Is the NICDC roadshow in the UAE a game changer for India's industrial investments?

The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) has initiated a three-day roadshow in the United Arab Emirates, taking place from January 6 to 8, 2024. This initiative aims to enhance industrial partnerships and to analyze successful infrastructure models that can contribute to India's industrial advancement. Leading the 12-member delegation are NICDC CEO and Managing Director Rajat Kumar Saini along with various representatives from Indian states and Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs). A significant focus of the roadshow is to attract investments to India's Greenfield Industrial Smart Cities, which form part of the broader National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP). This program seeks to create a framework for modern industrial development across multiple locations in India. During the roadshow, detailed discussions are expected to take place with high-ranking officials from key organizations such as DP World, TECOM, and Meydan Free Zone, centering on topics related to logistics, industrialization, and infrastructure improvements. One of the core elements of the visit includes a comprehensive examination of the operations at Jebel Ali Port, particularly its innovative port-led industrialization model and the use of automated systems to facilitate multi-modal connectivity. Insights derived from this visit will likely inform NICDC’s ongoing efforts to establish world-class industrial smart cities in India, aiming to enhance the country's infrastructure supporting manufacturing and allied sectors. The NICDP has already made notable progress, with around 370 plots across 1,477 acres allocated to investors, garnering significant financial commitments amounting to approximately ₹1.70 lakh crore (equivalent to US $20.48 billion). Noteworthy advancements have been observed in infrastructure development within cities like Dholera in Gujarat and Shendra-Bidkin in Maharashtra, now hosting operational units for major international brands such as Hyosung and Haier. Furthermore, the program has recently approved the establishment of 12 new industrial cities across diverse Indian locations, from Khurpia in Uttarakhand to Palakkad in Kerala. These cities are equipped with modern amenities, including reliable power supply, advanced water treatment systems, and a unique “Walk to Work” initiative to promote sustainability. This roadshow in the UAE underlines India’s commitment to fostering international collaborations and attracting foreign investments, thereby playing a pivotal role in bolstering its industrial growth and modernization efforts.