Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor Key Features

Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor Key Features


The Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor (UP DIC) is a transformative initiative designed to strengthen India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. Launched with the aim of reducing dependence on foreign defence equipment, it aligns closely with the "Make in India" initiative. This project not only seeks to boost indigenous manufacturing but also aims to establish Uttar Pradesh as a significant global hub for defence production. Below are the key features of the UP DIC


1. Strategic Nodes


The UP DIC is spread across six key nodes Lucknow, Kanpur, Jhansi, Agra, Aligarh, and Chitrakoot. These locations are strategically chosen to ensure optimal industrial growth. The nodes are well-connected through the Golden Quadrilateral, a major highway network that links Delhi to Kolkata. This connectivity is vital for efficient transportation of goods and services, enhancing the operational efficiency of manufacturing units in the corridor.


2. Significant Investments


The UP DIC has garnered significant financial backing. Over Rs. 3700 crores in investments were announced during a meet held in Aligarh on August 11, 2018. Major industry players such as Ordnance Factories, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), and BrahMos Aerospace are all poised to invest in the region. These investments are expected to strengthen the defence manufacturing ecosystem in Uttar Pradesh and create a sustainable environment for growth.


3. MoUs and Collaborations


The UP DIC has seen a flurry of activity in terms of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). During the DefExpo 2020 in Lucknow, 22 MoUs were signed between the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) and various stakeholders, including private firms, startups, and large industrial organizations. The total number of signed MoUs has risen to 68, indicating strong interest and commitment from the private sector. Furthermore, 16 additional MoUs were signed during Aero India 2021, with 6 more following the event, thereby reinforcing the corridor’s potential.


4. Infrastructure Support


Plug and Play Facilities


The UP DIC offers plug-and-play support for industries, facilitating a hassle-free setup for new manufacturing units. This feature is particularly advantageous for companies looking to establish operations quickly without extensive groundwork.


Robust Connectivity


The corridor is designed with excellent connectivity. It is linked to a 4-lane heavy-duty highway, which connects to the Bundelkhand Expressway and the Delhi-Jhansi route. This ensures smooth transportation of materials and finished products, reducing delays and improving logistical efficiency.


Utilities and Resources


Manufacturing units in the UP DIC benefit from assured access to essential utilities. The sites provide uninterrupted electricity supply (132 KVA) and a reliable water supply, which are crucial for running operations smoothly and efficiently.


Enhanced Security


Security is a priority within the UP DIC. The entire corridor is protected by pelican wire fencing, ensuring the safety of the industrial units and their operations. This focus on security is essential in maintaining a stable environment for investment and production.


5. Employment Generation


One of the primary goals of the UP DIC is to generate employment for the local population. By fostering a robust defence manufacturing sector, the corridor is expected to create thousands of job opportunities, benefiting both skilled and unskilled workers. This will not only boost the local economy but also help in the overall development of the state.


6. Promoting Self-Reliance


The UP DIC plays a crucial role in enhancing self-reliance in the Indian defence sector. By focusing on indigenous manufacturing, the initiative aims to reduce the country’s reliance on foreign defence imports. This is aligned with the larger national goal of achieving Aatmanirbhar Bharat, or self-sufficient India, which is essential for national security and economic stability.


The Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor is more than just an industrial project; it represents a strategic move towards making India self-reliant in defence manufacturing. With its six strategically located nodes, significant investments, strong collaborations, robust infrastructure, and focus on employment generation, the UP DIC is poised to become a leading player in the global defence manufacturing landscape. By fostering a conducive environment for businesses and ensuring the security of operations, the UP DIC aims to transform Uttar Pradesh into one of the world’s foremost defence manufacturing hubs.