Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the 20th anniversary of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit on Wednesday, shedding light on the challenges faced during the event’s inception. PM Modi revealed that the central government had initially refrained from extending cooperation, with central ministers even refusing to attend the summit. Foreign investors were reportedly discouraged from investing in Gujarat, yet the state’s good governance and transparent policies attracted them regardless.
PM Modi’s Accusation: A Lack of Cooperation PM Modi recalled the early years of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, emphasizing the central government’s reluctance to support the event. He remarked, “The central ministers used to tell me that they would definitely come. Pata nahi peeche se danda chalta tha, vo mana kar dete the.” He further alleged that the central government consistently created roadblocks for the state’s development.
Investor Confidence Despite Challenges Despite the initial resistance, Gujarat managed to attract investors solely due to its reputation for good governance, fair practices, equal growth distribution, and transparency. PM Modi praised the investors for their trust and determination in Gujarat’s potential.
Resilience in the Face of Global Slowdown In 2009, PM Modi faced pressure to cancel the Vibrant Gujarat Summit due to a global economic slowdown. However, he firmly refused, asserting that even if the event did not achieve its desired success, continuity was vital. He reaffirmed the summit’s national scope, welcoming participants from all states.
Gujarat’s Transformation PM Modi highlighted Gujarat’s transformation from a traditional traders’ state to a multifaceted hub encompassing agriculture, finance, industry, and manufacturing. The state’s economic prowess expanded while maintaining its legacy as a trading center.
20 Years of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit Initiated by Narendra Modi in 2003 during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit has evolved over two decades. This year marks its 20th anniversary, and PM Modi inaugurated the celebration. The 10th edition of the summit, themed “Gateway to the Future,” is scheduled to take place in Gandhinagar from January 10 to 12 next year.
Summary:
- PM Modi reflects on 20 years of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, highlighting initial central government resistance.
- Central ministers refused to attend the event, and foreign investors were discouraged.
- Despite challenges, investors were attracted by Gujarat’s good governance and transparent policies.
- PM Modi resisted pressure to cancel the summit during the 2009 global economic slowdown.
- Gujarat transformed into an agricultural, financial, industrial, and manufacturing hub while maintaining its trading legacy.
- The 10th edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit is set for January 10-12, 2024, with the theme “Gateway to the Future.”
