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The Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has taken a significant step towards bolstering the nation's industrial landscape by approving the establishment of 12 industrial smart cities across 10 states. This ambitious project, spearheaded by the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP), is estimated to attract a substantial investment of Rs. 28,602 crore, setting the stage for a transformative shift in India's manufacturing sector. The project is strategically positioned along six major corridors, targeting key locations like Khurpia in Uttarakhand, Rajpura-Patiala in Punjab, Dighi in Maharashtra, Palakkad in Kerala, Agra and Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, Gaya in Bihar, Zaheerabad in Telangana, Orvakal and Kopparthy in Andhra Pradesh, and Jodhpur-Pali in Rajasthan.
The vision behind these industrial smart cities goes beyond mere infrastructure development; it aims to create self-sustaining ecosystems that foster innovation and attract global investment. These cities will be built with a focus on 'plug-n-play' and 'walk-to-work' concepts, ensuring seamless integration of industries with state-of-the-art infrastructure and amenities. The government envisions these industrial hubs as catalysts for India's economic growth, strategically positioned to propel the nation towards achieving its export target of $2 trillion by 2030. The emphasis on greenfield development, prioritizing sustainability and incorporating ICT-enabled utilities, aligns with the government's commitment to building a ‘Viksit Bharat’ – a developed India with a robust industrial base.
Beyond the economic benefits, these projects hold immense potential for job creation and socio-economic upliftment. The NICDP is projected to generate an estimated 1 million direct jobs and 3 million indirect jobs, directly impacting the lives of millions of Indians. This initiative not only enhances the industrial landscape but also contributes to the overall well-being of the communities in which these cities are being established. The strategic alignment of the NICDP with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan ensures that these industrial smart cities will be seamlessly integrated into the country's transportation network, facilitating the smooth movement of goods, services, and people. By prioritizing multi-modal connectivity, the government aims to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of these industrial hubs, making India a more attractive destination for global manufacturers and investors.
Source: Cabinet approves setting up of 12 industrial smart cities across 10 states