Grants allocated, but Ludhiana lags on industry clusters
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Ludhiana: Despite significant financial incentives from the central government under the
Cluster Development Programme
(CDP), Punjab's industrial sector has largely failed to leverage the scheme, falling behind other states in forming functional industry clusters.
The CDP, a flagship initiative of the ministry of MSME, offers substantial grants, often worth crores, for setting up
common facility centres
(CFCs) for groups of similar industries. These clusters are intended to reduce input costs, streamline operations, and share resources such as advanced machinery and skilled manpower. However, in Punjab, and especially in Ludhiana, progress has been slow and disappointing.
Only two clusters have been successfully established in the state so far, with Oil Expeller and Parts Cluster, other than Hi Tech Metal Cluster. Another proposed cluster, focused on sewing machine manufacturers, has remained in limbo for years. Another project related to printing industry was shelved despite receiving government approval and promised funding of Rs 15 crore.
According to Bhupinder Singh, functional manager at the District Industries Centre (DIC), the primary reason behind this lacklustre performance is the industry's unprofessional approach. "States like Haryana and those in South India are tapping into the Centre's grants effectively by forming professional, cooperative clusters. In contrast, Punjab has only two functional clusters, mainly due to the industry's inability to meet the required standards and commitment levels," he said.
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Echoing these concerns, Kamal Chopra, chairman of World Print Communication Forum and a Ludhiana native, said the printing cluster was a lost opportunity due to internal discord. "We had the government's approval and were on track to receive Rs 15 crore in support. But ultimately, the plan collapsed because of mistrust among the stakeholders. Members backed out, fearing others might benefit more than themselves," Chopra said.
Chopra, who also served as president, All India Federation Of Master Printers, earlier has been involved in successful cluster developments in other regions. "It is disheartening that while other states are embracing collaboration for mutual growth, industries in Punjab remain divided. If every stakeholder only asks, 'What's in it for me?' without trusting others, these collaborative models will never take off," he said.
He emphasised that for any industry to grow, individual businesses must look beyond personal gain and work collectively. "Trust and cooperation are the foundations of successful clusters. It's high time Punjab's industrialists adopt a more inclusive mindset," Chopra urged.
As industrial competition intensifies nationally and globally, Punjab risks being left behind unless its businesses come together to utilise the government support effectively.
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