What similarities could exist between Jamshedpur and Hosur, separated by approximately 2,000 kilometres? Despite their locations in Jharkhand and Tamil Nadu respectively, both places share a common connection: the Tata Group. Jamshedpur is one of India’s earliest planned industrial cities, while Hosur is being developed similarly by Tata Electronics.
Significant changes are evident in Hosur, which was once known primarily as a village frequented by elephants. Jamshedpur also referred to as Steel City, Tatanagar, or simply Tata, was founded by Jamshedji Nusserwanji Tata and is the largest industrial city in Jharkhand, recognised as one of India’s first planned industrial cities.
The Tamil Nadu government is optimistic that Hosur will develop into an industrial city akin to Jamshedpur. With Tata leading the infrastructure development, comparisons are inevitable. However, unlike the focus on steel in Jamshedpur, the government is targeting multiple sectors in Hosur.
Considering the talent pool already present in Tamil Nadu, the government envisions establishing an IT service hub near Bengaluru, given that Hosur is only 40 km away. Once the infrastructure is completed and companies start operating, Hosur has the potential to become a twin electronic city to Bengaluru. Tata Electronics, which manufactures enclosures for Apple iPhones in Hosur, has ramped up recruitment and is rapidly expanding its facilities.
Hosur has a well-established industrial presence, being home to companies like TVS, Titan, Ashok Leyland, Ather, Ola, and others. The announcement of an airport in Hosur is viewed as another step towards transforming it into a major industrial hub. However, the influence of the Tata Group on the local economy is particularly significant.
Tata Electronics is set to become one of the largest employers in the area, offering high-quality jobs that will attract residents who contribute significantly to the local economy. As a result, the local economy is expected to thrive due to the development of infrastructure. The Tamil Nadu government is placing a strong emphasis on infrastructure development, improving connectivity, and enhancing social infrastructure.
There may be similarities between the two industrial townships, and it is possible that Tata could develop Hosur like Jamshedpur. However, it remains uncertain to what extent Jamshedpur’s culture will be reflected in Hosur. Jamshedpur is a steel city, and steel cities have distinct characteristics that set them apart from other urban areas.
Jamshedpur, in particular, has a colonial influence in its town planning and the ecosystem that has evolved around it. The culture of colonial clubs, for example, may not necessarily be replicated in Hosur. Durgapur, Bokaro, and Jamshedpur share similarities in this regard, being cosmopolitan planned townships with a notable missionary presence, especially in healthcare and education.
