MOUs signed, 8 Smart GIDCs announced at Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Surat

Surat | Gujarat — Gujarat sharpened its global investment pitch on Foundation Day as the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference opened with big-ticket announcements, international participation and MoUs worth crores, reinforcing the state’s ambition to power India’s industrial growth.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the two-day mega event at Auro University, unveiling a series of initiatives aimed at accelerating industrial expansion across South Gujarat. A special cover celebrating the Surat Cut Diamond GI tag was also released, marking a proud milestone for the city’s globally renowned diamond industry.

Global partners join Gujarat’s growth story

The conference witnessed participation from partner countries Japan, Rwanda, Ukraine and Singapore, signalling growing international interest in South Gujarat’s industrial potential. Foreign delegates added a cultural touch to the event, greeting attendees in Gujarati and celebrating the state’s Foundation Day.

Highlighting the significance of the gathering, Patel said the conference is aligned with the vision of Narendra Modi’s Developed India@2047 mission.

“Gujarat continues to lead India’s growth journey through infrastructure, industry and innovation,” the Chief Minister said.

Focus on six South Gujarat districts

The conference is designed to spotlight the economic potential of six districts—Surat, Bharuch, Dang, Navsari, Tapi and Valsad. Running alongside the event is the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Exhibition spread across 12,000 square metres, showcasing innovations from MSMEs to multinational companies.

Delegates were presented with the Surat Economic Master Plan, highlighting the region’s strengths—from the world-famous diamond and textile sectors to the chemical and pharmaceutical hubs of Vapi and Ankleshwar.

Eight Smart GIDCs announced

One of the biggest announcements was the creation of eight state-of-the-art Smart GIDC estates to strengthen industrial infrastructure.

“These smart estates will take South Gujarat’s industrial ecosystem to new heights,” Patel said, emphasising the government’s commitment to modern infrastructure and job creation.

He added that Gujarat’s port-led development has transformed the state’s coastline into a gateway of prosperity. “Today, Gujarat handles 40% of India’s cargo, showcasing the success of long-term infrastructure planning,” he said.

Gujarat leading in FDI and energy resilience

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri described Gujarat as a “working model” for India’s development and investment growth.

“National and international investors see Gujarat as a trusted destination. Even during the ongoing energy challenges, our priority has been uninterrupted supply of fuel across the country,” he said.

Officials noted that the success of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit since 2003 has helped position the state as a leader in attracting foreign direct investment.