Gujarat: Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Wednesday highlighted the state’s rapid economic expansion, stating that the state budget has grown from around ₹30,000 crore during the Congress era to more than ₹4 lakh crore at present. He made these remarks while addressing a public gathering in Botad district.
The event, titled “Vikas Sankalp Sabha”, was organised ahead of the upcoming local self-government elections.
Gujarat’s Economic Growth Under BJP Rule
Speaking at the rally, the Chief Minister said the expansion of the state budget reflects sustained economic progress under successive Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) governments.
He added that Gujarat’s development model has been driven by long-term policy focus, industrial expansion, and governance reforms aimed at boosting investment and employment opportunities.
MSME Sector Sees Major Expansion
Highlighting growth in the industrial sector, Patel said the number of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Gujarat has seen a sharp rise.
According to him, MSME units have increased from about 1.81 lakh before BJP rule to more than 27 lakh at present, indicating large-scale expansion in entrepreneurship and small business activity across the state.
Vibrant Gujarat Summit and Industrial Development
The Chief Minister also credited the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, initiated during the tenure of then Chief Minister and current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for transforming the state into a major industrial hub.
He said the summit has played a key role in attracting investment and positioning Gujarat as a key “growth engine of India” and a significant contributor to employment generation.
Shift in Political Culture and Development-Focused Governance
Patel said that India’s political environment has changed significantly over the years, claiming that earlier elections were often influenced by caste and religious divisions.
He stated that the current governance model under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has shifted focus towards development-oriented politics, with emphasis on infrastructure, welfare schemes, and economic progress.
Welfare Schemes Benefiting Citizens
The Chief Minister also outlined key welfare initiatives implemented by the government:
- Ayushman Bharat Scheme: He said the scheme provides free medical treatment of up to ₹10 lakh, reducing financial stress for poor and middle-class families. Citizens above 70 years of age are also covered regardless of income.
- Pradhan Mantri Svanidhi Yojana: He highlighted that the scheme offers collateral-free loans to street vendors and small traders, helping them avoid high-interest informal borrowing.
Meetings with Cooperative and Social Leaders
Earlier in the day, Patel held discussions with representatives of the cooperative sector and social leaders in Salangpur. He reviewed ongoing development projects and the implementation of various government schemes in the state.
Call for Strong Electoral Mandate
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister urged local leaders and party workers to strengthen public outreach and work towards a decisive victory for the BJP in the upcoming local body elections.
He reiterated that Gujarat’s development trajectory reflects a consistent focus on governance, infrastructure growth, and welfare delivery.
Read also: Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Says State Leads India in Employment, Highlights Development Projects
