The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme, launched in April 2020, has emerged as a cornerstone of India’s efforts to transform into a global manufacturing hub. With a focus on expanding industrial capacity, boosting exports, and creating jobs, the scheme has catalyzed remarkable growth across multiple sectors.
Key Highlights of the PLI Scheme
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Objective | Raise manufacturing share of GDP to 25% and position India as a global hub. |
| Total Outlay | ₹1.97 lakh crore |
| Applications Approved | 806 across 14 sectors |
| Launch Timeline | April 2020, starting with mobiles, electronics, APIs, medical devices |
| Expanded Coverage | 14 sectors including pharma, automobiles, textiles, specialty steel |
| Committed Investments | ₹1.61 lakh crore (Nov 2024) |
| Realized Investments | ₹1.76 lakh crore (Mar 2025) |
| Job Creation | 12 lakh+ direct and indirect jobs |
| Incentive Payouts (till Jun 2025) | ₹21,534 crore across 12 sectors |
| Electronics Production Growth | 146% increase: ₹2.13 lakh cr (FY 2020-21) → ₹5.25 lakh cr (FY 2024-25) |
| Mobile Exports Growth | 775% surge |
| Pharma Sector Sales | ₹2.66 lakh crore; shifted from net importer to net exporter |
| Food Processing Sector | 171 applications approved; ₹8,910 cr investments; ₹1,084 cr incentives disbursed |
| Telecom PLI Uptake | 21 of 42 eligible firms received ₹1,162 cr payouts |
Sectoral Impact
- Electronics & Mobile Manufacturing
Electronics production surged by 146%, while mobile exports grew by 775%, placing India among the top smartphone exporters globally. - Pharmaceuticals
With sales under the scheme crossing ₹2.66 lakh crore, India has transitioned from being a net importer to a net exporter, strengthening its pharma leadership. - Food Processing
Investments exceeded ₹8,910 crore, creating stronger linkages between farmers and industry, with ₹1,084 crore disbursed in incentives. - Automobiles & Specialty Steel
These sectors are attracting long-term capital and technological investments, enhancing India’s global competitiveness. - Telecom
Uptake has been moderate, with only 50% of eligible firms claiming incentives, reflecting sectoral challenges.
Sectors Covered Under PLI
The scheme strategically targets high-growth and high-potential industries:
- Electronics
- Pharmaceuticals
- Automobiles
- Textiles
- White Goods
- Specialty Steel
- Mobile Manufacturing
- Electronic Components
- APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients)
- Medical Devices
- Food Processing
- Telecom Equipment
- Advanced Chemistry Cell Batteries
- Solar Cells & Modules
Outlook
The PLI scheme has already reshaped India’s industrial landscape, with investments exceeding commitments, rapid growth in electronics, and a decisive shift in pharmaceuticals. While some sectors like telecom face slower adoption, the overall momentum underscores India’s growing stature as a global manufacturing hub.
If fully leveraged, the PLI scheme could be the defining driver in making “Make in India” a global success story.
Glottis Limited 
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