New Delhi, March 18: The government has stepped up efforts to reinvigorate export-driven industrial clusters, with key stakeholders calling for a comprehensive strategy that blends infrastructure upgrades, technology integration, and stronger domestic manufacturing capabilities.
A high-level consultation was organised by the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) at Vanijya Bhawan, bringing together representatives from industry bodies, financial institutions, research organisations, and government departments. The meeting aimed to build on Union Budget announcements and convert policy intent into practical, on-ground action through sustained collaboration.
Participants highlighted that cluster development must go beyond physical infrastructure and include skill enhancement, innovation support, and improved market linkages. Special emphasis was placed on reducing import dependence in critical sectors by strengthening local manufacturing ecosystems and boosting quality standards through better testing and certification facilities.
The discussions also underlined the need to promote research, innovation, and technology adoption within industrial clusters. Stakeholders stressed that micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) should be at the heart of these initiatives, with targeted measures to improve productivity, access to finance, and integration into global supply chains.
Calls were made for simplified regulations, stronger awareness of government schemes, and more flexibility at state and district levels to ensure effective implementation. Industry-led governance models, including the use of special purpose vehicles, were suggested to improve coordination and execution at the cluster level.
Experts further pointed out the importance of building future-ready ecosystems that include not only industrial infrastructure but also social and urban amenities to support workforce stability and long-term growth. Strengthening design capabilities, intellectual property frameworks, and sustainable financing options also featured prominently in the discussions.
The consultation served as a key platform for aligning industry expectations with policy direction, marking a significant step towards operationalising the government’s vision for cluster revitalisation. Senior officials, including DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia, and NICDC leadership guided the deliberations, emphasizing continued engagement to refine and implement the roadmap effectively.
NICDC functions as the central agency driving the development of industrial corridors and smart manufacturing cities in India, playing a crucial role in enhancing the country’s industrial and logistics competitiveness.
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