UP Aims to Become a Leading Hub for Global Capability Centres
Lucknow: Realtors and commercial space providers from Invest UP, in collaboration with representatives from the Confederation of Real Estate Developers' Associations of India (CREDAI), met to discuss the potential of Uttar Pradesh (UP) as a premier destination for Global Capability Centres (GCCs). The state's robust talent ecosystem, cost-effective infrastructure, and comprehensive GCC Policy 2024 make it an attractive option for businesses looking to establish GCCs.
UP has a significant talent pool, with over 2 lakh STEM graduates produced annually, and over 8,000 higher education institutions. This, combined with a cost advantage of up to 40% compared to established hubs, makes the state a compelling choice for GCCs. The GCC Policy 2024 includes a range of incentives such as capital and payroll subsidies, EPF reimbursements, and dedicated support cells to streamline investor onboarding.
The plan to establish UP as a GCC hub adopts a hub-and-spoke model. Noida is designated as the global hub, Lucknow as an emerging hub, and tier-2 cities such as Agra, Meerut, Kanpur, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, and Prayagraj as satellite centres. This strategic approach aims to leverage the strengths of each city to create a comprehensive GCC ecosystem.
CREDAI members, including Shalimar Group, BBD Viraj, Rishita Developers, and Eldeco Housing, pledged their support. These developers are providing commercial spaces to IT-ITeS companies and GCC players and are now aligning their efforts with Invest UP by listing and sharing their commercial space inventory. This collaboration is crucial for the successful implementation of the GCC hub model.
Upcoming projects like AI City, IT City, and CG City in Lucknow, as well as YEIDA's Fintech Park, were discussed as major enablers for the GCC ecosystem. These projects are expected to provide the necessary infrastructure and support to attract and retain GCCs in the state. The development of these projects is a testament to the state's commitment to fostering a conducive environment for technology and innovation.
The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on the potential of UP to become a leading GCC hub. The combined efforts of Invest UP, CREDAI, and other stakeholders are expected to drive the growth of the GCC ecosystem in the state, creating numerous job opportunities and boosting economic development.