Rajasthan Geography: Industrial Development

[!IMPORTANT] Industrial Growth: Rajasthan is emerging as a preferred investment destination due to its proximity to the NCR, the DMIC (Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor), and its vast mineral wealth. The industrial sector contributes approx 24-27% to the state's GSVA.

1. Top Industrial Promotional Agencies

• RIICO (Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corp): Established in 1980 (bifurcated from RSMDC). It is the apex body for industrial development.
• RAJSIKO (Rajasthan Small Industries Corp): Established in 1961. Promotes small-scale industries and handicrafts (Brand: Rajasthali).
• RFC (Rajasthan Financial Corp): Established in 1955. Provides long-term financial assistance to industries.

2. Major Traditional Industries

A. Textile Industry

• Oldest Industry: Rajasthan's first textile mill was The Krishna Mills Ltd. (Beawar, 1889).
• Bhilwara: Known as the 'Manchester of Rajasthan' and 'Textile City'.
• Pali & Balotra: Hubs for cotton printing and dyeing.

B. Cement Industry

• Potential: 1st in India in limestone reserves. Rajasthan has the highest potential for cement production.
• First Factory: ACC Lakheri (Bundi) in 1915-17.
• Hub: Chittorgarh is the leading district in cement production.
• White Cement: Factories at Gotan (Nagaur - JK White) and Kharia Khangar (Jodhpur - Birla White).

C. Sugar & Salt

• Sugar: Flourished in Ganganagar (Public sector), Chittorgarh (Bhopalsagar), and Bundi (Keshoraipatan).
• Salt: Sambhar Salts Ltd. (Jaipur) is a joint venture with the Centre. Produces 8.7% of India's salt.

3. Modern Industrial Initiatives

• DMIC (Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor): About 39% of the corridor passes through Rajasthan. Specialized zones (Integrated Industrial Townships) are being developed at Kushkhera-Bhiwadi-Neemrana.
• SEZs (Special Economic Zones):
  • First SEZ of Rajasthan: Sitapura (Jaipur) for Gems & Jewellery.
  • Multi-product SEZ: Mahindra World City (Jaipur).
• Japanese Zone: Located at Neemrana (Alwar). A second Japanese zone is at Giloth.

4. Handicrafts & GI Tags

• Blue Pottery: Jaipur (KR Shekhawat).
• Thewa Art: Pratapgarh (Gold on Glass).
• Usta Art: Bikaner (Camel hide work).
• Kota Doria: Digod (Kota).

[!TIP] Industrial Parks in Rajasthan:

• Ceramic Park: Khara (Bikaner).
• Leather Park: Manpur-Machedi (Jaipur).
• Stone Park: Vishwakarma (Jaipur) and Dholpur.
• Inland Container Depots (ICDs): Operated by RAJSIKO at Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, and Bhilwara.