Vibrant Gujarat is once again in the spotlight as Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel highlighted the state’s potential to emerge as the growth engine of India’s $3.5 trillion economy. Speaking at a special roadshow and interaction with leading industrialists in New Delhi, the Chief Minister emphasized how the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conferences (VGRC) will accelerate industrial growth, unlock regional investment opportunities, and further showcase the state’s unique identity, cultural heritage, and economic strength.
The Legacy of Vibrant Gujarat
The Vibrant Gujarat Summit, first launched in 2003 under the vision of then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, has evolved into one of the most prestigious global investor gatherings in India. Over the past two decades, the summit has transformed Gujarat into the “Most Preferred Destination” for domestic and international investors.
According to CM Patel, Vibrant Gujarat is not just about trade and business—it is also about blending commerce with culture, entrepreneurship with tradition, and innovation with industrial strength. He described it as a “growth engine” that has powered Gujarat’s rise as the most industrialized and urbanized state in the country.
Regional Conferences for Localized Growth
To carry forward this legacy, the Gujarat government has now introduced the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conferences (VGRCs). These conferences are designed to highlight region-specific strengths and create new opportunities for industrial development in North Gujarat, South Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Central Gujarat.
The Chief Minister noted that in many sectors, the production and output of certain regions of Gujarat surpass that of entire states in India. By hosting region-focused conferences, the state aims to:
- Unlock sector-specific investment opportunities
- Promote local MSMEs and ancillary industries
- Provide a direct connection between investors and regional ecosystems
- Present local products to national and international stakeholders through exhibitions and trade shows
With the theme “Regional Aspirations – Global Ambitions”, these conferences are expected to strengthen the “Vocal for Local, Local for Global” vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Key Projects Driving Gujarat’s Future
CM Patel outlined Gujarat’s ongoing and upcoming mega projects that are shaping the state’s growth trajectory:
- PM Mitra Park, Bulk Drug Park, Medical Device Park, Agro Food Park – specialized parks that strengthen industrial infrastructure.
- GIFT City – India’s international financial hub.
- Dholera Special Investment Region – a futuristic industrial township.
- Semiconductor manufacturing – tapping into sunrise sectors.
- Greenfield Ports and Renewable Energy – making Gujarat a leader in sustainable infrastructure.
These initiatives, coupled with the regional conferences, will position Gujarat as a powerhouse of both traditional and emerging industries.
Gujarat’s Ease of Doing Business Advantage
Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi highlighted Gujarat’s consistent top rankings in Business Reform Action Plans and Ease of Doing Business by the Government of India.
The state has introduced a Single Window Clearance Act (2017) to ensure approvals within fixed timelines. More than 200 business-related approvals are available through an end-to-end online system via the Investor Facilitation Portal, making Gujarat one of the most business-friendly destinations in the country.
This investor-first approach ensures transparency, speed, and efficiency, further enhancing Gujarat’s reputation as a preferred state for investment.
National and Global Recognition
At the event, Amar Deep Singh Bhatia, Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), praised the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference initiative. He noted that this move will promote industries in tier-2 and tier-3 cities and provide opportunities for startups in smaller towns.
He also mentioned that Gujarat’s model has become a pathfinder for other states. By implementing a Single Window System, the state has improved transparency and expedited approvals, creating an environment of trust and confidence among investors.
Focus on Sunrise Sectors
One of the most notable aspects of Vibrant Gujarat is its strong focus on sunrise sectors, which include:
- Semiconductors
- Green Hydrogen
- Defense Manufacturing
- Aerospace
- Renewable Energy
Gujarat has already attracted significant investments in these high-potential industries and aims to accelerate growth through VGRCs.
Supporting Local MSMEs
Beyond large-scale investments, CM Patel stressed that regional conferences will also uplift local MSMEs, giving them platforms to showcase products at exhibitions and trade shows. By connecting them directly with international buyers and investors, these initiatives will create more opportunities for small industries to expand globally.
Vibrant Gujarat: Driving Vision 2047
Both CM Patel and senior officials emphasized that Vibrant Gujarat is closely aligned with the national vision of Developed India @2047. Gujarat aims to contribute significantly by building a $3.5 trillion state economy as part of the larger national target.
The Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conferences will be an important stepping stone in achieving this, ensuring that growth is not just centralized but evenly spread across all parts of the state.
Key Highlights in a Snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Initiative | Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) |
| Theme | “Regional Aspirations – Global Ambitions” |
| Key Regions | North Gujarat, South Gujarat, Saurashtra, Central Gujarat |
| Focus | Sector-specific investments, MSME growth, regional identity |
| Upcoming Event | First VGRC on 9–10 October in North Gujarat |
| Major Projects | GIFT City, Dholera SIR, Semiconductors, Green Energy, Industrial Parks |
| Economic Target | Contribute to a $3.5 trillion economy by 2047 |
| Ease of Business | Single Window Clearance Act, Investor Facilitation Portal |
Industry Leaders Join Hands
The Delhi roadshow was attended by top officials and industry leaders, including:
- Harshavardhan Agarwal, President of FICCI
- Rajiv Gandhi, CEO & MD of Hester Biosciences
- Senior bureaucrats from the state and central government
- Representatives of leading industrial organizations
Their participation highlights the national importance of the upcoming regional conferences.
Conclusion
The Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conferences mark a significant new chapter in the state’s growth story. By decentralizing investment opportunities and focusing on regional strengths, Gujarat is setting a new model for inclusive development in India.
With mega projects like GIFT City, Dholera SIR, and renewable energy hubs, combined with local MSME support and sunrise sectors, Gujarat is not just looking at industrial growth—it is shaping the future of India’s economic journey.
As CM Bhupendra Patel said, Gujarat is ready to become the “Growth Engine of a $3.5 Trillion Economy”, driving both regional aspirations and global ambitions.
