In a recent address at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tackled concerns and incidents related to foreign investors feeling discouraged or threatened from investing in a particular location or region. The summit, which marks its 20th anniversary, saw the Prime Minister shedding light on key issues.

The Prime Minister reminisced about the journey of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit over the past two decades, highlighting an apparent lack of cooperation from the central government during the event. Notably, central ministers had refused to attend, raising questions about the state’s relationship with the center.

One notable revelation during the summit was that foreign investors had been dissuaded from investing in Gujarat in its early years. However, the nature and sources of these threats remained unspecified. Prime Minister Modi attributed this situation to Gujarat’s commitment to good governance, fair governance, equal distribution of growth, and a transparent government.

PM Modi accused the erstwhile central government of viewing Gujarat’s progress through a political lens, suggesting that political considerations may have influenced their lack of cooperation. The central ministers used to tell me that they would definitely come. “Pata Nahi Peeche Se Danda Chalta Tha, woh Mana Kar Dete The.” They never cooperated; they created roadblocks for Gujarat’s development.

He expressed his determination to continue with the summit and highlighted that it was not limited to Gujarat alone; all states were invited, emphasizing a national vision for development. He also pointed out the transformation of Gujarat from a historically known “Traders State” to a diverse hub in the 21st century. According to him, Gujarat had expanded its role to include agriculture, finance, and manufacturing while strengthening its trade connections.

Vibrant Gujarat is a biennial summit organized by the government of Gujarat. It was initiated in 2003 by Narendra Modi who was the Chief Minister of Gujarat at that time. It became a major platform for business leaders, policymakers, and investors to come together and explore opportunities in the state.

The 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit is scheduled to be held in Gandhinagar between January 10th and 12th of this coming year. The theme suggested was ‘Gateway to the Future’ and will likely showcase Gujarat’s potential as a hub for future economic growth and development.

The event typically includes various sessions, exhibitions, and discussions where business leaders and government officials from India and around the world come together to discuss economic prospects, investment, and partnership. It’s a significant event for both Gujarat and India as a whole, as it aims to drive economic growth, foster innovation, and create job opportunities in the region.

-Uttara Singh Chauhan