CM Soren launches national consultation on Jharkhand's Vision 2050, bats for strong economy through emerging tech

Ranchi: Chief Minister Hemant Soren inaugurated the two-day National Stakeholders Consultation in New Delhi, calling for Jharkhand to be recognised not only for its mineral wealth but also for its intellectual capital. He said the state's future should be driven by research, innovation and knowledge-based growth alongside its natural resources.
The first day of the consultation focused on information technology, artificial intelligence, digital governance and emerging technologies. The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, technology companies, academics and experts from India and abroad to discuss strategies for Jharkhand's Vision 2050.
Addressing the gathering, Soren said Jharkhand was committed to building a strong position in the future economy through technological advancement and industrial growth. He said the country's industrial progress was closely linked to Jharkhand's development and stressed that the state should now be identified as much for its "minds" as for its "mines". He added that growth must be inclusive, sustainable and innovation-driven.
Representatives from leading technology companies, including Microsoft, Google and IBM, shared recommendations on strengthening Jharkhand's digital ecosystem, attracting IT investments and preparing the state for future technological demands.
During the event, the government presented concept papers on the proposed Jharkhand AI Policy, Investment Promotion Policy, Tourism Policy, Textile Policy, JIADA Regulations and the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Policy. Stakeholders were invited to offer suggestions to make these policies more effective and investor-friendly.
A Business-to-Government (B2G) dialogue was also held to explore investment opportunities and partnerships in IT, artificial intelligence, digital governance and advanced technologies. Soren said the government would incorporate stakeholders' recommendations while framing policies aimed at boosting investment, creating employment and ensuring inclusive development.
The inaugural session was attended by Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Deepika Pandey Singh, Health Minister Dr Irfan Ansari, Industries, Labour and Employment Minister Sanjay Kumar Yadav, Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports, Youth Affairs and Urban Development Minister Sudivya Kumar, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Development Commissioner Ajay Kumar Singh and senior government officials. Presentations on Jharkhand's technology potential were delivered by IBM's Talleen Kumar, Microsoft's Sandeep Arora and Google's Rajesh Ranjan.