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The Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has taken a bold step towards transforming the nation into a global manufacturing powerhouse. The Union Cabinet has approved 12 new industrial city projects under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP), signifying a major push towards achieving India's ambitious economic goals. These projects, with an estimated investment of ₹28,602 crore, are strategically located across ten states, aiming to create a vibrant network of industrial hubs that will attract investments, generate employment, and drive regional development.
The approved sites include 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. While the 12th project location was not disclosed due to the model code of conduct during state elections, it is likely to be either in Haryana or Jammu & Kashmir. These cities will be designed as 'smart cities' with advanced infrastructure, promoting sustainable and efficient industrial operations. The 'plug-n-play' and 'walk-to-work' concepts will ensure a smooth transition for businesses and workers alike.
The NICDP's focus extends beyond attracting large anchor industries to include Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This inclusive approach aims to create a thriving industrial ecosystem that empowers businesses of all sizes. The ambitious plan is designed to be a catalyst for achieving the government's goal of $2 trillion in exports by 2030. The project aligns perfectly with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, emphasizing integrated and seamless multi-modal connectivity to ensure efficient movement of goods and people within and across the industrial nodes.
These industrial hubs are expected to be transformative growth centers, boosting the economic development of entire regions. The potential impact on employment is significant, with an estimated 1 million direct jobs and up to 3 million indirect jobs expected to be generated. This initiative reflects the Indian government's commitment to creating a favorable environment for industrial growth and attracting global investors. With the government's focus on skill development and infrastructure improvements, these industrial cities are poised to become vibrant centers of innovation and economic prosperity.
Source: Modi govt’s grand plan: 12 industrial cities across 10 states get Cabinet nod; outlay ₹28,602 crore