Haryana to become India's Drone Capital: CM Saini
CM Nayab Singh Saini announces plans to make Haryana the Drone Capital and expand Industrial Model Townships to boost development and jobs.
In a major push towards technological advancement and industrial growth, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini has announced a vision to transform the state into the ‘Drone Capital’ of India. Speaking at a high-level review meeting at the Haryana Civil Secretariat on Monday, the Chief Minister emphasized that the state will place a special focus on research and manufacturing within the drone sector to meet surging domestic and international demand.
The Chief Minister's vision aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports startups, fosters cutting-edge research, and provides high-tech employment opportunities for the youth of Haryana. He directed officials to explore every possibility to expand the utility of drones across various sectors, noting their critical importance to the Indian Army and other industries.
Industrial Model Townships: The Engine of Growth
During the meeting, where the Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (HSIIDC) presented its best practices, officials highlighted the massive success of the Industrial Model Township (IMT) model. Dr. Amit Kumar Agrawal, Commissioner and Secretary of the Industries and Commerce Department, noted that Haryana's model has become a blueprint for other states across the country.
Unlike traditional industrial zones, these IMTs are being designed as modern, self-sufficient hubs. Currently, HSIIDC has developed six major townships:
- Manesar IMT: Approximately 4,000 acres
- Bawal IMT: Approximately 3,300 acres
- Rohtak IMT: Approximately 3,600 acres
- Sohna IMT: Approximately 1,500 acres
- Faridabad IMT: Approximately 1,800 acres
- Kharkhoda IMT: Over 3,200 acres
The success of these zones has attracted significant interest from global corporations looking to establish their manufacturing bases in the state.
Massive Expansion and 10 New IMTs Planned
To keep pace with the growing demand, the state government has proposed a massive expansion of existing townships and the creation of entirely new industrial hubs. The expansion plans include:
- Faridabad-Palwal IMT: To be expanded to approximately 9,000 acres
- Kharkhoda IMT: To grow to approximately 5,800 acres
- Kosli: To reach around 5,000 acres
- Bawal: To expand by around 2,000 acres
- Sohna: To increase by around 1,500 acres
Furthermore, the government is set to develop 10 new IMTs in locations including Naraingarh, Ambala, Jind, Murthal-Gannaur, and Rai. To streamline operations, a dedicated service centre is proposed for each IMT to ensure all industrial services are provided in a time-bound manner, adhering to PM GatiShakti standards.
World-Class Infrastructure and Sustainability
Chief Minister Saini has issued strict directives to ensure that all IMTs are developed to world-class standards. He emphasized that the aesthetic appeal of these zones—including roads, greenery, and beautification—must be top-notch to impress global investors. "Every visitor should be impressed by their appearance," the CM stated, calling for a special beautification campaign.
Addressing environmental concerns, the Chief Minister also instructed officers to explore Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) technologies. This initiative aims to tackle water pollution and ensure a sustainable and consistent water supply within the industrial townships, balancing rapid industrialization with environmental responsibility.