Defence Corridor Replaces Katta Trade in Uttar Pradesh, Says Shah

Shah, a senior official, told The Times of India that the defence corridor launched in Uttar Pradesh is now eclipsing the long‑standing 'katta' sand‑mining operations that have plagued the region. He said the corridor's manufacturing hubs and logistics network are attracting private investment and creating formal jobs, thereby reducing reliance on the informal, often illegal, sand trade.
The defence corridor is part of a national push to develop a domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem. It brings together aerospace, shipbuilding, and advanced material firms under a coordinated policy framework, offering incentives such as tax breaks and infrastructure support.
As the corridor gains momentum, the 'katta' industry – which involved unregulated extraction of river sand for construction – is losing market share. Analysts note that the shift could improve environmental outcomes and curb illegal activities, while boosting the state's contribution to India's defence production goals.
Shah emphasized that the transition is still in early stages, but the trend reflects a broader move toward structured, high‑value manufacturing in the state.
The government plans to monitor the impact closely and ensure that displaced workers from the sand‑mining sector receive skill‑development assistance.