Top Indian Cities to Start a Business or Career in 2024
The Government wants you to become 'Atmanirbhar'. Your family wants you to start earning as soon as possible. Instagram influencers want you to start freelancing or start a business online, as soon as possible. Some even are ready to share their 'secret sauce' that will get you to riches. Shark Tank series shows you the power of starting up.
In short, everyone wants you to become independent, or in fact, self-dependent. But with all the challenges associated with starting a business in India, where do you actually get started?
In all my years as a 'self-taught' and 'self-employed' professional who had a business background (and family), I feel the first step is to decide where do you want to get started. It's not that you can't start from the comforts of your home, but if a city gives you the infrastructure, network, and ecosystem to 'fail' or 'succeed' fast, why not shift and take advantage? So, here are the top 12 cities, I feel are the best for you to start a business.
Best Cities to Start a Business in India (Not Ranked or Rated, But Duly Vetted)
Mumbai
Mumbai, also known as the financial capital of India, is a vibrant city with a diverse and dynamic economy. Here is some information about Mumbai's economy:
Financial Services: Mumbai is the leading financial center in India, hosting the headquarters of major banks, financial institutions, and the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), the oldest stock exchange in Asia. The city is a hub for banking, insurance, mutual funds, asset management, and capital markets, attracting domestic and international investors.
Film and Entertainment Industry: Mumbai, often referred to as the "Bollywood" capital, is the center of India's film and entertainment industry. The city is home to numerous film studios, production houses, and post-production facilities. The film industry contributes significantly to Mumbai's economy and employment generation.
Information Technology (IT) and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO): Mumbai has a thriving IT and BPO sector, with companies providing software development, IT consulting, and outsourcing services. The city attracts major IT companies and start-ups, contributing to its technological advancement and employment opportunities.
Manufacturing: Mumbai has a diverse manufacturing sector that includes textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, and automobiles. Industrial areas like Andheri, Chembur, and Navi Mumbai are home to manufacturing units and industrial estates. The city's strategic location and infrastructure make it an ideal location for manufacturing and trade.
Port and Shipping: Mumbai's port, known as the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), is one of the largest and busiest ports in India. It handles a significant volume of international trade, facilitating imports and exports. The port and shipping industry contribute to Mumbai's economy through logistics, warehousing, and related services.
Retail and Wholesale Trade: Mumbai is a major commercial hub with a vibrant retail and wholesale trade sector. The city has numerous markets and shopping districts, including Colaba Causeway, Crawford Market, and Linking Road, where a wide range of products are bought and sold. The retail sector contributes to the city's employment and consumer spending.
Tourism and Hospitality: Mumbai attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists. The city offers a mix of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, beaches, and a vibrant nightlife. The tourism and hospitality industry in Mumbai includes hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and other related services.
Services Sector: Mumbai has a strong services sector, including professional services such as legal, consulting, advertising, and media. The city is home to major corporate offices, business centers, and commercial complexes, creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.
Known as 'mayanagri' for the dreamy, and a land of opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs, Mumbai offers enough for everyone to start a small business. Need ideas to start a business in Mumbai? Check out our blog on best business ideas in Mumbai now.
Delhi
Delhi, the capital city of India, is a bustling metropolis with a diverse and robust economy. Here is some information about Delhi's economy:
Services Sector: Delhi has a strong services sector, which contributes significantly to its economy. The city is a major hub for finance, banking, insurance, real estate, and professional services. It hosts the headquarters of numerous national and international companies, attracting skilled professionals and fostering economic growth.
Information Technology (IT) and IT-Enabled Services (ITES): Delhi has a thriving IT and ITES industry. The city is home to numerous IT parks, software development centers, and business process outsourcing (BPO) companies. These sectors provide employment opportunities and contribute to the city's economic output.
Retail and Wholesale Trade: Delhi has a vibrant retail and wholesale trade sector. The city is known for its bustling markets, including Connaught Place, Chandni Chowk, Karol Bagh, and Lajpat Nagar. These markets offer a wide range of products, including textiles, electronics, jewelry, and handicrafts. Delhi's wholesale trade sector supplies goods to retailers across the country.
Manufacturing: Delhi has a diverse manufacturing sector, encompassing industries such as textiles, garments, leather goods, chemicals, electronics, and automobiles. Industrial areas like Okhla, Naraina, Wazirpur, and Mayapuri are hubs for manufacturing and contribute to the city's industrial output.
Construction and Infrastructure: Delhi has experienced significant infrastructure development in recent years. Projects such as metro rail expansion, airport modernization, road network expansion, and construction of commercial and residential complexes have stimulated economic activity in the construction sector. Infrastructure projects have enhanced connectivity and facilitated business growth.
Tourism and Hospitality: Delhi attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists due to its rich historical and cultural heritage. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, India Gate, and Jama Masjid. The tourism and hospitality industry in Delhi includes hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and other related services.
Education and Research: Delhi is a renowned education hub, hosting prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Delhi, Jawaharlal Nehru University, and Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) and Management (IIM). These institutions attract students from across the country and abroad, contributing to the education sector's growth and fostering research and innovation.
Government Sector: As the capital city, Delhi houses the central government's administrative offices, ministries, and diplomatic missions. The government sector provides employment opportunities and contributes to the local economy through various government services and infrastructure projects.
The opportunities and economy of Delhi makes it the perfect place to start a business in India. Need ideas to start a business in Delhi? Check out our Delhi Business Ideas Directory Now.
Bengaluru
Bengaluru is a major city in the state of Karnataka, India, and is often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of India" due to its thriving information technology industry. Here is some information about Bangalore's economy:
Information Technology (IT) and Information Technology Enabled Services (ITES): Bangalore is a global hub for IT and ITES companies. It houses numerous multinational corporations, software development centers, and research and development (R&D) facilities. The city's favorable business environment, skilled workforce, and supportive infrastructure have attracted investments from around the world.
Start-up Ecosystem: Bangalore has a vibrant start-up ecosystem and is considered one of the top start-up destinations globally. The city provides a conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, with several incubators, accelerators, and venture capital firms supporting the growth of start-ups across various sectors, including technology, e-commerce, fintech, healthtech, and more.
Research and Development (R&D): Bangalore is home to several R&D centers and institutions. The presence of research facilities and collaborations between academia and industry have led to technological advancements and innovation in sectors such as IT, biotechnology, aerospace, and defense.
Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals: Bangalore has a significant presence in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. The city houses numerous biotech and pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, and biotechnology parks. Bangalore's biotechnology industry focuses on areas such as healthcare, agriculture, bioinformatics, and molecular research.
Manufacturing and Engineering: Bangalore has a growing manufacturing sector, particularly in electronics, automobiles, aerospace, and defense. The city has industrial clusters such as Peenya, Bommasandra, and Jigani, which house manufacturing units and assembly plants. Bangalore's engineering capabilities and skilled workforce contribute to the growth of this sector.
Services Sector: Bangalore has a thriving services sector encompassing a wide range of industries. These include banking, financial services, insurance, telecommunications, healthcare, retail, hospitality, and logistics. The services sector provides employment opportunities and contributes to the city's economic growth.
Education and Research: Bangalore is a major education hub, hosting prestigious educational institutions, including Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Indian Institute of Management (IIM), National Law School of India University (NLSIU), and numerous engineering and medical colleges. The city's education sector attracts students from across the country and abroad, supporting the growth of research and knowledge-based industries.
Real Estate and Construction: Bangalore's rapid economic growth has led to significant infrastructure development and a booming real estate sector. The city has witnessed the construction of residential complexes, commercial spaces, IT parks, and shopping malls to cater to the growing demand.
If you're into SaaS or any kind of startup building, it makes sense for you to shift to Bengaluru. Particularly because of the ecosystem, community and support. But beware, the rental prices + cost of living can make you burn cash a lot faster than you expect. So, make a conscious decision between 'ecosystem' and 'frugality'.
Need business ideas to start in Bengaluru? Check out our blog on best business ideas in Bengaluru.
Hyderabad
Hyderabad, also known as the "City of Pearls," is the capital city of the state of Telangana in India. Here is some information about Hyderabad's economy:
Information Technology (IT) and IT-enabled Services (ITES): Hyderabad has emerged as a major IT and ITES hub in India. The city is home to numerous multinational IT companies, software development centers, and business process outsourcing (BPO) companies. The presence of dedicated IT parks and a skilled workforce has contributed to the city's growth in the technology sector.
Pharma and Biotechnology: Hyderabad has a thriving pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry. The city is home to a large number of pharmaceutical companies, including major players in both generic and innovative drug development. Hyderabad is known for its active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) manufacturing and has several biotechnology research and development (R&D) centers.
Life Sciences and Healthcare: Apart from the pharmaceutical industry, Hyderabad has a significant presence in the life sciences and healthcare sectors. The city hosts research institutes, hospitals, and specialized healthcare facilities. It is also emerging as a destination for medical tourism, attracting patients from within India and abroad.
Manufacturing and Engineering: Hyderabad has a diverse manufacturing sector that includes industries such as textiles, automotive, electronics, and engineering goods. The city houses industrial estates and special economic zones (SEZs) that cater to manufacturing and export-oriented industries. Hyderabad's strategic location and infrastructure support the growth of this sector.
Financial Services: Hyderabad is developing as a financial services hub, with the presence of banks, insurance companies, and other financial institutions. The city's growing economy and expanding business activities have led to increased demand for financial services, including banking, insurance, and capital markets.
Retail and Hospitality: Hyderabad has a vibrant retail sector, with numerous shopping malls, markets, and retail outlets. The city's retail industry offers a diverse range of products, including clothing, electronics, and household items. The hospitality industry in Hyderabad, including hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, caters to the needs of residents and visitors.
Education and Research: Hyderabad is a prominent educational center with renowned institutions such as the University of Hyderabad, Osmania University, and the Indian School of Business (ISB). The city's educational institutions support research and development activities and contribute to the growth of knowledge-based industries.
Tourism and Heritage: Hyderabad's rich history, culture, and architectural heritage make it a popular tourist destination. The city is known for its iconic landmarks, including the Charminar, Golconda Fort, and the Qutb Shahi Tombs. The tourism industry in Hyderabad includes hospitality services, travel agencies, and tour operators.
Need ideas to start a business in Hyderabad based on the above economic opportunities? Here's where you should look at: Best Business Ideas to Start a Business in Hyderabad.
Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, the largest city in the state of Gujarat, India, is a prominent economic and industrial center. Here is some information about Ahmedabad's economy:
Textile and Apparel Industry: Ahmedabad has a strong textile and apparel industry, known for its cotton production and textile manufacturing. The city is a major hub for textile mills, textile processing units, and garment manufacturing. Ahmedabad's textile industry contributes significantly to the local economy and provides employment opportunities.
Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industry: Ahmedabad is home to a thriving chemical and pharmaceutical industry. The city houses numerous chemical manufacturing units, pharmaceutical companies, and research institutions. Ahmedabad's chemical and pharmaceutical sectors contribute to the country's production of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and formulations.
Engineering and Machinery Manufacturing: Ahmedabad has a well-developed engineering and machinery manufacturing sector. The city is known for its production of machine tools, heavy machinery, electrical equipment, and industrial automation products. Industrial areas like Naroda, Odhav, and Vatva house manufacturing units and industrial estates.
Construction and Real Estate: Ahmedabad has experienced significant construction and real estate development in recent years. The city has witnessed the construction of residential complexes, commercial spaces, industrial parks, and infrastructure projects. The construction sector has contributed to the city's economic growth and created employment opportunities.
Jewelry and Gemstones: Ahmedabad has a thriving jewelry industry, specializing in traditional and contemporary jewelry designs. The city is known for its gold, silver, and diamond jewelry manufacturing and trading. Ahmedabad's jewelry sector caters to both domestic and international markets.
Information Technology (IT) and IT-enabled Services (ITES): Ahmedabad has witnessed growth in the IT and ITES sectors. The city hosts software development centers, BPO companies, and IT consulting firms. Ahmedabad's IT sector offers services in software development, web development, digital marketing, and other IT-enabled services.
Retail and Wholesale Trade: Ahmedabad has a bustling retail and wholesale trade sector. The city is known for its vibrant markets, including Manek Chowk, Rani No Hajiro, and Law Garden. These markets offer a variety of products, including textiles, handicrafts, traditional attire, and food items. Ahmedabad's wholesale trade sector supplies goods to retailers in Gujarat and neighboring states.
Services Sector: Ahmedabad has a diverse services sector, including banking, finance, insurance, healthcare, education, and professional services. The city hosts several commercial and business centers, catering to the needs of various industries. Ahmedabad's services sector contributes to employment generation and economic growth.
The Gujarati 'trade culture' followed by a 'friendly vibe' of the city can make you fall in love with Ahmedabad sooner than you expect. So, check out these business ideas to start in Ahmedabad if you want to shift and start a business soon.
Chennai
Chennai, the capital city of the state of Tamil Nadu, India, is a major economic and industrial hub in South India. Here is some information about Chennai's economy:
Automotive Industry: Chennai is known as the "Detroit of India" due to its significant presence in the automotive sector. The city houses manufacturing facilities of major automobile companies, including Ford, Hyundai, Renault-Nissan, and BMW. The automotive industry contributes significantly to Chennai's economy and provides employment opportunities.
Information Technology (IT) and IT-Enabled Services (ITES): Chennai has a thriving IT and ITES industry. The city is home to numerous IT parks, software development centers, and business process outsourcing (BPO) companies. Chennai's IT sector offers services in software development, application development, IT consulting, and digital marketing.
Electronics and Hardware Manufacturing: Chennai has a growing electronics and hardware manufacturing sector. The city houses electronics manufacturing units, semiconductor companies, and research institutions. Chennai's electronics industry caters to both domestic and international markets.
Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare: Chennai has a significant presence in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The city is home to pharmaceutical companies, research and development (R&D) centers, and hospitals. Chennai's healthcare industry includes hospitals, medical tourism, and healthcare-related services.
Banking and Financial Services: Chennai is a major financial center in South India. The city houses the regional headquarters of many national and international banks, insurance companies, and financial institutions. Chennai's financial services sector plays a crucial role in supporting businesses and individuals with banking, insurance, and investment services.
Port and Shipping: Chennai has one of the largest and busiest ports in India, the Chennai Port Trust. The port handles a significant volume of international trade and contributes to Chennai's economy through logistics, shipping services, and warehousing.
Textiles and Apparel: Chennai has a textile and apparel industry that includes spinning mills, garment manufacturing units, and textile export houses. The city's textile industry specializes in cotton, silk, and synthetic fabrics. Chennai's apparel industry produces a wide range of garments for domestic and international markets.
Services Sector: Chennai has a diverse services sector, including hospitality, retail, education, and entertainment. The city has shopping malls, hotels, educational institutions, and entertainment centers that contribute to the local economy.
If you're looking for a balance between natural beauty, metropolitan vibe, and a great startup ecosystem, you should definitely consider Chennai. It's less 'hustle-y' than Bengaluru, but still give you a lot to get started. Check out our blog Best Business Ideas in Chennai now, if you're falling short of business ideas.
Kolkata
Kolkata, the capital city of the state of West Bengal in India, is a major commercial, cultural, and educational center. Here is some information about Kolkata's economy:
Trade and Commerce: Kolkata has a rich history as a trading hub and continues to be an important center for trade and commerce. The city has bustling wholesale markets, such as Burrabazar and Bara Bazar, where a wide range of commodities, including textiles, handicrafts, and electronics, are traded. Kolkata's strategic location and transportation infrastructure facilitate trade with other parts of India and neighboring countries.
Jute Industry: Kolkata has been historically known for its jute industry. The city's jute mills play a significant role in India's jute production, processing, and export. Jute, also known as the "golden fiber," is used in the production of sacks, bags, and textiles. Kolkata's jute industry contributes to the local economy and provides employment opportunities.
Manufacturing and Engineering: Kolkata has a diverse manufacturing sector, including engineering goods, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and electrical equipment. The city is home to industrial areas like Howrah, Salt Lake, and Rajarhat, where manufacturing units are located. Kolkata's manufacturing industry contributes to the local economy and supports employment generation.
Information Technology (IT) and IT-enabled Services (ITES): Kolkata has a growing IT and ITES industry. The city hosts software development centers, BPO companies, and IT consulting firms. Kolkata's IT sector offers services in software development, web development, digital marketing, and other IT-enabled services. The city is also known for its expertise in the development of software applications for the banking and finance sectors.
Education and Research: Kolkata is a prominent educational and research center, with renowned institutions such as Jadavpur University, Presidency University, and the Indian Statistical Institute. The city's educational institutions contribute to the development of a skilled workforce and support research and innovation in various fields.
Cultural and Creative Industries: Kolkata has a thriving cultural and creative industry. The city is known for its literature, arts, theater, and film industry. Kolkata hosts film festivals, art exhibitions, literary events, and cultural festivals, contributing to the city's cultural economy.
Services Sector: Kolkata has a diverse services sector, including banking, finance, insurance, healthcare, hospitality, and retail. The city has commercial and business centers that provide employment opportunities and support various service industries.
Tourism: Kolkata is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its historical landmarks, colonial architecture, cultural heritage, and literary connections. Tourists visit attractions such as the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, and Kalighat Temple. The tourism industry in Kolkata includes hospitality services, travel agencies, and tour operators.
The British cannot escape the love of Calcutta and there's certainly a classy vibe to the city. If you're a creative soul who loves moving things at your own pace, Kolkata is the city you should look at for your startup journey. Discover the best business ideas in Kolkata and get started.
Surat
Surat, located in the state of Gujarat, India, is a bustling city known for its textile and diamond industries. Here is some information about Surat's economy:
Textile and Apparel Industry: Surat is one of the largest textile hubs in India and is known for its textile manufacturing and trading. The city specializes in the production of synthetic fabrics, sarees, dress materials, and embroidered textiles. Surat's textile industry contributes significantly to the city's economy and provides employment to a large workforce.
Diamond and Jewelry Industry: Surat is renowned globally for its diamond cutting and polishing industry. The city processes a significant portion of the world's diamonds and is a major diamond trading center. Surat's diamond industry has played a crucial role in establishing the city as one of the leading centers of the global diamond trade.
Chemical and Petrochemical Industry: Surat has a thriving chemical and petrochemical industry. The city houses chemical manufacturing units, petrochemical refineries, and chemical research institutes. Surat's chemical industry produces various chemicals, dyes, fertilizers, and pharmaceutical raw materials.
Surat International Airport and Cargo Complex: Surat's airport and cargo complex facilitate international and domestic trade. The airport has direct connectivity to several major cities in India and international destinations. The cargo complex supports the export of textiles, diamonds, and other goods from Surat to different parts of the world.
Construction and Real Estate: Surat has experienced significant construction and real estate development in recent years. The city has witnessed the construction of residential complexes, commercial spaces, and infrastructure projects. The construction sector has contributed to Surat's economic growth and created employment opportunities.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Surat has a vibrant ecosystem of small and medium enterprises across various sectors. These include manufacturing, trading, engineering, and services. The SME sector in Surat plays a crucial role in employment generation and contributes to the city's overall economy.
Retail and Wholesale Trade: Surat has a thriving retail and wholesale trade sector. The city is known for its textile markets, such as Ring Road, Textile Market, and Millennium Textile Market, where traders from across the country come to buy fabrics and textiles. Surat's wholesale trade sector supplies textiles and related products to retailers across India.
Services Sector: Surat has a growing services sector, including banking, finance, insurance, healthcare, education, and hospitality. The city has commercial complexes, hospitals, educational institutions, and hotels that contribute to the local economy.
Pune
Pune, located in the state of Maharashtra, India, is a vibrant city with a diverse and growing economy. Here is some information about Pune's economy:
Information Technology (IT) and IT-Enabled Services (ITES): Pune is a major IT hub in India, often referred to as the "Oxford of the East" due to its large number of educational institutions. The city houses numerous IT companies, software development centers, and BPO companies. Pune's IT sector offers services in software development, IT consulting, application development, and digital marketing.
Automotive and Engineering: Pune has a strong presence in the automotive and engineering industries. The city is home to manufacturing facilities of major automobile companies, including Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto, and Mercedes-Benz. Pune's automotive and engineering sectors contribute significantly to the local economy and provide employment opportunities.
Education and Research: Pune is an educational and research hub, with several prestigious institutions like Savitribai Phule Pune University, College of Engineering Pune (COEP), and National Chemical Laboratory (NCL). The city's educational institutions contribute to the growth of a skilled workforce and support research and innovation in various fields.
Manufacturing and Industrial Growth: Pune has a diverse manufacturing sector that includes industries such as machinery, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and chemicals. Industrial areas like Bhosari, Chakan, and Hinjewadi house manufacturing units and industrial estates. Pune's manufacturing industry contributes to the city's economic growth and employment generation.
Services Sector: Pune has a thriving services sector, including banking, finance, insurance, healthcare, hospitality, retail, and entertainment. The city has commercial centers, shopping malls, hospitals, and hotels that contribute to the local economy and cater to the needs of residents and visitors.
Research and Development (R&D): Pune has a significant presence in research and development activities. The city is home to research institutes, technology parks, and innovation centers. Pune's R&D sector focuses on various domains, including IT, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and engineering.
Real Estate and Construction: Pune has witnessed significant construction and real estate development in recent years. The city has experienced the construction of residential complexes, commercial spaces, and infrastructure projects. The construction sector has contributed to Pune's economic growth and created employment opportunities.
Retail and Wholesale Trade: Pune has a thriving retail and wholesale trade sector. The city has shopping malls, markets, and retail outlets that offer a variety of products. Pune's wholesale trade sector supplies goods to retailers in Maharashtra and neighbouring states.
Read More: Best Business Ideas to Start in Pune
Jaipur
Jaipur, the capital city of the state of Rajasthan, India, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and tourism. Here is some information about Jaipur's economy:
Tourism: Jaipur is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical landmarks, palaces, forts, and vibrant markets. The tourism industry plays a significant role in Jaipur's economy, attracting domestic and international tourists. The city offers a range of hospitality services, including hotels, resorts, and tour operators.
Handicrafts and Textiles: Jaipur is famous for its handicrafts and textiles. The city is known for block printing, tie and dye (Bandhani), traditional jewelry, pottery, and handcrafted items. Jaipur's handicraft and textile industries provide employment to artisans and contribute to the local economy.
Gem and Jewelry Industry: Jaipur is a major center for the gem and jewelry industry. The city specializes in cutting, polishing, and trading gemstones, including diamonds, emeralds, rubies, and sapphires. Jaipur's gem and jewelry industry has a global presence and contributes significantly to the city's economy.
Education and Research: Jaipur is an emerging educational hub, with several universities, colleges, and educational institutions. The city's educational institutions offer a wide range of courses and contribute to the growth of a skilled workforce. Jaipur also has research institutes and centers focused on areas such as science, technology, and social sciences.
Manufacturing and Industrial Growth: Jaipur has a growing manufacturing sector, including textiles, handicrafts, ceramics, machinery, and engineering goods. Industrial areas like Sitapura, Vishwakarma Industrial Area, and Jhotwara house manufacturing units and industrial estates. Jaipur's manufacturing industry contributes to the city's economic growth and employment generation.
Information Technology (IT) and IT-enabled Services (ITES): Jaipur has witnessed the growth of the IT and ITES sector in recent years. The city hosts software development centers, BPO companies, and IT consulting firms. Jaipur's IT sector offers services in software development, web development, digital marketing, and other IT-enabled services.
Services Sector: Jaipur has a diverse services sector, including banking, finance, insurance, healthcare, retail, and hospitality. The city has commercial complexes, hospitals, educational institutions, and hotels that contribute to the local economy and cater to the needs of residents and visitors.
Retail and Wholesale Trade: Jaipur has a bustling retail and wholesale trade sector. The city has traditional markets like Johari Bazaar, Bapu Bazaar, and Tripolia Bazaar, where a variety of goods, including textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, and spices, are traded. Jaipur's wholesale trade sector supplies goods to retailers across Rajasthan and neighboring states.
Also Read: Best Business Ideas to Start in Jaipur
Lucknow
Lucknow, the capital city of Uttar Pradesh, India, is known for its rich history, culture, and economy. Here is some information about Lucknow's economy:
The distribution of main workers in 2001 revealed that almost 21% were cultivators and another 6% were agricultural labourers. This distribution shows a trend of decline in favor of non-agricultural activities over time1.
The city serves as the headquarters of the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), The Pradeshiya Industrial and Investment Corporation of Uttar Pradesh (PICUP), and the regional office of the Uttar Pradesh State Industries Development Corporation (UPSIDC)1.
Lucknow houses manufacturing units of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Tata Motors, and Eveready Industries. There are also small-scale and medium-scale industrial units located in the industrial enclaves of Chinhat, Aishbagh, Talkatora, Amausi, Mohanlalganj, and Arjunganj1.
The city's real estate sector is booming with rapidly growing property rates in several areas due to redevelopment1.
Traditional trade in Lucknow includes mangoes, melons, and grains. It also has small scale industries based on unique styles of embroidery like Chikan and Lakhnawi Zardozi. Lucknow is also an industrial producer of tobacco products, edible fragrances, handicrafts such as pottery, earthen toys, silver and gold foil work, and bone carving products1.
Emerging businesses in Lucknow include information technology, banking, retailing, construction, and other service sectors. Commercial property, SEZs, business centers, multiplexes, clubs, banks, food courts, entertainment centers, and finance institutions are growing. Biotechnology and information technology are focus areas for economic development, and there are plans for a biotech park in the city. It was also selected for the Smart City project of STPI1.
Kanpur
Kanpur, located in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India, is a significant industrial and commercial center. Here is some information about Kanpur's economy:
Leather and Textile Industry: Kanpur is known for its leather and textile industries. The city has a prominent presence in leather production, footwear manufacturing, and leather goods exports. Kanpur's leather industry is one of the largest in India, producing a variety of leather products. The textile industry in Kanpur includes cotton and synthetic fabric production, as well as the manufacturing of garments and home textiles.
Manufacturing and Industrial Growth: Kanpur has a diverse manufacturing sector, encompassing industries such as chemicals, fertilizers, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods. The city houses industrial areas like Panki, Dada Nagar, and Site 5, which host manufacturing units and industrial estates. Kanpur's manufacturing industry contributes to the local economy and provides employment opportunities.
Small-Scale Industries: Kanpur has a significant presence of small-scale industries, including manufacturing units involved in the production of leather goods, textiles, engineering components, and plastic products. These industries play a vital role in the local economy, providing employment and contributing to the industrial output of the city.
Education and Research: Kanpur is an educational center, hosting several educational institutions, including Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur and Kanpur University. These institutions contribute to the growth of a skilled workforce and support research and development activities in various fields.
Wholesale and Retail Trade: Kanpur has a vibrant wholesale and retail trade sector. The city has markets like Naveen Market, Birhana Road, and PPN Market, where a wide range of goods, including textiles, electronics, and consumer products, are traded. Kanpur's wholesale trade sector supplies goods to retailers in the city and neighboring regions.
Services Sector: Kanpur has a growing services sector, including banking, finance, insurance, healthcare, education, and hospitality. The city has commercial centers, hospitals, educational institutions, and hotels that contribute to the local economy and provide services to residents and visitors.
Chemical and Fertilizer Industry: Kanpur has a significant presence in the chemical and fertilizer industries. The city houses chemical manufacturing units, including those producing dyes, intermediates, and specialty chemicals. Kanpur's chemical industry plays a vital role in supplying raw materials to various sectors and contributes to the city's economic growth.
Transport and Logistics: Kanpur's strategic location on the Ganges River and its well-connected road and rail networks make it a transportation and logistics hub. The city facilitates the movement of goods and people, supporting trade and business activities.
Kanpur was (and still is) the hub for leather and textiles, paving way for a strong manufacturing infrastructure into the city. So, if you're into manufacturing business or are thinking to start one, you should look at Kanpur.
More Cities to Start a Business in India
Business Ideas (By States)
Start Small. Start Anywhere. But Start a Business in 2024...
While you may not be present in the cities mentioned above, I believe one can start anywhere if they have the willpower to start a business in India. After all, we are known for our 'jugaadu' mindset worldwide.
So, don't let geography come in the way. If you can set up shop in the above city, fine. Else, start a business anywhere and use bizlite to get your business online for free.
Also Read: Get Your Business Online for Free
