Indian Government has approved an Electronics Manufacturing Cluster in Dharwad, Karnataka, that is expected to generate over 18,000 jobs. Developed under the EMC 2.0 scheme, the project aims to strengthen India’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem. With Apple manufacturing iPhones in the state, Karnataka is emerging as a global hub for the industry.
The Indian Government has given its nod for the establishment of an Electronics Manufacturing Cluster worth about Rs. 180 crores in the Dharwad district, Karnataka, ahead of the state’s assembly election. Union Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Electronics & IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar announced that the project is expected to generate over 18,000 job opportunities and will be developed under the Modified Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme. The cluster will be a 50-50 partnership between the Centre and the Karnataka Government.
The EMC 2.0 scheme was established in 2020. It aims to create a robust electronics manufacturing ecosystem in India by compensating industries for the lack of quality infrastructure. The scheme also provides financial assistance for the setting up of both EMC projects and Common Facility Centres (CFCs) across the country. Karnataka is emerging as a global electronics manufacturing hub, and this project will strengthen the industry further.
The project will be established in the Kotur-Belur Industrial Area. It was proposed last year to support medium and small-scale industries. The EMC 2.0 scheme is expected to attract investments worth over Rs 1,500 crore in the near future. Nine companies have already committed to investing Rs 340 crore and employing 2,500 people. The project’s strategic location near NH-48 and Hubli Domestic Airport will reduce transportation costs in the Electronics Manufacturing Cluster.
According to MoS Rajeev Chandrasekhar, “Karnataka is emerging as a global electronics manufacturing hub, with Apple plants in Kolar and Devanahalli already making the state a telecom hub”. He stated, “These new investments are creating jobs and development, and the Narendra Modi government is committed to building India as a manufacturing hub as part of its ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ policies”. The government’s commitment to building the industry is evident from the approval of this project. With Apple already manufacturing iPhones in Karnataka, the state is well on its way to becoming a global electronics manufacturing hub.
