Gujarat is set to host the 10th edition of its
Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit
(VGGS) from January 10 to 12. Initiated in 2003 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was then the state's chief minister, this summit has transcended its initial mission of making Gujarat a "preferred investment destination" and emerged as the
driving force
for a
new India
.
Over the years, the biennial summit has showcased Gujarat's entrepreneurial spirit while fostering meaningful deliberations and collaborative opportunities.
The summit has also catalysed socio-economic development and evolved into a model for other states to emulate.
In its two-decade journey, VGGS has propelled the state's GDP from Rs 1.42 lakh crore in 2002-03 to Rs 22.61 lakh crore in 2022-23, making it India's growth engine. With 5% of India's population, Gujarat contributes 8.3% to the nation's GDP and 18% to its industrial output. The state had a 33% share in the country's exports in 2022-23.
A key contributor to Gujarat's industrial success has been the state leadership's effort to prioritise ease of living and doing business.
Incentives, particularly in the manufacturing sector, have positioned Gujarat at the forefront of the industrial landscape. It leads in sectors such as textiles, ceramics, chemicals and petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and gems and jewellery, and has emerged as an automobile powerhouse.
The state has over 15 lakh registered MSMEs playing a pivotal role in the industrial ecosystem. It leads the nation in startups and offers a skilled workforce tailored to industrial needs. Gujarat's labour reforms and welfare initiatives have further created a favourable industrial environment.
The state also boasts exceptional and easily accessible connectivity, an extensive network of ports, and robust rail infrastructure.
Gujarat's focus on cutting-edge semiconductor technology and emerging sectors such as renewable energy, green hydrogen, and e-mobility reflects its futuristic vision. Gateway to the Future, the theme of VGGS 2024, aims to unite world leaders, policymakers, and industry experts for discussions on sustainable development, fostering economic growth, and enhancing international cooperation.
Moving forward, Gujarat's developmental trajectory, I am certain, will become even more dynamic as we align with PM Narendra Modi's vision of "Viksit Bharat@2047" through "Viksit Gujarat".
The author is Gujarat's chief minister.
English (US) ·