The Central Government has given the green light for the development of 12 industrial smart cities across 10 states in India.
This ambitious project is expected to significantly boost the nation’s industrial capabilities and economic growth.
With a total estimated investment of ₹28,602 crore, the initiative aims to create modern, sustainable cities that will enhance India’s global competitiveness.
Key Locations and Strategic Impact
The 12 industrial smart cities will be strategically 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
- Jodhpur-Pali, Rajasthan
These cities have been selected to ensure balanced industrial development across the country, promoting regional growth and reducing the urban-rural divide.
Investment and Job Creation
The project is expected to attract investments worth ₹1.52 lakh crore.
In terms of employment, the development of these cities is projected to create approximately 10 lakh direct jobs and up to 30 lakh indirect jobs.
This will not only provide a significant boost to the economy but also help alleviate unemployment in the regions.
Advanced Infrastructure and Greenfield Development
These industrial smart cities will be developed as greenfield projects, incorporating ‘plug-n-play’ and ‘walk-to-work’ concepts.
This means they will be equipped with advanced infrastructure designed to support efficient and sustainable industrial operations.
The initiative aligns with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, focusing on multi-modal connectivity to ensure seamless movement of goods and people.
Strategic Objectives of the NICDP
The National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) underpins this initiative.
It aims to create a vibrant industrial ecosystem that can attract both large anchor industries and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
The program is part of the broader vision of achieving $2 trillion in exports by 2030, contributing to the ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ missions.
Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability is a core focus of this project. The industrial smart cities will integrate ICT-enabled utilities and green technologies to minimize environmental impact.
This approach ensures that economic development does not come at the cost of the environment, making these cities models for future industrial developments.
Conclusion
The development of these 12 industrial smart cities marks a significant step forward in India’s industrial and economic landscape.
By combining advanced infrastructure with sustainable practices, this initiative is poised to transform how industries operate, driving growth and increasing India’s competitiveness on the global stage.
