In a major boost to India’s industrial growth and economic development, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the creation of 12 new industrial smart cities across 10 states. The announcement was made by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who highlighted the project as a transformative move aimed at reshaping the country’s industrial landscape.
The smart cities will be strategically developed along six major industrial corridors, with a total investment of ₹28,602 crore earmarked for the project. This initiative is designed to establish a robust network of industrial nodes and cities that will enhance economic growth and elevate India’s global competitiveness.
The selected locations for these industrial hubs 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.
The ambitious project is expected to create nearly 10 lakh direct jobs, with an additional 30 lakh jobs generated indirectly. This massive employment opportunity is seen as a significant step towards addressing the country’s unemployment challenges and boosting the economy.
The government emphasized that these world-class greenfield industrial smart cities will incorporate modern concepts like “plug-n-play” infrastructure and “walk-to-work” designs. These features are aimed at fostering a vibrant industrial ecosystem that encourages investments from both large anchor industries and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The industrial smart cities are envisioned as catalysts for achieving the government’s ambitious goal of $2 trillion in exports by 2030. This initiative aligns with India’s broader vision of becoming a self-reliant and globally competitive economy, showcasing the government’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth.
The project is expected to attract significant investments, with the overall potential estimated at around ₹1.52 lakh crore. By creating these industrial nodes, the government aims to create a conducive environment for industrial innovation, economic expansion, and job creation, thereby driving the nation towards a brighter economic future.
The approval of 12 new industrial smart cities marks a critical milestone in India’s journey towards becoming an industrial powerhouse. With substantial investment and a focus on creating millions of jobs, this initiative is poised to significantly impact the nation’s economic trajectory, fostering growth and enhancing global competitiveness.
Sources By Agencies
