The secretary of the Industries, Commerce, Investment & Skills Development Department of Punjab has released a report on Punjab’s progress in 2022 in the field of industrial production. Punjab often called the production hub of Pakistan, is home to a number of industrial units and also generates the highest quantity of agricultural products in the country. Punjab is fast becoming the next Factory of the World due to its geographical location and endowments, institutional framework, connectivity, stable economic environment, modern infrastructure, and a comprehensive canvas of investment and entrepreneurial opportunities. Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi Secretary of Industries, Commerce, Investment and Skills Development Department of Punjab says these programmes promise the inflow of investment in the region. He points to the establishment of diverse industrial estates all over the province that would help establish many industries. These industrial zones are being set up in Bahawalpur, Multan, Muzaffargarh, Dera Ghazi Khan and Sialkot.
Since the inception of the state of Pakistan, the main focus of development has been Punjab. However, even then, there are many industrial challenges that it faces. Although the industrial landscape is expanding, Punjab is not producing enough appropriately skilled workers that can be of help to the newly developed industries. Moreover, due to the failing economy, it has become more and more difficult for industries to import heavy machinery from abroad as they cost a lot. Additionally, the problem of lack of resources such as electricity, gas and water has left the industries working at half or even less capacity. The province faces many problems, however, with a new plan developed by the government of Punjab, many problems are likely to be solved. The government is working to bridge the gap between industries and universities so that the right kind of research and development can take place. The Punjab government has also established three technology-based universities that will produce future skilled workers. In addition to that, the commerce department will have to facilitate the apprenticeships of 5% of university students and employees so that better human resources are created. The progress must go on.
