Modi Cabinet Approves 12 New Industrial Cities: 10 Lakh Jobs Expected Under ₹28,602 Crore Initiative

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has given the green light to 12 new industrial projects under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP). With an estimated investment of ₹28,602 crore, these projects aim to transform India into a global manufacturing hub, significantly boosting the country’s economic growth.

These newly approved industrial cities will be strategically located across the nation, covering diverse regions such as Khurpia in Uttarakhand, Rajpura-Pa

tiala 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. Although the 12th project’s location remains undisclosed due to the model code of conduct linked to upcoming assembly elections, it is speculated to be either in Haryana or Jammu & Kashmir.

These industrial zones will be developed as state-of-the-art smart cities, each designed to foster a dynamic industrial ecosystem. The focus will be on creating regional manufacturing hubs across the country, supporting both large-scale industries and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that these projects will create around 10 lakh direct jobs and 30 lakh indirect jobs, underlining India’s growing role in global manufacturing. He noted that sectors such as electronics, mobile, and defense manufacturing are increasingly shifting to India, and these new corridors will accelerate this trend.

The NICDP is closely aligned with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, which focuses on integrated and seamless multi-modal connectivity. The development of these industrial cities is envisioned as greenfield smart cities, adhering to global standards. They will incorporate innovative concepts such as ‘plug-n-play’ infrastructure and ‘walk-to-work’ facilities, ensuring sustainability and operational efficiency.

These industrial hubs are expected to be transformative growth centers, driving economic development across the regions they are located in. The NICDP is a critical component of the government’s broader economic strategy, which includes achieving $2 trillion in exports by 2030.

This ambitious initiative not only aims to elevate India’s position in the global industrial landscape but also promises to generate millions of jobs, both directly and indirectly, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic development.