State PCS - Rajasthan (RAS)

• 28 May 2025

Urban Improvement Trust (UIT) in Balotra

Why in News? 

The Rajasthan government has set up the Urban Improvement Trust (UIT) for Balotra, following its designation as a new district carved out of Barmer.  

• This initiative was announced in the 2025–26 state budget.

Key Points 

• Urban Improvement Trust (UIT): 
  • UIT, also known as Nagar Vikas Nayas, is a statutory body in Rajasthan. 
  • It was established under the Rajasthan Urban Improvement Act, 1959. 
  • Objectives: 
    • Promote planned townships and industrial corridors. 
    • Accelerate economic growth and attract further investments. 
    • Streamline urban governance and enhance public service delivery. 
• Significance of UIT Formation in Balotra: 
  • Planned Urban Growth:  
    • Balotra, home to one of India’s largest textile clusters, has seen rapid industrial growth, and the UIT aims to curb unplanned expansion by ensuring sustainable and structured urban development. 
  • Infrastructure Development:  
    • The UIT’s jurisdiction spans key settlements, heritage sites, and new townships, enabling infrastructure upgrades like roads, water, sanitation, and housing in line with modern urban standards. 
  • Economic Growth and Investment:  
    • Balotra’s strong investor interest at the Rising Rajasthan Summit 2024 highlights its economic potential, while the UIT will offer an institutional framework to support industrial corridors, townships, and growth. 
  • Decentralised Urban Governance:  
    • By covering multiple tehsils and villages, the UIT aims to strengthen decentralised governance and enhance public service delivery through better urban-rural coordination.

Rajasthan's Textile Industry 

• About: 
  • Rajasthan's textile industry plays a crucial role in the state's economy, with a rich heritage and a wide range of traditional and modern production methods. 
  • It is especially known for its vibrant handicrafts, including block printing, tie-dye (Bandhani), and intricate embroidery. 
• Key Features and Significance: 
  • Rajasthan is a leading producer of cotton and wool, contributing significantly to India’s overall fibre production. 
  • Rajasthan ranked as the fourth-largest cotton-producing state in the country in FY 2023. 
    • Gujarat, Maharashtra and Telangana are the other major cotton producing states  
  • Bhilwara, often referred to as the “Textile City of India,” stands out as a key centre for textile manufacturing and export in the state. 
  • The state is famous for age-old textile techniques such as Bandhani, Leheriya, Kota Doriya, and Applique. 
  • The textile sector in Rajasthan effectively combines handwoven traditions with modern machinery, resulting in a diverse range of high-quality textile products.

Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit, 2024 

• The Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit was organised in December 2024 in Jaipur Exhibition Convention Centre (JECC), Sitapura, Jaipur. 
• The Investment Summit theme was "Replete, Responsible, Ready," with discussions on sustainable mining, water security, and women-led startups. 
• Over 32 countries and 20 international organizations joined the thematic sessions and expos showcasing Rajasthan’s potential.