India’s industrial landscape is evolving rapidly with the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP) driving the creation of world-class industrial areas and corridors. The initiative is aimed at enhancing the country’s manufacturing capabilities and making India a top destination for global investments. Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, recently provided updates in the Lok Sabha on the program’s progress and impact.
Transformational Projects Under NICDP
Shendra-Bidkin Industrial Area (SBIA), Maharashtra
The Shendra-Bidkin Industrial Area (SBIA), part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), has completed critical infrastructure development with an investment of ₹3,000 crore. This state-of-the-art industrial hub in Aurangabad district has allocated plots to 294 companies, including South Korea’s Hyosung Corporation, across 2,620 acres.
Dighi Port Industrial Area (DPIA), Maharashtra
In Maharashtra’s Raigad district, the Dighi Port Industrial Area (DPIA) is under development with a project cost of ₹5,468 crore. Once completed, it is expected to create 100,000 jobs and attract investments of ₹12,000 crore, solidifying Maharashtra’s position as a manufacturing hub.
Expanding the Industrial Network
Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC)
The Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC) has been conceptualized along the Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor. The Uttar Pradesh government has proposed two projects, IMC Agra and IMC Prayagraj, both of which have been approved. Shahjahanpur also falls within the corridor’s influence zone, expanding the reach of this transformative initiative.
Indian Footwear and Leather Development Programme (IFLDP)
To support India’s growing leather and footwear industry, the government has approved the Indian Footwear and Leather Development Programme (IFLDP) with a budget of ₹1,700 crore until March 2026.
- Maharashtra has received ₹5.75 lakh for technological upgrades under this scheme.
- Approval has been granted for a Mega Leather Footwear and Accessories Cluster in Ratwad Village, with a total project cost of ₹256.42 crore, including ₹125 crore in central government assistance.
Focus on Northern and Himalayan States
Central Schemes for Industrial Development
The government is implementing central schemes to boost industrial development in northern and Himalayan regions:
- Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh: Incentives worth ₹93.09 crore have been allocated, with an additional ₹299.10 crore disbursed under a new scheme for Jammu and Kashmir.
- Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand: The states have received ₹642.63 crore for industrial development.
Government’s Vision for Industrial Growth
The NICDP is aligned with the government’s vision to position India as a global manufacturing leader. These industrial projects are expected to attract significant domestic and foreign investments while generating employment opportunities across various sectors.
Minister Jitin Prasada emphasized the importance of these initiatives in fostering innovation, enhancing infrastructure, and boosting economic growth. With ongoing efforts, India is on track to become a global hub for manufacturing and investment.
FAQs
1. What is the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP)?
The NICDP is a government initiative aimed at developing world-class industrial corridors and areas to enhance India’s manufacturing and investment ecosystem.
2. What is the significance of the Shendra-Bidkin Industrial Area (SBIA)?
The SBIA is a key project under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, designed to attract global companies. It has already allocated plots to 294 companies and is a major step toward building a sustainable industrial hub.
3. How will the Dighi Port Industrial Area impact Maharashtra’s economy?
The DPIA is expected to generate 100,000 jobs and attract ₹12,000 crore in investments, boosting the manufacturing sector in Maharashtra.
4. What are the objectives of the Indian Footwear and Leather Development Programme (IFLDP)?
The IFLDP aims to modernize India’s leather and footwear industry by providing technological upgrades, cluster development, and funding support.
5. How does the government support industrial development in northern states?
Central schemes provide financial incentives and infrastructure support to states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, fostering industrial growth in these regions.
