What is Night-time Economy (NTE)? UPSC Daily Current Affairs /18 August 2025

Hyderabad’s Nightlife Economy Projected to Reach ₹26,000 Crore by 2031

Authorities in Telangana are planning to transform Hyderabad into a vibrant nightlife hub, comparable to global cities such as London, New York, and Berlin. With the Metro Rail and Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) services being extended until 2 a.m. within the next seven years, the city’s Night-time Economy (NTE) is expected to see significant growth.

Currently, Hyderabad’s NTE is valued at around ₹8,500 crore (2025 estimate). By 2031, it is projected to expand to ₹26,000 crore, creating 2.1–2.4 lakh new jobs.

What is Night-time Economy (NTE)?

• Refers to businesses and activities between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

• Includes hospitality, retail, entertainment, tourism, food services, healthcare, security, and infrastructure.

• Plays a key role in women’s safety and employment generation.

• Other Indian cities: In Mumbai, the NTE contributes 45–50% of Maharashtra’s GSDP, while in Delhi it is around 26–29%.

Government’s Plan for Hyderabad:

• Special NTE zones to be developed with their own governance model and policing.

• Pilot projects will start in Charminar, Gachibowli, Jubilee Hills, and Madhapur, later expanding to five more areas.

• Ride-hailing platforms like Uber, Ola, and local operators will be integrated with special pick-up and drop-off points.

• Last-mile connectivity will be improved by extending metro and TSRTC services until 2 a.m.

• Initial rollout in 12 months, beginning with non-alcoholic weekend-only pilots, then expanding to regular nightlife activities.

Why it Matters?

According to Special Chief Secretary Jayesh Ranjan:

• The NTE will make Hyderabad safe, inclusive, and accessible.

• It will contribute significantly to employment generation, tourism, infrastructure utilization, and quality of life.

• Proper night-specific governance and regulation will be the key to success.