PUDUCHERRY: The Union government has approved the establishment of a dedicated Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for Information Technology (IT) in Puducherry, with an investment of ₹1,250 crore. This initiative aims to position Puducherry as a premier destination for technology firms and global investors. The SEZ will be built on 21.3 acres of government-owned land in Thattanchavady.
A statement from the Directorate of Information and Publicity emphasized that the park will not merely consist of office buildings but will be conceived as a comprehensive mini-city. “Around 70% of the area will house ‘plug-and-play’ offices, allowing companies to begin operations immediately. The remaining 30% will cater to the needs of employees, featuring housing, a shopping complex, a medical center, a bank, and even a fire station. This ‘Work-Live-Play’ environment ensures employees have access to essential services and recreation right on their doorstep,” the statement noted.
The project is expected to significantly impact the local community. For years, talented engineering and IT graduates from Puducherry have sought employment in larger cities like Chennai and Bengaluru. This new IT park aims to alter that trend by providing a world-class working environment locally. The government is committed to enabling the youth of Puducherry to pursue successful careers without having to relocate.
In the next decade, the SEZ is projected to create nearly 30,000 jobs—not only for software engineers but also for roles related to construction, maintenance, security, and various local services. Financially, the government anticipates that the IT park will generate export services worth ₹10,000 crore over ten years, which will help improve local infrastructure, including roads, water supply, and educational institutions.
Since the Oulgaret municipality already owns the land, the project can commence rapidly without the usual land acquisition delays. Additionally, the SEZ will be designed with environmentally friendly features, incorporating ‘green buildings’, smart waste management systems, and modern utility networks, with a focus on technology-related firms instead of heavy industries.
