Ludhiana, March 21 -- Chief minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday inaugurated Tata Steel's state-of-the-art green steel plant in Ludhiana, marking a milestone for sustainable industrial growth in Punjab. The project, established with an investment of approximately Rs.3,200 crore, is spread across 115 acres in the Hi-Tech Valley and has an annual production capacity of 0.75 million tonnes. Addressing the gathering, the chief minister asserted that Punjab remains a land of opportunity where businesses of all scales can thrive without fear. He noted that whether an entrepreneur sets up a small street venture or a large industrial unit like Tata Steel, the state offers a supportive environment and a robust industrial base. The facility is Tata Steel's second recycling-based green steel plant in India, utilising scrap-based technology to significantly reduce carbon emissions. Primarily manufacturing TMT bars for the construction sector, the plant aligns with the company's broader decarbonisation strategy currently being implemented in Rohtak and across its European operations. The CM highlighted that the plant is expected to generate significant economic benefits, including annual tax revenue between Rs.200 crore and Rs.300 crore. Beyond the fiscal gains, the project is projected to create employment for 2,500 people. While direct hiring remains specific to technical roles, the government expects substantial growth in ancillary sectors such as transportation, logistics, and local MSMEs. Emphasising the future vision, the CM said, "Punjab has always been a land of entrepreneurs and cities like Ludhiana are globally recognised for their entrepreneurial spirit, hard work and manufacturing strength. With modern facilities like this Tata Steel plant, we are strengthening our legacy and preparing Punjab for the future of manufacturing. This is Tata Steel's first Electric Arc Furnace-based plant in India." Reiterating the government's industrial vision, he asserted, "We want Punjab to become one of the most preferred industrial destinations in India. We want companies to see Punjab not just as a market, but as a long-term manufacturing partner. Tata Group is globally known for its social responsibility, and Ratan Tata had always led from the front in this regard." Recalling a personal example, he said that Ratan Tata had even started a dog shelter at Bombay House for stray dogs after seeing them struggle during the monsoon. The CM hailed him as the 'Desh ka beta,' noting that the entire nation mourned the loss of a leader who significantly shaped India's growth. He said, "Over the past four years, investments worth Rs.1.58 lakh crore have been secured, creating employment opportunities for more than five lakh youth." The inauguration also served as a platform to discuss regional infrastructure. During the event, industries minister Sanjeev Arora said that flight bookings from Halwara to Delhi are likely to begin next week. This move is expected to boost industrial activity by providing the Ludhiana with air connectivity....