Gandhinagar: Chief minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday called upon the Gujarati diaspora in the United States to become partners in Gujarat’s development journey by investing in the state and contributing to its growth across emerging and high-value sectors.Addressing the ‘Garvi Gujarat Global New Jersey’ programme on the seventh day of his US visit, Patel highlighted Gujarat’s expanding role in manufacturing, exports, semiconductors, fintech and advanced technologies. He said the state has emerged as one of the crucial engines of India’s economic growth under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.Inviting members of the Indian-American community to visit Gujarat, Patel urged them to explore investment opportunities ahead of the 11th Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.He noted that while Gujarat accounts for nearly 6% of India’s geographical area and about 5% of its population, it contributes around 8.2% to the country’s GDP. The state aims to increase this contribution to more than 10% by 2030, he said.Outlining Gujarat’s roadmap to become a developed state by 2047, Patel said govt has identified long-term development goals and sector-specific opportunities across six regions of the state and has already begun implementing the plan.Highlighting Gujarat’s industrial strengths, the chief minister said the state contributes nearly 17% of India’s manufacturing output and 27% of its exports, while handling about 40% of the country’s cargo traffic. He added that six of India’s 12 semiconductor plants are expected to become operational in Gujarat.At a Young CEO Meet, Patel interacted with entrepreneurs, technology experts and business leaders, showcasing investment opportunities in artificial intelligence, startups, fintech, data centres, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and semiconductors.According to an official statement, Patel also visited the BAPS Swaminarayan temple in New Jersey, where he appreciated the efforts of the Gujarati and Indian communities in preserving and promoting Indian values abroad.The statement added that Patel and the state delegation were scheduled to arrive in Toronto later on Sunday as part of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit promotional tour. During the Canada leg of the visit, the chief minister is expected to meet several industry leaders and investors.
