India Strengthens Exports and Manufacturing with PLI Schemes and Logistics Reforms: Jitin Prasada

Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Jitin Prasada, informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that the Government has implemented a series of comprehensive measures to boost exports and strengthen domestic manufacturing. These initiatives focus on incentivising local production, reducing logistics costs, supporting MSMEs, and expanding market access through trade agreements, ultimately positioning India as a global export hub.

A major policy thrust has been placed on Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, which cover 14 key sectors including electronics, IT hardware, pharmaceuticals, solar PV modules, automobiles and auto components, white goods, and telecom equipment. The schemes have attracted significant investments, boosted production, created jobs, and encouraged exports. For instance, the PLI for medical devices has enabled manufacturing of 54 high-end products such as MRI machines, CT scans, heart valves, and stents, while the PLI for electronics has transformed India into the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer. Mobile phone exports rose from ₹1,500 crore in 2014–15 to over ₹2 lakh crore in 2024–25, making India a net exporter. Similarly, the pharmaceuticals sector achieved sales of ₹2.66 lakh crore, with exports worth ₹1.70 lakh crore in just three years.

To support the efficient movement of goods, the Government launched the National Logistics Policy (NLP) and PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which integrate multimodal transport infrastructure, improve coordination among stakeholders, and reduce costs. These initiatives, along with the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme (NICDP), aim to establish globally competitive industrial hubs connected to both domestic and international markets. The use of digital tools like the Logistics Data Bank has further increased transparency and efficiency in supply chains.

At the grassroots level, schemes such as Districts as Export Hubs (DEH) and E-Commerce Export Hubs (ECEHs) are empowering small businesses, artisans, and start-ups to access global markets. Under DEH, export potential products and services have been identified across all districts in consultation with states and union territories. State Export Promotion Committees (SEPC) and District Export Promotion Committees (DEPC) have been established to create District Export Action Plans, covering 590 districts so far. The ECEH initiative is being rolled out through pilot projects that provide integrated facilities like customs clearance, quality certification, packaging, and warehousing, making cross-border e-commerce more cost-effective and efficient.

In addition to these measures, the Government is also expanding market access through Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). India recently signed the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the United Kingdom in July 2025, and negotiations with the European Union are expected to conclude by the end of the year. These agreements are expected to open new opportunities for Indian exporters and reduce trade barriers.

The cumulative impact of these reforms is evident in the reduction of import dependency and the significant rise in India’s exports across multiple sectors. In pharmaceuticals, India has become a net exporter of bulk drugs, moving from a trade deficit of ₹1,930 crore in FY 2021–22 to a surplus of ₹2,280 crore. In the electronics sector, particularly mobile manufacturing, India’s success has established it as a trusted player in global value chains.

By combining targeted production incentives, infrastructure development, digital trade facilitation, and international market access, the Government is building a robust ecosystem to achieve long-term competitiveness. Jitin Prasada emphasised that these initiatives reflect a strategic vision to transform India into a global manufacturing and export powerhouse, ensuring that Indian products meet global standards while creating sustainable economic growth and employment opportunities.

Source: PIB