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Toyota to build SUV plant in Maharashtra by 2029

Toyota Kirloskar Motor has announced plans to set up a new manufacturing plant in Maharashtra, expanding its operations in India’s growing auto market.

The facility will be located in the Bidkin Industrial Area and is expected to begin production in the first half of 2029. Once operational, it will have an annual capacity of around 1 lakh vehicles.

The plant will focus mainly on producing a new SUV model, along with full vehicle manufacturing processes such as welding, painting, and final assembly. It is expected to generate about 2,800 jobs.

Toyota said the new unit is part of its long-term plan to strengthen its presence in India and meet rising demand, especially for SUVs, which remain one of the fastest-growing segments in the country.

With production set for 2029, the Maharashtra plant is expected to play a key role in Toyota’s future SUV lineup for both domestic and export markets.

The company also plans to use the facility to support exports to nearby international markets, making it part of a wider global supply strategy.

While investment details have not been disclosed, the project is seen as a major step in Toyota’s expansion in India, where it already operates manufacturing plants in Karnataka.

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Corporate

Maharashtra Becomes First State to Partner with Starlink

In a major step toward digital inclusion, Maharashtra is set to become the first Indian state to partner with the global satellite internet provider, Starlink Satellite Communications Pvt. Ltd.

The Letter of Intent was signed by Starlink Vice President Lauren Dreyer and IT Secretary Virendra Singh in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The agreement, which is under regulatory approvals from the Government of India, aims to bring high-speed connectivity to tribal schools, health centres, disaster control rooms, coastal zones, and districts like Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Dharashiv, and Washim.

Connectivity will also be extended to key infrastructure corridors like the Samruddhi Mahamarg, ferries and ports, coastal police networks and essential public services that support education and telemedicine.

A 90-day pilot project will begin soon, monitored by a joint working group with review milestones set at 30, 60, and 90 days. The chief minister will chair quarterly progress reviews.

“With Starlink joining hands with Maharashtra, we are bridging the last digital divide connecting every village, school, and health centre, no matter how remote,” said Fadnavis.

“This partnership marks a big step toward a connected, future-ready Maharashtra and sets the benchmark for Digital India at the grassroots.”

Dreyer said the initiative fits perfectly with the company’s goal of connecting those left behind by traditional networks. “Maharashtra’s vision for inclusive and resilient digital growth aligns with ours. Together, we will show how satellite internet can transform education, healthcare, and community life in even the most remote parts of India.”

The collaboration supports Maharashtra’s Digital Maharashtra mission and complements its efforts in electric mobility, coastal development, and disaster resilience, positioning the state as a front-runner in next-generation connectivity.

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