Five years after the abrogation of Article 370, Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing a significant transformation. Kathua district is poised to become a major industrial center, attracting large companies eager to invest under favorable policies. The state government is actively facilitating this by providing land allocations with various benefits.
In a notable development, Sri Lankan cricket legend Muttiah Muralitharan is set to invest approximately INR 1650 crore in the region. Muralitharan has been allocated around 25 acres of land in the Bhagalpur industrial area of Kathua for establishing a soft drink company. Reports also suggest that Muralitharan is planning substantial investments in Karnataka.
According to Prem Singh Chib, General Manager, Kathua Industries, “Muralitharan applied for land allocation online and visited the site himself about three months ago after the state government approved his proposal. Bagthali village, located near the Punjab border, is being developed as an industrial area. With all formalities completed with the industry department, Muralitharan is expected to lay the foundation stone for his plant soon”.
Muralitharan will invest approximately INR 1,640 crore in different phases. The plant registration process is underway following the completion of the deed process. Muralitharan was particularly impressed by the state’s industrial policy, which influenced his decision to make this significant investment, He said.