Planned Development & Industrial Scenario

Planned Development (Historical Context)

Planned economic development in Rajasthan began on April 1, 1951. The 12th Five Year Plan (2012-17) was the last plan before the dissolution of the Planning Commission.

Five Year Plans: Key Milestones

Industrial Scenario (Agencies & Policies)

Key Agencies

• RIICO (1980): Apex body for industrial infrastructure and land development. Develops Industrial Areas and IT Parks.
• RFC (1955): Provides long-term loans (up to ₹20 Cr) to MSMEs.
• RAJSICO (1961): Promotes small scale industries and markets handicrafts under the brand "Rajasthali".

Special Economic Zones (SEZs)

• Sitapura (Jaipur): Gems & Jewelry (First SEZ of the state).
• Jodhpur (Boranada): Handicrafts and Guar Gum.
• Mahindra World City (Jaipur): Multi-product SEZ (IT, Auto, Engineering).

Agriculture Scenario (Major Crops)

• Mustard (Sarson): Rajasthan is the "Mustard State" of India (Rank 1).
• Bajra: Rajasthan ranks 1st in area and production.
• Spices: Major producer of Coriander (Jhalawar/Baran), Cumin (Jalore/Barmer), and Fenugreek.
• Isabgol: Rajasthan has a monopoly.

Current Developments (Exam Focus)

1. Post-Planning Era

The Planning Commission was replaced by NITI Aayog on Jan 1, 2015. State development is now guided by "15-Year Vision", "7-Year Strategy", and "3-Year Action Agenda".

2. Recent Industrial Policies

• Rajasthan Industrial Development Policy 2019: Focuses on inclusive, balanced, and sustainable industrial development.
• RIPS 2019 & 2022: (Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme) provides subsidies and tax exemptions to attract investment.

3. DMIC (Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor)

About 39% of the Dedicated Freight Corridor passes through Rajasthan. Key investment nodes: Khushkhera-Bhiwadi-Neemrana and Jodhpur-Pali-Marwar.