The NITI Aayog released the fourth edition of the Export Preparedness Index (EPI) 2024 on Wednesday, offering a detailed evaluation of export readiness across Indian states and Union Territories. This index highlights the rising significance of subnational economies in shaping India’s global trade performance.
Among large states, Maharashtra ranked highest, followed by Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. In the category of small states, North Eastern states, and Union Territories, Nagaland stood out as one of the leading performers alongside Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Dadra and Nagar Haveli & Daman and Diu, and Goa.
The EPI 2024 uses data from central ministries, state governments, and public institutions. It employs a transparent, indicator-based methodology and focuses more sharply on districts, MSMEs, and institutional capacity, aiming to serve as a crucial policy tool for states to boost exports and align development strategies with India’s long-term trade goals.
The index is built around four pillars: Export Infrastructure, Business Ecosystem, Policy and Governance, and Export Performance, broken down into 13 sub-pillars and 70 indicators. Notably, the Business Ecosystem pillar carries the highest weight at 40%, underscoring its importance to export competitiveness.
Nagaland’s presence among the top performers in its category highlights the potential of North Eastern states in contributing to India’s export growth. The EPI 2024 stresses the need for states to strengthen infrastructure, improve cost competitiveness, and develop robust institutions. This approach aligns with India’s target of reaching $1 trillion in merchandise exports by 2030 and the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
(With inputs from PIB)