The Directorate of Industries and Commerce (DIC) functions as the operational arm of the Industries and Commerce Department of the Government of Kerala, dedicated to promoting the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within the state. DIC actively engages in various initiatives, including skills enhancement for entrepreneurs, provision of infrastructure support, assistance in obtaining licenses and clearances, financial aid through different schemes, market identification facilitation, and revitalization of distressed and non-operational units.
Under its purview, DIC oversees 40 industrial estates strategically located across all districts except Wayanad. To address challenges related to land scarcity and the impact of industrial activities on residential areas, DIC manages multi-store industrial estates in different districts. These estates aim to provide viable industrial spaces while addressing concerns related to habitation and environmental impact. DIC administers the allocation of industrial land in Development Areas (DA), Development Plots (DP), and Functional Industrial Estates (FIE), following the Land Allotment Rules.
Private industrial parks in the state, facilitated by the Private Industrial Estate Development Scheme, are strategically designed to enhance employment opportunities by creating easily accessible areas for industrial enterprises. Developers seeking permits must meet a minimum land requirement of 10 acres and undergo feasibility checks. The government provides financial assistance of up to Rs. 3 crores for infrastructure development, with a focus on industrial use and restrictions on non-industrial establishments within the parks.
DIC recently granted development permits for 16 private industrial parks, contributing to the economic landscape of various regions in the state. Notable ventures include VMPS Food Park and Ventures in Pariyaram, Kannur; Malabar Enterprises in Edayur, Malappuram; Indian Virgin Spices (P) Limited in Kanjirappally, Kottayam; Kadambur Industrial Park in Ambalappara, Palakkad; Jacob and Richard International Pvt. Ltd in Bharananganam, Kottayam; Sance Steriles (P) Ltd. in Moonnilavu, Kottayam; Delta Aggregates & Sand(P) Ltd in Chittar, Pathanamthitta; Pathanamthitta Industrial Promotions (P) Ltd. in Pandalam, Pathanamthitta; Hi Tech Industrial Park in Ambalappara, Palakkad; Featherlike (P) Ltd in Pudussery, Palakkad; Zehub Technopark (P) Ltd. in Pattazhi, Kollam; Mount Park Industrial Estates Private Limited in Karassery, Kozhikkode; Ozone Granites in Payipra, Ernakulam; Tuffoply Resigns India (P) Ltd in Ayana, Ernakulam; Classy Industrial Park in Kuruva, Malappuram; and Haritha in Vilamana, Kannur. These developments represent a diverse array of industries, promising to generate employment opportunities and contribute to the overall economic advancement of their respective regions in Kerala.
The introduction of Campus Industrial Parks by the State Government signifies a pioneering initiative in Kerala, harmoniously integrating education and industry to catalyze innovation and economic prosperity. These parks, strategically positioned beneath educational institutions, alleviate the scarcity of industrial land and stimulate entrepreneurial spirit among students. Fostering a collaborative environment between academia and industry, the parks serve as hubs for manufacturing products derived from academic research, creating a dynamic ecosystem that benefits both education and industry. With a strong emphasis on infrastructure and eco-friendly practices, these parks support industrial growth while creating opportunities for students, presenting a symbiotic relationship that propels economic development and enriches the prospects of the youth.
