Ranchi, July 9: Jharkhand is set to transition from a mining-dependent economy to a knowledge-driven development model, with technology, innovation and tourism emerging as key pillars of future growth, Chief Minister Hemant Soren said on the opening day of the National Stakeholders Consultation in New Delhi.
Addressing reporters after participating in discussions with industry leaders and technology companies, Soren said the state has completed 25 years of its formation and is now preparing a long-term roadmap to accelerate economic development through knowledge, innovation and digital transformation.
He said the government is engaging with experts, institutions and industry stakeholders to formulate strategies that will strengthen governance, promote scientific decision-making and create sustainable employment opportunities across sectors.
The Chief Minister said Jharkhand’s economy has historically relied on mining, but the state now aims to diversify by encouraging technology-led industries while making better use of its natural resources.
He added that tourism and technology would receive special attention under the state’s development agenda.Highlighting Jharkhand’s rich reserves of water, forests and land, Soren said the government plans to develop the tourism sector alongside modern industries to ensure balanced and inclusive growth.
During interactions with representatives of leading global technology companies, including Google, Microsoft and IBM, Soren urged industry leaders to view Jharkhand as a long-term development partner rather than merely an investment destination.
He said the government is committed to working with industry to address policy, technology and implementation challenges through sustained collaboration.
The Chief Minister also stressed the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies in modernising the mining sector.
He said AI-based solutions could improve operational efficiency, enhance safety, enable scientific mining practices and reduce environmental impact while supporting economic growth.
Soren noted that mining activities are carried out in 14 of Jharkhand’s 24 districts and highlighted the state’s significant reserves of strategic minerals, including uranium and mica.
He said these resources, coupled with technological innovation and skilled human capital, would play a crucial role in shaping Jharkhand’s long-term development strategy.
The National Stakeholders Consultation is part of the state’s efforts to prepare a comprehensive Vision 2050 roadmap aimed at transforming Jharkhand into a technology-enabled, knowledge-based and investment-friendly economy.
