In an effort to bolster economic growth and create employment opportunities, the Delhi government is undertaking a significant overhaul of its electronic city policy, focusing on the development of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) hub in Baprola Vihar. The proposed ‘Delhi Electronic System, Design and Manufacturing System’ (ESDMR) policy aims to position the capital as a leading hub for high-end electronics and a thriving refurbished electronics market.
Officials revealed that the use of AI has become ubiquitous across various sectors, ranging from education to infrastructure management. Therefore, the government is actively planning to establish an AI hub housing agencies with patented AI technologies. Though still in its initial stages, the plan is already in motion.
To pave the way for this ambitious initiative, a meeting was convened on June 8 to address concerns related to financial implications, land allocation, and other policy intricacies. The Ministry of Industries, GNCTD, sought feedback from various stakeholders on the ‘Delhi Electronic System Design, Manufacturing, and Refurbishment Policy 2022-27’ as proposed by the Dialogue and Development Commission of Delhi (DDCD). During the meeting, it was proposed that the draft policy be reevaluated to explore the possibility of creating an AI Hub. As of now, the government awaits the final draft from the DDCD.
The envisioned Electronic City project will be executed through a public-private partnership model, with the Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC) leading the development. Land parcels will be available for lease on a 30-year basis, with the projected total rent revenue expected to exceed Rs 5,287 crore during this concession period.
Given the high living and labour costs in Delhi, the government is also devising incentives for industrial workers in the complex. To this end, they have approached the Government of India, seeking permission from the Urban Development (UD) Department to utilize flats built under JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission) for accommodating workers
While the project shows immense potential, it comes with its share of costs. Officials estimate a budget of Rs 250 crore over five years for its successful implementation. Additionally, stamp duty exemptions on first-time leases for units will lead to a loss of approximately Rs 100 crore. To propel Delhi into a thriving AI-driven ecosystem and cement its position as a major electronics hub, the government remains committed to driving this ambitious project forward, awaiting clearance from the Delhi Development Authority to proceed with land allocation in Baprola.
