RAIGAD

From the 1970s onward, the establishment of numerous companies led to a construction boom, benefiting industries like fabrication and metalwork. Raigad's strategic location and robust connectivity via road, rail, and ports have further fueled industrial growth. With improved transport routes and a readily available workforce, sectors such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, packaging, logistics, and automobiles have expanded significantly.

Raigad’s chemical industry is concentrated in MIDC areas like Dhatav and Taloja, with major companies such as Sadhana Nitro Chem Ltd. and Clariant Chemicals producing specialty and agrochemicals for both domestic and export markets. The pharmaceutical sector, led by Unichem Laboratories, benefits from proximity to Mumbai, ensuring efficient distribution and access to raw materials.

The district hosts large-scale steel manufacturing, with JSW Steel and Posco Maharashtra Steel operating key facilities in Dolvi. These companies produce essential steel products for infrastructure and construction. Smaller firms like Ganraj Ispat contribute to the local steel supply chain, while the region’s accessibility to raw materials supports further industrial growth.

Raigad’s textile sector includes cotton-based manufacturing, with spinning, weaving, dyeing, and finishing units operating in industrial clusters like Taloja and Dhatav. Government support through infrastructure investment has strengthened the industry, providing employment opportunities and sustaining regional economic activity.

This sector covers the processing of fruits, vegetables, seafood, and dairy products. Pepsico operates a significant facility in MIDC Dhatav, focusing on beverages and processed foods. Proximity to the Arabian Sea enables a robust seafood processing industry, while agricultural processing supports coconut, rice, and pulse-based production.

Raigad has several paper mills producing newsprint, writing paper, and packaging materials. The availability of timber supports wood-based manufacturing, with companies like Jay Wood Industry specializing in wooden packaging solutions. Sustainable practices ensure responsible sourcing and adherence to environmental regulations.

Raigad district is known for its rice industry and is often called "Bhatache Kothar" due to its high rice production. According to locals, Pen Tehsil is recognized for producing Ganesh murtis and rice flex papad, reflecting the area's agricultural and artisanal traditions. Many residents are engaged in construction-related businesses, such as renting heavy machinery and trading sand and grit. The number of workshops making Ganesh idols in Pen Taluka has been increasing each year. Fish breeding and the export of fish products are also part of the district's economic activities.

Tourism in the district has led to the growth of homestays, restaurants, and agro-tourism projects in talukas like Panvel, Pen, Khopoli, Karjat, Alibaug, Uran, Shrivardhan, Kolad, and Mahad. Locals mention that the river rafting project in Kolad and the waterfalls near Roha attract visitors throughout the year.

Raigad has been shaped by several influential families who have played a crucial role in its economic, political, and social development. These families have contributed to sectors such as agriculture, cooperative businesses, manufacturing, and sustainable farming, leaving a lasting impact on the district. Some of the most notable among them include the Patil family, the Mate family, and the Somaiya family.

Raigad district hosts several SEZs, with the JNPA SEZ being a key multi-product, port-based economic zone offering strong connectivity through air, water, and road. Its strategic location near major infrastructure projects like the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC), and Navi Mumbai International Airport makes it attractive for investors. Another notable SEZ is the sector-specific services SEZ in Talegaon, Panshil (Khalapur Taluka), and Bhokarpada (Panvel Taluka), initially proposed by Sunny Vista Realtors and now managed by Persipina Developers Pvt. Ltd., focusing on IT and ITES industries. However, not all SEZ projects have been successful; the Maha Mumbai SEZ, which aimed to acquire land in Uran, Pen, and Panvel, faced delays and was eventually scrapped by the Maharashtra government, leading to the return of acquired land to farmers.

According to locals, there is a shift from agriculture to industry in the Raigad district due to low profitability and reduced interest in manual labor. Many are moving to the service sector or starting cottage industries. Tourism has created opportunities in accommodations, with villages like Nagav and Kihim seeing houses converted into lodgings for visitors.

Entrepreneurial activity has increased, especially in Panvel and Navi Mumbai, with a rise in start-ups over the last five years. Locals say many individuals, including those returning from abroad, are opening restaurants, cafes, and consultancy services, particularly in tourist areas.

Migration has also shaped Raigad’s industrial workforce. Skilled and semi-skilled laborers, along with mathadi workers from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan, contribute to the district’s economic growth.