The recent passing of veteran industrialist Vijaypat Singhania, former chairman of the Raymond Group, has brought renewed attention to his remarkable contribution to India’s textile industry—especially in transforming the Vidarbha region into an emerging textile hub.

At a time in the early 1990s when Vidarbha lacked major industrial investments, Singhania identified the region’s potential. He chose a strategic location near Nagpur—Borgaon in Chhindwara district—to set up a modern textile manufacturing plant in 1991. His decision was based on Nagpur’s strong connectivity through road, rail, and air, making it an ideal industrial base.

Boost to Industrial Growth and Employment

Singhania’s initiative was not just about setting up a factory—it played a key role in uplifting the entire region. The Raymond plant created thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities for local youth, helping improve livelihoods across Vidarbha.

In addition to employment, the project also focused on skill development. Training centres and tailoring units were established to equip people with the necessary skills, making them job-ready and supporting long-term economic growth in the region.

Global Reach and Export Success

The textile unit set up under Singhania’s leadership has grown into one of the most advanced facilities in the world. Today, it produces high-quality suiting fabrics that are exported to more than 55 countries, including major markets like the United States, Europe, and Japan.

This global reach highlights how a single strategic investment helped put Vidarbha on the international textile map.

Expansion Across Vidarbha

The success of the initial project encouraged further textile expansion in nearby districts such as Amravati and Yavatmal. Over time, these developments collectively contributed to positioning Vidarbha as a promising textile and manufacturing hub in central India.

A Lasting Legacy

Vijaypat Singhania’s contribution goes beyond business—he played a transformative role in regional development. His vision not only strengthened India’s textile industry but also brought industrial growth, employment, and global recognition to an underdeveloped region.

With his passing, Vidarbha has lost a visionary leader, but the foundation he laid continues to drive growth and opportunity in the region.