Raj Cabinet approves new industrial policy, pushes semiconductor, defence manufacturing and data centres

Jaipur: The Rajasthan Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma Friday approved the Rajasthan Industrial Development Policy aimed at transforming the state into a global industrial hub under the “Developed Rajasthan@2047” vision. The Cabinet also took key decisions related to pensions, water conservation, renewable energy and rural development.

Addressing a press conference after the meeting, minister of industries Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore said the policy was based on the four pillars of “Green, Governance, Growth and Globalisation” and aimed to expand Rajasthan’s economy to 350 billion dollars by 2028-29.

“The policy focuses on building a globally competitive industrial ecosystem in the state. Special emphasis will be given to future-oriented sectors such as semiconductors, data centres, global capability centres and defence manufacturing,” Rathore said.

He added that the state would also promote sectors including gems and jewellery, textiles, tourism, handicrafts, agro-processing, dairy and logistics, while encouraging renewable energy, circular economy projects and indigenous manufacturing.

The Cabinet approved amendments to the Rajasthan Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1996, allowing pensioners to submit annual life certificates through a mobile application using face authentication technology. Rules were also relaxed for specially abled dependents, who will now need to submit permanent disability certificates only once instead of every three years.

Minister of water resources Suresh Singh Rawat said that the statewide “Vande Ganga Jal Sanrakshan-Jan Abhiyan” would run from May 25 to June 5, focusing on cleaning water bodies, desilting canals and ponds, plantation drives and public awareness campaigns. “The campaign will strengthen public participation in water conservation through Jal Chaupals, cleanliness drives and plantation activities across Rajasthan.”

State energy minister Heeralal Nagar said Rajasthan has successfully managed peak summer electricity demand. “On May 20, the state recorded peak demand of 16,487 MW while supply remained higher at 16,580 MW,” he said.

The Cabinet also approved land allotments for industrial and renewable energy projects in Jaisalmer, Barmer and Bikaner districts, including a Rs 3,047 crore Dalmia Cement plant expected to generate around 820 jobs.