New Delhi: In a landmark decision, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the creation of 12 cutting-edge industrial smart cities across 10 states, a move poised to transform India’s industrial landscape. Announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, this ambitious project is a significant push towards bolstering manufacturing capabilities, enhancing economic growth, and improving global competitiveness.
These smart cities will be strategically located along six major industrial corridors, with the government allocating a substantial ₹28,602 crore for this initiative. The cities will be established in key industrial zones, including 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.
A standout feature of these cities is their “plug-n-play” and “walk-to-work” infrastructure, designed to attract both large anchor industries and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The project is expected to create direct employment for nearly 10 lakh individuals and an additional 30 lakh jobs indirectly, signaling a massive employment boost for the nation.
Moreover, these industrial nodes are projected to play a crucial role in achieving the government’s target of $2 trillion in exports by 2030, aligning with India’s vision of becoming a self-reliant and globally competitive economy. With an estimated investment potential of ₹1.52 lakh crore, this initiative is set to usher in a new era of industrial growth and prosperity for India.
