Gujarat has secured the top position in NITI Aayog's Investment Friendliness Index 2026, with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stating that the achievement reflects the state's emergence as India's preferred destination for investment and industrial growth. Speaking at the installation ceremony of the newly elected office-bearers of the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) in Ahmedabad, Patel said the ranking was the result of sustained policy support, robust infrastructure development, and growing investor confidence.
Congratulating the newly elected GCCI leadership, which was chosen unopposed, the Chief Minister said the unanimous election embodied Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas." He also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing GCCI President Sandeep Engineer and his team, praising their efforts in strengthening the state's industrial and business ecosystem during their tenure.
Addressing industrialists and business leaders, Patel highlighted Gujarat's long-standing reputation for entrepreneurship and trade, adding that the state has evolved into a global hub where innovation, commerce, industry, and tradition coexist. He noted that Gujarat attracted cumulative foreign direct investment (FDI) worth USD 73.9 billion between April 2020 and December 2025, describing the figure as a testament to the confidence global investors have placed in the state's economic environment and business-friendly policies.
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The Chief Minister also outlined the objectives of the Gujarat Industrial Policy 2026, describing it as a roadmap to transform the state into a global industrial powerhouse. He said the policy introduces incentive disbursement provisions for the first time and offers targeted support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Patel urged entrepreneurs and businesses to study the policy carefully and take full advantage of the incentives designed to accelerate industrial expansion and innovation.
Highlighting India's recent technological milestones, Patel referred to the country's first hydrogen-powered train and the successful launch of the Vikram-1 rocket by an Indian space start-up as examples of the government's push for indigenous innovation. He said Gujarat is positioning itself at the forefront of emerging sectors such as semiconductor manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and data centres through new semiconductor plants, an AI centre in GIFT City, and expanding digital infrastructure.
Calling on the business community to contribute towards India's long-term economic goals, Patel urged entrepreneurs to support the vision of a USD 5 trillion economy and Viksit Bharat @2047 through the resolve of "Make in Gujarat, Make for the World." Newly elected GCCI President Rajesh Gandhi also outlined the chamber's future roadmap and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting industry and trade in partnership with stakeholders.
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