Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel of Gujarat commended Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Union Budget 2026–27, stating it would propel India’s reform agenda towards development and self-reliance, benefiting Gujarat in the long run. Patel emphasized that the budget, crafted at Kartavya Bhavan, focuses on sustaining economic growth, fulfilling aspirations through capacity building, and ensuring inclusive development in line with ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ vision. He highlighted the budget’s emphasis on agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, self-help groups, and rural economy to ensure comprehensive development across society.
Welcoming the budget’s support for various sectors, Patel noted the strengthening of ‘GYAN’ pillars – the poor, youth, farmers, women, and persons with disabilities. He appreciated the inclusion of heritage sites like Lothal and Dholavira in the national archaeological heritage cluster tourism development program, foreseeing a boost in tourism-led growth in Gujarat. Additionally, Patel praised the initiative to train 10,000 tourist guides for 20 iconic destinations, foreseeing new local job opportunities at Gujarat’s tourist spots.
Addressing urban development aspects, Chief Minister Patel lauded the decision to develop tier-II and tier-III cities with populations exceeding five lakh as City Economic Regions, anticipating planned growth for smaller cities. He also welcomed measures to enhance the municipal bond market, acknowledging Gujarat’s leadership in municipal bond issuances. Patel highlighted the budget’s support for businesses across sectors, emphasizing its positive impact on MSMEs and large industries.
Furthermore, Patel appreciated the budget’s focus on infrastructure, manufacturing, cutting-edge technologies, semiconductors, and data centers, foreseeing significant benefits for MSMEs. He mentioned that the incentives for manufacturing would bolster Gujarat’s industrial base, while the textile sector schemes would directly aid the state’s textile industry. Patel also welcomed the announcement of three chemical parks and a Rs 10,000 crore allocation for biopharma industries, foreseeing positive impacts on Gujarat’s chemical and pharmaceutical sectors.
Regarding logistics, Patel praised the proposed Dedicated Freight Corridor linking Surat with Dankuni as a strategic move to reduce logistics costs. He also highlighted the announcement of 20 new national waterways, which would enhance inland waterway connectivity, benefiting the state further.
