From a Rs 2,000 crore boost for textiles to Rs 785 crore for deep-sea projects, the Gujarat budget has delivered a shot in the arm to the state’s industrial landscape, prompting positive reactions from industry leaders.
Sandeep Engineer, president of the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), welcomed the Rs 3,600 crore allocation for MSMEs, startups and large industries, reinforcing Gujarat’s appeal for investment.
Maskati Cloth Market Association president Gaurang Bhagat highlighted the Rs 300 crore for Navsari’s raw water supply pipeline project for PM MITRA Park, which he believes will greatly benefit the textile industry.
Ankit Patel, former president of the Vatva Industries Association, expressed satisfaction with the Rs 785 crore for deep-sea projects at various locations, including Ankleshwar, Vapi, Surat and new projects in Ahmedabad, Jambusar and Saikha. He considers this a long-awaited boost for the chemical industry, attracting further investment.
The budget also allocated Rs 250 crore for developing Navlakhi and Magdalla ports. Indian Chamber of Commerce (Gujarat) chairman Pathik Patwari emphasized the importance of these ports, which handle 41% of India’s exports. “The current capacity of 598 million metric tonnes and the projected increase to over 2,000 million metric tonnes by 2047, adding that the allocations will support industry growth.” A Rs 100 crore provision was also made for developing a port-led city.
Viranchi Shah, president of the Indian Drug Manufacturers’ Association (IDMA), said: “We welcome the Rs 290 crore for a bulk drug park at Jambusar and the Rs 225 crore for a 42km raw water pipeline for the pharma industry. This will strengthen the sector and reduce reliance on imported bulk drugs.”
“The budget has given a push to renewable energy with provisions for energy storage, off-grid solar pumps for agriculture, and EV charging infrastructure, which will help the growth of the industry,” said Kunj Shah, co-chairman of GCCI energy taskforce.
