhand and the rest of the country. Despite multiple promises by various governments, little has been done to address the growing dissatisfaction among the younger generation, leading to social unrest and economic distress.
While Jharkhand’s mineral wealth could have been its greatest strength, mismanagement and lack of strategic planning have turned it into a wasted opportunity. The mining sector, which should have been the backbone of the state’s economy, has suffered from corruption, illegal activities, and poor governance. Instead of using its resources to attract investments and create a diversified industrial economy, Jharkhand has remained overly dependent on mining without developing other sectors. The absence of diversification has made the state vulnerable to economic fluctuations, leaving it in a state of perpetual underdevelopment. The government’s failure to capitalize on its natural resources has left Jharkhand far behind states like Odisha, which has successfully developed its mining sector alongside industries such as steel, power, and manufacturing.
The situation has only worsened over the years as Jharkhand continues to lose out on crucial industrial opportunities. The ruling government has failed to implement long-term policies that could transform the state into an industrial hub. The lack of a coherent economic roadmap has resulted in a cycle of stagnation where industries refuse to invest, leading to further unemployment and migration. The failure to attract major corporate investments and create employment opportunities has led to growing frustration among the people. The absence of serious reforms has made Jharkhand a difficult place for industries to flourish, forcing businesses to look elsewhere for growth and expansion.
Despite being rich in resources, Jharkhand remains one of the least developed states in terms of industrialization and employment generation. The growing migration of its people is a direct consequence of the government’s inability to address fundamental economic and infrastructural challenges. The state urgently needs a shift in policy direction to focus on industrial development, employment generation, and infrastructure improvement. Unless immediate steps are taken to address these core issues, Jharkhand will continue to lag behind, forcing its people to seek their fortunes elsewhere. The failure to build a strong industrial base has left the state struggling with economic stagnation, and without decisive action, the future looks increasingly bleak.
( Author, a seasoned bilingual journalist, is an expert on Jharkhand’s sociopolitical landscape.He can be reached at pandey sanjay945@gmail.com)
