Gujarat Budget 2026-27 Bets Big on Olympic Dream and Textile Powerhouse

Gandhinagar | Gujarat — The Gujarat Budget 2026-27 has laid out an aggressive growth blueprint worth ₹4,08,053 crore, blending global sporting ambition with industrial muscle, as the state positions itself for the Commonwealth Games 2030, the Olympics 2036 and a stronger export-driven economy. With a sharp 17.5 percent rise in capital expenditure, the Budget signals a decisive push towards infrastructure, economic expansion and inclusive development.

At the centre of the spotlight is the transformation of Ahmedabad into an ‘Olympic Ready City’. The government has allocated over ₹1,278 crore to build world-class sports infrastructure and modern transport facilities that meet global standards. Officials say the move is aimed at preparing the city not just for the Commonwealth Games 2030 but also as a serious contender for the Olympics 2036.

A ₹500 crore provision has been made for constructing the SVP Sports Enclave, envisioned as a state-of-the-art sporting complex capable of hosting international events. Additional allocations will upgrade sports infrastructure across the state, establish a dedicated Para High Performance Centre in Gandhinagar and develop a world-class hockey stadium. “Ahmedabad’s Olympic vision is about creating a long-term sporting ecosystem. It will inspire youth, generate jobs and elevate Gujarat’s global standing,” a senior official said.

Equally significant is the government’s strong backing of the textile sector. Under the Gujarat Textile Policy, a massive ₹2,755 crore allocation has been made to strengthen the competitiveness of the state’s textile industry at the global level. Industry leaders have welcomed the move, calling it a historic boost to one of Gujarat’s most employment-intensive sectors. “This allocation will modernise infrastructure, promote innovation and enhance export potential. Gujarat’s textile industry will emerge stronger in global markets,” said a textile association representative.

The Budget also outlines structural reforms in industrial infrastructure. Twenty-five GIDCs will be transformed into Smart GIDCs with modern technology, while 120 Mini GIDCs will be upgraded to support MSMEs. A ₹1,775 crore provision under the Atmanirbhar Gujarat Scheme aims to strengthen small and medium enterprises. The government will establish the Gujarat State Export Promotion Council to enhance export capacity through targeted trade initiatives.

Technology and semiconductor manufacturing remain key pillars, with sustained infrastructure investments in Dholera and Sanand anchoring their emergence as global semiconductor hubs. Regional i-Hub centres in Mehsana, Surat, Rajkot and Vadodara will expand the start-up ecosystem, backed by a new “GROWTH Fund” for equity-based investments.

Tourism has received a major thrust with ₹6,737 crore allocated for holistic development of pilgrimage destinations and allied infrastructure. The year 2026 has been declared ‘Gujarat Tourism Year’. Iconic sites such as the Statue of Unity and Somnath Temple will see focused development, alongside celebrations like the year-long Somnath Swabhiman Parv.

Framed around the GYAN vision—Garib, Yuva, Annadata and Nari—the Budget seeks inclusive growth while strengthening infrastructure, economic development and green initiatives. With ambitious allocations spanning sports, textiles, industry and tourism, Gujarat has signalled its intent to compete on a global stage while reinforcing its traditional strengths.