The Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) for South Gujarat took place on May 1 and 2 at AURO University in Surat, marking a significant event aimed at aligning regional aspirations with global ambitions. This two-day gathering served as a strategic platform for promoting economic development and concluded with 2,792 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) and proposed investments reaching Rs 3.53 Lakh crore.

The conference specifically focused on the districts of Bharuch, Dang, Navsari, Surat, Tapi, and Valsad. The event attracted considerable attention from investors, evidenced by the participation of over 20,000 delegates, both national and international, alongside more than 150 foreign representatives from 27 different countries.

This edition of the VGRC featured partner nations such as Japan, Singapore, Rwanda, and Ukraine. Notable partner organisations included the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), the Trade Representation of the Russian Federation, the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), the American Chamber of Commerce in India (AMCHAM), and the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA).

Key Participants and Inauguration

The event was inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel on May 1, setting the tone for the discussions ahead. The inaugural session included addresses from Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and other dignitaries such as Hardeep Singh Puri, the Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and CR Patil, the Minister for Jal Shakti.

An array of international representatives attended the initial session, including Keiichi ONO, Japan’s Ambassador to India; Simon Wong, the High Commissioner of Singapore; Oleksandr Polishchuk, Ukraine’s Ambassador to India; Jacqueline Mukangira, High Commissioner of Rwanda; and Lalatiana Accouche, High Commissioner of Seychelles. The presence of these dignitaries underscored the international interest in South Gujarat’s economic potential.

<h4\n>On the first day, notable industry leaders were also present, including Nirmal Minda, President of ASSOCHAM; Nobuo Okochi from Nippon Steel Corporation; Dilip Oommen of AM/NS India; among others, who engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing regional economic activity.

Exhibition and Business Opportunities

Alongside the VGRC, the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Exhibition (VGRE) ran from May 1 to 5, occupying a space of 12,000 sq. m. and featuring more than 300 exhibitors in key sectors such as engineering, agriculture, gems and jewellery, textiles, renewable energy, and MSME startups. The exhibition drew over 70,000 visitors during its duration.

A standout element of the VGRE was the Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet (RBSM), where upwards of 1,210 MoUs were formalised, generating business inquiries exceeding Rs 580 crore for export opportunities. This initiative fostered direct business connections through over 4,200 structured B2B meetings between 59 international buyers and over 1,200 sellers from Gujarat.

The Udyami Mela, part of the VGRE, issued over Rs 300 crore in in-principle approval letters and saw banks sanction loans exceeding Rs 1,650 crore to MSME entrepreneurs. Additionally, more than 200 ZED certifications were awarded, along with over 100 artisan cards aimed at bolstering competitiveness and acknowledging local craftsmanship.

Conclusion and Economic Significance

The conference concluded with a valedictory session on May 2, which included the presentation of ten awards to MSMEs and artisans. The VGRE also showcased South Gujarat’s agricultural and artisanal expertise, generating sales close to Rs 38 lakh, with significant contributions from women entrepreneurs.

Overall, the VGRC has significantly enhanced South Gujarat’s visibility as a vital component in the broader economic development of Gujarat. The strategic discussions, international collaborations, and investment commitments made during the event position the region as a key engine for future growth.

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