Gujarat government has announced an ambitious target of attracting Rs 10 lakh crore in fresh investments over the next five years through its newly launched Viksit Gujarat Industrial Policy-2026. The policy aims to strengthen the state's position as one of India's leading investment destinations by promoting industrial growth, creating employment opportunities, supporting entrepreneurs, and improving the ease of doing business.

Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi unveiled the plan during the inaugural session of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Vadodara, stating that the government wants to work as a partner with industries rather than simply acting as a regulator.

Gujarat Sets an Ambitious Investment Goal

The state government has set a clear objective of bringing Rs 10 lakh crore in new investments across different regions of Gujarat over the next five years. According to Harsh Sanghavi, the policy has been prepared under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to promote balanced industrial development throughout the state.

The government believes stable policies, transparent governance, and quicker approvals will encourage both domestic and international companies to invest in Gujarat.

Policy Focuses on Entrepreneurship and Inclusive Growth

The Viksit Gujarat Industrial Policy-2026 goes beyond offering financial incentives. It places strong emphasis on encouraging entrepreneurship, innovation, and inclusive economic growth.

A special focus has been given to women entrepreneurs. Under the policy, women-owned businesses will receive an additional one percent interest benefit over existing schemes. The government will also provide rental assistance of up to 75 percent of eligible costs for five years.

To help women return to work after career breaks, the policy includes skill refresher programmes designed to improve employability and support workforce participation.

Support for Mega Industrial Projects

The new industrial policy introduces dedicated support for mega and ultra-mega investment projects.

Projects involving investments of Rs 10,000 crore or more and capable of creating nearly 3,000 high-paying jobs will receive additional government support. These projects will qualify for enhanced incentives linked to fixed capital investment, making Gujarat more attractive for large manufacturing and industrial ventures.

The government expects these projects to strengthen the state's industrial ecosystem while creating long-term employment opportunities.

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Encouraging Inclusive Employment

The policy also promotes employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Companies hiring differently-abled employees will receive reimbursement support for a period ranging from five to ten years. The initiative aims to encourage inclusive workplaces while expanding employment opportunities across different sectors.

Ease of Doing Business Gets a Major Boost

The Gujarat government says it has significantly simplified business procedures over the past two years.

According to Harsh Sanghavi:

• Industrial incentive disbursements have increased by 55 percent, reaching Rs 7,888 crore.
• Required documentation has been reduced by 41 percent.
• Pending industry-related files have fallen by 95 percent.
• Around 392 industrial incentive applications are processed every day.
• The government plans to increase daily processing to 500 applications in the coming months.

The state believes faster approvals and reduced paperwork will improve investor confidence and encourage quicker project implementation.

Vibrant Gujarat Continues to Attract Investors

The Deputy Chief Minister said the Vibrant Gujarat initiative has evolved beyond being an investment summit.

Today, it serves as a platform connecting investors, startups, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and government agencies. The conference helps businesses explore new opportunities while strengthening partnerships that contribute to Gujarat's economic growth.

Supporting India's Vision for 2047

Harsh Sanghavi said Gujarat's industrial strategy is aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The state aims to contribute significantly to India's long-term economic development by encouraging manufacturing, innovation, employment generation, and sustainable industrial expansion.

Officials also reaffirmed that the government remains open to industry feedback and will continue refining policies to meet changing business needs.