Lucknow, Feb. 8 -- The state government has approved a plan for expansion of industrial areas under the Bundelkhand Industrial Development Authority (BIDA) by acquiring 23,590 acres of land. Along with this, the government has formally approved a total of 56,662 acres of land for industrial development. This decision is being seen as the foundation for the economic and social transformation of Bundelkhand and the government's objective is to develop this long-neglected region into a new hub of investment, employment and industrial opportunities, the state government said in a statement on Saturday. An integrated industrial ecosystem is being developed in the BIDA area for heavy industries, defence manufacturing, logistics, micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and ancillary units, the statement added. Priority is being given to core infrastructure such as roads, electricity, water supply, industrial plots, warehousing and connectivity so that investors can experience a true 'ease of doing business'. Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) has proposed investment of around Rs 600 crore in the BIDA region. Under this investment plan, manufacturing units for heavy machinery, defence equipment and industry products will be established. According to government estimates, this project will generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs for local youth in the region, effectively curbing migration, the statement added....