In a transformative move to accelerate green mobility and electric vehicle (EV) adoption, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has officially entered into a strategic partnership with Jio-bp, a leading energy player backed by Reliance Industries and British Petroleum. The collaboration is structured under a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Maintain (DBFOM) public-private partnership model. This ambitious project aims to establish a city-wide EV charging infrastructure that addresses both the current and future energy demands of Nagpur’s rapidly growing EV user base.

Strategic Vision: A Greener, Smarter Nagpur

With over 21,700 EVs registered as of March 2023, Nagpur has emerged as one of India’s fastest-growing EV cities. In 2024 alone, electric vehicles accounted for 22% of all new vehicle registrations, a monumental leap from just 1% in 2020. This upward trajectory underscores the pressing need for accessible, scalable, and efficient EV charging networks.

The NMC-Jio-bp alliance is not just about setting up charging points—it’s about crafting an ecosystem where sustainability, convenience, and smart technology converge. With this initiative, Nagpur aspires to become a benchmark Tier-2 city for EV infrastructure across India.

Phase-I Rollout: 11 Smart Charging Stations Across the City

The initial phase will see the deployment of 11 strategically located EV charging stations, covering high-traffic urban nodes and community hubs. Each location has been meticulously selected to ensure maximum accessibility within a 3 to 5 km radius for users in surrounding areas.

Confirmed Charging Station Locations in Nagpur:

• Jaitala Bazar Square (Orange Street)

• Rahate Colony Square (Near PKV Land)

• Dayanand Park, near Bhim Chowk, Jaripatka

• Police Motor Transport Section at Katol Road

• Parking Area near Patrakar Bhavan, Prabhag No. 15 (Near Yashwant Stadium)

• Wadi Naka, Prabhag No. 13, Amravati Road

• Futala Lake Road near Police Chowki

• Budhwari Bazar at Sakkardara (Near Water Tank)

• Shanti Nagar Main Road, Prabhag No. 21 (Near Water Tank)

• Behind Anjuman College at Mangalwari Complex

• Parking Lot opposite Tuli Imperial Hotel, Central Bazar Road, Ramdas Peth

These stations are strategically integrated into residential zones, educational corridors, and commercial districts to optimize utility and convenience.

State-of-the-Art Technology for Seamless User Experience

Each charging station under the Jio-bp banner will be equipped with cutting-edge technology to ensure a digital-first and frictionless experience for all users.

Key Technological Features Include:

• Multi-Mode Payments: Integration with UPI, debit/credit cards, mobile wallets, and RFID cards, offering users unmatched payment flexibility.

• Real-Time Tracking: A dedicated mobile application enables real-time tracking of availability, pricing, and energy consumed.

• Safety-First Design: Each hub includes 24/7 CCTV surveillance, fire detection and suppression systems, and emergency response protocols.

• Minimum Uptime Mandate: A unique policy-level innovation includes enforced uptime requirements, backed by financial penalties for non-compliance—ensuring reliability for daily commuters.

Investment and Policy Synergy: Fueling the EV Movement

The partnership is structured in a way that maximizes operational efficiency and return on investment. Jio-bp will be responsible for the capital expenditure and operational management, while NMC will offer land access and regulatory facilitation.

This symbiotic model not only attracts private capital but also ensures long-term sustainability and compliance with city planning and environmental mandates.

Economic and Environmental Impact on Nagpur

By facilitating a robust and dependable EV charging ecosystem, this initiative is expected to:

• Reduce carbon emissions substantially, supporting India’s net-zero goals.

• Promote local job creation in infrastructure, maintenance, and technology sectors.

• Encourage cleaner last-mile delivery operations through EV fleet integration.

• Enhance citizen health outcomes by curbing vehicular pollution.

For businesses and property developers, the proximity of an EV charging station boosts real estate value and footfall, making this a win-win scenario for the public and private sectors.

How Nagpur Sets a National Benchmark in EV Transition

What differentiates Nagpur’s model is its proactive municipal engagement, private-sector innovation, and citizen-centric design. The city’s commitment to data-driven policy, smart grid integration, and transparent public-private collaboration positions it as a trailblazer among Tier-2 cities in India.

As the first phase becomes operational by the end of 2025, the project is expected to serve as a case study for replication in cities like Indore, Surat, and Nashik.

Future Expansion and Scaling Potential

Looking beyond Phase-I, NMC and Jio-bp have outlined plans for:

• Fast-charging hubs near highways and industrial belts

• Solar-powered micro-stations in low-power zones

• AI-powered load balancing systems to optimize electricity usage

• EV fleet corridors for logistics and public transport systems

With an eye on the future, this project is not just about meeting demand—it’s about anticipating it.

Powering a Sustainable Tomorrow

The partnership between NMC and Jio-bp marks a milestone in India’s electric mobility revolution. By addressing the foundational infrastructure gap and deploying next-gen smart charging technology, this project ensures that Nagpur doesn’t just keep up with the times—it leads them.

With full backing from both public and private sectors, this initiative will catalyze urban transformation, sustainability, and digital empowerment. As cities across India seek to transition towards clean transport, Nagpur now sets the bar.

Patanjali juice unit Nagpur | MIHAN-SEZ: Patanjali’s food and herbal park in MIHAN-SEZ, Nagpur, will inaugurate its juice production unit with a grand opening on March 9 at 10 AM.

Hey there! Have you heard the buzz? Patanjali is all set to unveil its brand-new juice production unit in Nagpur’s MIHAN-SEZ on March 9 at 10 AM. This isn’t just any launch; it’s a monumental step for the region and the company. Let’s dive into what makes this event so special.

The Grand Inauguration | Patanjali juice unit Nagpur | MIHAN-SEZ

Picture this: a grand ceremony graced by some of the most influential personalities. Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, will do the honors of inaugurating the facility. Joining him are Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, along with Patanjali’s very own Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna. It’s like the Avengers assembling, but for the agro-industrial world!

A Dream Years in the Making

Remember 2016? That’s when the foundation stone for this massive project was laid. Fast forward to today, and we’re on the brink of witnessing its fruition. It’s been quite the journey, filled with challenges and triumphs, leading up to this monumental day.

Empowering Local Farmers

One of the coolest aspects of this initiative is its commitment to sourcing raw materials directly from farmers in the Vidarbha region. Imagine the ripple effect this will have on local agriculture and rural livelihoods. It’s like planting a seed that grows into a tree, providing shade and fruit for the entire community.

Baba Ramdev’s Personal Invitation

In today’s digital age, personal touches still matter. Baba Ramdev shared a heartfelt video invitation for the event, announcing his arrival in Nagpur on March 8. It’s not every day you get a personal invite from a yoga guru turned business mogul!

A Billion-Rupee Investment

Hold onto your hats! Patanjali has poured over ₹1,000 crore into this large-scale project, acquiring more than 100 acres within MIHAN’s Special Economic Zone (SEZ). With a total of 418 acres in the region, the company aims to develop the facility in multiple phases. Talk about thinking big!

State-of-the-Art Machinery

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill juice factory. The facility boasts state-of-the-art machinery, and production has already begun. With the official inauguration set, full-scale operations will soon follow. It’s like upgrading from a bicycle to a rocket ship!

A Boon for Citrus Growers

If you’re an orange farmer in the region, this news is sweeter than your juiciest fruit. The food park is expected to benefit local farmers, especially citrus growers, requiring 800-900 tonnes of oranges daily for juice production. That’s a lot of oranges!

Diversifying Product Lines

But wait, there’s more! Besides juice, other food products will be manufactured, generating significant employment. This diversification means more opportunities and a stronger economy for the region.

Boosting the Local Economy

According to media reports, Baba Ramdev emphasized that the venture will boost Vidarbha’s economy and support thousands of farmers and workers. It’s like injecting a shot of adrenaline into the heart of the local economy.

Phase Two on the Horizon

And the excitement doesn’t stop here. Plans for Phase Two are already in motion, set to start in six months. This phase will expand the facility’s capacity to process a variety of tropical and temperate fruits, including mangoes, guavas, and pomegranates. It’s like adding more strings to an already impressive bow.

Innovative Processing Techniques

The facility isn’t just about quantity; it’s about quality and innovation. With advanced processing techniques, even lower-grade produce can be transformed into high-quality products. Think of it as turning coal into diamonds.

Employment Opportunities Galore

The plant is expected to generate significant employment opportunities for local youth, further boosting the region’s economy. It’s like opening the floodgates to a river of opportunities.

A Commitment to Sustainability

In today’s world, sustainability is key. Patanjali’s new facility is designed with eco-friendly practices in mind, ensuring that progress doesn’t come at the expense of the planet. It’s a win-win!

Strengthening Patanjali’s Market Presence

This new facility isn’t just a feather in Patanjali’s cap; it’s a whole plume. By expanding its production capabilities, the company is set to strengthen its position in both domestic and international markets.

So, there you have it. Patanjali’s new juice production unit in Nagpur is more than just a factory; it’s a beacon of growth, innovation, and community empowerment. As the inauguration day approaches, the excitement is palpable, and the future looks brighter than ever.

1. When is the inauguration of Patanjali’s juice production unit in Nagpur?

   • The inauguration is scheduled for March 9 at 10 AM (Patanjali juice unit Nagpur).

2. Who will be attending the inauguration ceremony?

   • The ceremony will be attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Baba Ramdev, and Acharya Balkrishna.

3. How much has Patanjali invested in this project?

   • Patanjali has invested over ₹1,000 crore in this large-scale project.

4. What benefits will local farmers receive from this initiative?

   • The facility will source raw materials from local farmers, especially citrus growers, requiring 800-900 tonnes of oranges daily, thereby boosting local agriculture and rural livelihoods.

5. What are the future expansion plans for the facility?

   • Plans for Phase Two are set to start in six months, expanding the facility’s capacity to process a variety of tropical and temperate fruits.

Grow saffron in Nagpur: In an extraordinary feat of innovation and determination, a Nagpur-based couple has successfully cultivated saffron, the world’s most expensive spice, using an aeroponic technique that requires neither soil nor water. In a city known for its scorching temperatures, Akshay Holey and Divya Lohakare Holey have recreated the cool climate of Kashmir within their 400-square-foot apartment, yielding an impressive annual revenue of Rs 50 lakh.

Pioneering Aeroponic Saffron Farming in Nagpur

Saffron farming has traditionally been confined to the cold terrains of Kashmir, Iran, and Spain, where specific climatic conditions allow the delicate Crocus sativus flowers to flourish. However, Akshay, a BBA graduate, and his wife Divya, a banking professional, decided to challenge convention. They spent over three-and-a-half months in Kashmir over two years, mastering the nuances of traditional saffron farming before setting up their own high-tech aeroponic system.

How the Journey Began

Their journey started in 2020 when they launched a small 80-square-foot vertical farming unit on their terrace in Lok Sewa Nagar, Nagpur. Their initial investment was 100 saffron corms (around 1 kg), which yielded only a few grams of saffron. Undeterred by the modest outcome, they expanded their investment, purchasing 350 kg of saffron corms and setting up a larger 400-square-foot unit in Hingna.

Scaling Up for Massive Success | Grow saffron in Nagpur

Through meticulous research and refinement of their aeroponic method, the couple scaled their production exponentially. By 2023, their total cultivation area expanded to 480 square meters across multiple locations. The results were astounding—

• Their annual saffron production reached 1,600 grams.
• They established partnerships with 29 other farmers, who successfully set up their own units across Maharashtra.
• They trained over 150 individuals in aeroponic saffron cultivation, charging Rs 15,000 per participant.
• Their total production, including partner farms, hit 45 kg last year.

High-Profit Margins with Minimal Costs

One of the most significant advantages of aeroponic saffron farming is its cost-efficiency. Unlike traditional farming, which requires vast land, water, and fertilizers, their system operates with minimal overhead:

• One-time investment of Rs 10 lakh for a 100-square-foot unit
• Annual yield valued at Rs 5 lakh per 100-square-foot unit
• No recurring expenses on water, soil, or fertilizers
• Solar power eliminates electricity costs
• Self-sufficient farming model with no need for hired labor

With these advantages, the couple maintains an 80% profit margin, making saffron cultivation an incredibly lucrative venture.

The Science Behind Aeroponic Saffron Farming

Aeroponics is a soilless cultivation method where plants grow in an air or mist environment without soil. The system involves:

1. Suspending saffron corms in a controlled chamber.
2. Providing essential nutrients via nutrient-rich mist.
3. Maintaining temperature and humidity similar to Kashmir.
4. Using LED lighting to regulate growth cycles.

This precision farming technique ensures higher yields, minimal waste, and year-round production, making saffron cultivation possible even in extreme climates like Nagpur.

Quality and Market Value of Their Saffron | Grow saffron in Nagpur

The saffron produced by Akshay and Divya is graded by the Saffron Institute of Kashmir, ensuring premium quality. Their saffron sells for Rs 630 per gram, a competitive rate in the high-value saffron market.

Additionally, since saffron is harvested only once a year (August-December), their strategic approach includes cultivating seeds throughout the year to maintain a steady production cycle.

Sustainable and Future-Proof Farming

Apart from financial success, their saffron farming model promotes sustainable agricultural practices:

• Zero water wastage, as aeroponics uses 95% less water than traditional methods.
• No synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, resulting in pure organic saffron.
• Machinery designed to last 20-25 years, ensuring long-term sustainability.
• Empowering other farmers and entrepreneurs through training and mentorship.

Investment vs. Returns – Why Aeroponic Saffron Farming is Lucrative

The financials of aeroponic saffron farming make it an attractive investment:

Since 2020, Akshay and Divya have invested Rs 55 lakh and have already earned Rs 1.3 crore, with the majority of profits generated in the last two years. The high demand for saffron, coupled with their low-cost, high-yield model, makes this an ideal agricultural business.

Encouraging a New Wave of Urban Farmers

The success of this Nagpur-based saffron farming venture is paving the way for other aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs. The couple offers a full-fledged training program, equipping new growers with the knowledge and tools to start their own aeroponic saffron farms.

By combining traditional knowledge with modern technology, Akshay and Divya have achieved what many thought impossible—growing saffron in a city where summer temperatures exceed 45°C. Their inspiring journey demonstrates that innovation in agriculture can break geographical barriers and open doors to lucrative, sustainable businesses.