Gujarat at 65: A Model of Growth and Innovation

Gandhinagar, Gujarat — As Gujarat celebrates its 65th Foundation Day on May 1, 2025, the state stands as a shining example of what vision, leadership, and people’s participation can achieve together. With only 6% of the landmass and 5% of the population of India, Gujarat contributes a remarkable 8.2% to the national GDP, establishing itself among the top five economies of the country.

This success is no accident—it is the result of two decades of relentless development-focused governance that began under the leadership of the then Chief Minister and current Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2001. Today, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel continues this legacy by steering the state into a new era of inclusive and tech-driven growth.

Gujarat: A Cultural and Economic Powerhouse

From the ancient Indus Valley sites like Lothal and Dholavira to the sacred land of Dwarka, from Mahatma Gandhi’s Porbandar to the modern marvels of GIFT City and Science City, Gujarat’s identity blends history with progress. The Statue of Unity, Rann Utsav, and the heritage tag of Ahmedabad further reinforce the state’s vibrant character.

Engine of India’s Exports

Gujarat has become the export engine of India, accounting for more than 27% of the country’s exports between April and December 2024. Products such as petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, ceramics, gems, and chemicals drive this performance. The total exports during this period amounted to $88.16 billion.

Policy-Driven Growth

The state’s development is backed by a robust policy framework. Whether it is the Gujarat Sports Policy, Tourism Policy, or the pioneering Semiconductor Policy, Gujarat has continuously created an environment for sectors to thrive.

Digital Gujarat: Connecting Villages to the World

Digital empowerment is central to Gujarat’s vision. Programs like e-Gram Vishwagram, Digital Seva Setu, and the Garvi app have connected villages to urban amenities and even global services. Governance and public services are now just a click away, even for the rural population.

Youth: At the Forefront of Innovation

Initiatives like the Gujarat Startup Mission and i-Hub are nurturing the youth, promoting startups in agriculture, IT, and fintech. Gujarat has led the country in employment generation, as per the Employment Exchange Statistics 2023.

Infrastructure and Investment: Future-Focused Vision

From smart cities like Dholera to renewable energy projects, Gujarat is preparing for the future. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train, massive e-vehicle investments, and international companies like Tesla, Micron, and Foxconn choosing Gujarat, are proof of the state’s investor-friendly image. The Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2024 reaffirmed the state’s global appeal.

Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future

With world heritage sites like Rani Ki Vav, Champaner, and the Sudarshan Setu, Gujarat continues to cherish its past while pushing the boundaries of modernity. The launch of the Hospitality Tourist Footfall Dashboard is a national first, aimed at strategic tourism development.