Image Source: ET Infra
Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has reignited calls for the revival of the long-abandoned steel processing plant in Wazirganj, Gaya, during his address at a public event in Bodh Gaya on August 22, 2025. The plant, originally sanctioned during the tenure of Ram Vilas Paswan in UPA-I, has remained dormant for over 15 years despite its potential to transform the region’s industrial landscape. Manjhi’s appeal comes amid renewed focus on infrastructure development and employment generation in Bihar’s Magadh region.
Historical Context And Project Status
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The Wazirganj steel processing plant was one of two facilities approved for Bihar in 2008, the other being in Bettiah
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While the Bettiah plant is operational, the Wazirganj unit never progressed beyond the foundation stone ceremony held on December 8, 2008
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Manjhi highlighted the disparity and urged the central government to prioritize its revival, citing the region’s strategic location and skilled labor potential
Strategic Importance For Magadh Region
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The plant is expected to boost industrial activity in Gaya and surrounding districts, which have historically lagged in manufacturing infrastructure
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It could serve as a feeder unit for larger steel clusters and support ancillary industries such as fabrication, logistics, and machinery servicing
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Revival of the plant would align with the government’s broader push for industrial corridors and rural employment schemes
Infrastructure Developments In Support
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Manjhi praised recent infrastructure initiatives in Magadh, including the 1,300-acre industrial cluster in Gaya and the Sone Nagar–Gaya corridor
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He also cited the Rs 3,000 crore thermal power project in Nabinagar with a 2,400 MW capacity, which could provide reliable energy for industrial operations
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The modernization of Gaya railway station and daily Air India flights to Delhi were mentioned as enablers for logistics and connectivity
Political Messaging And Special Status Debate
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In a pointed remark, Manjhi stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s development efforts in Bihar have exceeded what special status would have delivered
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He positioned the revival of the Wazirganj plant as a symbol of inclusive development and a response to long-standing regional neglect
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The speech also touched on cultural and environmental projects, including the Vishnupad Corridor and the Falgu-Sone river linking, which he claimed lifted the mythical curse of Goddess Sita on the Falgu
Public Sentiment And Local Expectations
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Residents and local leaders have welcomed Manjhi’s push, viewing it as a long-overdue step toward industrial empowerment
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Youth groups and trade unions have called for a detailed project roadmap, including timelines, funding sources, and employment guarantees
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There is growing anticipation that the central government may respond with a feasibility study or revival package in the upcoming budget cycle
Conclusion
Jitan Ram Manjhi’s renewed call for the revival of the Wazirganj steel processing plant has brought fresh attention to Bihar’s industrial aspirations. As infrastructure projects gain momentum across Magadh, the reactivation of this long-stalled facility could serve as a catalyst for regional growth, job creation, and economic diversification. Whether the government acts on this appeal remains to be seen, but the message is clear: Bihar is ready to reclaim its place on India’s industrial map.
Sources: Times of India, Hindustan Times Bihar Edition, Business Standard.
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