Gaya to Become Industrial Hub Under Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor
The Ministry of Finance has highlighted the transformative potential of the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC) in driving economic growth in eastern India, with a special focus on the industrial node being developed at Gaya, Bihar. This initiative is part of the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (NICDC) project, aimed at fostering industrial and economic development across the region.
Boosting Economic Growth in Eastern India
The industrial node at Gaya is being developed under the larger framework of the ‘Purvodaya’ initiative, which seeks to enhance economic progress in the eastern states of Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh. The Ministry of Finance, in a recent post on X, emphasized the project’s significance, stating that it would create a strong foundation for industrialization and economic development in and around Bihar.
Aligning Industrial Growth with Cultural Heritage
The government envisions the Gaya industrial node as a model of development that harmonizes economic progress with cultural preservation. In an official statement, the Ministry described the initiative as showcasing the idea of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” (Development along with Heritage). The project aims to position Gaya, an ancient cultural and spiritual center, as a modern hub of industry and economy.
Infrastructure and Progress
One of the key infrastructure developments under this initiative includes the Narkatiaganj-Raxaul-Sitamarhi-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur railway doubling project, covering a total length of 255.5 kilometers. This project, approved at an estimated cost of ₹4,553.32 crore, is expected to improve connectivity and support the industrial growth envisioned for the region.
Additionally, the industrial node at Gaya is expected to act as a catalyst for attracting investments, creating job opportunities, and boosting economic activity in Bihar and the surrounding states.
Vision for Eastern India’s Development
The development of the Gaya industrial node aligns with the broader vision of the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor, which aims to unlock the economic potential of eastern India. By combining industrial growth with cultural preservation, the project sets a new benchmark for sustainable development in the region.
As part of the Purvodaya initiative, the industrial corridor is expected to play a critical role in reducing regional disparities, empowering local communities, and contributing to India’s overall economic growth.
Conclusion
The Gaya industrial node under the AKIC is more than just an economic initiative—it is a symbol of the government’s commitment to balanced regional development. By integrating modern infrastructure with rich cultural heritage, this project has the potential to transform eastern India into a thriving industrial and economic hub, ensuring prosperity for the region while honoring its historical legacy.
