The National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) organised a stakeholder consultation at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi, to deliberate on the Union Budget announcement aimed at rejuvenating export-oriented industrial clusters.

The meeting, held as a follow-up to the Post-Budget Webinar on “Sustaining and Strengthening Economic Growth,” brought together representatives from Export Promotion Councils, industry bodies, financial institutions, research organisations, and government stakeholders to translate policy intent into actionable strategies.

Participants highlighted the need for a holistic approach to cluster development, focusing on infrastructure upgradation, technology adoption, capacity building, and improved market access. Emphasis was also placed on strengthening domestic manufacturing ecosystems, particularly in sectors with high import dependence, along with enhancing testing, certification, and quality infrastructure to boost global competitiveness.

The discussions underscored the importance of innovation, R&D, and technology commercialisation, alongside targeted support for MSMEs to improve productivity and integration into global value chains. Stakeholders also called for stronger governance frameworks, industry-led participation through SPVs, simplified regulatory processes, and better awareness of government schemes.

Additionally, the need for integrated industrial ecosystems with robust social and urban infrastructure, sustainable financing models, and alignment with global demand trends was highlighted. A broad consensus emerged on placing MSMEs at the centre of cluster development efforts to enhance export competitiveness.

The consultation, chaired by DPIIT Secretary Amardeep Singh Bhatia and guided by NICDC CEO & MD Rajat Kumar Saini, saw participation from leading industry bodies such as ASSOCHAM, FICCI, CII, NASSCOM, SIDBI, and others, along with corporates including Reliance, Tata Chemicals, and JLL.