FICCI : Industry's Voice for Policy Change

The Indian Express | Jun 14, 2022

Gujarat slips from top to sixth place among states in FDI inflow

Ahmedabad Mirror | Feb 03, 2022

Geeta Goradia is Chairperson of FICCI Gujarat State Council

Business News This Week | Jul 15, 2021

Entrepreneurship-Post COVID Generating Employment & Socio-Economic Growth

The Hindu Business Line | May 17, 2021

Indian industry coordinating with Centre, State agencies to prepare for cyclonic storm 'Tauktae'

Orissa Diary | May 17, 2021

Govt calls for collaborative effort and action to reduce the impact of cyclone in pandemic time

Media Brief | May 17, 2021

Piyush Goyal, Mansukh Mandaviya interact with experts on cyclone Taukate preparedness

Bizntec | May 17, 2021

Cyclone in pandemic: Govt calls for collaborative effort and action to reduce the impact

The Week | Feb 16, 2021

Allow pvt sector to start COVID-19 vaccination, FICCI tells Gujarat govt

The Gujarat State Council of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry has urged Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani to allow the corporate sector to vaccinate its staff and also allow private recognised hospitals to start delivery of vaccines against COVID-19.

In a letter to the chief minister, co-chair of the FICCI’s Gujarat Council, Sunil Parekh, said that this was necessary to prevent a second wave of COVID-19 that several other countries were witnessing.

Pointing out that the vaccination process had become slow, and it would take four-to-five months to vaccinate the front-line workers, Parekh expressed concern considering that the normal activities, businesses and schools had resumed.

While appreciating efforts done by the Gujarat government in containing COVID-19, the Gujarat chapter of FICCI has said that if herd immunity is not developed through a faster vaccination programme, then it could lead to several risks.

The letter pointed out that it was with the support of the private healthcare sector that high RT-PCR testing was possible.

The commerce body also suggested that vaccination of people over 50 years of age should simultaneously start with that of front-line workers.

Parekh also said that those who can afford vaccines should be allowed to buy the vaccines. Educational institutions, large groups and industrial associations should also be allowed to support the vaccination initiative.

Business Today | Dec 27, 2020

The Chemical Man

About seven-eight years ago, Deepak C. Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director of 50-year-old Deepak Nitrite was planning an aggressive expansion in Europe, backed by acquisitions. During one his meetings in the country, a veteran European industrialist told him, "Deepak, you are here to buy us, while we are looking at your country as one of our most potential markets."

"It was an eye opener," says Mehta. The chemical industry in Europe was stagnating at 1-2 per cent, while India was growing at over 7-8 per cent. Mehta changed plans and decided to focus on producing more from India. "In a way, I was among the first to promote Atma Nirbhar Bharat, even before our government started promoting it," says Mehta with a huge grin.

Deepak Nitrite's income grew at a three-year compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.63 per cent to Rs 2,237.2 crore, while net profit grew 70.05 per cent to Rs 544.04 crore. "We choose our products that have the potential to be among the top three in the world," says Mehta.

The company makes over 100 basic, fine and specialty chemicals and performance products from six manufacturing locations across India. About 35 per cent of its Rs 4,265-crore revenue in FY20 came from exports to over 700-plus clients across the globe. "Its revenue has grown at a CAGR of about 13 per cent over 10 years and the stock price has increased by about 275 per cent during the same period. With extensive research & development (R&D) and rapid expansion of manufacturing facilities, the company has a strong position in the export market, with around 70 per cent share of the Indian inorganic compound market," according to analyst Pulkit Baid of Vista Capital Research.

Targeting the world

Deepak Nitrite is already among the top three global players for xylidines, cumidines and oximes, widely used in agrochemicals and pigment industries. It is the leading producer of sodium nitrate in India since 1972. Deepak Phenolics, the company's 100 per cent subsidiary, is a new platform for products based on phenol, acetone and isopropyl alcohol (IPA). Phenols are used for making glue, household products and as intermediates for industrial synthesis. Acetone is a solvent used in manufacturing of pharma products, plastics, cosmetics and personal care products. IPA is also a key component in the manufacture of cleaning, disinfectants, inks, agro-chem formulations, resins, acrylic emulsions and pharmaceutical products. Hindustan Organic Chemicals, a government company and SI Group India (SIGIL) were the major manufacturers with 30,000-tonne capacity each, while the Indian demand alone was over 2 lakh tonnes.

Deepak Phenolics invested more than Rs 1,400 crore over 25 months, one of the largest investments in India's chemical sector in recent years, to create a manufacturing capacity of 2 lakh tonnes of phenol per annum and 1.2 lakh tonnes of its co-product acetone, and supported by a captive capacity for 26 lakh tonnes of chemical compound cumene. The plant, with advanced digital IoT systems, process technologies and zero emission, is eight times bigger than all existing facilities in India. It was commissioned in November 2018. "It will help in saving half a billion dollars in imports for the country," says Mehta. Deepak Phenolics already contributes 47 per cent to the group's business.

The new capacity has come in handy during Covid-19. Deepak C. Mehta's younger brother Sailesh C. Mehta-owned Deepak Fertilisers and Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd (DFPCL) was the only manufacturer of IPA in India with an installed capacity of 70,000 tonnes per annum (TPA). The country's total demand for IPA is around 200,000 TPA since it is the most commonly used disinfectant for sanitisers. Global demand of IPA is expected to reach 522,000 TPA during 2020-2024. Since May, Deepak Phenolics has commenced production of IPA from acetone at its manufacturing facility at Dahej, which has an installed capacity of 30,000 TPA. "Now we are doubling the capacity and this will go on stream by April-May 2021," says Mehta.

Taking on China

The Indian chemical industry is currently Asias third-largest and the seventh largest by output in the world after China, Germany, the US, Japan, France and Italy. It is poised to become fourth or fifth by 2025, says Mehta, past President of the Indian Chemicals Council (ICC), and Chairman, FICCI Gujarat State Council. With nearly $15 trillion of Chinese exports in chemicals and plastics subject to US tariffs, India is set to gain market share estimated to be around $4.7 trillion, according to a research report on Deepak Nitrite by Equentis, which predicts a revenue CAGR of 16 per cent and PAT CAGR of 27 per cent for the company over FY19-24. A long operating history and established track record in the global chemical intermediates industry, diversified product profile mitigating the risk associated with cyclicality in different product segments, multi-purpose manufacturing facilities with significant backward and forward integration linkages and improvement in financial profile driven by increasing scale of operations and cash accruals are the main strengths of Deepak Nitrite, according to the report. The company will benefit with the India chemical industry is growing at 8-10 per cent annually, the report says.

A research driven company, Deepak Nitrite is readying a pipeline of fine and speciality chemicals products and has purchased 125 acres of land at Dahej to set up manufacturing facilities. "The world is looking at options to China, the world's largest chemical manufacturer, and India can supply cost-competitively. That is where companies like Deepak Nitrite can play a role," says Mehta.

There has been a decline in exports from China due to shutdown of multiple plants. India also stands to gain from the current trade war between the US and China. Planned capacity expansions product extensions are expected to aid Deepak Nitrite's growth, according to industry experts.

Mehta says India can compete with China provided the right incentives and policy initiatives such as big common infrastructure and tie-ups with West Asian upstream companies are in place.

Deepak Nitrate is already on the path to become a global leader in the chemical industry.

The Indian Express | Aug 30, 2020

Gujarat industries pledge investment of Rs 10,500 crore

Vedanta Group has pledged investments worth Rs 4500 crore which will be a first for Gujarat. The pledge came during a webinar on Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 on Saturday by the state government where industries pledged a total investments of Rs 10500 crore, Vedanta being the biggest among them, in the metal sector.

Kiri Industries said it will invest Rs 3,000 crore in Specialty Chemicals. Similarly, Welspun Group will be investing Rs 2,000 crore in the textiles sector while UNO Minda Group will park Rs 1,000 crore in the engineering sector, stated an official release from the state government.

During the webinar, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani released a booklet containing the new industrial policy which he had unveiled on August 7.

The webinar was organized by Industries and Mines department, Government of Gujarat in partnership with key industry bodies – Associated Chambers of Commerce (ASSOCHAM), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

BK Goenka, Chairman Welspun Group, Sunil Duggal, CEO Vedanta Group, and Anadi Sinha, President, UNO Minda Group were among the industrialists who participated in the event and appreciated the proactive approach of the state government and administration towards industries, more so during the times of the pandemic.

Business World | Aug 30, 2020

Gujarat CM Interacts With Industrialists On New Industrial Policy 2020

Chief Minister of Gujarat Vijay Rupani on Saturday interacted with leading industrialists and corporate investors of India regarding the New Industrial Policy 2020 via video conference in Gandhinagar.

The webinar was organized by Industries and Mines department, Government of Gujarat in partnership with key industry bodies - Associated Chambers of Commerce (ASSOCHAM), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani while releasing the policy booklet expressed his gratitude towards industry for their support and resilience demonstrated during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

He highlighted that Gujarat is at the forefront in embracing the Prime Minister's vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in true spirit and has become the first state to respond to this call to action by the release of the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 that aims to create an enabling ecosystem driven by this vision.

He informed that the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 is a progressive and bold step that aims to instill the idea of 'Minimum Government and Maximum Governance' with first of its kind initiatives in India.

Anil Mukim, State Chief Secretary highlighted that while Gujarat attracted big-ticket investments in the manufacturing and services sector, the Government has also focused on the development of the MSME sector.

M K Das, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister and Industries and Mines Department laid-out the fine points of the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020.

He also highlighted that Gujarat for enhancing the ease of doing business introduced several measures such as exemption to new companies from all labour laws for a period of 1,000 days, the exemption to MSMEs from obtaining permissions for a period of three years and the Gujarat Single Window Portal.

Engineering).

The online session was attended by Indian industry leaders and investors, who praised the visionary and dynamic measures introduced in the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020.

Yahoo News | Aug 30, 2020

Gujarat CM interacts with industrialists on New Industrial Policy 2020

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani while releasing the policy booklet expressed his gratitude towards industry for their support and resilience demonstrated during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

M K Das, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister and Industries and Mines Department laid-out the fine points of the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020.

As a testimony to the transparent and forward-looking policies, several key industries came forward to announce their investment plans in Gujarat. Major industrial projects worth to the tune of Rs 10,500-crore were announced by companies like Vedanta (Rs 4,500 crores - Metals), Kiri Industries (Rs 3000 crore - Specialty Chemicals), Welspun Group (Rs 2000 crore - Textiles), and UNO Minda Group (Rs 1,000 crore - Engineering).

The online session was attended by Indian industry leaders and investors, who praised the visionary and dynamic measures introduced in the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020.

Lokmat English | Aug 30, 2020

Gujarat CM interacts with industrialists on New Industrial Policy 2020

The Bharatnama | Aug 30, 2020

In Gujarat: Industries pledge investment of Rs 10,500 crore

The webinar was organized by Industries and Mines department, Government of Gujarat in partnership with key industry bodies.

During the webinar, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani released a booklet containing the new industrial policy which he had unveiled on August 7.

Hindi Khabar | Aug 30, 2020

In Gujarat: Industries pledge funding of Rs 10,500 crore

The webinar was organized by Industries and Mines division, Authorities of Gujarat in partnership with key business our bodies.

Vedanta Group has pledged investments price Rs 4500 crore which might be a primary for Gujarat. The pledge got here throughout a webinar on Gujarat Industrial Coverage 2020 on Saturday by the state authorities the place industries pledged a complete investments of Rs 10500 crore, Vedanta being the largest amongst them, within the metallic sector.

Kiri Industries mentioned it is going to make investments Rs 3,000 crore in Specialty Chemical compounds. Equally, Welspun Group might be investing Rs 2,000 crore within the textiles sector whereas UNO Minda Group will park Rs 1,000 crore within the engineering sector, acknowledged an official launch from the state authorities.

In the course of the webinar, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani launched a booklet containing the brand new industrial coverage which he had unveiled on August 7.

The webinar was organized by Industries and Mines division, Authorities of Gujarat in partnership with key business our bodies – Related Chambers of Commerce (ASSOCHAM), Confederation of Indian Business (CII) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Business (FICCI).

BK Goenka, Chairman Welspun Group, Sunil Duggal, CEO Vedanta Group, and Anadi Sinha, President, UNO Minda Group had been among the many industrialists who participated within the occasion and appreciated the proactive strategy of the state authorities and administration in direction of industries, extra so in the course of the occasions of the pandemic.

The Dispatch | Aug 30, 2020

Gujarat CM interacts with industrialists on New Industrial Policy 2020

Chief Minister of Gujarat Vijay Rupani interacted with leading industrialists and corporate investors of India regarding the New Industrial Policy 2020 via video conference in Gandhinagar.

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani while releasing the policy booklet expressed his gratitude towards industry for their support and resilience demonstrated during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.

He highlighted that Gujarat is at the forefront in embracing the Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in true spirit and has become the first state to respond to this call to action by the release of the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 that aims to create an enabling ecosystem driven by this vision.

He informed that the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 is a progressive and bold step that aims to instill the idea of ‘Minimum Government and Maximum Governance’ with first of its kind initiatives in India.

M K Das, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister and Industries and Mines Department laid-out the fine points of the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020.

As a testimony to the transparent and forward-looking policies, several key industries came forward to announce their investment plans in Gujarat. Major industrial projects worth to the tune of Rs 10,500-crore were announced by companies like Vedanta (Rs 4,500 crores – Metals), Kiri Industries (Rs 3000 crore – Specialty Chemicals), Welspun Group (Rs 2000 crore – Textiles), and UNO Minda Group (Rs 1,000 crore – Engineering).The online session was attended by Indian industry leaders and investors, who praised the visionary and dynamic measures introduced in the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020.

Newsroom Post | Aug 29, 2020

Gujarat's new Industrial Policy: CM Rupani interacts with leading industrialists and corporates

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani interacted with leading industrialists and corporates of India regarding the New Industrial Policy 2020.

Chief Minister of Gujarat Mr. Vijay Rupani while releasing the policy booklet expressed his gratitude towards industry for their support and resilience demonstrated during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. He acknowledged how industry came forward in manufacturing gloves, PPE kits, HCQ etc. on a large scale in order to support not only the local population but also help other states and countries.

The Chief Minister highlighted that Gujarat is at the forefront in embracing the Prime Minister’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat in true spirit and has become the first state to respond to this call to action by the release of the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 that aims to create an enabling ecosystem driven by this vision. He informed that the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 is a progressive & bold step that aims to instill the idea of “Minimum Government and Maximum Governance” with first of its kind initiatives in India like:

1. De-linking incentives from SGST

2. Providing government land on long term lease to industries with all banking benefits

3. Support to private companies for setting up R&D centres

4. Support to industries to build dormitories for labourers

He also acknowledged that MSMEs are the backbone of the industrial revolution in Gujarat. Unparalleled incentives to MSMEs have been introduced like:

1. Ease of using Solar Power by MSMEs

2. Fiscal support in acquisition of foreign technology

3. Increased capital and interest subsidy

Mr. Anil Mukim, Chief Secretary, Government of Gujarat highlighted that while Gujarat attracted big-ticket investments in the manufacturing and services sector, the Government has also focused on the development of the MSME sector.

Mr. M K Das, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister & Industries and Mines Dept., Government of Gujarat in his address laid-out the fine points of the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020. He also highlighted that Gujarat for enhancing the ease of doing business introduced several measures such as exemption to new companies from all labour laws for a period of 1,000 days, the exemption to MSMEs from obtaining permissions for a period of three years and the Gujarat Single Window Portal. He also highlighted the incentives being offered to service sector enterprises and that the policy offers incentives to all sectors with no “ineligible industries”.

As a testimony to the transparent and forward-looking policies, several key industries came forward to announce their investment plans in Gujarat. Major industrial projects worth to the tune of Rs 10,500-crore were announced by companies like Vedanta (Rs 4,500 crores – Metals), Kiri Industries (Rs 3000 crore – Specialty Chemicals), Welspun Group (Rs 2000 crore – Textiles), and UNO Minda Group (Rs 1,000 crore – Engineering).

The online session was attended by Indian industry leaders and investors, who praised the visionary and dynamic measures introduced in the new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020.

Representatives of the industry associations – Associated Chambers of Commerce (ASSOCHAM), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) commended the Chief Minister and his team for coming with the Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 that rose to the challenge of meeting the difficulties posed by the pandemic.

President of FICCI Dr. Sangita Reddy Jt. MD Apollo Hospitals said that measures like the Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 have made Gujarat a true leader in every industry sector & covered all major aspects vital for a manufactuing unit i.e. Land, Labour, Capital, Electricity and Logistics. Dr.Reddy also announced for a proposal to set up a backend-manufacturing unit of Apollo Hospital in Gujarat.

Sr. Vice President of ASSOCHAMVineet Agarwaland MD, Transport Corporation of India Ltd underlined that Gujarat since the start of liberalisation has been pushing innovation in the state. He said that the Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 will go a long way in bringing new investments and generating more employment in the state. He particularly praised Gujarat’s excellent infrastructure of road, rail and ports that position Gujarat for being a leader in exports.

Vice President, CII Sanjiv Bajaj and CMD Bajaj Finserv Ltd lauded the Government of Gujarat for coming up with a policy that was simple, clear, progressive and consistent.

Sunil Mathur, MD Siemens India; Sanjiv Mehta, CMD Hindustan Unilever Ltd; BK Goenka, Chairman Welspun Group Harsh Pati Singhania, VC & MD JK Paper, Sunil Duggal, Group CEO Vedanta, and Anadi Sinha, President, UNO Minda Group also participated in the event and appreciated the proactive approach of the State Government leadership and administration towards industry, more so in such trying times of the pandemic.

The new Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 will give additional momentum and enhance the current growth rate. The policy has concerted efforts for supporting jobs, value addition, adoption of state-of-the-art technology, innovation driven ecosystem with focus on research and development so as to propel the state further towards “Atmanirbhar Gujarat”. This will enable the shaping of a Modern Gujarat that spearheads the vision of a Modern India.

Business Standard | Aug 19, 2020

Government to extend necessary support to tourism industry says Tourism Minister of Gujarat

Jawaharbhai Pethaljibhai Chavda, Minister Tourism, Government of Gujarat, has said that COVID-19 is the biggest challenge that the global tourism sector has faced till date and government of Gujarat is ready to extend all necessary support to revive the industry. Addressing a webinar 'Future of Tourism Post COVID-19', organized by FICCI Gujarat State Council, Chavda said that the economic revival measures announced by the Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry have bought activities back to normal in a phased manner and total normalcy is expected in the next few months.

Highlighting the impact of the pandemic on industry, Chavda noted that the challenges for the tourism industry aren't over yet. Although, with the opening of the reservations for flights, trains, and buses, traveling has become possible again, the tourists are still apprehensive about their safety and are avoiding travel as far as possible.

Travel Biz Monitor | Aug 19, 2020

State to extend complete support for revival of the industry: Gujarat Tourism Minister

Addressing a webinar ‘Future of Tourism Post COVID-19’, organised by FICCI Gujarat State Council, Chavda said, “The economic revival measures announced by the Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry have bought activities back to normal in a phased manner and we expect total normalcy in the next few months.”

Speaking on the economic packages for the tourism industry, Chavda said, “The Government of Gujarat has announced a special relief package to boost the state’s economy which will have a direct or indirect impact on the tourism industry.” The role of tourism in the Indian economy and the far-reaching effects of the epidemic has been felt on the economy. “I am confident that with the participation of all stakeholders, including companies and agencies of the tourism industry, we will be able to revitalise the sector and move towards the new normalcy,” he added.

Highlighting the impact of the pandemic on industry, Chavda said, “The challenges for the tourism industry aren’t over yet. Although, with the opening of the reservations for flights, trains, and buses, traveling has become possible again, the tourists are still apprehensive about their safety and are avoiding travel as far as possible.”

He further said that it becomes the responsibility of the industry to ensure safety of the tourists. “We need to gradually reduce travel restrictions. The Central and the state governments along with the industry associations have issued various guidelines and we need to ensure that all norms are followed,” he added.

Chavda said that the state government is planning to develop Gujarat as an attractive tourist hub and create more employment opportunities Rupinder Brar, Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India said that the first step towards normalcy is to create a perception of safety among the travellers. “The most significant enabler for times to come is the safety factor- people have to feel safe to travel. It must be a joint effort of not only the government institutions and travel associations, but the industry and citizens too,” she added.

Brar said that every state has different protocols related to COVID-19. “In order to create ease of travel, there is a need to have harmonization of rules. We are already in touch with various states and once we align travel rules to one or two common systems across the country, people will feel more inclined to travel,” she said.

She added that the domestic tourism will open first, and we need to be ready for that. “We need to look at creating short travel itineraries. Most of the states are in the process of curating one or two night itineraries,” she emphasised.

Jenu Devan, MD, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd., said, “The tourism industry must come forward and promote local tourism in Gujarat.”

Dr Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI said, “The tourism industry needs the support of the state and the central government to survive.”

Sunil Parekh, Co-Chairman FICCI, Gujarat State Council, requested the government to provide salary support towards people from the industry, like travel agents, tour guides- who had lost their jobs due to the pandemic.

TraveloBiz | Aug 19, 2020

Gujarat Govt to extend support for the Tourism Industry

Jawaharbhai Pethaljibhai Chavda, Tourism Minister, Govt of Gujarat, on Tuesday said that COVID-19 is the biggest challenge that the worldwide tourism sector has faced till now and government of Gujarat is prepared to extend all necessary support to revive the industry.

Addressing a webinar ‘Future of Tourism Post COVID-19’, organized by FICCI Gujarat State Council, Chavda said, “The economic revival measures announced by the Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry have bought activities back to normal in a phased manner and that we expect total normalcy in the next few months,” he added.

Speaking on the economic packages for the tourism industry Chavda said, “The government of Gujarat has announced a special relief package to boost the state’s economy which can have a direct or indirect impact on the tourism industry.” The role of tourism in the Indian economy and the far-reaching effects of the epidemic has been felt on the economy. “I am confident that with the participation of all stakeholders, including companies and agencies of the tourism industry, we’ll be ready to revitalize the sector and move towards the new normalcy,” he added.

Highlighting the impact of the pandemic on the industry, Chavda said, “The challenges for the tourism industry aren’t over yet. Although with the opening of the reservations for flights, trains, and buses, traveling has become possible again, the tourists are still apprehensive about their safety and are avoiding travel as far as possible.”

He further said that it becomes the responsibility of the tourism industry to make sure the safety of the tourists. “We got to gradually reduce travel restrictions. The Central and the state governments along with the industry associations have issued various guidelines and we have to make sure that all norms are followed,” he added.

He said that the government is going to develop Gujarat as a beautiful tourist hub and make more employment opportunities

Rupinder Brar, Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India said that the primary step towards normalcy is to make a perception of safety among the travelers. “The most significant enabler for times to come is the safety factor- people have to feel safe to travel. It must be a joint effort of not only the govt institutions and travel associations, but the industry and citizens too,” she added.

She said that each state has different protocols associated with COVID-19. “In order to make ease of travel, there’s a requirement to have harmonization of rules. We are already connected with various states and once we align travel rules to at least one or two common systems across the country, people will feel more inclined to travel,” she said and added that the domestic tourism will open first, and we need to be ready for that. “We need to look at creating short travel itineraries. Most of the states are in the process of curating one- or two-night itineraries,” she emphasized.

Jenu Devan, MD, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd., said, “The tourism industry must come forward and promote local tourism in Gujarat.”

JM Financial | Aug 19, 2020

Government to extend necessary support to Tourism Industry says Tourism Minister of Gujarat

Jawaharbhai Pethaljibhai Chavda, Minister Tourism, Government of Gujarat, has said that COVID-19 is the biggest challenge that the global tourism sector has faced till date and government of Gujarat is ready to extend all necessary support to revive the industry. Addressing a webinar Future of Tourism Post COVID-19, organized by FICCI Gujarat State Council, Chavda said that the economic revival measures announced by the Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry have bought activities back to normal in a phased manner and total normalcy is expected in the next few months.

Highlighting the impact of the pandemic on industry, Chavda noted that the challenges for the tourism industry arent over yet. Although, with the opening of the reservations for flights, trains, and buses, traveling has become possible again, the tourists are still apprehensive about their safety and are avoiding travel as far as possible.

KNN | Aug 19, 2020

Challenges for tourism industry not over; Govt ready to extend all necessary support: Gujarat Tourism Minister

Terming COVID-19 as the biggest challenge that the global tourism sector has faced till date, Jawaharbhai Pethaljibhai Chavda, Gujarat Tourism minister has said that the Gujarat government is ready to extend all necessary support to revive the industry.

He said this while addressing a webinar ‘Future of Tourism Post COVID-19’, organized by FICCI Gujarat State Council, Chavda said.

“The economic revival measures announced by the Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry have bought activities back to normal in a phased manner and we expect total normalcy in the next few months,” he added.

He said that the role of tourism in the Indian economy and the far-reaching effects of the epidemic has been felt on the economy.

“I am confident that with the participation of all stakeholders, including companies and agencies of the tourism industry, we will be able to revitalise the sector and move towards the new normalcy,” he added.

Highlighting the impact of the pandemic on industry, Chavda said, ''the challenges for the tourism industry aren’t over yet. Although, with the opening of the reservations for flights, trains, and buses, traveling has become possible again, the tourists are still apprehensive about their safety and are avoiding travel as far as possible.”

He further said that it becomes the responsibility of the tourism industry to ensure safety of the tourists.

“We need to gradually reduce travel restrictions. The Central and the state governments along with the industry associations have issued various guidelines and we need to ensure that all norms are followed,” he added.

Travel Trends Today | Aug 18, 2020

Gujarat Govt to extend necessary support to the Tourism Industry

Jawaharbhai Pethaljibhai Chavda, Minister Tourism, Govt of Gujarat, today said that COVID-19 is the biggest challenge that the global tourism sector has faced till date and government of Gujarat is ready to extend all necessary support to revive the industry.

Addressing a webinar ‘Future of Tourism Post COVID-19’, organized by FICCI Gujarat State Council, Chavda said, “The economic revival measures announced by the Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry have bought activities back to normal in a phased manner and we expect total normalcy in the next few months,” he added.

Speaking on the economic packages for the tourism industry Chavda said, “The government of Gujarat has announced a special relief package to boost the state’s economy which will have a direct or indirect impact on the tourism industry.” The role of tourism in the Indian economy and the far-reaching effects of the epidemic has been felt on the economy. “I am confident that with the participation of all stakeholders, including companies and agencies of the tourism industry, we will be able to revitalise the sector and move towards the new normalcy,” he added.

He further said that it becomes the responsibility of the tourism industry to ensure safety of the tourists. “We need to gradually reduce travel restrictions. The Central and the state governments along with the industry associations have issued various guidelines and we need to ensure that all norms are followed,” he added.

He said that the state government is planning to develop Gujarat as an attractive tourist hub and create more employment opportunities

Rupinder Brar, Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India said that the first step towards normalcy is to create a perception of safety among the travellers. “The most significant enabler for times to come is the safety factor- people have to feel safe to travel. It must be a joint effort of not only the government institutions and travel associations, but the industry and citizens too,” she added.

She said that every state has different protocols related to COVID-19. “In order to create ease of travel, there is a need to have harmonization of rules. We are already in touch with various states and once we align travel rules to one or two common systems across the country, people will feel more inclined to travel,” she said and added that the domestic tourism will open first, and we need to be ready for that. “We need to look at creating short travel itineraries. Most of the states are in the process of curating one- or two-night itineraries,” she emphasized.

Jenu Devan, MD, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd., said, “The tourism industry must come forward and promote local tourism in Gujarat.”

eTurbo News | Aug 18, 2020

India Tourism Revival: Government extends all support

Jawaharbhai Pethaljibhai Chavda, Minister Tourism, Government of Gujarat in India, said today, August 18, 2020, that COVID-19 is the biggest challenge that the global tourism sector has faced to date and the government of Gujarat is ready to extend all necessary support for an India tourism revival.

Addressing a webinar, “Future of Tourism Post COVID-19,” organized by FICCI Gujarat State Council, Mr. Chavda said, “The economic revival measures announced by the Prime Minister and the Finance Ministry have bought activities back to normal in a phased manner and we expect total normalcy in the next few months.”

Speaking on the economic packages for the tourism industry Mr. Chavda said, “The government of Gujarat has announced a special relief package to boost the state’s economy which will have a direct or indirect impact on the tourism industry.” The role of tourism in the Indian economy and the far-reaching effects of the epidemic has been felt on the economy. “I am confident that with the participation of all stakeholders, including companies and agencies of the tourism industry, we will be able to revitalize the sector and move towards the new normalcy,” he added.

Highlighting the impact of the pandemic on industry, Mr. Chavda said: “The challenges for the tourism industry aren’t over yet. Although, with the opening of the reservations for flights, trains, and buses, traveling has become possible again, the tourists are still apprehensive about their safety and are avoiding travel as far as possible.”

Mr. Chavda said that the state government is planning to develop Gujarat as an attractive tourist hub and create more employment opportunities.

Ms. Rupinder Brar, Additional Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, said that the first step towards normalcy is to create a perception of safety among the travelers. “The most significant enabler for times to come is the safety factor- people have to feel safe to travel. It must be a joint effort of not only the government institutions and travel associations, but the industry and citizens too,” she added.

Ms. Brar said that every state has different protocols related to COVID-19. “In order to create ease of travel, there is a need to have harmonization of rules. We are already in touch with various states and once we align travel rules to one or two common systems across the country, people will feel more inclined to travel,” she said.

Ms. Brar added that the domestic tourism will open first, and we need to be ready for that. “We need to look at creating short travel itineraries. Most of the states are in the process of curating one or two night itineraries,” she emphasized.

Mr. Jenu Devan, MD, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd., said, “The tourism industry must come forward and promote local tourism in Gujarat.”

Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI said, “The tourism industry needs the support of the state and the central government to survive.”

Mr. Sunil Parekh, Co-Chairman FICCI, Gujarat State Council, requested the government to provide salary support towards people from the industry, like travel agents, tour guides- who had lost their jobs due to the pandemic.

India Education Diary | Jun 07, 2020

Govt. committed to its renewable energy target of 30 GW by 2022: Gujarat Energy Minister

Mr Saurabh Bhai Patel, Energy Minister, Government of Gujarat today said that the state government is committed to its renewable energy target of 30 GW by 2022. He urged the industry to identify land pockets and participate in the upcoming bidding process, which will pick up pace in the coming months.

Addressing a FICCI webinar on ‘Outlook for Renewable Energy Sector in the State of Gujarat’ organized under the aegis of FICCI Renewable Energy CEOs Council, Mr Patel said that huge transmission infrastructure is being set up in Gujarat considering the new renewable energy plants to be installed in near future. The government has identified 150 new substations that will be set up this year, he added.

Mr Patel said that 84,000 hectares of land has been identified in Kutch for hybrid parks and around 30,000 MW of wind and solar power is being planned from these parks. He added that the government and developers should come together in identifying more renewable energy parks.

Mr Ranjit Gupta, Chair, FICCI Renewable Energy CEOs Council and CEO Azure Power said that the renewable energy industry is ready to make investments in Gujarat and the state has a very positive ecosystem for investments in various sectors including renewable energy. He mentioned that with more than 10.5 GW of renewable energy installed, Gujarat is a leading supporter of renewable energy projects across the country.

Mr Gupta added that IPPs have made huge investments in renewable energy sector in the state because of the investor-friendly policies and the support that investors get from the various state government agencies.

Mr Sunil Parekh, Chair, FICCI Gujarat State Council and Corporate Advisor, Zydus Group and Jubliant Bhartia Group said that Gujarat has always been at the forefront, leading the renewable energy sector in terms of both existing capacity as well as the future potential. He mentioned that this interaction will help in building deeper connect between renewable energy players and the Government of Gujarat.

Mr Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI thanked the Minister and the leadership of Gujarat for taking giant strides and lead in renewable energy for the past many years. He said that today is the World Environment Day and the interaction on renewable energy, a major aspect for clean nature, integrates well into the theme of the day.

The CEOs of FICCI Renewable Energy Council also made a presentation to the Minister on key enablers for investments in renewable energy sector in Gujarat as well as suggestions for current renewable energy projects.

India Education Diary | Mar 04, 2020

India Pharma & India Medical Device 2020 Conference to be held from 5 -7 March at Gandhinagar

The Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, in association with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry- FICCI is organising India Pharma 2020 & India Medical Device 2020 Conference & Exhibition at Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat from March 5-7, 2020. The three day conference will be inaugurated by the Chemicals & Fertilizers Minister Shri Sadananda Gowda MoS (C&F), Shri Mansukh Mandviya will also address the conference.

Theme of the event is “India Pharma: Meeting Challenges of Affordable and Quality Healthcare and India Medical Device: Promoting Affordable responsible and Quality Medical Device for Universal Health Care”

It aims to encourage innovations to further reduce the cost of quality healthcare for all and a platform to global investment community to connect with stakeholders in Medical Device Sector in India, Central and State Governments, leading business leaders and top executives from the industry ,academics and experts from the world.

The objective of this event is to promote consumer centric manufacturing by involving Medical Electronics, Devices, Health Diagnostics, Hospitals and Surgical Equipments etc. The event also aims at deliberations and technology demonstration towards constituting an ecosystem for empowering our Electronics Technology development and manufacturing base.

This year in the fifth edition, the event is being organised for the first time in the State of Gujarat, which is also the partner state for this event.

The Indian pharmaceutical market is the third largest in terms of volume and thirteenth largest in terms of value. India is the largest supplier of generic medicines globally. Similarly The Medical Devices industry in India is valued at USD 5.2 billion, contributes about 4-5 percent to the USD 96.7 billion Indian healthcare Industry.

During the event an Exhibition will also be held on Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices. More than 200 Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices companies will be participating in the Exhibition. Around 5,000 global pharmaceutical and biotechnology professionals will attend the 3-day Conference.

The Free Press Journal | Feb 19, 2020

Donald Trump visit, Gujarat falls head over heels

The government -- at the Centre and in Gujarat -- are pulling out all stops to ensure a life-time experience for US President Donald Trump in his re-election year, when he visits Ahmedabad for a few hours on February 24.

On the one hand, the head honchos of corporate world are being lined up to mark presence at the world's biggest 1.10 lakh capacity Motera stadium; on the other hand, eviction orders are being served on slums; or, they are being concealed behind concrete walls that have sprung overnight. And all this to ensure a feel-good visit for the distinguished visitor.

Trump and Melanie begin their two-day visit in Ahmedabad on February 24 and shall proceed from the airport to the Sabarmati ashram, which was the centre piece of Mahatma Gandhi's struggle for independence.

Thereafter, accompanied by PM Modi, they shall be a part of a 20-km long mega road show that will lead them to the Motera stadium for an inaugural function.

The much-hyped 'kem chho Trump’ event is a take-off on the 'Howdy Mody' extravaganza attended by Trump at Houston last year. Going into overdrive, the establishment is determined to double the participants in the stadium, beyond its capacity on lakh plus.

The downside of the road show is that all business establishments, including shops and eateries along the route, have been ordered shut for the duration of the visit and residents of residential enclaves directed to remain indoors.

Those who want to greet the President, as he passes by, must submit copies of their Aadhaar card and mobile numbers, duly verified by a bonafide office bearer of the enclave, which will then be exchanged for a police pass to be worn round the neck.

People lining up the route as well as those attending the Motera stadium event have been strictly warned not to wear black or carry anything of that colour, not even handkerchiefs or ‘duppattas’ in black, as those sporting such apparel (construed as colour of protest) will not be permitted.

The 10,000 police officers and men mobilised for the visit have been particularly instructed ensure that protesters and activists of all hues -- be it anti-CAA, LRD, etc. -- do not infiltrate and mar the US Presidential event.

“This is unprecedented, humiliating and ignominious for people -- to be meted out such treatment in their own land”, said a spokesperson of the Gujarat Congress.

Former Gujarat chief minister and NCP leader Shankersinh Vaghela has accused the BJP government of wasting Rs700 crore of public money on the visit, which could be better spent on welfare measures like building schools, colleges and hospitals.

‘‘Trump is coming looking for votes of expat Indians in an election year and we go head over heels to facilitate it. Such partisan participation in the politics of another country amounts to setting a very wrong precedent”, he said, adding, ‘‘But it is highly unlikely it will bring about a change in US visa policy towards Indians”.

Meanwhile, sources in the state secretariat aver that corporate Czars, including Mukesh Ambani, Ratan Tata, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Gautam Adani, Sudhir Mehta, AM Naik and Pankaj Patel, besides a string of other industrialists, have been invited for the Motera event.

Gujarat Industries Commissioner Rahul Gupta said that trade and industry organisations like FICCI, Assocham and the CII have been roped for the event. They will send out invites to their members and also confirm participation.

The organisers said that a separate 6000 capacity block has been earmarked in the stadium near the dais for business and trade heads. In an unprecedented move, perhaps for the first time in the history of the state, the annual budget session of the Gujarat Vidhan Sabha is being postponed from February 24 to 26 in view of the US President's visit.

Financial Express | Feb 14, 2020

Kem Cho Trump: Corporate honchos, Bollywood stars to be in attendance at Gujarat Trump event

The Narendra Modi government is pulling all stops to ensure its puts the country’s best on display during the forthcoming high-profile visit of US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. In a star-spangled event at the newly-constructed Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium at Motera in Ahmedabad on February 24, not only will the Trumps be serenaded by the stars of Bollywood but will also rub shoulders with the stars of India’s corporate world, who are expected to attend the high profile ‘Kem Chho Trump’ event at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Stadium at Motera in Ahmedabad.

Apart from the US president, first lady and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the inauguration of the world’s biggest cricket stadium will also be attended by more than 1.2 lakh other people. Sources in the state government said that corporate honchos including Mukesh Ambani, Ratan Tata, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Gautam Adani, Pankaj Patel, Sudhir Mehta, AM Naik and others will be present for the event.

“We have roped in industry bodies including CII, FICCI, ASSOCHAM, Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and regional chambers to invite industrialists and businessmen. They will send out invites to their members and also confirm their participation. Officials of Industries Commissionerate are constantly in contact of these associations,” said Gujarat’s industries commissioner Rahul Gupta.

GCCI president Durgesh Buch said that a group of nearly 1,000 industrialists and businessmen from GCCI would participate in the event including all office-bearers of the apex trade body in the state. FICCI Gujarat chairman Deepak Mehta said that 400 members have already confirmed participation and more are expected. Invitations were sent to the national leadership of FICCI also, said Mehta. CII Gujarat chairman Raju Shah said he would ensure maximum participation from CII.

Sources said that a separate identified block with a capacity of over 6,000 people is being planned at the Motera Stadium for the captains of trade and industries. As per the layout, the block is planned near to the stage from where PM Modi and the US president would address the mammoth gathering.

Financial Express | Nov 20, 2019

Flipkart's new strategy to attract sellers: Aims to support these many MSMEs to sell online

Flipkart on Wednesday said it has tied-up with industry body FICCI to set-up a workshop series across India focusing on small businesses to support them in their growth via e-commerce. Titled ‘Winning Big with E-commerce’, Flipkart and FICCI will organise the first workshop in Ahmedabad on Thursday for MSMEs to understand how to set-up, build and grow their ventures on Flipkart and boost their brand visibility. The handholding will be in the form of e-commerce specific accounting and taxation issues, access to capital, identifying new opportunities, the significance of digital brand building, building and scaling brands, managing supply chain and inventory planning.

The programme is directed towards giving them access to Flipkart’s over 200 million customer base across India. The company is looking to organise 10 workshops to begin with in cities including Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Nagpur etc. “We know that MSMEs play a key role in job creation and India’s economic development, and we understand the importance of giving these businesses an avenue for sustained, faster growth,” said Kalyan Krishnamurthy, CEO, Flipkart Group as the company eyes partnering with “lakhs of MSMEs” to help them sell on its platform over the “coming months,” he added.

The company has been focusing on leveraging India’s MSME sector including artisans, weavers, craftsmen to boost its seller count. It had earlier this year launched an initiative of reaching out to 13 MSME clusters to get them onboard. During its annual sale Big Billion Days, over 40 per cent of transacting sellers of micro, small and medium-size were from tier-II and beyond cities. Flipkart Group in FY19 cut cut its losses by 63 per cent to Rs 17,231 crore ($2.42 billion) from Rs 46,895 crore ($6.6 billion) in FY18 while its total revenue was up by 42 per cent to Rs 43,615 crore ($6.14 billion) in FY19 from Rs 30,644 crore ($4.32 billion) in FY18.

United News of India | Nov 20, 2019

Flipkart partners with FICCI to conduct workshops for MSMEs across India to help them grow their business

Flipkart, India’s leading e-commerce marketplace, has partnered with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) to launch a workshop series across India for MSMEs to help them leverage e-commerce to grow their business.

Starting with Ahmedabad on November 21, 2019, Flipkart and FICCI will host a series of workshops on the theme of ‘Winning big with e-commerce,’ wherein MSMEs can understand how the e-commerce marketplace can help them build their businesses and increase brand visibility.

India is home to over 60 million micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, which contribute close to 30% of the country’s GDP and are crucial drivers of job creation and economic growth.

The developing e-commerce industry provides a new business opportunity for these entrepreneurs, many of whom are unfamiliar with how to sell online and do not get a chance to regularly interact with online marketplaces to clear their doubts. Flipkart and FICCI’s workshops are designed to address these two pain points.

Flipkart representatives will advise attendees on e-commerce specific accounting and taxation issues, access to capital, how to identify new opportunities, the importance of brand building online, how to build and scale their brands, and supply chain management and inventory planning for e-commerce.

Through these workshops, MSMEs will learn more about how to expand beyond their physical brick-and-mortar presence to a pan-India customer base of over 200 million. Flipkart aims to host over 10 such events to begin with, across cities such as Bhubaneshwar, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Nagpur and more.

“Flipkart has always been committed to empowering MSMEs and domestic manufacturers to succeed in India. As a homegrown company, we know that MSMEs play a key role in job creation and India’s economic development, and we understand the importance of giving these businesses an avenue for sustained, faster growth. We have a mission to democratize e-commerce in India supported by innovation and technology and create lasting benefits in the country. We aim to create a robust ecosystem to enable this growth, and familiarizing and supporting MSMEs with the benefits of e-commerce is an essential step in this direction. We look forward to partnering lakhs of MSMEs and bring them into the e-commerce fold over the coming months,” said Kalyan Krishnamurthy, CEO - Flipkart Group.

“MSMEs are one of the key drivers of India’s economic growth; they contribute significantly to the country’s growth, through developing manufacturing and local employment. The development of this sector is a key focus area for the Government of India, as is the strengthening of the digital economy. E-commerce has the potential to serve both these aims, and transform the MSME sector. We are pleased to work alongside Flipkart in this initiative, and we are confident of its benefits to MSMEs across India,” said Rajiv Vastupal, Immediate Past Chairman, FICCI Gujarat State Council.

The partnership with FICCI is the latest in the many steps taken by Flipkart towards making e-commerce more inclusive and bringing India’s myriad small businesses and sellers online. Flipkart has recently revamped its seller financing and onboarding programmes to simplify the process of selling online for MSMEs.

Latest LY | Nov 20, 2019

Business Briefs 3 Flipkart Partners with FICCI to Conduct Workshops for MSMEs

Walmart-owned Flipkart on Wednesday said it has partnered with industry body FICCI to launch a workshop series across India for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to help them leverage e-commerce to grow their business.

Starting with Ahmedabad on November 21, Flipkart and FICCI will host a series of workshops, wherein MSMEs can understand how the e-commerce marketplace can help them build their businesses and increase brand visibility, a statement said.

Flipkart representatives will advise attendees on e-commerce specific accounting and taxation issues, access to capital, how to identify new opportunities, importance of brand building online, how to build and scale their brands, and supply chain management and inventory planning for e-commerce, it added. Flipkart aims to host over 10 such events to begin with, across cities such as Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Guwahati and Nagpur.

The Times of India | Aug 03, 2019

IP fest focusses on pharma, start-ups

The third edition of Intellectual Property (IP) Fest 2019, jointly organized by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and IP Promotion Outreach Foundation (IPPO) in Ahmedabad, pushed for greater awareness and engagement towards IP rights in pharma, start-ups and entertainment sector.

Speaking about the increasing push for IP Rights (IPR) in India, Sunil Parekh, co-chair, FICCI – Gujarat state council, said, “The national IPR Policy 2016 was a landmark document and it transformed the IP scenario in India. IP helps the industry to a great extent. In fact, foreign direct investments (FDI) come into India when companies are comfortable that their IP is safe.”

“Last year, the IP regime witnessed several reforms with Indian courts delivering landmark judgements. In fact, pendency of cases in IP protection have also reduced from one year to a few months. Moreover, in 2018-19, the patent applications examination went up by 42% whereas online filing of patents too went up by 90% in India,” he added.

State education minister, Bhupendrasinh Chudasama, who was the chief guest at the inaugural session also emphasized on increased awareness about IP rights, in the context of innovation. “IP is prevalent across all sectors and it promotes and protects the rights of the innovators and creators. In Gujarat, where we have a innovations in agriculture and health sector are taking shape, IP holds key importance,” he said.

The day-long IP Fest saw panel discussions on IP policies, IP in entertainment & media, and IP in Start-ups and Information Technology, among others.

DNA | Aug 03, 2019

Ahmedabad: Rapid incubation of IP ideas is need of the day, say experts

Ideas that have the potential to create intellectual property (IP) should be rapidly incubated into businesses as a delay here makes the innovation irrelevant, said experts at an event in Ahmedabad. They lamented the lack of awareness on the same among the faculty and students in the universities and colleges across the city.

Speaking at a panel discussion at the third edition of IP Fest, organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and IP Promotion Outreach Foundation (IPPO) in Ahmedabad on Friday, K Padmavati M, dean of Rajiv Gandhi School of IP Law said that it is necessary to link innovation with outcome.

However, there is a lot of delay in this conversion. "If the innovative idea does not get converted into proof of concept, it loses its value. We need to expedite this process by roping in start-up incubators," said Padmavati. B K Sahu, regional manager of National Resource Development Centre (NRDC) – Intellectual Property Facilitation Centre (IPFC) of Government of India lamented that there is not enough awareness about IP and how to leverage it among universities and many government-owned companies.

"I visited so many universities and colleges, but the awareness about IP needs to be enhanced. Even a professor in Jawaharlal Nehru University was not aware of the procedure for filing of IP rights. Close to 40,000 patent applications were filed in 2018 across the country, but sadly only about 20% are from locals, while the rest are from foreigners or multinational companies," he said.

A K Garg, director of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) expressed the need to create a roadmap regarding what needs to be done in next five years for promotion of IP in different sectors, especially with regard to the impact on industries and society. Even as India is a leader in the software services sector, he expressed the necessity to encourage more software products from India. "Globally, the size of the Information Technology (IT) market is about $1.4 trillion, but India has only a 10% share. While most of the work is being done in India, close to 70% value has been gained by foreigners. In fact, India is not present in about 78% of the IT business," he said.

Outlook | Jun 21, 2019

One-stop online shop for potential investors to Gujarat

Potential investors to Gujarat were on Thursday given a demonstration of the newly introduced ''Investor Facilitation Portal'' set up by the state government and their problems answered through it.

The investors were taken through the portal that allows any investor to know the approvals that are required and allows them to upload all required documents online. They were given a briefing at a workshop organized by the Industrial Extension Bureau (iNDEXTb) and the State Industries Commissionerate.

The Investor Facilitation Portal is a single window facilitation mechanism for investors. The portal is to facilitate the investors with all the latest details regarding the investment opportunities in the state.

Industrial policy of the state, industrial parks, focus sectors and other such information are available on this website.

The workshop brought together stakeholders from the government as well as the industry ecosystem. Participants included members from the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) as well as the Gujarat chapters of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

Managing Director of iNDEXTb R.K. Beniwal said the workshop was to bridge the gap of understanding between the industry and the government "since it often happens that the best initiatives taken by the government do not bring the desired impact for lack of communication.

"We need to see in which direction the global economy is moving and ensure that Gujarat keeps up with global best practices," he said.

Additional Industries Commissioner Shweta Teotia and MSME Commissioner Y.B Nirgude were present to answer queries from investors.

Gujarat has consistently ranked among the top 5 states in the National Ease of Doing Business rankings assessed by the Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade (DPIIT) annually.

Speaking at the discussions, Co-Chairman of FICCI Gujarat State council Sunil Parekh said, "Sustainable industrialisation is the need of the hour, we need to ensure that the activities we undertake account for long-term health of the environment".

He recommended several steps to take Gujarat to the next level of industrialisation.

DNA | Jun 21, 2019

Regular harassment punctures Ease of Doing Business claims: MSMEs

Representatives of small businesses raised issues related to disproportionate responses by government authorities for petty reasons, delay in payments by big buyers, delay in payment of incentives by government, ad hoc circulars resulting in blanket action against exporters, lack of road map in implementation of policies by the government and others that affect their day-to-day functioning. They said this during a seminar on Ease of Doing Business (EODB) in the city on Thursday.

Sunil Parekh, co-chair of Gujarat State Council of Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FICCI) expressed the necessity for further easing in obtaining land and construction permits as well as a single agency to inspect compliance of GST, PF, ESIC, Factory Act and Labour Act.

Rajkumar Beniwal, MD of Industrial Extension Bureau (iNDEXTB) asked businessmen to use Investor Facilitation Portal (IFP) through which close to 70 permissions pertaining to various departments are available. "First we are focussing on Ease of Starting Business. We are also focussing on Ease of Doing Business," he told DNA.

Arun Kumar Jagatramka, group chairman of Gujarat NRE led the assault, warning government officials that if practises of the government continue to be unfair, no young entrepreneur will remain in the country. "Excessive criminalization of corporate laws has created an environment of witch hunting where no businessman feels himself safe and is leading to mass exodus of future entrepreneurs out of the country," said Jagatramka.

Khalid Khan, regional chairman – western region of Federation of Indian Exporters Organization (FIEO) said that a recent circular by Customs Department resulted in close to 600 containers coming to a grinding halt at Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT). Most of these belonged to commodity exporters from Gujarat. "It is unfair to take everyone to task, if a few businesses do not comply," said Khan.

Pointers:

A DICCI representative said that inspite of a provision of 70 per cent subsidy to Dalit entrepreneurs is not granted for 5 years now.
MSME commissioner Yogesh Nirgude said that Out of a budget of Rs 25 crore in one case, Rs 15 crore got lapsed as there were not sufficient claimants.
MSMEs complained that inspite of legal provision, buyers are not paying them within 45 days
Businesses said that they remain busy in meeting compliances and they are not able to focus on actual business
They complained that policies are framed but not implemented as rules and regulation are finalized
Petty notices in GST is causing harassment of businesses, even though the amount may be insignificant

The Hindu Business Line | Jun 20, 2019

Gujarat govt holds interactive seminar with industry leaders

To further boost the business environment in the State through Ease of Doing Business, the Gujarat government conducted an industry seminar in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

The workshop, organised by Gujarat’s Industrial Extension Bureau (iNDEXTb) and Industries Commissionerate, brought together stakeholders from the government as well as the industry ecosystem. Participants included members from the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) as well as the Gujarat chapters of CII and FICCI.

Rajkumar Beniwal, Managing Director, iNDEXTb, stressed the need to make government policies effective for the industries and the stakeholders. “Seminars such as this one allow the government and the industry to communicate and understand each other better,” he said.

Potential investors

The aim of the seminar was to apprise the potential investors of the proactive steps the government has taken to facilitate the setting up of new businesses without going through a long-drawn process of acquiring licences and permits.

Sunil Parekh, Co-chairman of FICCI Gujarat State Council, recommended several steps to take Gujarat to the next level of industrialisation. “Sustainable industrialisation is the need of the hour, we need to ensure that the activities we undertake account for long-term health of the environment,” he said.

The participants also highlighted the difficulties they faced in dealing with various government departments for clearances and official filings.

Additional Industries Commissioner Shweta Teotia and YB Nirgude, MSME Commissioner, attended the seminar.

Business Standard | Jun 08, 2019

Gujarat, Guangdong look to strengthen trade relations

With Gujarat contributing eight per cent to India's GDP with five per cent of its population and Chinese province Guangdong's share of 10 per cent of the country's GDP with five per cent population, both the business-strong states could grow together manifold.

This was the common sentiment expressed by delegates from Gujarat and Guangdong, which have a sister states agreement, at the China-India-Gujarat Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference inaugurated by Chief Minister Vijay Rupani here on Friday.

The day-long conference was jointly organized by China's Guangdong Province Department of Commerce, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)'s Gujarat Council and state Industrial Extension Bureau (INDEXTb).

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said while China and India were playing a vital role in the global economic order, Gujarat performed a special part in it.

He said there was need to chart out the future for development between the two countries, with both together sharing one-third of the world's population and both have abundant youth power.

Rupani recalled Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to India and Gujarat at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and said this launched a new chapter of cooperation between the two nations.

Subsequent visits of Gujarat and China's high-level delegations to each other's countries in 2016 and 2018 before the biennial Gujarat Global Vibrant Summits further strengthened the relations between the two provinces in business, trade, educational and cultural fields.

He added the agreement between Gujarat and Guangdong as sister states opened doors of more cooperation. With 5 per cent of India's population and six per cent of area, Gujarat contributed eight per cent of India's GDP and 22 per cent of exports.

"The state has 48 ports, 17 airports, 19 SEZs, 8 SIRs, over 200 industrial estates. It has the best infrastructure as it has become an auto manufacturing hub. Several leading industrial houses have set up plants, started business and made Gujarat their second home," Rupani said.

Communist Party of China (CPC) Politburo Central Committee Member and Guangdong Party Secretary Li Xi said he was keen to take the cooperation between the two provinces to new horizons, besides successful implementation of several MoUs between them.

FICCI Gujarat State Council Chairman Deepak Mehta pointed out that although Guangdong had 5 per cent of China's population, it contributed 10 per cent to the country's GDP and reminded India's business relations with China through the Silk Route was 500 years old.

Giving a call for Way To Gujarat (WTG), Mehta stressed on need-based production and said electrical and electronic goods, medical, chemical and food-processing comprise the major commodities between the two nations. He exuded confidence that Indo-China trade would touch $ 200 billion in two years.

Guangdong Province Department of Commerce Deputy Director-General Ma Hua presided over the programme.

Newsd | Jun 07, 2019

Gujarat, Guangdong look to strengthen trade relations

With Gujarat contributing eight per cent to India’s GDP with five per cent of its population and Chinese province Guangdong’s share of 10 per cent of the country’s GDP with five per cent population, both the business-strong states could grow together manifold.

The day-long conference was jointly organized by China’s Guangdong Province Department of Commerce, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)’s Gujarat Council and state Industrial Extension Bureau (INDEXTb).

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani said while China and India were playing a vital role in the global economic order, Gujarat performed a special part in it.

He said there was need to chart out the future for development between the two countries, with both together sharing one-third of the world’s population and both have abundant youth power.

Rupani recalled Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to India and Gujarat at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 and said this launched a new chapter of cooperation between the two nations.

Subsequent visits of Gujarat and China’s high-level delegations to each other’s countries in 2016 and 2018 before the biennial Gujarat Global Vibrant Summits further strengthened the relations between the two provinces in business, trade, educational and cultural fields.

He added the agreement between Gujarat and Guangdong as sister states opened doors of more cooperation. With 5 per cent of India’s population and six per cent of area, Gujarat contributed eight per cent of India’s GDP and 22 per cent of exports.

“The state has 48 ports, 17 airports, 19 SEZs, 8 SIRs, over 200 industrial estates. It has the best infrastructure as it has become an auto manufacturing hub. Several leading industrial houses have set up plants, started business and made Gujarat their second home,” Rupani said.

FICCI Gujarat State Council Chairman Deepak Mehta pointed out that although Guangdong had 5 per cent of China’s population, it contributed 10 per cent to the country’s GDP and reminded India’s business relations with China through the Silk Route was 500 years old.

Guangdong Province Department of Commerce Deputy Director-General Ma Hua presided over the programme.

Desh Gujarat | Jun 07, 2019

Chief Minister opens China-India-Gujarat Economic and Trade Conference-2019

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani inaugurated China-India-Gujarat Economic and Trade Co-operation Confernce-2019, jointly organized by China’s Guangdong Province Department of Commerce, FICCI Gujarat Council and iNDEXTb, here today.

Speaking on the occasion, he said that China and India are playing a very important role in the global economic order, with Gujarat performing a special part. He said there is need to chart out the future chart for development between the two countries, the two countries sharing one-third of the world’s total population and both having abundance of youth power.

He recalled that Chinese President’s visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014 launched a new chapter of co-operation between the two nations.Gujarat’s high-level delegation’s visit to China and vice versa in 2016 and 2018 before the biennial Gujarat Global Vibrant Summits further strengthened the relations between the two provinces in business, trade, educational and cultural fields.

Mr. Rupani said the agreement between Gujarat and Guangdong as Sister States opened up doors of more cooperation He said that Gujarat providing business-friendly environment is developing at fastest rate among Indian states as it also have special relation with several countries.

With 5% of India’s population and 6% of area, he said, Gujarat contributes to 8% of India’s GDP and 22% of exports. Gujarat has 48 ports, 17 airports, 19 SEZs, 8 SIRs, over 200 Industrial Estates, best infrastructure as it has become an auto manufacturing hub. Several leading Industrial houses have set up plants, started business and made their second home.

Communist Party of China (CPC) Politburo Central Committee Member and Guangdong Party Secretary Li Xi said that he is keen to take the co-operation between the two provinces to new horizons, over and above successful implementation of several MoUs.

FICCI Gujarat State Council Chairman Deepak Mehtasaid that electrical and electronic goods, medical, chemical and food-processing comprise the major commodities between the two nations. Although Guangdong has 5% of China’s population, he said, it contributes to 10% of GDP. India’s business with China through Silk Route is 500 years old. He stressed the need for need-based production and gave the call for Way To Gujarat (WTG). He exuded confidence of taking Indo-China trade to $ 200 billion in two years.

Guangdong Province Department of Commerce Deputy Director-General Ma Hua conducted the programme.

The conference was attended by Gujarat Chief Secretary J.N. Singh, Chief Minister’s Chief Principal Secretary K. Kailahnathan, Principal Secretary M.K. Das, senior bureaucrats Mukesh Puri, D. Thara, JaiprakashShivhare and RajkumarBeniwal, Chinese Ambassador Li Bijian and a number of Indo-Chinese trade delegates.

Devdiscourse | Jun 07, 2019

China pitches for Indian investment in Greater Bay Area

China Friday called for greater economic cooperation between the two countries and invited Indian firms to explore investment opportunities in the Greater Bay Area of China. "Greater Bay Area is among the most promising economic area and a hot destination for investment. Many multinational firms have already invested in the region and we invite India to explore and exploit trade opportunities there," Chinese Communist Party leader, Li Xi said.

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area of China is commonly referred to as the Greater Bay Area (GBA). While addressing "2019 China (Guangdong)-India (Gujarat) Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference here Xi said, "India has become our largest trade partner in South Asia and we are making efforts to further develop this trade." Greater Bay Area would also like to contribute in the development of New India, he added.

The Conference was organized by FICCI to boost economic cooperation between the two countries, especially between Gujarat and the Chinese province of Guangdong. Many Chinese firms have made their base in Gujarat during the last few years.

'China Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (CASME)' has also shown interest in buying 200 acres of land at Sachana village near Ahmedabad to set up various industries, 'iNDEXTb' Managing Director Rajkumar Beniwal said. Top representatives of around 40 Chinese firms took part in the event. The Chinese delegation is also visiting GIFT City near Gandhinagar to explore investment opportunities, says government official.

MIG | Jan 17, 2019

Startups in Gujarat

Hasmukh R Patil, a farmer from Mandal near Ahmedabad, is on a mission to make solar powered tractors to help millions of farmers bring down their cost of cultivation and reduce dependence on expensive fossil fuels. With the diesel prices skyrocketing, solar-powered tractors would mean a major saving for farmers across India, and hence it was no surprise that Hasmukh Patil’s tractor drew huge crowds at the Vibrant Gujarat Startup and Technology Summit, 2018, held at Gandhinagar in October last year.

Patil started by using scraps and automobile parts bought from different garages and mechanics. He then assembled and reassembled his tractor multiple times until he got it right. Currently, he is testing a tractor that has enough power not just to plough fields, but can also be used for numerous other activities such as transporting goods, drawing water from borewells as well as a source of power for lighting.

The best place for startups

Surprising as it may sound, Hasmukh Patil is not an exception or rarity in Gujarat. The state has seen several successful startups and in a recent survey by Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) of the Indian government, the state grabbed the first rank amongst all Indian states for promoting startups. Gujarat is now ahead of states such as Karnataka, whose capital Bengaluru is called India’s Silicon Valley and is well-known for a thriving startup culture. The DIPP survey identified seven key reform areas as the basis of the ranking. The survey said that a total of 14,565 startups were registered during the year across the country, offering services in various sectors like IT, technology hardware, healthcare, agriculture, education, food, and renewable energy.

“The entire exercise was conducted in essence for capacity development and to further the spirit of cooperative federalism. Awareness workshops in all states, knowledge workshops in leading incubators, pairing of states for intensive mentoring, international exposure visits to the US and Israel and intensive engagement between states with the Startup India team helped many states initiate effective measures to support startups,” the DIPP said in a statement, announcing the results of the survey.

Gujarat has allocated INR 1 billion (USD 14 million) budget for startups and provided assistance to at least 200 projects. An online portal was launched to help states submit their initiatives across the reform areas. “The government of Gujarat is promoting startups by good cooperation with entire ecosystem. Startups can directly approach industrial commissionerate and the department is also aggressive to resolve the issues within time frame. Incubators like Icreate, GTU, PDPU and CIIE are bridging and hatching the early stage startups very well,” said Ravi Patel, founder & managing director, Tupik Private Limited, a startup based in Ahmedabad that manufactures personal bed airconditioners that consume only 400 watts of power and can cut electric bills by up to 80 pc in comparison to the standard room airconditioner.

The new schemes

The Gujarat government has launched a scheme to incentivise technology startups that provide solutions to sector-specific problems identified by the authorities. The Technology Demonstration and Pilot Deployment scheme is to be implemented by the Gujarat Council on Science & Technology (GUJCOST). Pilot deployment for complex solutions will open up a huge public sector for the start-up ecosystem, says the government.

“The scheme endeavours to identify the sector specific problems unique to the public sector in the state and to facilitate deployment of solutions which have been specifically crafted for such needs,” says J N Singh, chief secretary, of the government of Gujarat.

The scheme will allow low cost testing for these innovations before the government commits to commercial solutions, requiring much larger financial commitments. It will also allow the state to find solutions to problems complex in nature and specific to the state’s environment such as solid waste management, liquid waste management, urban planning, urban mobility as well as pollution abatement.

Under the scheme, a research proposal can be funded up to INR 5 million (USD 70,000) for three years. Earlier, Gujarat had also announced its Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) policy, which created a dedicated Innovation Fund of INR 500 million (USD 8 million). The new scheme will be financed under this Innovation Fund.

Financial assistance

Gujarat is investing a lot in building a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and startups to drive economic growth and boost job creation. The state has an ambitious plan to establish around 100 incubators and to develop almost 200,000 sqm of Incubation Space and support at least 2,000 startups in the coming years.

Over the past two years, Gujarat has provided a financial assistance of INR 220 million (USD 3 million) to 175 startups. The government has set a target of facilitating 2,000 startups by 2021.

According to Sunil Parekh, chairman of the startup committee of FICCI, an industry body, apart from the 175 government-funded startups there are 26 startups in the state that are being funded by High Net-worth Individuals (HNIs). Currently there are about 35 incubators in Gujarat against a target of 50 that should be up and running by 2021.

There are several startups and scale up success stories of innovators incubated from leading academic institutions such as the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, the top management school in India, the Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India, the Ahmedabad University and the National Institute of Design.

Last year, Ahmedabad-based end-to-end IT services provider, Dev Information Technology Ltd, set up a large-scale accelerator for startups, making it a one-stop solution for entrepreneurs to conceive, develop, test and commercially rollout their ideas.

“I think the government schemes, grants and incubators are enough but to enhance the entire ecosystem to next level, government has to involve the existing industries into it under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations. We also need experienced industrialists to mentor and support startups with do’s and don’ts. The startups can also benefit from using existing industrial infrastructure and facilities, to add more value to the entire ecosystem. This could boost the startups plus could decrease the current startups failing ratio,” says Patel.

State’s startup summit

The Vibrant Gujarat Startup and Technology Summit, 2018 was organised as a forerunner to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, 2019. With ‘Experience the Next’ as its theme, the summit focused on the way information technology can transform the way people of India will live in the times to come. The event also highlighted technology as a catalyst to entrepreneurship that would rerate and redefine Gujarat as a ‘living lab’ for the IT industry and also as a lucrative startup hub.

“The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit gives a fair chance and platform to every startup to allow them to pitch to the right audiences. Sessions moderated by experienced industry leaders and government officials provide useful insights into the real journey of startups and entrepreneurs. Such summits also offer networking opportunities to budding entrepreneurs who can gain a lot from others and can also find members to build a good team,’’ says Patel.

The failing IT sector

While the startups are doing well in Gujarat, the state has not been able to make much headway in the development of its IT sector. At the Vibrant Gujarat Startup and Technology summit, 2018, Debjani Ghosh, president of Nasscom, the Indian IT industry association, said, “Entrepreneurship is in the DNA of Gujaratis, and it is from here that we expect entrepreneurs to tell the world how to do business. Gujarat has the ability to do really well in the IT industry; it just needs to take the initiative and leadership to become the hub for India to grow talent and skill needed for entrepreneurship in this sector.”

“Gujarat’s IT industry’s contribution to India’s economy is 1 pc and I really wish Gujarat takes up the challenge of escalating it to 10 pc because there’s tremendous potential here,” she further added. “Over 80 pc of the startups in India are concentrated in the tier-1 cities but promising startups are now coming up in tier-II cities, including Ahmedabad,” says J N Singh.

A Platform for Budding Entrepreneurs

The event was co-organised by the Industrial Extension Bureau (iNDEXTb), Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) and GESIA IT Association. It came with theme-based pavilions, innovation zones for exhibition, focused topic sessions, workshops, and demonstration of disruptive technologies. According to the state government the main aim of the summit was to generate new ideas, select business ideas, create new enterprises, and help these enterprises identify potential clients for kick-starting their business, that witnessed a footfall of over eight thousand.

The summit mainly focused on Fintech, Manufacturing 4.0, Agritech, Smart and Shared Mobility, Governance 2030, women-centric solutions, Healthtech, Maritime and Military Intelligence, and others.

Speakers at the event included business leaders like C. P. Gurnani, CEO & MD, Tech Mahindra, Sunil Shah, chairman, JP Morgan Chase, Meetul Patel, COO, Microsoft India, Jeyandran Venugopal, CTO, Myntra and Shruti Gonsalves, CEO SEWA Grih Rin.

The Times of India | Nov 26, 2018

If Mumbai is the financial capital then Gujarat is India's manufacturing hub: Vijay Rupani

Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani said that Vibrant Global Summit has now moved ahead from inclusive growth and has become the platform for the solution of Global Challenges. He held curtain raiser – Interactive meets with Businessmen’s and Industrialists from Mumbai as a part of preparation of Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2019. Gujarat has created an eco system, not only in industrial development but has generated employments in financial services, aerospace, defence, electronics, logistics and in the field of media and entertainment.

Rupani said that proving our Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of New India, Gujarat will provide a model of inclusive growth through the theme of Shaping New India in Vibrant Gujarat Summit-2019. “If Mumbai is the financial capital then Gujarat is India’s manufacturing hub”. Both the states have achieved tremendous achievements in Industrial production, ports and maritime, financial services and tourism, he added.

Rupani said that in year 1960 when Gujarat and Maharashtra were separated, Gujarat had to face many geographical and economic challenges. At that time Gujarat had deserted land, water scarcity, limited industries and many economic problems. Gujarat has written a new definition of development with hard work, entrepreneurship, progressive governance system, dynamic policies and dedicated leadership and now Gujarat and Maharashtra have become the economic backbone of India today.

Describing the Success of Vibrant Summit Rupani said that, earlier investment in Gujarat was discussed in this summit, but now along with investments, solutions for the problems of world and available opportunities at global platform are also discussed.

The 9th Vibrant Summit in January -19 will focus on New Investment, New India and New Technology. Boosting up Mumbai’s businessmen’s and industrialists for capital as well as industrial investments, Rupani said that this time not only India but the whole world will see new technologies and concepts and will bring new hopes and opportunities not only for the people of Gujarat but for every Indian. Gujarat is a policy driven, transparent and honest state with good governance, and he appealed all to work hard for the development of the nation and to bring India at the top of the world.

Chief Secretary J. N. Singh said that, there are plenty of opportunities in various fields to set up industries in Gujarat. As a result, the government has got proposals to set up the 347 largest industries in just nine months. The state government has created easy policies for the industry. There are about 30 lakh MSME industries in Gujarat. These industries have created a prominent eco-system of all-round development, including employment opportunities, in Gujarat, he added.

Principal Secretary of the Industry Department and Principal Secretary to Chief Minister M. K. Das informed the businessmen’s and industrialists about the development of various sectors in Gujarat through the presentation.

President of FICCI Rashesh Shah welcomed all. As well as for the active cooperation of state government in industrial sector, three industrialists expressed their experiences in Gujarat. MOUs were signed between Gujarat government and the Intimate Apparel Association of India for services provider for investment in the apparel sector.

Ahmedabadmirror | Nov 21, 2018

Builders gung-ho after online NA push

With the implementation of the online system for getting non-agriculture (NA) land certificate across Gujarat, registrations for realty and industrial projects are expected to go up at Vibrant Gujarat Global Investor Summit (VGGIS) in January 2019.

Gujarat government had begun the system as a pilot project on August 15; permissions for NA land were granted by the Collectorate office. However, the developers were in a wait and watch mode as they had already been grappling with slowdown in the sector apart from administrative hassles for clearance of projects by urban development departments. After initial hiccups in the system, the government came up with an updated version and implemented it in all the districts of the state.

Along with the online system for NA permission, the government is also allowing offline applications for development permissions for three months. These two permissions, said realtors, will help the industry get faster clearances for the projects and allow them to get the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) permissions sooner. NA and development permissions are two of the main clearances needed to apply to Gujarat RERA department.

This move by the government is expected to help the realtors, hoteliers, MSMEs and other industries to announce bigger projects in the upcoming VGGIS-2019.

GIHED-CREDAI President, Ashish Patel said, "This move by Gujarat government is like a power-booster for the real estate industry because online NA permission along with offline permissions for development projects will expedite the clearance process for the developer. Moreover, it will help developers to come up with affordable residential and commercial projects which are the need of the hour."

Patel further said, "Gujarat government had implemented the Online Development Permission System (ODPS) in May 2018. It has been seven months since we have been requesting the government to correct their online software which was not up to the mark to access our project applications. Thus, it will give developer ease in getting faster permissions."

The Real Estate Developers' Associations of India (CREDAI) had been demanding multiple facilities and modification in the administrative system from Gujarat government for the ease of doing business; NA permission was one of them.

Commenting on the development, CREDAI President Jaxay Shah said, "It's a welcome decision as we can see that now people are getting NA permissions within 10 days. This will help developers expedite their project from conceptual stage to execution faster."

"We will see more projects from sectors like logistics, hospitality, realty projects (residential and commercial), following this development, in the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat event," added Shah. Secretary (Land Reforms), Revenue Department, Hareet Shukla said, "NA is the prime requirement to begin any industry. Therefore, after testing the pilot for three months at Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, we have begun the service across the state."

Explaining further the impact of the newly available online NA service, Shukla said, "This has been done as part of bringing transparency in the system will lead to ease of doing business. This will help the Vibrant Gujarat 2019 event in multiple ways."

Rajiv Vastupal, chairman of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Gujarat State Council, said, "It's a welcome move as the process will reduce corruption and waiting period of the applicant." Moreover, the affordable housing schemes developers will be the biggest beneficiary of this development, he added.

What system entails

As part of Digital India, along with Collectorate, even dist panchayats will accept applications and give online NA permission gradually.
Only application and promissory note required at the time of application.
Application fee is 50 paise per sqm for online payment.
Govt has developed IRCMS (integrated revenue case management system) to gain information about the file.
Applicant will be informed through SMS or email about application’s status.
The file moves through only three tables (Chitnis, addl resident collector and collector) for clearance of NA.
The NA permission can be availed in 10 days if there are no criminal/civil cases or title issues. It may take 30 days for specific case.
In cases where govt interest is involved, decision needs to be taken in 90 days.
The entire process, which earlier took 45 days or more (in offline mode), has been made easier and faster

The Times of India | Nov 02, 2018

Gujarat ideal state for migrants: Vijay Rupani

A month after several incidents of attacks on migrant labourers in Gujarat, chief minister, Vijay Rupani said the state is ideal for migrants. Rupani was addressing the national executive council meeting of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), held in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

Referring to the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2019, Rupani spoke of the business-friendly environment in the state. “Gujarat has a better urban infrastructure, business-friendly environment and there is zero-level unrest in the state. Due to which, Gujarat is considered to be an ideal state for migration,” said the chief minister.

It may be noted that according to the state home department, more than 60 first information reports (FIRs) were filed in connection with attacks on migrants across the state and more than 750 persons were arrested by the state police officials. The attacks were triggered after the arrest of a worker hailing from Bihar, for alleged rape of a 14-month-old baby girl in Sabarkantha district.

“Gujarat has industrial peace and industries don’t face difficulties here owing to the favourable working atmosphere in the state,” said Rupani.

CM Rupani also spoke of several initiatives taken by the state government to attract investment and help generate employment.

Highlighting Gujarat’s strengths as a manufacture-centric state, and elaborating on the state government’s efforts to help Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), he said, “Gujarat is the backbone of the MSME sector. We have seen a whopping 41% growth in the sector. The state government is giving Rs 1,000 crore as incentives apart from providing best infrastructure. It is the surplus power and industrial peace that are making Gujarat one of the best places to do business. Gujarat, a policy-driven state, has in the true sense become a land of opportunities.”

Rupani also mentioned of the recently inaugurated Statue of Unity at Kevadiya and said, “We have decided to hold all the national meetings at the Statue of Unity. We are moving in the direction of setting up a world-class tourism centre there.”

The Pioneer | Nov 02, 2018

Gujarat still ideal place for migrant workers: CM

Despite recent attacks on migrant workers in the different parts of the State following alleged rape of a toddler by a Bihari origin labourer in North Gujarat, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Thursday claimed that industrial peace was prevailing in Gujarat and still it was an ideal place for migrants.

Speaking at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) national executive meet at Ahmadabad, the Chief Minster said that there was zero-level unrest coupled with business friendly environment in the State. Insisting FICCI business delegates to organise conventions and conferences of their business establishments near ‘Statue of Unity’, Rupani said that industries were thriving in Gujarat due to positive atmosphere and the State Government’s business friendly policies.

It is worth mentioning that ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, Gujarat Government is slated to hold its flagship event of trade and investment — Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (VGGS) in January 2019 to attract investment in the state. Rupani wants to ensure that due to scattered incidences of attacks on migrants, the image of Gujarat as business friendly state wouldn’t be tarnish.

On September 28, 2018 a 14-month-old girl was allegedly raped by a labourer belonging to Bihar. Following the incident, provoked locals attacked on Hindi-speaking labourers working in factories. The attacks spread fear on migrants workers and thousands of them fled to their respective States well ahead of Diwali holidays.

Taking the incidences seriously Gujarat Government also appointed two fast track judges in order to quickly dispose case related to rape on infant as well as attacks on innocent migrant labourers. More than 60 cases of attacks on migrant workers have been registered with the Gujarat police in different parts of the States.

Entire episode became political blame game as ruling BJP blamed on Congress MLA Alpesh Thakor for provoking locals against migrant labourers and on the other side Congress leaders claimed that the State Government failed to control the situation and as result of it thousands of migrant workers forced to flee the State.

dailyhunt | Nov 02, 2018

Industrial peace in Gujarat: Rupani

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Thursday sought to allay fears of the business community in the wake of migration of workers from north India claiming that there was complete industrial peace and the state continued to be an ideal investment destination.

Speaking at the national executive committee meeting of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the Chief Minister said: "There is zero unrest in Gujarat and the state has always had a business friendly environment."

Rupani exhorted the FICCI's delegates to organize conventions and conferences of their business establishments near the 'Statue of Unity'. He added that industries were thriving in Gujarat due to positive atmosphere and the state government's business-friendly policies.

The chief minister's appeal to trade and industry also coincides with the hectic preparations for the Gujarat government's big-ticket Vibrant Gujarat Global Investment Summit (VGGIS) in January 2019 to attract domestic and global investment in the state.

It is also the time when the BJP at the Centre and in north Indian states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh faces crucial elections soon and in 2019. "At such time, it is vital for Rupani to ensure that Gujarat's image in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's home state is not tarnished, a BJP leader told IANS.

An alleged rape by a Bihar origin man on September 28 had sparked off attacks on migrant workers in the state forcing thousands of them to flee to their home towns in north India well ahead of Diwali festivities.

Though the state Government claimed that it had initiated swift action, it was not before the migration of workers had already started.

Bilkul Online | Nov 02, 2018

Gujarat encouraging SMEs and job creation in a big way: Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani

Gujarat Chief Minister, Vijaybhai Rupani said at the FICCI’s National Executive

Committee Meeting organized in the city today that the state has been focusing in the Startups, SMEs and job creation in major way.

“Gujaratis have excellent business acumen. And the contribution of the state in India’s economy has been exceptional. The state’s contribution in India’s GDP stands at 7%. Moreover, Gujarat’s stock market contribution is 30%. The numbers are testimony to the fact that Gujarat provides ease of doing business,” Rupani said.

“While manufacturing is Gujarat’s strength, the state government has been focusing on infrastructure development. Gujarat is also one of the 25 focus centers listed under the Make in India movement. Also, from 2012 to 2018, foreign investment has increased to $ 20 billion,” he added.

Rashesh Shah (President, FICCI), Sandip Somany (President Elect, FICCI), Sangeeta Reddy (Vice President, FICCI), Pankaj Patel (Past President, FICCI), Dilip Chinoy (Secretary General, FICCI) and Rajiv Vastupal (Chairperson, FICCI Gujarat), attended the interactive session among others.

Elaborating the state’s efforts to boost the MSME sector, Rupani said, “Gujarat is the backbone of the MSME sector. We have seen a whopping 41% growth in the sector. The state government is giving Rs. 1000 cr. as incentives apart from providing best infrastructure. It is the surplus power and industrial peace that are making Gujarat one of the best places to do business. Gujarat, a policy-driven state, has in the true sense become a land of opportunities.”

Speaking about FICCI, the chief minister said, “FICCI has always promoted human development along with industrial development. Also, the organization has constantly been a great support at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit and with the colossal event coming up in January 2019, we are looking forward to the same from them, added the CM”.

Rashesh Shah, Chairperson, FICCI Gujarat welcoming the chief minister on the occasion said, “Gujarat continues to grow with focus on inclusive and sustainable development under the able leadership of Vijaybhai Rupani. With growth in every sector, Gujarat has become a truly vibrant state. With a thrust on infrastructure and industrial development in Gujarat, FICCI has also seen great progress and we’re

truly honoured to be partners of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, which has become a benchmark for other states to emulate in terms of scale, participation, and business co-ordination.”

Hunter | Nov 02, 2018

Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani wants 80% jobs for locals

While describing Gujarat as an ideal state for migrants, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Thursday said that 80 per cent jobs in the private sector should be given to local youths. Rupani’s comments, made at an industry event in Ahmedabad, assume significance in the backdrop of large-scale migration of workers from the state in early October following rape of a 14-month-old child in Sabarkantha.

“The state government is making efforts for more jobs and employment opportunities for local youths. We want that more than 80 per cent jobs in private sector are given to local youths,” Rupani said addressing the national executive committee of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI).

Rupani said that the state government had taken several steps for providing technical and soft skills training for local youths “to ensure that industries get good local work force”. The trigger of the violence targeting migrants, mainly from UP, Bihar and MP, was rape of the child by a migrant worker, but underlying resentment due to lack of jobs for locals because of cheaper migrant labour also contributed to the violence. Congress president Rahul Gandhi had said that root cause of violence was shut factories and unemployment. An estimated 70,000 migrants had fled from the state in a week owing to the violence, but many of them have since returned.

In his address, Rupani admitted that more than 5 lakh youths in the state were registered with employment exchanges, but claimed that many were already employed, but had registered in hope of better jobs.

Rupani brushed aside the demands for unemployment allowance that Congress had made during elections, saying, “This will only create an army of unemployed youth. It is the government’s responsibility to create jobs, and we are moving ahead in that direction,” he said.

He pitched Gujarat as a state with business-friendly atmosphere, zero-level unrest, and industrial peace.

“There are two things in Gujarat – surplus power and industrial peace. The atmosphere is so good that industries face no problems, and benefit from industrial peace. Gujarat has consistently been at the top in Ease of Doing Business rankings,” he said.

He said that Gujarat was on top in 15 out of 25 focus sectors identified under Make in India campaign. He said that manufacturing was Gujarat’s strength, but the state formed the backbone of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

“In last six years, MSMEs have registered growth of 13% in India, but in Gujarat, the growth is 41%,” he claimed.

He said that Gujarat was the country’s growth engine, and its share in country’s GDP, manufacturing output, exports, and foreign direct investment was higher than its share of population.

“The figures speak for themselves,” he said, and invited FICCI members to participate in the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit, slated to take place in Gandhinagar from January 18 to 20.

Backdrop

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Thursday said that 80% jobs in the private sector should be given to local youths.
His comment assume significance in the backdrop of large-scale migration of workers from the state in early October following rape of a 14-month-old child.

Aaj Ki Khabar | Nov 02, 2018

Industrial peace in Gujarat: Rupani

Speaking at the national executive committee meeting of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the Chief Minister said: “There is zero unrest in Gujarat and the state has always had a business friendly environment.”

Rupani exhorted the FICCI’s delegates to organize conventions and conferences of their business establishments near the ‘Statue of Unity’. He added that industries were thriving in Gujarat due to positive atmosphere and the state government’s business-friendly policies.

The chief minister’s appeal to trade and industry also coincides with the hectic preparations for the Gujarat government’s big-ticket Vibrant Gujarat Global Investment Summit (VGGIS) in January 2019 to attract domestic and global investment in the state.

It is also the time when the BJP at the Centre and in north Indian states of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh faces crucial elections soon and in 2019. “At such time, it is vital for Rupani to ensure that Gujarat’s image in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state is not tarnished, a BJP leader told IANS.

Though the state Government claimed that it had initiated swift action, it was not before the migration of workers had already started.

DNA | Nov 02, 2018

Need to improve liquidity in system, says Rashesh Shah

Rashesh Shah, president of industry body Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), has called for measures to improve liquidity within the system and to increase the flow of money, to tide over the liquidity crisis facing the Indian industry.

Shah made the comment while speaking with reporters after FICCI's national executive committee meeting in Ahmedabad, where members of the industry body raised concerns about liquidity crunch, economic slowdown, and other issues.

"There is a liquidity crunch being faced by the industry, by everybody. Part of it is because of global events, but partly, also because everybody is hoarding cash. We have a lot of liquidity, but it is not circulating fast enough. This, coupled with the IL&FS event, has taken some confidence away. It has led to caution, and people hoarding cash, and as a result (impacted) circulation of liquidity," Shah said.

He said that there is a need to do things to improve liquidity as a whole, but along with that, steps are needed to increase flow within the system. "We need more money, more liquidity in the system; more money flowing within the system," he said.

In the FICCI meeting, industry representatives also expressed concerns over other global and local headwinds.

"People are concerned about the economy slowing down. When rupee falls, exports should get a boost, but people feel that the exports may not be able to step up as much due to the global trade war that is going on. These are areas of concern," he said.

Asked about India's big leap from 100th to 77th position in World Bank's Ease of Doing Business ranking, the FICCI chief said, "These rankings are driven by change in how India conducts business. I think Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), goods and services tax (GST), putting municipal records, land records online – all of these go towards Ease of Doing Business. Quite a few structural changes have been made, and this is what is getting reflected in the rankings."

However, he said that a lot more work needs to be done at the municipal and panchayat level to usher in transparency in decision-making and accounting, especially things such as construction permits.

"Labour laws and land laws need to be eased. (We also need) transparency in the approval process at the state level. There is a lot more to be done, but I think if we can continue with these, India will be under 50 in the rankings pretty soon, and I think being there would be a good achievement for India," he said in response to a question about areas where India is lagging and needs to improve.

The Indian Express | Nov 02, 2018

Gujarat with zero unrest is ideal state for migration: CM Vijay Rupani

Claiming that the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, being organised since 2003, has created job opportunities in the state, Chief Minister Vijay Rupani on Thursday said that Gujarat is considered an “ideal state” for migrations.

“Gujarat has the best urban infrastructure, a business-friendly atmosphere and zero-level unrest and so today Gujarat is considered to be an ideal state for migrations,” Rupani said while addressing a group of businessmen from across the country at the national executive committee of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

His comments come weeks after a large number of migrant workers fled Gujarat following attacks on north Indian workers, mostly from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, following the arrest of a migrant worker in connection with the rape of a toddler.

Citing “industrial peace in the state”, Rupani said that there were more than 100 product clusters, 200 industrial estates and 18 functional SEZs, among other investment regions. He claimed that the state is a “land of opportunities” where the level of unemployment is less compared to states like West Bengal and Kerala.

“The number of unemployed persons listed in employment exchanges in Kerala is about 40 lakh, in West Bengal it is 60 lakh, while in Gujarat it is just five lakh. Slowly we are reducing that too. The development that began with Vibrant Gujarat summits has today become a movement… With investments that come through Vibrant Gujarat summits, a lot of job opportunities are created here,” he said.

The CM said that between April 2000 and June 2018, the state has attracted FDI worth USD 20 billion. He said Gujarat has created the maximum employment in the country in the last 15 years and the claim for providing “unemployment allowance” to youths in the state is a political stand taken by opponents.

Claiming that Gujarat is a hub for the automotive and pharmaceutical industry, Rupani said MSMEs in the state provided more than 1.5 crore jobs to those residing in the state. The CM said that the growth of MSMEs in Gujarat is about 41 per cent, compared to the average national growth of 13 per cent for the last six years. He said Gujarat has more than 23 different policies for attracting investments to various sectors in the state.

“We are trying to maximise employment to local youths. We hope that the private sector provides 80 per cent of jobs to locals,” he said, adding that the government is training the youths in technical and soft skills.

In an interactive session that followed the CM’s speech, businessmen asked him if the state government is looking to help MSMEs who are currently facing liquidity crunch in wake of the falling rupee and the rising crude oil prices. On this, Rupani said that the question should be posed to banks who provide finance, claiming that the duty of the state is to provide requisite infrastructure for the industry.

Zee Business | Nov 02, 2018

Gujarat ideal state for migrants, has industrial peace: CM Vijay Rupani

Rashesh Shah, president of industry body Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), has called for measures to improve liquidity within the system and increase the flow of money to tide over the crisis faced by the industry. Shah made the comment while speaking with reporters after FICCI’s national executive committee meeting here, where members of the industry body raised concerns about liquidity crunch, economic slowdown, and other issues.

“There is a liquidity crunch being faced by the industry, by everybody. Part of it is because of global events, but partly, also because everybody is hoarding cash. We have a lot of liquidity, but it is not circulating fast enough. This, coupled with the IL&FS event, has taken some confidence away. It has led to caution, and people hoarding cash, and as a result (impacted) circulation of liquidity,” Shah said.

He said there is a need to do things to improve liquidity as a whole, but along with that, steps are needed to increase flow within the system. “We need more money, more liquidity in the system; more money flowing within the system,” he said.

In the FICCI meeting, industry representatives also expressed concerns over other global and local headwinds.

“People are concerned about the economy slowing down. When rupee falls, exports should get a boost, but people feel that the exports may not be able to step up as much due to the global trade war that is going on. These are areas of concern,” he said.

Asked about India’s big leap from 100th to 77th position in World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business ranking, the FICCI chief said, “These rankings are driven by change in how India conducts business. I think Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), goods and services tax (GST), putting municipal records, land records online - all of these go towards Ease of Doing Business. Quite a few structural changes have been made, and this is what is getting reflected in the rankings.”

However, he said that a lot more work needs to be done at the municipal and panchayat level to usher in transparency in decision-making and accounting, especially things such as construction permits.

“Labour laws and land laws need to be eased. (We also need) transparency in the approval process at the state level. There is a lot more to be done, but I think if we can continue with these, India will be under 50 in the rankings pretty soon, and I think being there would be a good achievement for India,” he said in response to a question about areas where India is lagging and needs to improve.

The Quint | Nov 01, 2018

'Gujarat an Ideal State for Migrants,’ Says CM Vijay Rupani

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani claimed Thursday that the state has "zero-level unrest" and is considered an "ideal state" for migrants.

His comments came weeks after thousands of Hindi-speaking migrants, many of them factory workers, fled the state following attacks targeting them.

Speaking at an event organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) here, Rupani said there is "industrial peace" in the state.

"Gujarat has business-friendly atmosphere and zero-level unrest. As a result, Gujarat is considered an ideal state for migration," he said, addressing business delegates of the National Executive Committee of FICCI.

"Gujarat has industrial peace. Due to this favourable working atmosphere, industries are not facing any difficulties here. Industries are reaping benefit of the industrial peace prevailing in Gujarat," Rupani added.

He listed various initiatives of his government to encourage investment, and said efforts are also being made to ensure that more local people are employed by the industries.

An alleged rape of a 14-month-old girl and the arrest of a worker from Bihar in the case sparked off attacks on Hindi-speaking migrants in the state a few weeks ago. It led to thousands of migrant workers fleeing the state.

During the week-long unrest, mostly in north and central Gujarat, protesters also targeted some factories,alleging that they preferred migrants over the local youth.

The chief minister also appealed the FICCI and industrialists to hold their conferences or conventions at the facilities built at the site of the Statue of Unity at Kevadiya, inaugurated by the prime minister Wednesday.

Outlook | Nov 01, 2018

Industrial peace in Gujarat: Rupani

Though the state Government claimed that it had initiated swift action, it was not before the migration of workers had already started.

The Live Mirror | Nov 01, 2018

Vijay Rupani: Taj Mahal visitors will also come to see Statue of Unity

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a coterie who will always clap for him even if he does nothing. In case of minor achievements they are always in a competition to offer statements that would please the boss.

A day after Modi inaugurated Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 182-metre statue in Gujarat — which is indeed a monumental one — Chief Minister of Gujarat Vijay Rupani quickly jumped the bandwagon to highlight the achievement in whatever way he could.

Bringing in a parallel with Taj Mahal in Agra, which is the most sought-after destination for the foreigners when they visit India, Gujarat Chief Minister ended up saying that people throughout the world would also seek to visit Gujarat to see the tallest statue alongside the Taj Mahal.

“People used to come to India to see only the Taj Mahal, now they will come to see the Statue of Unity… We will also put up signboards in six foreign languages as people from across the globe will come to see the statue…,” Rupani said. The Gujarat government is expecting around 15,000 visitors every day for the statue near the Narmada dam.

While speaking at the national executive meeting of FICCI members, Rupani invited them to visit the Statue of Unity along with their families. “It is our estimate that per day, 15000 visitors will come at the Statue of Unity,” he said.

Rupani also said that the government has decided to convene future national meetings and conferences close to the Statue of Unity. “We are providing a lot of facilities there and Gujarat government is trying to make it a hub for tourism. Only the inauguration has happened. In the coming days, we will also develop an “Ekta Nagar” there.”

On Wednesday, Modi had said that when he conceptualised the project in 2010 when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat that one day he would inaugurate the Statue of Unity as the Prime Minister.

The Indian Express | Nov 01, 2018

People who come to India to see Taj Mahal will now visit Statue of Unity: Vijay Rupani

A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Statue of Unity, Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani Thursday said the people from across the globe who come to India to see the Taj Mahal will now visit the country to see the Sardar Vallabhbhai’s statue near the Narmada dam. Gujarat government is expecting 15,000 visitors to arrive every day to see the world’s tallest statue in the state.

“People used to come to India to see only the Taj Mahal, now they will come to see the Statue of Unity… We will also put up signboards in six foreign languages as people from across the globe will come to see the statue…,” said Rupani while talking about the project at the national executive committee meeting of FICCI here.

Inviting FICCI members to visit the Statue of Unity along with their family, the chief minister said, “It is our estimate that per day, 15000 visitors will come at the Statue of Unity.”

He said the state government has decided to organise every future national meetings and conference near the Statue of Unity. “We are providing a lot of facilities there and Gujarat government is trying to make it a hub for tourism. Only the inauguration has happened. In the coming days, we will also develop an “Ekta Nagar” there.”

The Indian Express | Nov 01, 2018

People who come to India to see Taj Mahal will now visit Statue of Unity: Vijay Rupani

“People used to come to India to see only the Taj Mahal, now they will come to see the Statue of Unity… We will also put up signboards in six foreign languages as people from across the globe will come to see the statue…,” said Rupani while talking about the project at the national executive committee meeting of FICCI here.

Inviting FICCI members to visit the Statue of Unity along with their family, the chief minister said, “It is our estimate that per day, 15000 visitors will come at the Statue of Unity.”

The Economic Times | Nov 01, 2018

Gujarat ideal state for migrants, has industrial peace: CM Vijay Rupani

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani claimed Thursday that the state has "zero-level unrest" and is considered an "ideal state" for migrants.

His comments came weeks after thousands of Hindi-speaking migrants, many of them factory workers, fled the state following attacks targeting them.

Speaking at an event organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) here, Rupani said there is "industrial peace" in the state.

He listed various initiatives of his government to encourage investment, and said efforts are also being made to ensure that more local people are employed by the industries.

During the week-long unrest, mostly in north and central Gujarat, protesters also targeted some factories, alleging that they preferred migrants over the local youth.

Newsd | Nov 01, 2018

Industrial peace in Gujarat: Rupani

Though the state Government claimed that it had initiated swift action, it was not before the migration of workers had already started.

Business Standard | Nov 01, 2018

Government and RBI efforts to improve liquidity has started yielding results says FICCI

The government and RBI efforts to improve the liquidity situation has started yielding results, but more measures are required to make available adequate liquidity in the system and strengthen the financial sector for supporting the economic recovery and attaining 8% plus GDP growth rate, according to the FICCI.

FICCI economic cell has been deliberating on this with the government and industry so that steps could be taken to better the liquidity situation and further strengthen the financial sector. While a 21-point suggestion has been submitted to the government and RBI to tackle the NBFC liquidity problem, the chamber also took part in the FSDC deliberations on the issue.

The tight liquidity situation in the festive season and rising interest rates will impact the SMEs, MFIs and sectors like housing. The SME credit issue is the most crucial one and all measures should be explored to address this. FICCI being a federation, has many regional chambers as its members, who represent SME sector and they have been asking for cheaper and easier availability of credit.

Yahoo News | Nov 01, 2018

Industrial peace in Gujarat: Rupani

Though the state Government claimed that it had initiated swift action, it was not before the migration of workers had already started.

Business Standard | Nov 01, 2018

Gujarat ideal state for migrants, has industrial peace: CM

Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani claimed Thursday that the state has "zero-level unrest" and is considered an "ideal state" for migrants.

His comments came weeks after thousands of Hindi-speaking migrants, many of them factory workers, fled the state following attacks targeting them.

Speaking at an event organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) here, Rupani said there is "industrial peace" in the state.

He listed various initiatives of his government to encourage investment, and said efforts are also being made to ensure that more local people are employed by the industries.

During the week-long unrest, mostly in north and central Gujarat, protesters also targeted some factories, alleging that they preferred migrants over the local youth.

Business Standard | Nov 01, 2018

Industrial peace in Gujarat: Rupani

Though the state Government claimed that it had initiated swift action, it was not before the migration of workers had already started.

The Economic Times | Jul 19, 2018

Vibrant Gujarat Startup & Technology Summit to focus on new technology based solutions providers

Vibrant Gujarat Startup and Technology Summit to be held from October 11 to 13, 2018. The event is been organized as a forerunner to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in January 2019. In the run up to the summit the organizers will travel across 30 cities including tier 2 and 3 cities in the country inviting participants with innovative ideas.

The mega investment bi-annual summit was started when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was then Chief Minister of Gujarat and its known to be one of his pet projects.

On Wednesday, M.K Das, Principal Secretary Industries and Mines, Government of Gujarat, the chief guest at the curtain raiser for the event said, “The Government of Gujarat is committed to the startup ecosystem to drive Gujarat and the nation’s growth. The event will provide an excellent opportunity to both start-ups and stakeholders to connect with the best and brightest minds to explore how to fuel their business growth. This event in the run up to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in 2019 will establish Gujarat as a hub for new technology based solution providers. ”

The three-day program will include experiential learning and networking sessions for both start-ups and aspiring entrepreneurs. The organizers have put forward a Grand Challenge this year with a total prize money of Rs 3 crore. The aim of the Grand Challenge to find innovators who can solve far reaching problems facing our society today in the following sectors: AgriTech, FinTech, Smart & Shared Mobility, Women Centric Solutions, Manufacturing 4.0, Governance 2030, Maritime and Military Intelligence and HealthTech. The Challenge is open to all start-ups registered in India and participants can enter at the Idea, Blooming or Scale-Up stage depending on the development stage of the start-up.

The summit is organized by the Industries Commisionerate, iNDEXTb and GIDC from the Government of Gujarat with support from industry associations such as the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Gujarat Electronics & Software Industries Association (Gesia), Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and iCreate among others.

Also present at today’s ceremony were the iNDEXTb Managing Director, Rajkumar Beniwal along with the Additional Commissioner, Industries, Shweta Teotia and Rajiv Vastupal, Chairman FICCI Gujarat State Council.

The Times of India | Jul 19, 2018

Vibrant Startup summit in October

After a first edition held in 2016, the Vibrant Startup is back this year, and will be held as a forerunner to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in January 2019.

It was announced today that the StartUp and Technology Summit is slated to be held over three days from 11-13 October 2018 at the Exhibition Centre, Helipad Ground. The summit is organized by the Industries Commisionerate, iNDEXTb and GIDC from the Government of Gujarat with support from industry associations such as the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Gujarat Electronics & Software Industries Association (Gesia), Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and iCreate among others. In the run up to the summit the organizers will travel across 30 cities including tier 2 and 3 cities in the country inviting participants with innovative ideas.

M K Das principal secretary industries and mines, was the chief guest at the curtain raiser for the event. He said, “The government of Gujarat is committed to the startup ecosystem to drive Gujarat and the nation’s growth. The event will provide an excellent opportunity to both start-ups and stakeholders to connect with the best and brightest minds to explore how to fuel their business growth. ”

The organizers have put forward a Grand Challenge this year with a total prize money of Rs 3 crore.

Speaking about the grand challenge, D Thara vice-chairman and managing director of GIDC, said “The Grand Challenge is an initiative to bring together a community of change makers, who can harness science, technology, and innovation, to come up with innovative and sustainable solutions to the various challenges faced by the society — nationally or globally.”

The Times of India | Jul 18, 2018

Vibrant Gujarat StartUp and Technology Summit to be held from October 11

The GMDC Auditorium in Ahmedabad hosted the curtain raiser on Wednesday for the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Start-up & Technology summit. The event is being organised as a forerunner to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in January 2019.

It was announced that the three-day summit will be held from 11 to 13 October this year at the Exhibition Centre, Helipad Ground. The summit is being organised by the Industries Commisionerate, iNDEXTb and GIDC from the Government of Gujarat with support from industry associations such as the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), Gujarat Electronics & Software Industries Association (Gesia), Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and iCreate among others. In the run up to the summit, the organisers will travel across 30 cities including tier 2 and 3 cities in the country inviting participants with innovative ideas.

MK Das, principal secretary industries and mines said, “The government of Gujarat is committed to the startup ecosystem to drive Gujarat and the nation’s growth. The event will provide an excellent opportunity to both start-ups and stakeholders to connect with the best and brightest minds to explore how to fuel their business growth. This event in the run up to the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit in 2019 will establish Gujarat as a hub for new technology based solution providers. ”

The objective of the summit is to showcase the forces driving India’s, and Gujarat’s start-up revolution and to strengthen the start-up ecosystem. The three-day program will include experiential learning and networking sessions for both start-ups and aspiring entrepreneurs.

The Times of India | Jul 06, 2018

Engineering losing sheen as a career

The number of science students appearing in higher secondary examinations with mathematics as a compulsory subject in their subject combination ( ‘A’ group) has dropped by 20% in the state since 2015.

In 2015, there were over 72,000 students who had appeared for the HSc examination from ‘A’ group (mathematics, physics and chemistry). However, the number dropped to 57,500 in 2018. The reduction in the number of students with mathematics was also evident with the fewer students preferring engineering courses.

G P Vadodariya, the member secretary of the Admission Committee for Professional Courses, said, “Last year, over 31,800 seats had been vacant in engineering. Colleges have increased seats without upping quality, and as a result, these seats are now lying vacant.”

Only 25% of the colleges pay attention to placements and hence students stay away from colleges that have poor track record of campus placements. “In LD Engineering, last year 577 students were placed. This year, 640 students found placements,” Vadodariya said.

Rajiv Vastupal, the chairman of FICCI Gujarat State Council, said: “Earlier, students wanted to become good engineers. But now they are becoming bookish engineers.”

Vastupal added, “There is a sizeable requirement for engineers, but the industry is not getting suitable candidates. Moreover, now with automation, students are required to have knowledge of two or more branches or will have to keep themselves updated.”

Janak Khandwala, the president of the SFI Management Association, said “Students are not willing to keep themselves updated and hence finding placements is a big problem. Industries move towards most sought after colleges. Several lower rank colleges try to invite industries, but are unsuccessful.”

United News of India | Jan 08, 2018

Vastupal gets another term as chairman of FICCI Gujarat State Council

Industrialist Rajiv Vastupal, has been re-elected for another term as the chairman of Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) - Gujarat State Council.

The new National President, FICCI, Rashesh Shah in an official communication on Monday informed Vastupal to continue as the Chairman of FICCI GSC during his tenure as well.

Emphasizing on expansion of the membership base, prominent visibility and involvement of the local chambers, Vastupal said, “FICCI is the true and fair voice of industry and trade at large. My mission for FICCI – Gujarat State Council is to enhance involvement of industries and increases membership by five-fold through an intensive drive. In addition, we will support industries by representing their issues to competent authorities through true and firm representations. In the coming year, our focus will be on conducting unique and landmark events, hosting high-level domestic and foreign delegations, organising domestic and international roadshows and exhibitions to highlight the potential and capabilities of Gujarat as the business destination of India.”

A first generation entrepreneur, Vastupal, Chairman of Ahmedabad-based Rajiv Petrochemicals Pvt. Ltd, has over the last 3 decades set up Team Rajiv from scratch. The multi crore diversified Team Rajiv is a leading player in Polymers, Woven sack bags & Fabrics, Electrical Cables & Switchgears, Light Fittings & Panel Boards.

He is the founder of Gujarat YPO Chapter and also board member of YPO Gold South Asia. He also served as member of the Board of Governors at IIM, Bangalore. Apart from being a very successful businessman, Mr Vastupal has been very active in contributing to society and social causes from an early age. In the year 1993, he formed a charitable trust as well as became Chairman and Managing Trustee in various family trusts.

The Times of India | Jul 01, 2017

Experts push for commercial arbitration to help boost industrial growth in Ahmedabad

At a seminar on 'Domestic and International Commercial Arbitration' organized by FICCI Gujarat State Council and Indian Council of Arbitration (ICA) on Saturday, experts pushed for commercial arbitration. Experts claim that through commercial arbitration, industrial disputes will be resolved quickly and it will thus help boost growth.

Experts in fact, were also of the opinion that there is a dire need for separate arbitration mechanism for institutes. Elaborating on this, justice Mukesh Shah of Gujarat High Court, said, "Institutional arbitration needs to be encouraged. Earlier, there was delay in resolving cases related to institutions and it impacted economic growth. With separate commercial arbitration mechanism, the goal is to resolve the institutional disputes quickly."

In his keynote address, CK Thakker, former SC judge highlighted the need for amending the arbitration clauses and drafting effective arbitration clauses to ensure institutional disputes are minimized and in case so, resolved quickly. "The major objective of favourable clauses in international arbitration is to encourage foreign investment," he added.

Rajiv Vastupal, chairman, FICCI-Gujarat State Council, talked about several issues in the industry that need to be addressed for better growth. "There are concerns related to the issue of costs and ad-hoc character of arbitration proceedings in India. Arbitration is undoubtedly the most preferred mode of dispute resolution for commercial disputes in the country," he said.

Apart from senior advocates, arbitrators and legal experts, the seminar was attended by officials from leading corporates in construction, engineering and pharmaceutical sectors, among others.

The Pioneer | Jan 12, 2017

Ahmedabad ranked AA+ among top cities: Naidu

Even as the Government of India is preparing blueprint for all round development of cities, Union Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu on Wednesday asked global institutions to invest in the urban infrastructure and allied sectors offering huge opportunities.

Addressing a seminar on ‘Smart and Livable Cities: Opportunities and Challenges’ on the second day of the eighth biennial Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2017 he said India was changing under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and there has been great change in the people’s attitude towards development. The cities are undergoing facelift with footpath, cycle tracks, flyovers, BRTS, Metro s and other infrastructure, said Naidu while releasing a coffee table book on Flower Power prepared by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation.

The Union Minister said the change in the Government’s attitude has resulted in shift from ‘populism’ to ‘peopleism’ to cater to the needs of the people. The decision to create 100 ‘smart cities’ has come as a divine blessing on the earth, creating a healthy competition among the cities and States, he said, adding, “Ahmedabad ranked AA+ among the top cities. Gujarat is on way to become an ‘Economic Expressway’. Gujarat Model is now considered to be ‘Flavour of Country’. The work on 36-km long Ahmedabad Metro will be completed by 2018.”

The Union Minister described demonetisation as a grand oblation, likely to open doors of economic development in near future. He said the Central Government’s transparent and accountable government has helped construct 4.17-lakh toilets for girl students in educational institutions in the country. Nearly 1.30-crore people surrendered cooking gas subsidy following the appeal of the Prime Minister.

Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) on affordable housing and other projects for Ahmedbad, Surat, Bhavnagar and other cities worth Rs11,600-crore were signed during the seminar. Gujarat’s Minister of State for Urban Development Vallabhbhai Vaghasia said the percentage of people living in urban areas in India will increase from 31.8 per cent to 40 per cent by 2030. Gujarat is bracing up six Smart Cities to Centre’s choice, creating civic basic amenities, adopting PPP model.

Canada’s Infrastructure and Communities Minister Amarjeet Sohi said companies from his country would invest USD15 billion to help build roads, railways, airways, urban transport, sanitation waste management and environment. Denmark’s Energy Minister Lars Christian Lilleholt said that smart city concept was there in his country also which would be applied to maximum purpose in Indian cities too.

Meanwhile the 60-member French delegation, led by French Embassy Minister Counsellor Jean-Marc Fennet, looked forward to investing in energy, transportation, regional airways, energy from wastes and other sectors, to strengthen the Indo-French Agreement of 1998.

Speaking at the French Country Seminar Fennet said that truly vibrant and dynamic Gujarat offers great scope for investment as per the outlook of the representatives of industrial and business houses from France. They are keen to partner Gujarat in the latter’s economic development.

FICCI Gujarat State Council Chairperson Rajiv Vastupal said that FICCI has very strong relations. He exuded confidence that Gujarat’s business and industry friendly policies would facilitate investment and economic growth.

Business Standard | Dec 14, 2016

FICCI's Gujarat Council focussing on Vibrant Gujarat-2017

Gujarat State Council of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) will be focussing on the forthcoming Vibrant Gujarat-2017 event, Rajiv Vastupal, who was re-elected as the chairman of state council said.

"In terms of events our immediate focus is on Vibrant Gujarat-2017 for which FICCI is the joint national partner. It is coordinating events like Nobel Exhibition and Symposium, MSME Convention, sectoral seminars like Defence, Pharmaceuticals amongst other events for the summit to be held in Gandhinagar from January 11 to 13, 2017," a release quoting Vastupal said.

"The council will also focus on enhancing involvement of industries through an intensive membership drive. Involve members' more actively in next 3 years. Support industries by representing their issues to competent authorities through true and firm representations," the release added.

Gujarat State Office

FICCI's Engagement

Timeline

Apr, 2023

Visit of All Party Parliamentary Delegation from the United Kingdom

Mar, 2023

Signing of MOU between FICCI & Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University

Webinar on Waste to Wealth

2nd FICCI Gujarat State Council Meeting

Webinar on ESG and the role of HR

Business Forum and B2B Meetings with Foundation Industries Delegation UK

Business Forum and B2B Meetings with Foundation Industries Delegation UK - Ahmedabad

Feb, 2023

Workshop for Improving Safety, Health and Better Waste Management

Decoding Union Budget 2023

Jan, 2023

8th FICCI Gujarat State Council Meeting

Roadshow on Investment Opportunities in Uttar Pradesh

Round Table Meeting with Pharma Industry Hosted by Uttar Pradesh Government

National Startup Day Celebration

Interactive seminar on Advance Ruling in Customs

Waste Management Practices

Dec, 2022

Webinar on Indian's New Overseas Investment Regime

Nov, 2022

7th FICCI Gujarat State Council Meeting

Sep, 2022

Seminar on Heritage Tourism

International Conference on Green Ship Recycling & Vehicle Scrapping

6th FICCI Gujarat State Council Meeting

Seminar on State Institute of Hotel Management (SIHM) - Career Opportunities in Hospitality

Aug, 2022

Training Webinar on Capturing Global Markets...10 Effective Steps to Export

Investor's Roundtable Conference organized by NICDC

Webinar on Digital Laws and its Challenges

5th FICCI Gujarat State Council Meeting

Interactive Session on Investment Opportunities in Odisha

Jul, 2022

Virtual FICCI, RRU-SASTRA Outreach event for iDEX SPRINT Challenges

Meeting of Ms Michele Jenezic, Serap, France with GSBTM Officials

Inauguration of Shramik Bandhu (Workers' Facilitation Centre)

Buyer Seller Meet, 2022 (Aerospace - Defence Sector & Civil Aviation sector)

Bio-Connect, Biotechnology Policy 2022-27

FICCI's delegation met Shri Kanubhai Desai, Hon'ble Minister of Finance, Energy, Petrochemicals, Government of Gujarat

Webinar on Recent Initiatives in GST for MSME Sector

Jun, 2022

Interaction with Dr Unnat Pandit, Controller General of Design, Patents and Trademark

Meeting with Mr Anurag Jain, Secretary DPIIT

Workshop on Lean Six Sigma - Green Belt Certification

Industry Roundtable on Export Promotion of Indian with Rohit Vadhwana, IFS, Deputy High Commissioner - Designate of India to Kenya

Workshop on Vendor Interface with GeM and CPSEs

Public Procurement - Bringing CPSEs and MSEs together for Sustainable Development

Exhibition & Workshop on CSR : Health and Nutrition Interventions by CPSEs for Sustainable and Inclusive Development

Roundtable Discussion Meeting on BRSR Reporting for Pharmaceutical Industry: Pathway to ESG Compliance

May, 2022

Session on Udyam 4.0 Nayi Disha

Meeting with Indonesia embassy officials

Unnati Industrial Expo Daman 2022

Apr, 2022

Virtual Interaction to Discuss Ways to Unlock BOCW Funds

SEMINAR ON SOCIAL COMPACT - Improving Competitiveness, Sustainability, Compliance & Future Readiness of Business

Mar, 2022

Roundtable Discussion on: "Strengthening Ports, Transport and Logistics Infrastructure of Gujarat towards achieving India's target of USD 5 trillion Economy"

Webinar on Recent Changes in E-Way Bill & E-Invoicing in GST (Innovation in Indirect Taxation)

Webinar on Recent Amendments in GST and its Implications

Travel and Tourism Meet - Nashik

Travel and Tourism Meet - Jaipur

Travel and Tourism Meet - Bangalore

Travel and Tourism Meet - Pune

Travel and Tourism Meet - Kolkata

Webinar on "Sea Cargo Manifest & Transshipment Regulation, 2018" with DGTS Ahmedabad, Mumbai Zonal Units & NACIN Vadodara

Feb, 2022

Session on Decoding the New IT / ITES (Information Technology) & Biotechnology Policy 2022 - 27

Webinar on Proposed Changes in CGST Refund Provisions in Finance Bill - 2022 & IGST Refund on Export through Land Customs Station (LCS)

Travel and Tourism Meet - Chennai

Virtual Session on Union Budget 2022-23 - Its Impact on the Industry

Union Budget 2022-23, Virtual Viewing Session

Jan, 2022

Webinar with DGTS - Ahmedabad Zonal Unit & NACIN, Vadodara on "Recent Changes in GST & GSTN Portal (Front end)"

Dec, 2021