India is poised to establish a network of Industrial Smart Cities along the Golden Quadrilateral, following a major decision by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The committee has approved 12 new project proposals under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP), with an estimated investment of Rs. 28,602 crore. This initiative aims to reshape India’s industrial landscape by creating a comprehensive network of industrial nodes and cities that will drive economic growth and enhance global competitiveness.
The projects, which span across 10 states and are strategically located along six major corridors, mark a significant advance in India’s efforts to bolster its manufacturing sector. The new industrial areas will be established in Khurpia (Uttarakhand), Rajpura-Patiala (Punjab), Dighi (Maharashtra), Palakkad (Kerala), Agra and Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh), Gaya (Bihar), Zaheerabad (Telangana), Orvakal and Kopparthy (Andhra Pradesh), and Jodhpur-Pali (Rajasthan).
Key Highlights:
- NICDP aims to develop a dynamic industrial ecosystem by attracting investments from both large industries and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The industrial nodes are expected to contribute towards achieving $2 trillion in exports by 2030, aligning with the government’s vision for a self-reliant and globally competitive India.
- These industrial cities will be built as greenfield smart cities of international standards, incorporating ‘plug-n-play’ and ‘walk-to-work’ concepts. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the cities will feature advanced infrastructure to support efficient and sustainable industrial operations.
- In line with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, the projects will include multi-modal connectivity infrastructure to facilitate smooth movement of people, goods, and services. The industrial cities are envisioned as growth hubs that will drive regional transformation.
The approval of these projects advances the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India). By integrating India into global value chains, the NICDP will offer ready-to-use land parcels, simplifying the process for both domestic and international investors to establish manufacturing operations in India. This initiative supports the broader goal of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India), enhancing economic growth through increased industrial output and job creation.
The NICDP is projected to generate around 1 million direct jobs and up to 3 million indirect jobs, offering substantial employment opportunities and contributing to the socio-economic development of the regions involved.
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The projects under NICDP are designed with a focus on sustainability, incorporating ICT-enabled utilities and green technologies to minimise environmental impact. The goal is to develop industrial cities that are not only centres of economic activity but also exemplars of environmental responsibility.
The approval of these 12 industrial nodes represents a crucial milestone in India’s ambition to become a global manufacturing leader. With an emphasis on integrated development, sustainable infrastructure, and seamless connectivity, these projects are set to transform India’s industrial sector and drive long-term economic growth.
Additionally, the NICDP has already completed four projects, with another four currently in progress, demonstrating the government’s ongoing commitment to advancing India’s industrial sector and fostering a vibrant, sustainable economic environment.
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