AMRAVATI

Amravati district, situated in Maharashtra's Vidarbha region, boasts a diverse industrial profile that aligns with its strong agricultural foundation. Renowned for its cotton production, the district supports industries such as textile manufacturing, ginning and pressing, as well as auto-repair and general engineering. The textile industry holds historical importance, with the establishment of the first mill in 1885, highlighting the region's deep-rooted association with cotton.

Amravati district in Maharashtra is a significant player in the textile industry, primarily due to its abundant cotton production. The region is characterized by fertile black soil, which is ideal for cotton farming, making it one of the top districts in the state for cotton cultivation. This agricultural advantage supports a robust textile manufacturing sector, with key production hubs located in Nandgaonpeth, Daryapur, and Achalpur.

The textile industry in Amravati encompasses various products, including cotton yarn, cotton fabric, and ready-made garments. The district is particularly noted for its frock and garment manufacturing sector, with a substantial number of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) actively involved in this field. Notable textile mills such as B.H. Textile mills and KPR Spinning Mills contribute to the local economy, along with the presence of Raymond Textiles.

Recent developments indicate growth in the sector, with Technocraft Industries planning to launch a new manufacturing unit for greige yarn production, set to commence operations in March 2024 with a capacity of 7,300 tonnes per annum. Furthermore, discussions are underway to establish units for 15 textile companies at the proposed Amravati Textile Park, aimed at creating a comprehensive ecosystem that covers the entire textile production cycle from cotton to garment manufacturing.

The agricultural output in Amravati supports various agro-based industries such as oil mills, dal (pulses) mills, and soybean processing units, which are essential for adding value to local agricultural products. Horticulture also plays a vital role in the economy of the district, with notable fruit production, especially oranges and sweet limes. The blocks of Morshi, Warud, Chandur Bazar, and Achalpur are particularly prominent for fruit cultivation.

Irrigation infrastructure is crucial for supporting agricultural activities in Amravati. The district has one major irrigation project along with several minor ones that aid in water distribution for crop cultivation. However, challenges such as load shedding and delays in pump energization hinder efficient resource utilization.

The engineering and metalworking industries are prominent, with numerous firms engaged in general engineering and the production of components such as welding electrodes, nuts, bolts, and other industrial supplies.

In addition to metalworking, Amravati is home to several manufacturers of scientific instruments and laboratory equipment, producing essential items like incubators, sterilizers, and various types of glassware. The plastic manufacturing sector is also noteworthy, featuring companies that create products such as plastic water tanks and vacuum packaging materials.

The machinery manufacturing industry is another vital component of the district's industrial landscape, with firms specializing in equipment for agriculture and construction. This includes the production of agricultural machinery and various industrial tools. Furthermore, the chemical manufacturing sector plays a crucial role by supplying industrial chemicals and fertilizers that support both local agriculture and broader industrial applications.

The 1968 Amravati Gazetteer also states that cottage industries were crucial for the Amravati economy, offering jobs to different communities. Some of them are:

Handloom weaving had long been a significant cottage industry in Amravati, benefiting from the district's abundant cotton production and rich weaving traditions. The craft was primarily practiced by hereditary weaving communities such as the Salis and Koshtis, while the Dhangars and Mahars also contributed to wool and cotton fabric production. Ellichpur (modern-day Achalpur) stood out as the primary center for cotton weaving, whereas silk weaving was notably present in Kolhapur and Anjangaon. Pure silk weaving, although rare, was typically undertaken on a commission basis, with the widely used throw-shuttle-country-pit looms facilitating production.

The industry mainly produced coarse country blankets, which remained in demand among rural populations despite increasing competition from finer, mill-made alternatives. The Dhangar community, traditionally associated with sheep rearing, continued to be the primary producer of woolen goods.

Tanning had historically been a key occupation for the Dhor and Chambhar communities, with notable centers in Achalpur, Morshi, Chandur Railway, and Amravati.

Leatherworking remained a prominent cottage industry well into the mid-20th century. Concentrated in Daryapur, Achalpur, and Chandur Railway tehsils, leather artisans crafted items such as footwear, water-drawing buckets, straps, belts, and other accessories. Rural artisans often worked within family-run establishments, while those in urban centers found employment in larger workshops. However, the emergence of modern footwear companies gradually posed challenges to the traditional craft.

Pottery was a widespread industry, particularly flourishing in areas near riverbanks such as Dharni, Daryapur, Achalpur, Chandur Railway, and Amravati, where high-quality riverbed clay was abundant.

The brick-laying and tile-making industry saw considerable growth during the mid-20th century. The industry thrived in regions such as Daryapur, Chandur, Dhamangaon, Talegaon, Badnera, Yawali, Wadgaon, Wadali, and Morshi, where the presence of riverbed clay facilitated production.

Basket-making was a long-standing occupation among the Burud community. The Gazetteer states that artisans primarily produced winnowing fans (supas), baskets (topalis), and storage containers (duradis, rovalis, and karandis) using locally available bamboo.

The Gazetteer highlights the kumkum-making industry as unique to Amravati, catering to the widespread demand for vermilion (kumkum), incense (lobhan), colored powders (gulal), and sindoor. Finished products found markets across the country, reaching cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi.

The cottonseed oil extraction holds great economic significance. The region hosts several oil mills that process cotton seeds into edible oil, widely used for cooking, as well as by-products like oil cake used in cattle feed. This industry not only supports farmers but also generates local employment and contributes to agro-based industrial growth. Cotton seed oil production thus plays a vital role in Amravati’s economy and rural livelihood.

Amravati has long been known for its brown cloth washing soap industry, which forms an important part of its traditional manufacturing sector. This soap, widely used in households for cleaning clothes, is valued for its affordability, durability, and effectiveness in removing tough stains, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. Local small-scale industries and cottage units have sustained this trade for decades, supporting employment and entrepreneurship. While modern detergents are increasingly popular, brown cloth washing soap continues to hold cultural and economic relevance, reflecting Amravati’s heritage in low-cost, utility-based manufacturing for daily needs.

The Jadhav Automobile Industry in Amravati is a prominent name in the city’s business and service sector, catering to the growing demand for vehicles and related services. It specializes in the sale, servicing, and maintenance of two-wheelers and four-wheelers, offering a wide range of products from reputed automobile brands. Known for its customer-centric approach, quality service, and reliable after-sales support, the industry has built strong trust among local buyers. By generating employment and supporting allied businesses like spare parts and mechanics, Jadhav Automobile Industry contributes significantly to Amravati’s commercial growth and urban mobility.