Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has urged the Gujarati and Indian diaspora in the United States to become active partners in the state’s development journey by investing in emerging sectors. During the interaction with the diaspora, he also showcased Gujarat’s growing strength in manufacturing, exports, semiconductors, fintech and advanced technologies, during his US visit.
CM Patel invites global Gujarati community to invest in ‘Viksit Gujarat’ vision
Addressing the ‘Garvi Gujarat Global New Jersey’ programme on August 23, the seventh day of his US visit, CM Patel called upon the Gujarati diaspora to contribute to Gujarat’s economic growth and explore investment opportunities ahead of the 11th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.
Patel highlighted Gujarat’s transformation over the past two decades, attributing much of the state’s development trajectory to initiatives launched during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister. He recalled that when PM Modi assumed office as Gujarat CM in 2001, the state faced major challenges in electricity, water, roads and coastal development. Concerted efforts to address these gaps, he said, has now placed the state on a new path of growth.
Addressing the vibrant gathering at the ‘Garvi Gujarat Global New Jersey’ program was truly energizing and memorable.
Under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Gujarat has established itself as the growth engine of India – contributing 8.2% to the… pic.twitter.com/JBfiea4dti
— Bhupendra Patel (@Bhupendrapbjp) August 23, 2026
Today, Gujarat accounts for nearly 6 per cent of India’s geographical area and around 5 per cent of its population, while contributing approximately 8.2 per cent to the national GDP. CM Patel said that the state aims to raise its contribution to more than 10 per cent by 2030.
He also outlined the state’s long-term vision of becoming ‘Viksit Gujarat’ by 2047, supported by a roadmap that divides Gujarat into six zones with clearly identified sectors, development priorities and growth targets. Implementation of the roadmap has already begun, he said.
Highlighting Gujarat’s industrial capabilities, Patel said that the state contributes nearly 17 per cent of India’s manufacturing output and around 27 per cent of its exports, while handling approximately 40 per cent of the country’s cargo traffic. Gujarat also has a strong presence in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, man-made fibres and textiles, while accounting for a significant share of India’s diamond exports.
The Chief Minister also pointed to the state’s growing semiconductor ecosystem, noting that six of India’s 12 semiconductor plants are expected to become operational in Gujarat.
From GIFT City to AI: Gujarat pitches next-gen growth opportunities
At the Young CEO Meet in the US, CM Patel interacted with young entrepreneurs, CEOs, technology experts and business leaders from the US, highlighting investment opportunities across sectors including artificial intelligence, startups, fintech, data centres, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.
CM Patel cited GIFT City as an example of Gujarat’s long-term planning and forward-looking vision. Conceived in 2006-07, the project has evolved into a global financial and fintech hub, creating new opportunities for businesses and young professionals.
Had a dynamic and forward-looking interaction with young entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and business leaders at the Young CEO Meet in New Jersey.
Engaged on expanding opportunities in Gujarat across sunrise sectors including Artificial Intelligence, FinTech, Semiconductors,… pic.twitter.com/jRqFs2PYeW
— Bhupendra Patel (@Bhupendrapbjp) August 23, 2026
He also emphasised the rising importance of data centres to India’s digital economy. Gujarat’s early adoption of a dedicated Data Centre Policy, he said, gives the state a strong foundation to emerge as a national leader in the sector.
The Chief Minister highlighted the expansion of Gujarat’s MSME ecosystem, which has grown from around 1.85 lakh units in 2001-02 to approximately 27.9 lakh units today. He described the sector as a major driver of entrepreneurship and employment.
CM Patel further stressed Gujarat’s investor-friendly environment, transparent sector-specific policies, skilled workforce and world-class connectivity. He said the recently introduced Industrial Policy for ‘Viksit Gujarat-2026’ is designed to attract investment, accelerate industrial growth and generate employment while addressing the requirements of diverse industries.
Stepping into the magnificent BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Jersey was an inspiring and spiritually uplifting experience.
Humbled by the warm welcome extended by the revered saints. Akshardham beautifully showcases the grandeur of Indian art, spirituality, and human… pic.twitter.com/sbJny2l8en
— Bhupendra Patel (@Bhupendrapbjp) August 23, 2026
He also underlined Gujarat’s financial discipline, saying the state’s focus on fiscal strength alongside development has helped it remain among India’s financially strong states. During his interaction with the diaspora, CM Patel thus, invited Gujarati and Indian communities in the US and Canada to visit Gujarat and explore opportunities for partnerships and investment. He said the state’s policies are aligned with the national ‘Make in India’ and ‘Make for the World’ vision.
As part of his overseas outreach, CM Bhupendra Patel also visited the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in New Jersey, where he appreciated the Gujarati and Indian communities for preserving and promoting Indian values abroad.
Following the US leg of his visit, CM Patel and the state delegation were scheduled to travel to Toronto, where the Chief Minister is expected to meet industry leaders and investors as part of the promotional campaign for the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.
