RATNAGIRI

Ratnagiri's economy relies on agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, and energy production. The district is known for Alphonso mangoes, cashew processing, and coconut-based products, which support both local livelihoods and exports. Its coastal location sustains a strong fishing industry, while dairy cooperatives and coir manufacturing contribute to economic activity. 

Ratnagiri is renowned for its horticultural produce, especially Alphonso mangoes, which hold a Geographical Indication (GI) tag and are exported worldwide. Other key crops include cashew nuts, coconuts, areca nuts, and betel leaves. The district also has a strong focus on spices like black pepper and nutmeg, making agriculture the backbone of its economy.

Being a coastal district, Ratnagiri has a thriving fishing industry. The district's coastline supports both marine fishing and aquaculture, with shrimp and pomfret being key exports. There are several cold storage and seafood processing units in the region, including those in Mirkarwada, Jaigad, and Pawas, which cater to both domestic and international markets.

Ratnagiri is home to several dairy cooperatives that contribute significantly to Maharashtra’s dairy industry. Major players include Ratnagiri District Milk Union Ltd, Warana Dairy, and Washishti Milk and Milk Products Pvt. Ltd. These cooperatives process and distribute milk and milk-based products across the state. Buffalo and cow milk production are prominent in the region.

With coconut plantations spread across the district, Ratnagiri has a well-developed coir industry. This industry produces coir mats, ropes, and brushes, mainly in areas like Dapoli and Mandangad. Coconut-based products such as coconut oil and desiccated coconut are also significant contributors to the economy.

Cashew cultivation is a major industry in Ratnagiri, with numerous cashew processing units operating in Lanja, Rajapur, and Chiplun. These units process raw cashew nuts into cashew kernels, which are then sold in domestic and international markets. Some units also produce cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL), used in industrial applications.

Ratnagiri hosts some of Maharashtra’s major power projects, including the Ratnagiri Gas and Power Pvt. Ltd. (RGPPL) at Dabhol, also known as the Dabhol Power Plant. Additionally, the Jaigad Power Project contributes significantly to the state’s power grid. The district is also witnessing growth in renewable energy projects, particularly wind and solar energy initiatives.

Ratnagiri’s Jaigad Port and Dabhol Port play crucial roles in cargo handling and shipbuilding. The Jaigad Port, developed by JSW Infrastructure, has become a major hub for coal, bauxite, and cement transport, while smaller shipyards along the coast support boat-building and repairs.

In recent years, pharmaceutical manufacturing has expanded in Ratnagiri, with companies like Apex Laboratories and Arti Drugs Ltd. setting up units in the region. The district's clean environment and connectivity to Mumbai and Pune make it an attractive destination for pharma investments.

Ratnagiri has been shaped by several influential families who have played a significant role in industry, trade, and politics. These families have contributed to sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, retail, healthcare, and governance, leaving a lasting impact on the region. Some of the most notable among them include the Gharda, Khedekar, Parkar, and Rane families.

Ratnagiri district has seen notable industrial growth, driven by highway expansion, mining, and contract-based transport work. Khadi processing units have emerged in Chirani and Pirlote, while marble processing is expanding in Chiplun.

Residents take pride in Lote-Parshuram MIDC, where industries support local temples, panchayats, and NGOs. However, reckless truck driving along the Parshuram Ghat Bypass has led to frequent accidents.

Industrial growth has attracted migrant workers, mainly from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while outmigration continues as locals seek jobs in Mumbai, Pune, and Kolhapur. The Kokan Mewa industry, once a secondary income source, has grown into a major business.

A shift from agriculture to industry is evident, with many now relying on MIDC jobs and urban employment, leaving farming as a subsistence activity.