2nd VGRC to focus on growth opportunities in Kutch and Saurashtra

The Government of Gujarat has announced that the second Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) will be held in Rajkot on 8–9 January 2026, with a dedicated focus on accelerating development across the Kutch and Saurashtra region. The event is part of a series of four regional conferences being organised ahead of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2027, under the visionary guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.As a precursor to the Rajkot conference, 11 district-level programmes will be held throughout December 2025 in Amreli, Bhavnagar, Botad, Devbhumi Dwarka, Gir Somnath, Jamnagar, Junagadh, Kutch, Morbi, Porbandar and Surendranagar. These events will highlight local strengths and emerging opportunities while engaging industries, entrepreneurs and government institutions.
Focus on Regional Transformation and Global Integration
The upcoming VGRC in Rajkot aims to transform local industries into globally competitive sectors, enhance market access and strengthen international partnerships. The two-day event will feature thematic seminars on agriculture, mining, tourism and industrial growth, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, innovators and investors.
Participants will also benefit from:
•A dedicated MSME Conclave
•A Reverse Buyer-Seller Meet (RBSM)
•Exhibitions and trade fairs showcasing regional capabilities
•Targeted networking platforms to forge meaningful business collaborations
•Momentum from VGRC North Gujarat
The first VGRC, held in Mehsana, has set a strong precedent for the upcoming event. The North Gujarat conference concluded with the signing of 1,264 MoUs, amounting to proposed investments worth Rs3.25 lakh crore. With over 29,000 registered participants and more than 440 international delegates from over 80 countries, the conference reinforced Gujarat’s global investment appeal.
Key outcomes included:
•160+ B2B and 100+ B2G meetings
•Participation from over 410 exhibitors, including 170+ MSMEs and startups
•Disbursement of over ₹900 crore in incentives to more than 9,000 entrepreneurs at the Udyami Mela
•Rs41.56 crore investment announced at the BharatNext startup pitching festival
•2,200+ meetings at the RBSM, generating export inquiries worth over Rs500 crore
Kutch and Saurashtra: A Region of Potential
The Kutch–Saurashtra region stands out for its geographical diversity, rich cultural heritage and vibrant economic landscape. With key maritime hubs like Kandla and Mundra ports, the region plays a pivotal role in India’s trade connectivity, logistics expansion and green shipping initiatives.It is home to thriving industries including petrochemicals, ceramics, engineering, minerals and agro-processing, supported by advanced infrastructure and innovation-driven policies. Spiritual and heritage tourism circuits further complement its economic ecosystem.
Key Focus Sectors for VGRC 2026
•Ceramics and Engineering
•Ports, Logistics and Green Shipping
•Petrochemicals
•Agro & Food Processing
•Minerals and Fisheries
•Green Energy Ecosystem
•Skill Development and Startups
•MSMEs
•Tourism & Culture
•The region also offers strong export potential in ceramics, cotton, plastic products, brass components, seafood processing and coastal tourism.
Driving Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
The VGRC in Rajkot is expected to strengthen Gujarat’s position as a hub for innovation and investment, while ensuring balanced and sustainable development across Kutch and Saurashtra. The state government aims to harness regional strengths to drive transformative growth ahead of the 2027 Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.

(State Correspondent)