Vibrant Gujarat 2017 to 'connect India to the world'

The Dollar Business Bureau 

The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pet initiatives during his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, is to hold its 8th edition beginning from 10 Jan 2017, at Mahatma Mandir, Gandhinagar. “Connecting India to the World” is the theme for Vibrant Gujarat 2017. 

The state of Gujarat is known for its drastic economic rise over the past decade, having garnered investments from across the world in many diverse industries ranging from IT to renewable energy. Just as the words 'breathe in a bit of Gujarat' in Amitabh Bachchan's resounding baritone appeal to millions across the breadth of the country, Gujarat's steady rise among globally known locations for 'ease of business' has made the state an investment magnet. 

If this isn't sufficient introduction to Gujarat's industrial position, here are some facts and figures. Gujarat is the largest producer of cotton in the country contributing one-third of total output and 60% of cotton exports. Being the third largest producer of Denim worldwide, it is aptly known as the 'textile state of India'. Processing 80% of all diamonds in the world, it is also a leader in gems and jewellery.

Apart from Indian magnates Mukesh Ambani (Relilance Industries) and Gautam Adani (Adani Group), the inauguration of Vibrant Gujarat 2017 was attended by dignitaries from across the globe. Heads of state from  Kenya, Rwanda, Portugal and Serbia graced the event along with delegations from Poland, France, Japan, Sweden, Denmark, Canada, Lithuania, UAE, Singapore, Netherlands, UK, China and USA. 

The bi-annual event has seen an exponential rise in investments and the number of MoUs signed with every consecutive summit. The astounding figures for the 2015 summit were close to Rs 25 lakh crores in investment and 21,000 MoUs. 

Leading in the textile, gems and jewellery and renewable energy, Gujarat shines with potential for a host of investments. The GIFT city, which houses the only International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in the country further strengthens the state's pitch for global investment. The state government's enterprising measures to eradicate red tape and boost entrepreneurship also contribute towards making Gujarat business friendly. 

It can be safely concluded that Vibrant Gujarat has come a long way from 'Reestablishing Gujarat as an Investment Destination' in 2003 to 'connecting India to the world' in 2017.