The two-day Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) for South Gujarat concluded on Saturday with the signing of 2,792 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) involving investment intentions of Rs 3.55 lakh crore.
Deputy Chief Minister Highlights Key Outcomes
Addressing the valedictory session, deputy chief minister Harsh Sanghvi said these projects are expected to become operational over the next three years and generate direct employment for more than 2.82 lakh people in the region. He said, "The Vibrant Gujarat initiative, launched in 2003 by the then chief minister and current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, played a major role in showcasing Gujarat's industrial strength to the world." Sanghvi added that Gujarat's GSDP had risen from Rs 1.29 lakh crore to Rs 27.09 lakh crore, reflecting a 24-year development journey driven by Team Gujarat and the business community.
New Initiatives Announced
Announcing a new initiative, Sanghvi said, "Future regional conferences would include 'open door meetings' aimed at resolving issues faced by existing industries on the spot through direct interaction with govt officials." He added that the state government was accelerating incentive clearance processes, with daily application approvals doubling from 199 and expected to cross 500 soon. Sanghvi said non-polluting industries and the garment sector were being promoted in the tribal districts of Dang, Tapi, Valsad and Navsari. This, he said, would create work-from-home employment opportunities for more than 25,000 women in tribal areas over the next two years.
Union Health Minister Praises Conference
At the concluding session, Union health and family welfare minister J P Nadda said, "The conference has laid a strong foundation for the development of South Gujarat, preparing the region for a major economic leap in the coming years." He said the state contributes 8% to India's GDP and accounts for 17% of the country's manufacturing output, 27% of merchandise exports and 40% of total cargo handling. Nadda added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gujarat emerged as a competitive and well-connected economic engine on the global stage.
Exhibitions and Business Activities
A tribal haat and mango festival were among the major attractions at the event, drawing visitors alongside business activities spread across a 12,000 square metre exhibition area. More than 300 exhibitors showcased technology, products and solutions from sectors such as engineering, agriculture, gems and jewellery, textiles, renewable energy, MSMEs and startups. The reverse buyer-seller meet saw participation from 20 countries, with 59 foreign buyers and over 650 Gujarat-based sellers. About 1,570 meetings were held, leading to more than 550 MoUs on the first day. Export-focused business inquiries worth over Rs 218 crore were generated. Eleven companies played a notable role in presenting innovations and expanding networking opportunities.
