The northern region of India with 7 percent of the world's population has for long served as the breeding ground for innovation and entrepreneurship. This region constitutes of Delhi, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and UT Chandigarh. This region contributes 26 percent to India's GDP and accounts for 31 percent of India's Agriculture GDP. The region has an abundant availability of a young, educated and skilled work force. This coupled with rising income levels and strong consumer base have resulted in the proliferating of investor interests in the region. Many Indian home grown businesses have taken roots in this part of the country and the region has also been the preferred investment gateway for foreign players. Each state/ UT offers a distinct advantage in building the overall investment viability in the region.
This paper is an attempt to highlight the advantages and opportunities available in the northern region to the potential investors and the way forward. It also describes the high growth sectors which have plenty of opportunities in the region. Government policies are also discussed to provide a favorable investment environment for the private sector. The paper concludes by a discussion on certain key areas which can be focused to attract potential investments in the region.
This report was released at the "Invest North Conclave" held at Gurgaon on 3-4 November 2012.