A New Era for Industry Everything You Need to Know About Punjab’s 2026 Industrial Policy:

Standing before over 200 industry leaders in Ludhiana, CM Bhagwant Mann sent a clear message: Punjab is open for business. The new policy isn't just a list of rules; it’s a "customizable menu" for investors, allowing them to tailor incentives to their specific business needs.

1. The "Menu" Approach

For the first time, Punjab is moving away from a "fixed" incentive structure. Investors can now choose from 20 different incentives to build a package that fits their industry whether it’s IT, textiles, or food processing.

2. Drastic Reduction in Eligibility Bar

To support MSMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises), the government has slashed the requirements for employment-linked subsidies:

Old Requirement: ₹250 crore investment and 1,000 employees.

New Requirement: Just ₹25 crore investment and 50 employees.

This change opens the door for thousands of smaller businesses to benefit from government support.

3. Direct Wage Support

The state has introduced monthly wage subsidies to encourage local hiring:

₹3,000/month per male employee.

₹4,000/month for women, SC/ST, and persons with disabilities.

Up to ₹7,500/month for employees in Global Capability Centres (GCCs).

4. Flexibility for Women Workers

In a move toward gender equality and 24/7 productivity, the policy now allows women to work night shifts, provided that industries implement mandatory safety and security safeguards.

5. Long-Term Stability

The eligibility period for financial incentives has been extended from the previous 7-10 years to 10-15 years, giving businesses the long-term confidence they need to scale.

Key Investment Figures & Goals

Target Category	Goal for 2026 Policy
Total Investment Target	₹75,000 Crore
Fixed Capital Incentive	Up to 100%
Startup Seed Grant	Hiked from ₹3 Lakh to ₹5 Lakh
Incentive Period	10 to 15 Years