In a groundbreaking move set to revolutionise India’s industrial sector, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to twelve new project proposals under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP).
This significant decision, announced on Wednesday, August 28, involves an investment of Rs 28,602 crore and is expected to create up to 40 lakh jobs across the country.
The approved projects are poised to act as major catalysts in transforming India’s industrial landscape. The initiative will not only provide direct employment opportunities for approximately 1 million individuals but will also generate around 3 million indirect jobs through the broader industrialization efforts. This ambitious plan aligns with the government’s vision of establishing India as a self-reliant and globally competitive manufacturing hub.
The new industrial nodes are strategically distributed across ten states, positioned along six major industrial corridors. These areas will be developed into state-of-the-art industrial smart cities, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing both domestic and international industrial capabilities.
The selected locations for these projects 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.
Each of these locations is set to become a vital node in India’s industrial network, designed to drive economic growth and increase global competitiveness. The new industrial cities will feature modern, greenfield development, incorporating advanced “plug-n-play” and “walk-to-work” concepts to ensure a seamless and efficient working environment.
These cities are intended to be developed “ahead of demand,” providing pre-prepared land parcels for immediate allotment to domestic and international investors.
The NICDP’s strategic framework emphasises integrated development, sustainable infrastructure, and multi-modal connectivity. This approach aims to facilitate smooth movement of people, goods, and services, enhancing the overall efficiency of India’s industrial operations.
By aligning with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, the NICDP ensures that the new industrial cities will be well-connected and equipped to meet the demands of a growing economy.
The government’s investment in these twelve industrial nodes is expected to significantly boost India’s position in the Global Value Chain (GVC). By offering ready-to-use land parcels and advanced infrastructure, the initiative will attract both large anchor industries and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This will not only support existing businesses but also foster the growth of new enterprises, further contributing to job creation and economic development.
The approval of these projects marks a pivotal moment in India’s journey towards becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse. The government’s focus on creating a robust industrial ecosystem underscores its commitment to driving economic growth and enhancing India’s global competitiveness.
As the projects progress, they are set to redefine the country’s industrial landscape, providing a solid foundation for sustained economic development in the years to come.