India to develop 12 new industrial smart cities with INR 28,602 crore investment, boosting economic growth.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved 12 new project proposals under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) with an estimated investment of INR 28,602 crore. This initiative aims to transform India’s industrial landscape, creating a robust network of industrial nodes and cities to boost economic growth and global competitiveness.
Spanning across 10 states and strategically planned along six major corridors, these projects will enhance India’s manufacturing capabilities. The industrial areas will be located 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).
NICDP aims to foster a vibrant industrial ecosystem by attracting investments from large anchor industries and MSMEs. These industrial nodes are expected to help achieve $2 trillion in exports by 2030, aligning with the government’s vision of a self-reliant and globally competitive India.
Developed as greenfield smart cities, these industrial hubs will be built “ahead of demand” on ‘plug-n-play’ and ‘walk-to-work’ concepts, ensuring advanced infrastructure for sustainable and efficient industrial operations.
Aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, these projects will feature multi-modal connectivity infrastructure, ensuring seamless movement of people, goods, and services. The industrial cities are envisioned to be regional growth centers.
These projects support the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by positioning India as a strong player in the Global Value Chains (GVC). The NICDP will provide ready-for-allotment land parcels, facilitating the setup of manufacturing units for domestic and international investors. This initiative aligns with creating an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’ fostering economic growth through enhanced industrial output and employment.
NICDP is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, with an estimated 1 million direct and up to 3 million indirect jobs through planned industrialization. This will provide livelihood opportunities and contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of the regions.
The projects under NICDP are designed with a focus on sustainability, incorporating ICT-enabled utilities and green technologies to minimise environmental impact. The government aims to create industrial cities that are hubs of economic activity and models of environmental stewardship.
The approval of 12 new industrial nodes marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global manufacturing powerhouse. With a strategic focus on integrated development, sustainable infrastructure, and seamless connectivity, these projects are set to redefine India’s industrial landscape and drive economic growth for years to come. The NICDP has already seen the completion of four projects, with another four currently under implementation, showcasing the government’s commitment to transforming India’s industrial sector.
