Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor: Gaya Industrial Node To Propel Economic Development In Eastern India, Says Finance Ministry

The Ministry of Finance has highlighted the transformative potential of the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC) in driving industrial and economic growth in eastern India, with a focus on the establishment of an industrial node in Gaya, Bihar.

In a post on X, the Ministry stated, "The Industrial node at Gaya, Bihar, along the Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor project of the National Industrial Corridor Development Corporation will ensure a foundational industrial and economic development in and around Bihar."

This development forms part of the broader 'Purvodaya' initiative, which aims to revitalise eastern India, including Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha.

The initiative seeks to foster industrialisation and infrastructure growth, positioning the region as a hub of modern economic activity while preserving its cultural heritage.

The Ministry emphasised that the industrial node at Gaya exemplifies the principle of "Vikas bhi Virasat bhi" — development alongside heritage preservation. It aims to transform ancient cultural centres like Gaya into modern economic hubs.

In tandem with the AKIC, the Ministry of Railways is enhancing transport infrastructure. This includes the Narkatiaganj-Raxaul-Sitamarhi-Darbhanga and Sitamarhi-Muzaffarpur Doubling Project, valued at Rs 4,553.32 crore.

These projects will bolster Bihar’s rail network, improving freight and passenger movement while supporting the region’s industrial growth.

The Ministry of Finance also highlighted the importance of dedicated freight corridors in reducing logistical costs and enhancing supply chain efficiencies.

In another post, it said, "Dedicated Freight Corridors have been a game changer in Economic Development. Consistent emphasis is on development of freight terminals along the Corridor to boost business operations for all stakeholders."

Progress on the Eastern and Western Dedicated Freight Corridors (EDFC and WDFC) was also shared. As of October 2024, the EDFC has recorded 5,915 train operations covering 41,054 km, while the WDFC has seen 5,109 trains over 31,563 km. Key milestones such as track linking, overhead electrification, and bridge construction are advancing steadily.

The AKIC, along with these infrastructure projects, is poised to catalyse industrial growth, to transform eastern India into a major economic zone.

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