Jharkhand is a state situated in the eastern part of India. It is well known for its mineral resources as well as its natural beauty and has a lot of business potential in terms of increasing population and pace of urbanization, as well as the support of the government. Jharkhand is a fairly young state in India as it was formed in the year 2020. Ranchi is the capital city of the state and Jamshedpur, Bokaro, and Dhanbad are some of the major cities in Jharkhand. In this article, our industry experts have laid out some unique business ideas in Jharkhand for residents as well as outsiders.
Most Profitable Businesses to Start in Jharkhand With Low Investment
#1. Agriculture and Agr0-Processing
A major portion of the total population of Jharkhand depends on the income from agricultural activities. The state provides favourable agro-climatic conditions to grow crops like rice, maize, pulses, and oilseeds. It is the second-largest producer of horticulture crops in India. The government of Jharkhand is backing this sector through various funding schemes. The agriculture sector contributes nearly 20% to the state’s GDP. As per industry experts, the agriculture sector is expected to flourish in the coming years in the state.
Business ideas:
- Organic farming
- Cashew processing
- Food processing units (fruits, vegetables, dairy)
- Medicinal plants processing
- Cold storage facilities
- Agricultural equipment sales or rentals
Read: Best Agriculture Business Ideas
2. Mining and Mineral Processing
Jharkhand is one of the richest minerals states in the country, and also the leading mineral producer state for India. As much as 27% of the coal produced in India, as much as 26% of iron ore and about 18% of copper is produced in Jharkhand. Worthy mention of the minerals produced in Jharkhand, whose reserves can always be considered, include coal, copper, bauxite, iron ore, mica and limestone – extremely useful for production, energy, and construction sectors. With the government pursuing in earnest public-private partnerships and building out infrastructure, to facilitate and grow the mining sector, it’s expected to lead to growth in the Jharkhand economy.
Business Ideas:
- Mining services (exploration, drilling, etc.)
- Mineral processing units
- Manufacturing mining equipment
- Logistics and transportation for mining products
3. Textile and Handloom
Jharkhand has a rich tradition of textiles. It is home to unique weaving styles, including tussar silk and tribal handlooms. The textile industry offers incentives to new textile units. There is a growing demand for sustainable and ethnic fashion worldwide. This demand can facilitate the local handloom and handicraft sector.
Business Ideas:
- Handloom and textile manufacturing
- Garment production
- Retailing traditional Jharkhandi sarees and fabrics
4. Tourism and Hospitality
Jharkhand offers natural attractions like Betla National Park, Hundru Falls, and Parasnath Hills which attract tourists from India and abroad. Besides, the state has such a rich tribal culture and traditions that can promote its unique cultural tourism opportunities. The government, by way of its investment in infrastructure and events, is supporting tourism to increase its contribution to the economy.
Business Ideas:
- Eco-tourism ventures
- Resorts or guest houses
- Adventure tourism (trekking, camping)
- Tour guide services or travel agencies
5. Solar Energy
Jharkhand is blessed with high solar power potential, with more than 300 days of sunshine each year and a prospect for solar generation estimated to be above 18 GW. The government has plans to increase the renewable energy share in the energy mix of the state and offers subsidies and incentives for solar projects. The demand for solar energy is increasing due to the increased costs of traditional energy sources.
Business Ideas:
- Solar panel manufacturing
- Solar installation services
- Setting up solar farms
- Solar-powered appliances or solutions
6. Food and Beverage Industry
The state’s food and beverage industry is on the rise. It is mainly due to higher disposable income and lifestyle changes. Urban centers, such as Ranchi, Jamshedpur, and Dhanbad, have the potential for packaged and processed food. The food processing industry, in particular, has all the support necessary in Jharkhand due to the significant incentives provided by government programs, such as the “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana”, which provides substantial grants and subsidies to establish food-processing units.
Business Ideas:
- Starting a bakery
- Packaged snacks production
- Bottled water plant
- Juice and beverage manufacturing
7. Education and Skill Development
Jharkhand’s population is young and needs quality education and opportunities for skill development to enhance employability. The government supports various skill development efforts, including the “Jharkhand Skill Development Mission”, intending to train youth through skill development centers in a variety of trades and sectors. There is a recognized need for more vocational training and coaching centers, particularly in rural and semi-urban communities, to create a skilled workforce to support the emergent employment needs of specific industries.
Business Ideas:
- Coaching centers (academic, competitive exams)
- Vocational training institutes
- E-learning platforms
- Soft skills development centers
8. Fisheries and Aquaculture
Jharkhand is equipped with a large number of rivers, ponds, and reservoirs. Hence, it is an ideal place for fish farming and aquaculture. The state government is encouraging fish farming enterprises by providing different schemes for pond construction and fish seed supply. The local people are showing interest in eating fish and there is a huge potential for fish export to other states and also worldwide.
Business Ideas:
- Fish farming
- Aquaponics (combining fish farming with plant cultivation)
- Fish feed production
- Hatcheries for fish breeding
9. Healthcare and Wellness
There is a growing need for healthcare facilities in the state. The demand is acute in rural areas. If you have the necessary experience, consider opening a healthcare center here in the state. In addition, there is an increasing demand for wellness and preventive care in health. Hence fitness, nutrition and holistic health services can flourish in the urban areas.
Business Ideas:
- Clinics or diagnostic centers
- Pharmacies
- Wellness centers (yoga, meditation)
- Telemedicine services
10. E-commerce and Retail
Internet penetration is increasing in Jharkhand, with more people shopping online for convenience and variety. The state’s retail market is growing, driven by urbanization and a young, tech-savvy population. E-commerce platforms that cater to local needs or offer unique products from Jharkhand can thrive in this market.
Business Ideas:
- E-commerce platforms (local products, handicrafts)
- Online grocery delivery
- Specialty retail outlets (clothing, electronics)
- Logistics support for e-commerce businesses
Read: Best Online Business Ideas
11. Waste Management and Recycling
There exists an urgent, and currently increasing need for effective waste management practices in Jharkhand. Rapid urbanization and industrial development have increased the growth and generation of waste. In addition, it so happens that the government is currently promoting waste management and recycling with the help of several policies intended to stimulate private sector participation in waste processing. Waste recycling may be a highly lucrative opportunity in Jharkhand currently.
Business Ideas:
- Recycling plants (plastic, paper, metal)
- Waste collection and management services
- Upcycling products from waste materials
- Composting facilities
12. Real Estate and Construction
There is a growing demand for residential and commercial real estate, especially in cities like Ranchi and Jamshedpur. The state is investing heavily in infrastructure development, including roads, airports, and industrial parks, boosting the construction sector. If you have the required funds and some know-how of the industry, consider launching a construction-related business here.
Business Ideas:
- Real estate development (residential, commercial)
- Construction materials supply
- Interior design services
- Rental property management
13. Herbal and Ayurvedic Products
Forests in Jharkhand encompass a plethora of medicinal herbs, plants, and other natural resources ideal for producing herbal and Ayurveda products. With changing consumer behavior towards eating and buying natural and organic products due to health and wellness trends, there is considerable interest in the herbal industry. The State Government provides various incentives to support the herbal industry, including governmental subsidies for the cultivation and processing of medicinal herbs and plants.
Business Ideas:
- Manufacturing herbal medicines
- Producing herbal cosmetics and personal care products
- Organic health products (teas, supplements)
- Essential oils extraction
14. Dairy and Poultry Farming
Dairy and poultry farming are historical sectors in Jharkhand, which benefit from a strong market for milk, eggs, and meat. This demand increases the need for bird meat such as chicken, duck, and quail. The Government supports the dairy and poultry farming sectors through various initiatives such as the “Rashtriya Gokul Mission.” Industry experts predict this industry to grow hugely in the coming years.
Business Ideas:
- Dairy farming (milk production, processing)
- Poultry farming (eggs, meat)
- Setting up a milk processing unit (cheese, yogurt)
- Value-added dairy products (ghee, paneer)
15. Logistics and Transportation
Jharkhand’s location and continued infrastructure development, including highways and railways, provide a strong base as logistics and transportation will continue to grow as an industry sector. Further, there is a growing demand for the movement of goods within the state and the transfer of goods outside of the State as industrial activity continues to grow. Various government initiatives such as the “Bharatmala Project,” seek to develop highways and highway connectivity, and provide new opportunities in the logistics sector.
Business Ideas:
- Trucking services
- Warehousing and storage solutions
- Cold chain logistics for perishable goods
- Courier and delivery services
More Small-Scale Business Opportunities in Jharkhand
- Bamboo Crafts
- Tribal Jewelry
- Madhubani Paintings
- Eco-Tourism
- Adventure Sports
- Mineral Water Bottling Plant
- Stone Crushing Unit
- Bio-Fertilizer Production
- Local Cuisine Restaurant
- Mobile Repair and Service
- Educational Coaching
- Vocational Training
- Pharmacy or Medical Store
- Courier and Logistics
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Jharkhand a suitable place for starting a business?
Yes, Jharkhand offers several opportunities for businesses, particularly in agriculture, mining, and tourism. The state’s rich natural resources make it conducive for various industries.
What are the legal requirements to start a business in Jharkhand?
You will need to register your business entity with the Registrar of Companies (RoC) or the relevant authority based on your business type. Additionally, obtain any necessary permits and licenses as required by local authorities.
Are there any government incentives for businesses in Jharkhand?
Yes, the Jharkhand government offers various incentives, including tax benefits, subsidies, and financial assistance schemes to promote entrepreneurship and industrial growth.
What are the key sectors for business growth in Jharkhand?
Some key sectors with growth potential in Jharkhand include agriculture, mining, renewable energy, tourism, and manufacturing.
How can I access funding or financial assistance for my business in Jharkhand?
You can explore financial institutions, banks, and government schemes designed to provide financial support to startups and small businesses. Additionally, venture capital and angel investors may be interested in investing in promising ventures.
Are there any specific challenges to doing business in Jharkhand?
Like any other region, Jharkhand has its challenges, including infrastructural limitations in certain areas and competition. Conduct thorough market research and feasibility studies to address these challenges.
Is skilled labour readily available in Jharkhand?
Jharkhand has a skilled labour force, particularly in sectors like mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. However, it’s essential to assess the specific skill sets required for your business.
How can I promote my business in Jharkhand?
You can use a mix of traditional and digital marketing strategies, participate in local events and fairs, and leverage social media and online advertising to reach your target audience.
Can I start an online business in Jharkhand?
Yes, you can start various online businesses, such as e-commerce stores, digital marketing agencies, or content creation services, which can cater to both local and global markets.
What resources or agencies can help me start my business in Jharkhand?
The Jharkhand government and local industry associations often provide support and information for entrepreneurs. Additionally, you can seek guidance from business incubators and startup accelerators in the state.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.