Punjab Unveils Plan to Transform Mohali into a Silicon Valley with New Start-up Hub
In a significant move to boost technological innovation, Punjab Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora announced on Friday that the state government is establishing a dedicated start-up hub at Kalkat Bhavan in Mohali. This initiative is modelled after the world-renowned Pangyo Techno Valley in South Korea, signaling Punjab's ambition to position Mohali as a premier global technology and start-up destination.
Vision for Mohali as a Global Tech Hub
Addressing a session titled "Brand Mohali" at the Progressive Punjab Investors' Summit 2026 held at Plaksha University, Arora emphasized that Mohali is rapidly emerging from its status as a satellite town. "Just as South Korea has its Silicon Valley, Punjab will soon have its own in Mohali," he stated, highlighting the transformative vision for the city. The chief minister has already granted permission for this project, which is set to serve as a nerve centre for innovation, attracting top talent and investments.
Competitive Edge Through Power Reforms and Subsidies
Arora detailed key measures under the new Industrial Policy to enhance Mohali's appeal. Power reforms are a cornerstone of this strategy, with IT companies and data centres being moved from commercial to industrial power rates. This change ensures that IT firms in Mohali will benefit from the cheapest power in the entire country, providing a significant cost advantage.
Additionally, the minister announced lucrative worker subsidies to support businesses:
- IT firms will receive Rs 5,000 per worker per month.
- Global Capability Centres (GCCs) will get Rs 7,000 per worker per month.
These subsidies come with significantly lowered eligibility barriers, specifically designed to encourage participation from small and medium enterprises, fostering a more inclusive start-up ecosystem.
Expanding Urban and Economic Infrastructure
The session saw participation from leaders across various sectors, including hospitality, IT, education, and medical industries. Arora highlighted recent milestones in Mohali's urban expansion, such as the auction of the Mohali Convention Centre and the opening of an Infosys Centre. He noted that Mohali is emerging as a destination not only for business but also for destination weddings and international conferences, thanks to its proximity to the hills and the international airport.
Leveraging Local Talent and Healthcare Investments
Arora emphasized the advantage of investing in Mohali by tapping into local talent. "By investing in Mohali, companies can hire the top 1% of Punjabi talent who prefer to stay close to their roots and culture, ensuring a much lower attrition rate compared to other tech hubs," he explained. This approach aims to create a stable and skilled workforce, reducing turnover and enhancing productivity.
On the healthcare front, the minister congratulated the expansion of local medical facilities, including a Rs 900 crore investment in hospital infrastructure. He urged private players to focus on "affordable healthcare" to support the growing population and economic activity in the region.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Mohali
With these comprehensive initiatives, Punjab is set to propel Mohali into a leading technology and start-up hub, rivalling global counterparts. The combination of a dedicated start-up hub, competitive power rates, attractive subsidies, and strategic urban development positions Mohali as a key player in India's innovation landscape, promising economic growth and job creation for the state.
