Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit Celebrates 20 Years of Economic Transformation: PM Modi’s Vision for India’s Future
In a momentous celebration marking two decades of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Summit of Success Pavilion at Science City in Ahmedabad. Industry leaders from across the globe joined in praise of PM Modi’s visionary leadership and the remarkable journey that transformed the Vibrant Gujarat Summit into a premier global business event.
The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, which commenced on September 28, 2003, under the leadership of then Chief Minister Narendra Modi, has evolved into a symbol of Gujarat’s economic prowess and a catalyst for India’s development. With over 135 countries participating and thousands of delegates in attendance, the summit has grown exponentially since its inception.
Prominent industrialists shared their reflections on this remarkable journey. B K Goenka, Chairman of Welspun, highlighted how Vibrant Gujarat has set the standard for other states and recalled PM Modi’s advice to expand in the Kutch region, leading to historic progress. Takashi Suzuki, Chief Director General of Jetro (South Asia), lauded the partnership between Japan and Gujarat, emphasizing the state’s attractiveness for investments. Lakshmi Mittal, Executive Chairman of ArcelorMittal, credited Vibrant Gujarat for making India an appealing destination for global investors.
PM Modi underscored the significance of Vibrant Gujarat, not only as a branding event but as a means of strengthening bonds. PM Modi recounted the state’s challenges in the early 2000s, including an earthquake and financial crises, and how the summit became a medium for rejuvenating Gujarat’s spirit and engaging with the world. PM Modi’s commitment to Gujarat’s future and his unwavering belief in the state’s potential were instrumental in making the Vibrant Gujarat Summit a pivotal platform for growth.
Over the years, Vibrant Gujarat has evolved from a one-time event into an institution. It has showcased Gujarat’s decision-making prowess, industry potential, and diverse opportunities. PM Modi noted that the summit’s core elements for success are idea, imagination, and implementation. PM Modi highlighted that while great ideas are essential, effective execution is equally crucial. Vibrant Gujarat has demonstrated Gujarat’s ability to mobilize its resources and achieve remarkable results.
PM Modi also highlighted the summit’s role in showcasing Gujarat’s transformation from a trade-based state in the 20th century to a thriving hub for agriculture, finance, and industry in the 21st century. PM Modi emphasized the state’s contributions to sectors like textiles, automobiles, medical devices, and diamonds, showcasing Gujarat’s global competitiveness.
The Prime Minister shared his vision of making India the growth engine of the world. PM Modi pointed out that India’s rapid economic growth has garnered recognition from international agencies and experts. PM Modi urged industrialists to focus on sectors that can offer new possibilities for India’s development, including startups, agri-tech, and food processing.
Speaking of financial cooperation, PM Modi highlighted the increasing relevance of Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), where the central government, state government, and IFSC authorities collaborate to create a world-class regulatory environment. PM Modi encouraged efforts to make GIFT City a globally competitive financial marketplace.
In closing, PM Modi stressed that the next 20 years are more critical than the last 20. PM Modi envisioned India becoming a developed and self-reliant nation by its centenary of independence in 2047. PM Modi called on the summit to contribute to this transformative journey.
The celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit brought together industry associations, trade leaders, entrepreneurs, and students. The event symbolizes Gujarat’s unwavering dedication to economic growth and serves as a model for other Indian states to attract investments and foster development.
As we reflect on this significant milestone, it is evident that the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, driven by the vision of PM Modi, has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s economic future and making it a global economic powerhouse.