At Davos 2026, Jharkhand highlighted its new economic vision focusing on mining, emphasising a shift from raw mineral extraction to local processing and value addition.

The state unveiled plans for an integrated mineral processing policy to boost its economic trajectory. Arava Rajkamal, Secretary of Jharkhand's Department of Mines & Geology, shared that a draft policy is in the works, offering targeted incentives and regulatory clarity to encourage processing and refining capacities within the state. Jharkhand is home to 22 of India’s 24 critical minerals, yet historically, it has only exported raw materials. The proposed policy seeks to rectify this, enabling local beneficiation of minerals, which would create work roles and increase the state's economic output.

Prashant Kumar, the state’s Finance Secretary, stressed the importance of expediting mineral processing for the country's economic security, especially considering the current geopolitical climate. The initiative aims to transform Jharkhand’s mineral wealth into a key driver for sustainable growth, adding value to its natural resources rather than just exporting them.