SANGLI

Sangli district has a diverse industrial landscape, with agriculture-based industries and manufacturing playing a significant role in the local economy. The district is one of India's largest grape producers, supporting industries related to grape processing, wineries, and exports. Additionally, Sangli hosts a major wholesale grape market, facilitating trade across the region.

The industrial town of Kirloskarwadi, established by industrialist Laxmanrao Kirloskar, holds historical importance as the site of his first factory. Over time, Kirloskarwadi has developed into a key industrial centre, known for its engineering and manufacturing industries. The town is also noted for its well-planned infrastructure and working environment.

Sangli is known for sugarcane cultivation, which plays a key role in the local economy and politics. The district is also a major hub for turmeric, facilitating trade between South and North India. Grape production, concentrated in Tasgaon and Miraj, supports both exports and raisin processing. Pomegranates from Jath and other dry regions are processed and stored in Sangli. Other crops like maize and sorghum are cultivated, with maize processed in one of the region’s oldest wet milling facilities. While irrigation supports intensive farming, challenges like salinisation and groundwater depletion persist.

Sangli has a strong sugar and turmeric processing industry, with notable companies like Yashwant Sahakari Glucose Karkhana Ltd and Tasgaon Palus Taluka Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana Ltd. The district also has a significant maize processing sector, dairy processing, and engineering industries, including foundries and machining shops such as Tulsi Casting and Machining Ltd. Spinning mills contribute to the textile industry. It is known for its pump spares as a leading manufacturer.

A 305-acre Food Park near Mane Rajuri is being developed to enhance the processing and exports of fruits like grapes, pomegranates, and turmeric, reflecting a shift toward value-added agriculture.

Satara has been shaped by several prominent families who have played a crucial role in politics, cooperatives, and agriculture. Their contributions have significantly influenced the region's economic and social landscape. Some of the notable families include, Patil Family, the Vasantdada Patil Family, the Mohite Patil Family, Gadakh Family

Satara’s industries have grown from its agricultural strengths, with sugar, dairy, and food processing playing key roles. Locals say cooperative institutions, especially in the sugar sector, have supported economic stability and farmer welfare.

The district is also seeing diversification into wine production and small-scale manufacturing. With favourable conditions for grape cultivation, wineries are emerging, and food parks are boosting turmeric and pomegranate processing. Locals believe these developments are creating jobs and expanding export opportunities.

Healthcare is another growing sector, with Satara becoming a regional hub for medical services. Many say improved infrastructure and institutions are drawing patients from nearby areas.

As industries modernise and diversify, Satara is expected to see sustained economic growth, balancing tradition with emerging opportunities.