India’s Industrial Landscape Set for Transformation with Rs 28,602 Crore Investment in 12 New Smart Cities

New Delhi: In a landmark decision, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved 12 new project proposals under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) with a total estimated investment of Rs 28,602 crore. This ambitious initiative will establish a network of industrial smart cities across India, poised to revolutionize the country’s industrial landscape and enhance its global competitiveness.

The approved projects will span 10 states and are strategically planned along six major industrial corridors. These industrial areas will be developed 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:

• Strategic Investments: The NICDP aims to create a dynamic industrial ecosystem by attracting investments from both large industries and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). These industrial nodes are expected to play a crucial role in achieving the target of $2 trillion in exports by 2030, reflecting the government’s vision of a self-reliant and globally competitive India.
• Smart Cities and Modern Infrastructure: The new industrial cities will be developed as greenfield smart cities with global standards, employing “plug-n-play” and “walk-to-work” concepts. This approach ensures that the cities are equipped with advanced infrastructure to support sustainable and efficient industrial operations.
• Alignment with PM GatiShakti: The projects are in line with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, featuring multi-modal connectivity infrastructure to ensure seamless movement of people, goods, and services. These cities are envisioned as growth centers that will drive regional transformation.
• Vision for a ‘Viksit Bharat’: This initiative aligns with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’—a developed India. By positioning India as a significant player in the Global Value Chains (GVC), the NICDP will provide ready-to-use land parcels, facilitating easier setup for domestic and international investors. This supports the broader goal of creating an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ or a self-reliant India.

Economic Impact and Employment Generation:

The NICDP is expected to generate around 1 million direct jobs and up to 3 million indirect jobs through planned industrialization. This will not only provide significant livelihood opportunities but also contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of the regions involved.

Commitment to Sustainable Development:

The projects will focus on sustainability, incorporating ICT-enabled utilities and green technologies to minimize environmental impact. By ensuring quality, reliable, and sustainable infrastructure, the government aims to create industrial cities that are models of economic activity and environmental stewardship.

The approval of these 12 new industrial nodes marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse. With a focus on integrated development, sustainable infrastructure, and seamless connectivity, these projects are set to redefine India’s industrial landscape and drive the nation’s economic growth for years to come.

In addition to these new projects, the NICDP has already completed four projects, with another four currently underway. This ongoing progress underscores the government’s commitment to transforming India’s industrial sector and fostering a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive economic environment.