Pune: Maharashtra Eyes Bhor as Next Big Food Manufacturing Cluster, Reveals CM Devendra Fadnavis

Pune, 17th April 2026: Bhor taluka in the Pune district may soon emerge as one of Maharashtra’s biggest food processing special economic zones, as the state government is planning to study the feasibility of developing an export-oriented industrial hub in the region.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday said the government would assess whether Bhor can be developed into a food processing SEZ or a specialised export cluster aimed at taking locally manufactured products to international markets.

Speaking at the inauguration of a new manufacturing facility of Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale at Ranje village near Khed Shivapur, Fadnavis said discussions would be held with entrepreneurs and food industry players operating in the belt before taking a final call.

“We will study the possibility of setting up a food processing export hub or SEZ in this region. Our officials will interact with businesses here to understand the requirements and determine what incentives can be extended. The objective is to ensure products made in this taluka find markets overseas,” he said.

The proposal was earlier suggested by Indraneel Chitale, partner at Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale, who said the region has strong potential to become a food manufacturing centre.

If implemented, the project could significantly transform Bhor and surrounding rural areas. Industry experts said it may generate large-scale employment, improve road and logistics infrastructure, create demand for warehousing and cold storage, and provide better market access for farmers growing milk, fruits, vegetables and grains.

The move could also encourage small and medium food businesses to expand operations closer to production centres, reducing transportation costs and improving supply chains.

Fadnavis said India’s food diversity itself could become a global economic strength. “Indian cuisine changes every 10 kilometres. If packaged professionally and aligned with international hygiene and quality standards, these regional foods can become global brands,” he said.

Officials said if the plan advances, Bhor could emerge as a key node in Maharashtra’s agro-processing and export economy, while also boosting incomes in the taluka through industrial growth linked to agriculture.