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National Strategy Proposals for the Establishment of National Guidelines on Global Capability Centers

Agile innovation networks, represented by Global Capability Centers (GCCs), are rapidly gaining significance in the creation of new value. These centers foster innovative ecosystems, bolstering enterprise adaptability, spurring rapid technological advancement, boosting global competitiveness,...

National Guidelines for Establishing Global Capability Centers: Proposing a National Structure for...
National Guidelines for Establishing Global Capability Centers: Proposing a National Structure for GCCs

National Strategy Proposals for the Establishment of National Guidelines on Global Capability Centers

India has taken a significant step forward in its strategic vision to transform its Global Capability Centers (GCC) ecosystem. The National Policy on GCCs, recently published by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), aims to scale the number of GCC centers from the current 1,800 to a target of 5,000, positioning India as a global hub for high-value enterprise capabilities.

The policy focuses on four key areas: policy, infrastructure, talent, and institutional coordination. To achieve this goal, the development of digital infrastructure is crucial to create globally benchmarked work environments and promote the upstream movement of GCC operations in India.

To address talent gaps, the policy emphasizes the need for targeted intervention, stronger academia-industry collaboration, flexible skilling models, incentives for leadership relocation, and infrastructure to support hybrid work. The development of regional talent hubs in tier-2 and tier-3 regions can help distribute opportunities and accelerate the economy in these areas.

The policy also recognizes the potential of frontier domains such as autonomous mobility, agentic, genomics-led R&D, quantum computing, and edge-AI to transform GCCs and their parent organizations. Unlocking new frontiers of opportunity by regional expansion, deepening research linkages, and fostering enterprise-level agility is crucial for India's growth story.

The policy is not just about numbers; it's about shifting India from capability to leadership and from national strength to global impact. With active participation from all stakeholders, India can forge a future where GCCs become a fulcrum in the axis of global transformation and economy.

To retain and attract next-generation GCCs, India must offer high-quality, business-ready physical infrastructure, including grade-A office spaces, high-quality utilities, efficient transport, and logistic access, along with vibrant living ecosystems. Additionally, an integrated single-window system for all GCC clearances is essential.

Existing policy frameworks such as Special Economic Zones, Software Technology Parks of India, and IT policies will be harmonized to support the expansion and elevation of India's GCC ecosystem. Furthermore, transfer pricing frameworks and the taxation ecosystem in India should be aligned with global best practices.

The policy also aims to drive employment generation of 20-25 million through GCC-led growth, including 4-5 million direct jobs. To reinforce capabilities in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the policy may focus on distributing the pressure from Tier 1 cities and bringing locational equity.

The National Policy on GCCs is a significant step towards India's goal of becoming a global hub for high-value enterprise capabilities. With its focus on talent development, digital infrastructure, and institutional coordination, India is well on its way to becoming a leader in the global GCC landscape.

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