Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal witnessed the signing of memorandums of understanding worth Rs 1,460 crore during a major ceramics seminar in Rajkot. The event took place at the exhibition dome as part of the Regional Vibrant Gujarat Conference.
Focus on Quality and Global Competition
Addressing industry stakeholders, Minister Goyal delivered a clear message about the future of ceramics. He emphasized that quality and sustainability form the foundation for growth. The minister pointed out that the industry's reliability and high standards give it significant strength, especially through its close connection to the building sector.
Goyal highlighted the intense global competition facing ceramics manufacturers. He stated that this competition will ultimately strengthen the sector, but only if companies maintain rigorous standards. The minister cautioned that compromising on quality is not an option for Indian ceramics producers aiming to succeed internationally.
Major Laboratory Announcement for Morbi
In a significant development for the ceramics hub, Goyal revealed that the government is actively considering establishing a high-level laboratory in Morbi. This facility would serve approximately 800 operational ceramics plants in the region. The minister stressed that continuous and rigorous research remains essential for meeting international demand and seizing global opportunities.
Conservation Successes Highlighted in Separate Seminar
On the second day of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference, the forest and environment department organized a special seminar titled "Land Degradation Neutrality and Sustainability." Forests and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia addressed participants, highlighting Gujarat's remarkable geographical diversity.
Minister Modhwadia noted that Gujarat's landscapes range from seas and mountains to deserts, requiring balanced development approaches. He pointed to several conservation successes, including the return of lions to Barda Sanctuary after many years. A pride now numbering 17 members represents a major achievement for wildlife protection efforts.
Focus on Habitat Restoration and Public Participation
The minister also mentioned the reappearance of tigers in Ratanmahal as another positive development. He emphasized that improving nursery quality combined with active public participation is crucial for increasing green cover across the state.
The Gujarat state forest department's seminar included two technical sessions focusing on critical conservation areas. Experts discussed lion landscape restoration and sustainability alongside Banni grassland restoration and sustainability. Discussions centered on protecting the natural habitat of Asiatic lions while ensuring their sustainable development.
Participants also shared valuable insights about restoring and conserving the unique ecosystem of the Banni grasslands in Kutch. These discussions highlighted practical approaches to environmental protection that balance ecological needs with development priorities.
