Kolhapur, with its historical background, is well-known as a major pilgrimage destination. At the same time, the roots of industrialization in Kolhapur go back to 1940s, when first indigenous diesel engine was built at Shivaji Udyamnagar (industrial area within city). Since then, various industries have flourished in Shiroli, Gokul Shirgaon and Kagal industrial areas making Kolhapur an important industrial hub in Maharashtra. Supply of very intricate and precision machined castings to Indian as well as export markets is the specialty of Kolhapur along with products and services for a variety of sectors.

Gokul Shirgaon Manufacturers’ Association (GOSHIMA) was founded in 1985 to facilitate the entrepreneurs and to develop the industrial areas of Gokul Shirgaon in association with MIDC. With dedicated efforts of its director bodies and active participation by members, the association is now considered as one of the major industrial associations of Maharashtra. Today, GOSHIMA represents more than 350 eminent industries from a variety of sectors such as engineering, auto ancillaries, chemical, food, textile and pharmaceutical. It is one of the few associations in Maharashtra to receive ISO 9001:2015 certification for its well-established systems. The association has also developed useful infrastructure facilities include an office building, meeting rooms and a conference hall.