Once a drought-prone, underdeveloped region, Marathwada is now witnessing an industrial renaissance under the Mahayuti government’s leadership, led by Devendra Fadnavis. The area, historically neglected, faced severe development challenges, especially under the previous INC-NCP government, which invested significantly less in Marathwada compared to Western Maharashtra. However, the region is now being revitalized as an industrial powerhouse, with Aurangabad at the forefront.
Devendra Fadnavis and the Rise of Aurangabad Industrial City (AURIC)
A significant achievement of Fadnavis’ tenure is the development of the Aurangabad Industrial City (AURIC), established under the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) as part of India’s National Industrial Corridor Development Programme. AURIC, a planned smart city located on the outskirts of Aurangabad, spans 10,000 acres and aims to transform Marathwada into a manufacturing and export hub, creating over 300,000 jobs. AURIC will house high-tech industries across diverse sectors, providing world-class infrastructure and residential facilities for a population of around 500,000.
The DMIC, a USD 100 billion initiative, represents one of India’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, intended to make India a global manufacturing and export leader. The corridor covers six states, including Maharashtra, and benefits from the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) — a high-speed rail line linking Delhi-NCR to Mumbai’s major ports. This network provides seamless market access, making DMIC’s industrial zones ideal for manufacturing and export-oriented businesses.
Shendra-Bidkin Industrial Area: A Manufacturing Hub for High-Growth Industries
As part of AURIC, the Shendra-Bidkin Industrial Area (SBIA) has been planned as a major industrial cluster, offering expansive land and infrastructure for high-growth industries. Divided into two phases — Shendra and Bidkin — this area is designed with ready-built infrastructure to attract businesses quickly.
AURIC’s location, just 10 minutes from Aurangabad International Airport and close to Mumbai’s logistics hub, gives it a strategic advantage. Cutting-edge Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is integrated into the city’s infrastructure, making it a fully “smart” industrial city. Digital e-Governance systems facilitate seamless business operations, supporting companies in setting up, operating, and expanding quickly.
Sustainability at AURIC’s Core
AURIC emphasizes sustainability, with green infrastructure like rainwater harvesting, energy-efficient buildings, and waste recycling facilities forming the foundation of its eco-friendly approach. This commitment ensures that AURIC’s long-term growth is environmentally sustainable.
Key Sectors and Major Investments in AURIC
AURIC has attracted major investments, establishing itself as a prominent manufacturing hub:
- Toyota Kirloskar Motor is investing Rs 20,000 crore to set up a greenfield facility for electric and hybrid vehicles in AURIC, generating approximately 16,000 jobs.
- Ather Energy is building a plant with a production capacity of 1 million electric vehicles annually, creating around 4,000 jobs.
- Lubrizol Corporation plans a Rs 1,680 crore investment for a new specialty chemicals facility.
- Hyosung Group, a South Korean spandex manufacturer, will invest Rs 3,000 crore, creating over 1,000 jobs.
AURIC’s advanced infrastructure and strategic location make it a catalyst for economic growth in Marathwada, aligned with India’s “Make in India” initiative. The project is attracting foreign direct investment and fostering local industries, positioning Marathwada as a future manufacturing hub and ending decades of neglect.
