Gujarat’s Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel expressed confidence in the positive impact of the Union Budget 2026-27 on the state’s development, focusing on economic growth, infrastructure enhancement, and inclusive progress. Patel praised the budget as a crucial step towards building a prosperous India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
He outlined the budget’s key priorities, including fostering sustainable economic growth, encouraging public engagement in national prosperity through skill development, and promoting inclusive development across all regions. The allocation of Rs 10,000 crore for the Bio-Pharma Strength Programme was highlighted as a significant initiative to position India as a global bio-pharma manufacturing hub, benefiting Gujarat’s pharmaceutical sector.
Moreover, Patel emphasized the launch of six new schemes to bolster the textile industry in the state. He also underscored the vital role of over 4.29 million micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Gujarat’s economy, noting the budget’s provision of a Rs 10,000 crore SME fund to nurture ‘Champion MSMEs’ and enhance sector liquidity.
Regarding infrastructure, Patel mentioned Gujarat’s progress as a semiconductor hub with four plants and the anticipated benefits from the India Semiconductor Mission 2.0. He also highlighted advancements under the PM Gati-Shakti initiative, such as the development of a dedicated freight corridor from Dankuni to Surat to boost trade efficiency for the state’s industries.
The extension of the tax holiday in GIFT City to 20 years was noted as a measure to attract long-term investments with increased confidence. Patel also discussed the development of Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities with populations exceeding 500,000 as City Economic Regions to ensure balanced growth alongside major urban centers. He further emphasized the increase in central devolution under the 16th Finance Commission to 3.75%, aiming to accelerate infrastructure development, especially in rural areas.
In the realm of employment and skill development, Patel highlighted the budget’s support for training 20 lakh professionals in the AVGC sector by 2030, with plans for establishing Content Creator Labs in 15,000 schools and 500 colleges. He expressed optimism that this initiative would benefit the ambitious youth of Gujarat.
