16 december 2014 15 january 2015 - vibrant...

16th December 2014 –

15th January 2015

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Focal Point : “Vibrant Gujarat 2015 Summit”

Gujarat Updates : Investment Plans/ Initiatives

Explore Gujarat: Golf Tourism

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Fact File

• Vibrant Gujarat 2015 Summit witnessed participation from leaders across the world including Mr. Narendra Modi, Hon’ble Prime Minister of India; Mr. Nikola Gruevski, Hon’ble Prime Minister of Macedonia; Mr. Tshering Tobgay, Hon’ble Prime Minister of Bhutan; Mr. John Kerry, Secretary of State, USA; Mr. Ban Ki Moon, UN Secretary General; and Mr. Jim Yong Kim , President of World Bank

• The Summit had 8 partner countries: Australia, Canada, Japan, Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, UK and USA. Over 8,500 Delegates from 111 countries attended the Summit

• A total of 21,304 MoUs were signed and 1,230 strategic partnerships were forged during the 3 days of the Summit

From The Desk

P. Swaroop, IASManaging Director

Industrial Extension Bureau Government of Gujarat 01

Government of Gujarat has long been a proponent of a favorable and innovative business environment. It institutionalized the “Vibrant Gujarat Summit” in the year 2003 as a biennial Investor Summit and has been organising it successfully since then. With the support of the stakeholders, brand "Vibrant Gujarat" has today metamorphosed into a globally sought after platform for knowledge sharing, social and business transformation. Vibrant Gujarat has contributed immensely to Gujarat’s Growth Story transforming it into a “Global Business Hub” while at the same time showcasing a “Development model for India”. I am proud to say that with the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015 , we have been successful in catapulting Gujarat’s vision of inclusive and sustainable development onto a global platform.

The 7th edition of the Summit was grander than any of its previous editions with a participation of around 25,000 delegates including Heads of States, Ministers and Diplomats of several countries, thought leaders, key policy makers, global business leaders and industry stalwarts. We are proud that this edition also had eight partner countries : Australia, Canada, Great Britain, Netherlands, Japan, South Africa, Singapore, USA and five partner organizations : US India Business Council, Australia India Business Council, UK India Business Council, JETRO, and Sustainable Energy for All, extending their full support and cooperation.

For the first time in the history of Vibrant Gujarat Summit, we organized the Global CEO Conclave which brought together the crème de la crème of global corporations and distinguished luminaries for thought-provoking discussions on India's growth strategies under the guidance of the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi. The Summit which has gradually evolved into a round-the-year activity had more than 130 seminars, conventions, panel discussions, lecture series, exhibitions, regional meets and other innovative forums being organized. These revolved around the key themes of Sustainability, Skill development, Innovation, R&D and Knowledge building. The seminars saw deliberations by some of the finest global thinkers and subject matter experts providing their invaluable thoughts on topics of global relevance. The concurrent Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show 2015 spread across India’s largest permanent exhibition area of over 125,000 sq. mts. saw participation from multiple industries showcasing more than 25,000 of their most innovative and best wares to the global delegates. We also had 14 country / region specific seminars during the Summit that gave these countries an enormous opportunity to showcase the economic climate in their nation besides putting forth their business propositions.

We, at the Government of Gujarat, are committed to make Gujarat a globally preferred place to do business. This edition of the Newsletter will provide insights into Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2015 and the role played by iNDEXTb in accelerating the industrial development of Gujarat. I hope the newsletter makes for an interesting read.

Highlights of Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015

Key Highlights

The Vibrant Gujarat Summit that began as a 3 day engagement between investors and trade partners, is now a round-the-year affair, providing a platform for encouraging knowledge sharing and strategic partnerships.

The 7th edition of the Summit was inaugurated on January 11, 2015 by Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi in the presence of various heads of countries and states.

The first day of the Summit saw participation from over 8500 people. About 6500 people watched the proceedings of the session in the main inaugural hall.

A staggering 21,304 Memoranda of Understanding were signed and 1,230 strategic partnerships were forged during the Summit.

Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show

The Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show 2015 (VGGTS) was organized over a vast expanse of 125,000 sq mts, which saw enthusiastic participation of Central and State Govt bodies, private companies from nearly 25 sectors, and several trade bodies.

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The exhibition was organized in 17 domes with over 1300 stalls.

Smt. Anandiben Patel, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat and Smt. Sushma Swaraj, Hon’ble Minister of External Affairs & Overseas Indian Affairs, inaugurated the VGGTS on January 7, 2015.

Some of the major pavilions housed at the VGGTS included Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Pavilion, Education & Knowledge Pavilion, Defence & Power Pavilion, Healthcare Pavilion, Ayurveda Pavilion, Urban Infrastructure-Construction & Real Estate Pavilion, State Departments, Boards, Corporations & PSU Pavilion, Agro Pavilion, Automobiles, Banking/Finance Pavilion, FIA, GCCI Women wing ( products manufactured by Women Entrepreneurs) , Oil & Gas, Chemicals, Petrochemicals, Power (Generation & Renewable Energy) Pavilion, iNDEXTb & International Pavilion, IT & Telecommunication Electrical, Electronics & Automation Pavilion, Central PSU & Corporate Pavilion, etc.


Global CEO Conclave

The maiden Global CEO Conclave at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015 got off to a historic start on Sunday, the 11th of January, 2015 at the Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University campus in Gandhinagar, the capital city of Gujarat.

With 250+ global CEOs and leaders in attendance, the exclusive, invite-only, event featured Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Mr Narendra Modi, US Secretary of State Mr John Kerry, World Bank President Mr Jim Yong Kim as speakers and included a unique, interactive session chaired by Union Finance Minister, Mr Arun Jaitley.

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In a one-of-its kind, highly engaging session, the union Finance Minister called on the audience to comment on the themes of this Summit —Rapid Transformation from a Developing to a Developed Nation, Make in India and Inclusive Growth.

15 distinguished academicians from Europe, Singapore, India and the United States, along with international participation from World Bank, United Nations, World Water Council and IPCC addressed the concerns of inclusiveness of growth and its sustainability in times to come.

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Theme Seminars

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015 focused on sustainable development in India, while engaging the most eminent of speakers, thinkers, leaders and academicians from the world over.

As part of this initiative, Government of Gujarat planned ten theme seminars to deliberate on key issues facing the global community and their sustainable solutions. Themes included: CSR, Innovation, Food Security, Defence Production, Climate Change, Healthcare, Smart Cities, SMEs, Financing and Sustainable Energy.

CSR: Touching Lives and Making an Impact

Appreciating the importance of CSR in nation building and the difference it can make in the society, Government of Gujarat organized a seminar on: “CSR – Touching Lives and Making an Impact”. Global best practices and strategies to optimally use the resources that CSR will provide for the benefit of the society were discussed.

Gujarat: Preferred Hub for defenceproduction

Gujarat’s fundamental strength exists in form of a large number of MSMEs, who are transforming

themselves into major players and will play a critical role in the entire supply chain execution for the Aerospace and Defence sector. Kepingthis in mind, the State Government organized a seminar on “Gujarat: A preferred hub for defence production” in order to promote investments in this strategically important sector.

Innovation and Technology in FoodProcessing for Sustaining Food Security

One of the major concerns underlining the contemporary world, with a burgeoning population and ever-depleting natural resources, is food security. A seminar on “Innovation and Technology in Food Processing for Sustaining Food Security” targeted towards promoting innovative practices in food processing towards sustainable food security was organized.


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Health for All: Leveraging Technology,Innovation and Enablers

In India, medical technology is a nascent sector and has immense potential for innovation-led growth. However, the size and structure of the sector poses considerable challenges which must be met to deliver uniformity in services. To deliberate on these issues, a seminar titled “Health for All: Leveraging Technology, Innovation and Enablers” was organized.

Small and Medium Enterprises: Gearingup for Global Competitiveness

With a contribution of about 40% to the country’s total exports, and 45% to the total industrial output, the Indian MSME sector creates 1.3 million jobs every year and produces

more than 8000 quality products for domestic and international markets. The ‘SME Convention’ was a unique platform where experiences were shared to encourage new entrepreneurs and existing SMEs to explore more opportunities for growth.

Smart Cities for the Next Generation

A seminar on ‘Smart Cities for the Next Generation’ was organized where global best practices in the fields of intelligent waste management, smart and integrated urban mobility and affordable housing were highlighted with the view to cope with the challenges of urban living and make cities more livable and lovable.

Water Security, Climate Change and Sustainable Development

Over the next 20 years businesses are likely to get exposed to many environmental and social changes that will bring both risks and opportunities in search for sustainableSolutions.


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To deliberate on this, a theme seminar on “Water Security, Climate Change and Sustainable Development” to disseminate information regarding climate change and sustainable resource management while understanding the challenges and obstacles in tackling the issues around water management was organized.

Innovation: Torchbearer for 21st Century

Gujarat is a land of entrepreneurs who have given a distinct leadership status to the State at National and International levels. A 2-day international conference on “Innovation: Torchbearer for 21st Century” was organized with an aim to create an Innovation Roadmap for Gujarat by drawing from global best practices and mapping the road for growth and success.

Sustainable Energy for All

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, with a focus on building a better energy future, hosted a thematic seminar, in association with Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL). Deliberations were made on notable disruptive technologies in sectors such as Solar Power and Energy Storage for ensuring energy

sustainability in our global urban as well as ruralecosystems. Global best practices in energy management such as efficient public lighting and integrated approaches towards energy efficiency were also discussed in seminar.

Invest in India Summit 2015 "Financing for Future Growth“

Invest in India Summit 2015 was organized by Ministry of Finance, Government of India on the theme “Financing for Future Growth”. The event was structured to provide recommendations for a roadmap to further propel investment in the country based on key building blocks that drive long term growth: greater productivity, strong finances, efficient services, low taxes and a climate conducive to investment.


Refining Giants on Expansion Spree in Gujarat

December 17, 2014

Over the next few weeks, petroleum giants Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Essar Froup will ink agreements pledging INR 1,12,000 crore to build and expand refineries. All three companies may sign memoranda of understanding during the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit in January 2015.

This will consolidate Gujarat's position as the world's leading supplier of fuel almost doubling the total refining capacity from the existing 66.7 MT per annum.

IOC plans to invest INR 40,000 crore to build a greenfield refinery in Mundra, the fourth in Gujarat. RIL plans to set up a new INR 42,000 crore facility next to its existing refinery in Jamnagar. Essar also plans to pump in INR 30,000 crore on expanding capacity in Jamnagar. According to government sources these three combined will generate direct employment for 70,000 people besides generating ample opportunities for ancillary industries.

With its Mundra refinery, IOC will raise processing capacity to 100 million tonnes. The capacity of its 13.7 MT refinery in Koyali near Vadodara is being raised to 18 million tonnes at a cost of about INR 5,000 crore.Already, two single buoy moorings (SBM) at Mundra are being operated by IOC and HPCL. This facilitates transport of crude to the refineries.

RIL, on the other hand, wants to build a 400,000 barrels per day refinery at its Jamnagar complex to process cheap, heavy crudes. RIL's existing


refining complex at Jamnagar is world's biggest refinery which can process 1.4 million barrels per day of oil.

Chinese Association of SMEs sign USD 1.5 Billion MoU with iNDEXTb, GoG, to setup Textile industrial park in Gujarat

December 17, 2014

The Chinese Association of Small & Medium Enterprise (CASME) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Industrial Extension Bureau (iNDEXTb), Government of Gujarat, to develop a world class industrial park in Gujarat.

The signing of MoU between CASME and iNDEXTb was ensuing result of the announcement made by the hon’ble Chinese President Mr Xi Jinping during his last visit to India in September, 2014.

An agreement was signed by Mr. Shen Gaohua, Chief of Investment Committee, CASME and Mr. P. Swaroop, IAS, Managing Director, iNDEXTb on establishment of textile industrial park in the state. Other dignitaries who were present included, Mr. B B Swain, IAS, Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Gujarat Industrial Development Corporation (GIDC) and Mrs. Mamta Verma, IAS, Industries Commissioner, Government of Gujarat.

According to the MoU, CASME would make

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an investment of USD 1.5 billion in Gujarat over a period of 5 years. According to Mr. B. B. Swain, IAS; iNDEXTb will assist and support CASME as a single point of contact in terms of coordinating with various State Government Departments and Agencies for getting required approvals in setting up of the industrial parks.

Mrs. Mamta Verma, IAS, said that the current textile policy of the state is favorable for setting up industries and making investment in this sector.

WTC-GIFT City signs pact with 3 Gujarat bodies

December 18, 2014

Gujarat’s first World Trade Centre (WTC), coming up at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), has entered into a pact with three Gujarat associations for promotion of trade and investment opportunities for their members.

These are Gujarat Chemical Association (GCA), Gujarat Pharmaceutical Association (GPA) and Gujarat State Plastic Manufacturers’ Association (GSPMA). WTC and GIFT City have signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with these associations through the World Trade Centre India Services Council (WTCIS).

Khair Ull Nissa, Director, WTCIS said that WTC, through its World Trade Center Services arm, Verbind, stimulates trade and investment opportunities in India by serving as an ‘international ecosystem’ of global connections, properties and trade infrastructure and integrated trade services under the umbrella of the global brand.

The purpose of these MoUs is to foster and grow trade, increase international connectivity

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and competitiveness and facilitate investment in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). WTC’s main focus is on the SMEs. It would make efforts to arrange delegations from within and outside India, holding events, training and provide accelerator facilities.

Mr. Jaimin Vasa, President of GCA and GPA, explained that through these MoUs, the members of the associations will get access to global markets through WTC‘s network, which would help them in expanding their business. The members will also get advantage of skill development and training workshops.

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel meets Diplomats of Several Countries in New Delhi

December 18, 2014

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel met with diplomats of various countries in New Delhi with regard to the forthcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015.

Smt. Patel gave the present dignitaries the glimpse of Gujarat’s strengths as Global Business Hub and Global Gateway to India. She said that


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it is overwhelming to see foreign diplomatsreaffirming their participation in VG 2015.

While expressing gratitude towards partner countries, she also expressed regret for inability to accommodate more countries.

Hon’ble Chief Minister expressed that Gujarat has always been a proactive state for investment. And with a new, proactive government at the center, the investment climate has changed drastically.

Smt. Patel also informed about various progressive policies and futuristic projects of the State government. She mentioned that Gujarat is one of the leading maritime states in the country with the longest coastline of 1600 km. At the same time, she also spoke about DMIC (Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor) and Airport facilities. She expressed confidence that with the highest urban growth in the country, Gujarat provides great opportunity for companies interested in urban sector and with the opening of defense sector, Gujarat is an ideal place to set up defense production units also.

Hon’ble Chief Minister mentioned that Gujarat is the only state in India which supplies un-interrupted 24×7 quality power and one of the first states to experiment and encourage renewable energy projects. She also spoke about Asia’s first and largest Solar Park at Charanka. Smt. Patel said that Gujarat has a large presence in oil and gas sector and the state is the ‘Energy Hub of the Nation’.

With investor friendly IT Policy, globally bench-marked SEZ, financial services, world-class infrastructure and facilities, Smt. Anandiben expected involvement from all over the world to make Gujarat scale higher heights.

In her speech, Smt. Patel also mentioned variousinnovative projects initiated by Shri Narendra Modi. She specially mentioned the initiative of toilet in every house as well as womenempowerment in which she is personally involved and committed.

Hon’ble Chief Minister sought co-operation from all the present dignitaries to implement holistic, sustainable and inclusive growth of Gujarat. She expressed her wish to enhance trade and economic ties between countries and also international efforts on human development as a special focus.

Hon’ble Chief Minister extended a warm invitation to all the foreign diplomats to come to Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015 and avail the opportunities offered by Gujarat.

Lockheed, Boeing and Airbus take off for Gujarat

December 19, 2014

Top aircraft makers are planning a Gujarat landing. Lockheed Martin, one of the world's top defense and space aircraft maker, Boeing and Airbus are exploring opportunities to set up aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) units. A senior bureaucrat informed that one of them is most likely to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for a proposed investment of INR 4,000 crore next month.

Gujarat Government plans to offer land and other facilities for MRO units near the proposed Dholera International Airport, 100km from the Ahmedabad International Airport, in the DholeraSpecial Investment Region. Top executives of these companies have also confirmed their participation in the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015.


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According to a government official, government plans to develop a special MROzone in Dholera considering the huge potential in the MRO sector. This will help generateemployment and give a boost to ancillary industries. The state's industrial policy of 2009 accords top priority to MRO units.

Besides Dholera, Gujarat is also planning an MRO facility at Ankleshwar along with a private airport to mainly handle cargo. Captain Ajay Chauhan, Director, Gujarat State Aviation Infrastructure Company Ltd (GUJSAIL) informed that airports managed by AAI have MRO facility but this will be the first private airport to have such a facility.

The MRO facility at Ahmedabad airport is also managed by GUJSAIL which recently handled the maintenance of the jet used by the Hon’ble Prime Minister to fly within the country.

High-level Bhutanese delegation calls on Gujarat Chief Minister

December 19, 2014

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel wished greater co-operation in trade and commerce between Gujarat and Bhutan in various fields and particularly in the energy sector. Speaking with a high-level delegation of Bhutan, she invited industrialists and delegates from Bhutan to the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015.

The delegation consisted of members from five political parties of Bhutan, which showcased the true spirit of democracy. Hon’ble Chief Minister talked about Samras Gram that exemplifies the same spirit in Gujarat. She also briefed the delegation about Gujarat’s policy of ‘Sauna Sath; Sauna Vikas’ and other innovations in ‘SamrasGram Yojana’, women’s empowerment, reserving 33 per cent of seats for women in the police force, people’s participation in constructing toilets in every home, freeing children from the malnutrition, linking tribal villages with Wi-Fi, BRTS, Sabarmati Riverfront and all round development of the state.

Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Shri. Narendra


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imported from Germany. Speaking about the plant operations, Dr. Umale explained that in order to provide the famers with good quality of feed, they are setting up the plant that will source raw materials all across the country. He expressed that the new plant can be expanded if the need arises.

Speaking on the cattle feed market, he said that as of today country’s cattle feed producer are catering only 10 per cent of the market. There ishuge opportunities as 90 per cent of the market are still needs to be captured.

To cater to its own demand, Amul already have 1000 tonnes capacity of cattle feed plant that is looking after 1200 milk cooperatives in the state.

Railways may ink MoU with Gujarat at Vibrant Gujarat Summit

December 22, 2014

In a meeting with Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel in New Delhi, Hon’ble Union Minister of Railways, Shri. Suresh Prabhu expressed confidence that Ministry of Railways may sign Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Gujarat government during the upcoming Vibrant Gujarat 2015 Summit. According to an official statement, the MoUs may be signed with regards to development of Sabarmati and Surat railway stations.

In her meeting with Hon’ble Union Minister, Smt. Patel raised the issue of 38 permissions pending with Railways at zonal and divisional levels for canal crossings under the SardarSarovar Canal project wherein the Hon’ble Union Railway Minister assured all assistance on the issue and also suggested forming a joint task force to look into early solution.

Modi had briefed Hon’ble Prime Minister of Bhutan about ‘Vanche Gujarat’ initiative during his Bhutan visit. Hon’ble Chief Minister shared more details of the state’s efforts in inculcating reading habits under ‘Vanche Gujarat’. Smt. Patel lauded Bhutan’s focus on Gross National Happiness and briefed the delegation about ‘Gatisheel Gujarat’. She also gave the delegation an insight about Buddhist relics found in Vadnagar & elsewhere in Gujarat.

Amul Setting up 720,000 New Feed Plant in Gujarat

December 19, 2014

In order to cater to cattle feed for farmers in the country, India’s largest milk cooperative, Amul is setting up 720,000 cattle feed plant in Kapadiyavillage, Kheda district in Gujarat state.

Dr. Rajendra H Umale from Amul Nutrition, informed that the plant will be spread across 19 acres. He added that the plant will be fully automatic which will be first of its kind in the country. He further mentioned that the plantwill be catering to demands of cattle feed from neighboring states, apart from exporting to foreign countries.

Dr. Umale informed that the plant is being set up with an investment of USD 30 million and will start operation by October 2015. He added that machineries for the new plant have been


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The CM also met Hon’ble Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Shri. J P Nadda and Hon’ble Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri. Ananth Kumar and discussed issues pertaining to health and chemicals & Fertilizers of the state pending with respective ministries.

Smt. Patel requested the Health Minister for extending the Pradhan Mantri SwasthyaSuraksha Yojana (PMSSY) to five districts, namely Palanpur, Amreli, Vyara, Nadiad and Godhra in Gujarat and upgrade civil hospitals to medical bodies in the districts. Moreover, she stated that that Gujarat was keen to have one AIIMS-type institution in the state and alternative locations have already been identified in Vadodara and Rajkot districts.

Further, the CM proposed that 100 seats for MBBS course in Surat and 70 seats in Vadodara should be approved by the Union Ministry of Health. She also proposed an ESI medical college in Gujarat with the assistance of GoI, apart from Centre's recognition for Gujarat government-run Sickle Cell Anaemia Control Programme at a national level and provide more funds to the scheme.

On his part, Shri. Nadda assured that the ministry will soon chalk out a comprehensive strategy on sickle-cell anaemia for Gujarat and Maharashtra both.

Issues relating to chemicals and fertilizers, which included enhancement of supply of indigenous urea and more rack points for imported urea in Gujarat, were raised by Smt. Anandiben Patel with Shri. Ananth Kumar.

The Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers proposed to set up a vocational training center in south Gujarat to impart training on plastic engineering and technology to tribal students with 100% employment assistance. Shri. Ananth

Kumar also requested the Gujarat CM to provideadequate land and logistics support for the training institute.

Government plans to set up tech-park for medical devices in Gujarat

December 22, 2014

Shri. Ananth Kumar, Hon’ble Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers, said that centre is considering setting up an exclusive tech park for medical devices in Gujarat, which has been a leading pharmaceutical producer in the country.

In a meeting with Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel Shri. Kumar discussed various projects relating to the state in the fields of chemicals, fertilisers andpharmaceuticals. It was decided that a joint working group of officials of the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers and the State Government will be formed to take forward various projects that are in the pipeline.

Gujarat had been a leading pharmaceutical producer and further steps are to be taken to expand the industry in this sector.

The other projects which were deliberated including setting up of a full-fledged campus for the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPER) at Ahmadabad, further development of the Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investments Region (PCPIR) at Dahej, where the ONGC Petro Additions Ltd (OPaL) is already setting up a plant.

Besides, the two leaders also discussed about setting up of a fertiliser plant in the state under the new investment policy. State-run Gujarat State Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd (GSFC) and Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers and Chemicals Ltd (GNFC) have already applied for setting up of urea plant under the new policy.

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Honda plans setting up car manufacturing plant in Gujarat

December 24, 2014

Japanese auto giant Honda Cars India Ltd has approached the Gujarat government with a proposal to set up a car manufacturing plant near Vithalapur village in Ahmedabad district with an investment of over INR 1,000 crore. According to a senior government official, the proposal moved by the company is in final stage of consideration and may get approval of the state Cabinet soon.

Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India Private Ltd (HSMI) has already announced establishing the world's largest scooter plant at the same village, 110 kms away from here.

The setting up of the car manufacturing facility is under the "mega Project" category of the new Industrial Policy of the state government. According to the official, the representatives of Honda recently met state chief secretary with the formal proposal for the purpose.

This will be Honda's second major investment in Gujarat, particularly in vicinity of Vithalapurvillage. HMSI had signed a State Support Agreement with Gujarat government in September for setting up their two-wheeler manufacturing plant at Vithalapur village with an investment of INR 1,100 crore.

Gujarat Pipavav setting up RoRoautomobile yard at Pipavav Port

December 27, 2014

In a bid to expand its services portfolio, APM Terminals-operated Gujarat Pipavav Port, with NYK Auto Logistics (India), is setting up an automobile yard at Pipavav Port. Under the arrangement, NYK Auto Logistics (India) has been sub-leased land by Gujarat Pipavav on the port premises for developing a common user-integrated RoRo (roll-on/roll-off) terminal.

A RoRo terminal caters to ships designed tocarry automobiles, trucks, and railroad cars among others vehicles. The yard is expected to be commissioned in the second quarter of 2015 and will be provided with all port and related facilities by Gujarat Pipavav Port.

Mr. Prakash Tulsiani, Managing Director, Gujarat Pipavav Port Ltd., informed that they plan to increase existing service portfolio from container, bulk, liquid and now automotive cargo. NYK is a proven leader in operating auto terminals worldwide and has an extensive fleet of RoRo ships offering regular sailings to and from the major ports around the globe.

The RoRo yard at Pipavav with annual designed capacity of 250,000 vehicles shall operate 365



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days x 24 hours and be equipped with dedicated custom bonded area and CCTV cameras for security of cargoes. The staff operating the terminal shall be trained to global standards for cargo care to meet the stringent quality requirements of automotive customers.

Mr. Naotaka Ishizawa, Managing Director of NYK Auto Logistics (India) mentioned that NYK shall implement global best practices at Pipavav RoRoterminal and support the growth of automotive exports from India.

Surat may have new bourse in 4 years with diamond barons set to invest INR 1.25 lakh crore

December 27, 2014

Surat Diamond Bourse, a company floated recently by diamond barons, plans to invest INR 1.25 lakh crore to establish a new bourse here over a period of four years. Representatives of the company will submit a formal expression of interest to the Gujarat government regarding the proposed investment during the Vibrant Gujarat Summit.

Surat Diamond Bourse was set up for the trade of rough diamonds and manufacture of polished diamonds in a notified zone coming up in the Khajod area under the Dream City project on 4 lakh square meters of land.

The purpose is to get buyers from across the world to visit the city for business and execute transactions at one place. The proposed hub will have 22 iconic and interconnected buildings of more than 20 floors and house more than 10,000 offices.

Mr. Mathur Savani, one of the administrative committee members of Surat Diamond Bourse, informed that there are total 12,000 members. Mr. Lalji Patel expressed that it is likely to provide direct employment to more than 1.5 lakh and a total investment of INR 10 lakh crore is expected.

The Dream City project is being executed on the lines of Gujarat International Finance Tech-city in Gandhinagar. Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board will launch a special purpose vehicle for this three-phased project in which Surat Diamond Bourse is the anchor company.

GIFT City to come up with financial services enclave

December 29, 2014

After the International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) is planning to launch a 'Financial Services Enclave' for domestic operations of banks and financial institutions. The enclave will act a dedicated area for banks, financial services and insurance (BFSI) companies to operate in the domestic market.

According to senior officials at GIFT City, the state government anticipates around 60 national and international banks and financial institutions setting up shop in the enclave that will provide all necessary and integrated infrastructure for the sector.

According to senior officials at GIFT city, around


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12000 jobs can be created. It is basically meant for national and internationals BFSI companies where leading banks and insurance firms will be operating from the enclave. The officials informed that while the IFSC is part of a designated SEZ area, this one is a domestic area.

Officials of GIFT City are planning to meet and interact with BFSI delegations from various countries during Vibrant Gujarat Summit, to understand their requirement, following which the enclave will be formally launched. The officials also mentioned that GIFT has lot of infrastructure to offer which every bank or financial institution would need.

GIFT City is also banking on attracting leading domestic and foreign BFSI firms on the back of providing low cost infrastructure.

The officials explained that infrastructure of international standards will be offered at a very low cost within the enclave. Not only foreignbanks, but also our Indian banks are planning to have corporate finance operations. The officials added that since each financial institution want similar environment to work in, the enclave will look to provide the same. The enclave is expected to be launched by the middle of February 2015.

ICICI Bank CEO Ms. Chanda Kochhar pays courtesy visit to CM

December 30, 2014

Ms. Chanda Kochhar, CEO and Managing Director of ICICI Bank, paid courtesy visit to Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel in Gandhinagar.

Ms. Kochhar briefed Smt. Patel about the adoption of Akodara village of Sabarkantha by their bank under the Digital Village Pilot Project and to fulfill the desire – ‘Digital India’ of

Hon’ble Prime Minister. She briefed Smt. Patel about the activities regarding networking and Wi-Fi facilities in the village.

While Smt. Patel strongly appealed to Ms. Kochhar to contribute in the social responsibilities like construction of in-house toilets in villages, cleanliness campaign and malnutrition-free society under Corporate Social Responsibility. By giving positive response toSmt. Patel, she showed her eagerness to fulfill this responsibility.

This is to be noted that during his tenure, the then Chief Minister of Gujarat and now our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had started the first ‘Animal Hostel’ in this Akodara village. Now the Pilot Project of Digital Village has been started by the bank with the collaboration of the District Administration.

During this meeting Shri. K. Kailasnathan, IAS, Principal Chief Secretary to CM and Shri. Ajay Bhadoo, IAS Secretary were also present.

SJVN, Hindustan Salt to set up ultra-mega hybrid renewable energy park in Gujarat

December 31, 2014

Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) along with Hindustan Salt is planning to set up ultra-mega


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hybrid renewable energy park in Gujarat. The proposed park would have both solar and wind plants. The park will be developed on the surplus salt pan land of Hindustan Salt. The plant will have the generation capacity of 4,000-5,000 MW of which about 3,500-4,200 MW will be from solar and 600-800 MW from wind.

Initially, SJVN will develop all the infrastructure facilities like roads, drainage system, power supply and water supply system, evacuation arrangement from the plot to evacuation sub-station.

SJVN is a joint venture between the Central Government and Himachal Pradesh state Government. The company owns and operates India’s largest 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Hydro Power Station in Himachal Pradesh.

Afghan pharma firms to seek JVs at Vibrant Gujarat

January 1, 2015

More than 40 pharmaceutical companies from Afghanistan are expected to participate in the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015. The companies, mostly medicine importers, are a part of the delegation that will attend the Summit and Pharmexcil exhibition which will be held during from January 9 to 11, 2015.

According to sources, these Afghan companies are looking at joint venture opportunities with Gujarat's pharma companies to manufacture generics, formulations, syrups, over-the-counter drugs and medical disposables.

Mr. Abdul Qaher Jawad, Head of Allopathic Medicine under the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in Afghanistan informed that Afghan companies are keen to gain knowledge during the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, network with Indian pharma companies and explore joint venture opportunities. The delegation will be headed by Mr. Jawad and MoPH's Head of

Pharmaceutical Establishments, Mr. Lutfie Abdul Nasire.

Afghanistan is mainly dependent on imports for all kinds of goods and services, including pharmaceutical products. Currently, the country has an estimated annual medicine consumption of USD 400 million and only 2% of consumption is met by local producers while the 98% is met by imports, mostly from Pakistan and other countries like Iran, India, Korea and China.

In the run up to Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat addresses Sparkle exhibition 2015 in Surat

January 2, 2015

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel inaugurated Gems and Jewelry exhibition Sparkle 2015 at Surat. She lauded the progress of Surat in various sectors and assured state government’s support in its further development.

Smt. Patel acknowledged state’s significant contribution in the country’s gems and jewelry industry. She said that it is a matter of pride that Gujarat accounts for 85% of the total jewelry production of India and exports nearly 80% of India’s diamonds.

In her address, she also mentioned that Surat is gearing up to house a world-class diamond bourse that will prove to be an effective platform to bring all those interested in


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the diamond business under one proof. She added that planning to set up a dedicated diamond SEZ in Surat is under progress.

Smt. Patel shared that as per the recently launched Industrial Policy, special training centers for various skills required in diamond business will be set up in Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot and Bhavnagar.

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat said that the gems, jewelry and diamond industry of Surat has the potential to actively contribute in realizing Hon’ble PM’s vision of Make in India and Skill India. On the occasion she marked the launch of Geographic Information System usage for Surat. She said that GIS will facilitate efficient delivery of government services and will help to make the administration more effective and transparent.

The three-day exhibition was organized in the run up to Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015 by the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The exhibition had more than 150 stalls, with as many as 80 participants from across India.

Consul Generals of Sri Lanka and Thailand, Hon’ble Finance Minister of Gujarat, Shri. Saurabhbhai Patel were also present on the occasion.

Smart cities: Gujarat’s Dholera zone sets pace for the flagship programme in New Year

January 5, 2015

The Central government is kicking off its ambitious smart cities programme along the Delhi-Mumbai industrial corridor (DMIC) leg that is located in Gujarat. The tendering process is to be launched shortly and is expected to cost close to INR 3,000 crore for building trunk infrastructure on the 22.5 square km.

The smart city close to Ahmedabad will cover a route length of 920 km on the corridor, of which 154 km will be developed in the first phase. It will be followed by three other phases. The 2,700 km DMIC was sanctioned in 2007.

Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi has announced 100 smart cities, some of these along industrial corridors, as it seeks to turn India into a global manufacturing hub as part of its Make in India initiative.

Mr. Talleen Kumar, CEO of DMIC Development Corp informed that they have held several meetings with various governments and investors from different countries recently including Germany, the UK, US and South Korea, for inviting bids from across the globe.Tendering is also being finalized for integrated industrial townships in Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh and Vikram Udyogpuri in Madhya Pradesh apart from the Shendra-BidkinIndustrial Park in Maharashtra for a rollout in the next two months. Of the seven cities being developed in the first phase of the DMIC project, master planning for six is complete.

Japan has invested USD 4.5 billion in the first stage of DMIC through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC). They hold a joint 26% stake in the project. Japan is also working closely with the government for the development of other industrial corridors.

In a bid to facilitate and fast track Japanese


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investment proposals, the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion has also set up a special management team known as Japan Plus, which comprises officials of both governments.

Vibrant Gujarat: Kutch may attract investments in power, cement

January 6, 2015

The desert district of Gujarat, Kutch will be placed on the forefront during this Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2015 (VGGS) as several large projects are likely to be announced during the three-day biennial global business Summit.

Government officials indicate that Kutch will get some of the big ticket investments being announced in the sectors of power, cement, minerals and renewable energy during VGGS-2015. Shri. Mahendra Patel, IAS, Kutch district collector expressed that the district will attract investment to the tune of INR 40,000 crore over the next three years; mainly in the fields of power, cement and minerals. He added that these investments will see additional employment opportunity for 3 lakh people.

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel, inaugurated the Industrial Promotion Cell (IPC) in the Kutch district, the first of its kind in the state. The IPC is aimed at facilitating investors by providing required information on land, regulatory requirements, industrial laws besides details of funding sources. The IPC was developed with the support of local industrial association, Federation of Kutch Industries Association (FOKIA).

Shri. Mahendra Patel, IAS informed that companies like Reliance ADA, Binani and DLF are setting up cement plants in the region with an estimated combined capacity of up to 10-12 million tonnes per annum.

He added that infrastructure majors like IL&FS may announce a power plant of 10,000 Mw (coal and gas) power project.

Gujarat Government to give assistance to start-ups, plastic industry

January 6, 2015

Gujarat Government announced a slew of initiatives to assist start-ups, plastic industry as well as labor intensive units, as part of its new industrial policy for 2015.

The Gujarat State Government has decided to give INR 10,000 per month for a year to such youngsters as assistance, to motivate them to undertake more research and start their own business. Young innovators would be provided a mentor service by a designated university through an incubation center.

Hon’ble Finance Minister of Gujarat, Shri. Saurabhbhai Patel informed that mentor institutions, such as universities, will also get INR 5 lakh for providing such services. To acquire raw material and other technology required by the innovator, each of these institutions will get an additional assistance of INR 10 lakh.

To put innovations in the market after mass production, the Government has declared an assistance of INR 50 lakh as venture capital for each project.

Shri. Saurabhbhai Patel added that the Government will return 70 per cent of tax paid by the entrepreneur for five years. These units are also entitled to get all other benefits which have been declared for MSME units recently.

Gujarat's Industrial Policy, 2015 has recognized the plastics industry as its focus sector and announced a seven per cent assistance, up to INR 1 crore, on the loan interest for five years.


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To encourage labor intensive industries in Gujarat, the State Government has declared assistance to three such sectors, including garments, besides apparel, agro and food processing as well as assembly enterprises.

Hon’ble Minister added that they will also encourage them by providing payroll assistance. The government will give them INR 1,200 per month for male employees and INR 1,500 per month for each of their female employees.

IL&FS plans to set up 6,000 MW power plants in Kutch

January 8, 2015

Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Services Ltd (IL&FS) is set to invest about INR 35,000 crorefor setting up 6,000 megawatt (MW) of power generation capacities in Kutch. IL&FS Group has already laid out plans for a multi-product Special Economic Zone at Kutch and two power generation facilities combining 6,000 MW capacities in the SEZ.

According to the officials of the company they are proposing to set up 4,000 MW of coal-based power project with a cost of INR 28,004.65 crore and 2,000 MW of gas-based power project at a cost of INR 7,187 crore. The funding will be met through an appropriate mix of debt and equity funds.

The company has already signed agreements with Gujarat Maritime Board, Government of Gujarat for the development of the Shipyard, Captive Jetties and LNG Terminal at Nana Layjaand also for the development of SEZ and Free Trade and Warehousing Zone (FTWZ).

IL&FS Group company, IL&FS Maritime Infrastructure Company Ltd (IMICL) is

undertaking the day-to-day project developmentactivities for an Integrated Maritime Complex comprising of a Shipyard and a multi-product SEZ at Nana Layja where IL&FS is the co-developer.

The project site is located at the mouth of Gulf of Kutch and is 95 km from Kandla Port and 65 km from Bhuj.

Varroc to invest in a new plant in Gujarat

January 10, 2015

Home-grown automotive components major, Varroc Group is planning to invest in a greenfield plant in Gujarat under its polymers division. The new facility would be the first for the company in the state of Gujarat. To set up the new plant, the company acquired eight acres of land at an undisclosed location from where it plans to manufacture polymer products primarily for two-wheeler business.

The company produces products such as seats, body parts, air filter assembly, mirror assembly for the two-wheeler segment and body parts for the passenger car and commercial vehicle segments under its polymer division. According to company officials, while the plant commissioning will be completed by 25 percent under its initial phase, the rest will be used for future expansion. The said plant is expected to employ nearly 100 skilled professionals and the commencement is scheduled for 2016.


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It is to be noted that Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India (HMSI), a customer to the VarrocGroup, has recently laid down the foundation stone at Vithalpur in Gujarat for its fourth two-wheeler plant in India, also touted to be the world’s largest only scooter manufacturing facility. HMSI’s fourth plant will have an annual production capacity of 1.2 million units and is expected to be operational by the end 2015. This is a significant business opportunity for its vendors who are gradually setting up shops in Gujarat following their OEM customers.

Wind turbine maker Suzlon plans INR 24,000 crore investment in Gujarat

January 10, 2015

Wind turbine maker Suzlon announced its plans to invest INR 24,000 crore over the next 5 years on energy projects to generate 3,000 MW inGujarat.

Mr. Tulsi Tanti, Managing Director of Suzlon informed that the company will be setting up a 2,000 MW of on-land wind capacity, 500 MW of offshore wind capacity and 500 MW of solar capacity. He added that the offshore capacity will be 5 to 10 km off the Kutch coast. He added that Suzlon will be creating the energy farms in the Saurashtra and Kutch regions of the state and sell to the small enterprises in units of one wind mill and above.

Mr. Tanti informed that they are not investing in wind projects, but only playing the part of a developer. They will be marketing these to SMEs. Suzlon will be connecting the energy farms to the state grid and this will act as captive capacity for the owner SMEs. He further mentioned that this development also marks Suzlon's foray into solar power and added that it will procure the panels from the market but develop the operation and maintenance capacities for solar panels.

He also informed that there are a slew of government schemes which will help the SME owners in investing. He added that the minimum investment under the scheme has been fixed at one wind turbine of 2.1 mw which will entail investment of INR 15-16 crore.

Suzlon is primarily targeting energy-intensiveSME units operating in clusters in the state, dedicated to textiles, food processing and cold storage and auto components.

Vibrant Gujarat: Reliance announces INR 1 lakh crore investment in 12-18 months

January 11, 2015

Mr. Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries announced INR 100,000 crore investment across businesses in the next 12-18 months.

The investments will be in expanding petrochemical production capacity as well as in launch the much-awaited 4G broadband services while contributing to Make in India and Digital India initiatives.

Mr. Ambani, the world's richest energy billionaire, speaking at the 7th Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, said that Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi's clarion call for boosting domestic manufacturing and job creation through Make in India campaign and Digital


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India initiative have energized India and itsenterprises.

Mr. Ambani said as part of the investment programme, RIL will partner and enable thousands of small businesses and Gujarati entrepreneurs to create virtuous cycle of prosperity. He further mentioned that India is marching forward with a clear vision to emerge as global power even when as most of the world is struggling with low growth.

He expressed that India can chart a path under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi in the next few years to really become the fastest growing economy in the world.

RIL is investing in raising polyester capacity by nearly 60 per cent in aggregate across four locations, a new 1.5 million tonnes refinery off-gas based petrochemical cracker and downstream units in Jamnagar, enhancing refining profitability via petcoke (petroleum coke) gasification and reducing feedstock costs for petrochemical by importing cheap US ethane.

Addressing to a large gathering during the inaugural ceremony of Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, Mr. Ambani mentioned that he has attended all Vibrant Gujarat Summits and regards Shri. Modi a world leader who India is very proud of. He added that Gujarat leads the country in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) target.

Mr. Ambani said that Reliance has been an inseparable part of Gujarat's success story. Over the last three decades the Group has invested again and again to convert a business vision into a reality. Stating that Reliance was determined to give back to Gujarat more and more, he said that we all should to work in the spirit of partnership.

UK's OPG Power Ventures to invest 1.5 billion pounds in Gujarat

January 11, 2015

Lord Livingston, British Minister of State for Trade and Investment, informed that British energy giant OPG Power Ventures will further invest 1.5 billion pounds in Gujarat. He added that OPG Power Ventures will increase their power production from 300 MW to 2,300 MW with this investment.

According to an official release, the company has completed construction of a 300 MW thermal power plant in Kutch, in which it invested GBP 400 million. The company employs 600 people in India and is listed on the London stock exchange.

Lord Livingston pointed out that the UK is India's largest G-20 investor and India invests more in the UK than it invests in the rest of the European Union combined. He added that the UK has invested USD 3.2 billion in India, more than any other G20 country and more than Japan and the US.

The UK delegation to Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015 comprised of 60 British companies, with 100 delegates.


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Vibrant Gujarat: Suzuki to invest INR 4,000 crore in Gujarat plant, to be ready by 2017

January 11, 2015

Mr. Osamu Suzuki, Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corp (SMC)., said that the company’s new car manufacturing unit in Gujarat, being set up at an investment of INR 4,000 crore at Hansalpurvillage of Ahmedabad district, will be ready by 2017. He expressed that Gujarat is definitely superior in terms of infrastructure development and ease of doing business and hence the company opted Gujarat as the next location for the plant.

The plant is being planned with an initial capacity of 1,00,000 units a year, all of which will be supplied to Maruti. The plant is being proposed to be set up another wholly owned company of SMC – Suzuki Motor Gujarat Pvt Ltd.

Gujarat most preferred destination, will invest INR 20,000 crore: Aditya Birla

January 11, 2015

Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of Aditya Birla Group, said that Gujarat was the most preferred destination for his company.

Addressing delegates from across the globe at the seventh edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit in Gandhinagar, Mr. Birla said that Aditya Birla Group would invest INR 20,000 crore in expansion of cement and other plants in the state. He appreciated the state for its clear cut policies and high speed administration.

He also had high praises for Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi and appreciated his progressive governance and speedy decisions. He added that the Hon’ble Prime Minister has a vision of elevation India's position in the world.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015: Key Industrialists and Policy Makers Converge on a Global Platform

January 11, 2015

Large conglomerates from India and abroad announced huge investment and job creation plans during Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, which kicked off in the presence of Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi and leaders from across the world.

Reliance Industries and Aditya Birla Group announced large investment plans in the state.

Among foreign companies, Australian mining giant Rio Tinto's CEO Mr. Sam Walsh said the group would add 30,000 jobs in diamond cutting industry in Gujarat, adding that Australia is looking forward to the state as a promising business destination.

Speaking at the seventh edition of the vibrant Gujarat Summit, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modi said there is a need to work for sustainable and inclusive growth and fluctuations in the global economy is


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the biggest concern. He added that various countries are coming forward to work with India and India also wants to work with global leadership on issues ranging from poverty to ecology.

On the first day of the VGS 2015, various leaders and experts from across the world also called for greater reforms in the country.

World Bank President Mr. Jim Yong Kim said that tax and subsidy reforms are essential for inclusive growth in India. US-India Business Council President and Mastercard CEO Mr. Ajaypal Singh Banga said that American investors want to be in India and added that there is a need to bridge the gap between what can be done and what they are capable of doing. He added that the world is awakening to the promise of a resurgent India.

Japanese auto giant Suzuki Corp's Chairman Mr. Osamu Suzuki said Gujarat is superior in terms of infrastructure and administration.

Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel commented that global business hub and everyone would benefit from

the three-day Summit.

Among the Indian business leaders, Mr. Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Industries, invited the companies from across the world to invest in the state, while Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, said that their ambitions are woven with the state.

Singaporean Minister Mr. S Iswaran said that Singapore companies have strong commercial interests in Gujarat, while British Trade and Development Hon’ble Minister Lord Livingston said they will open a new Deputy High Commission in Gujarat in few weeks.

Netherlands' Foreign Trade Hon’ble Minister Simon Smits said India should focus not only on 'Make in India', but also on 'Research and Design In India'.

UN Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki Moon lauded Indian Government's efforts in using more renewable energy, while US Secretary of State, Mr. John Kerry said he is highly inspired by Hon’ble Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi'sslogan of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'.


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Hon’ble Prime Minister of Macedonia Mr. Nikola Gruevski expressed interest for collaboration and mutual economic empowerment for the countries.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015: Welspun Renewables to invest INR 8,300 crore in state

January 11, 2015

Welspun Renewables announced an investment of INR 8,300 crore to set up about 1,000 MW solar and wind capacities in Gujarat.At the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, Welspun Renewables committed to set up 500 MW wind and 600 MW solar capacities with Gujarat UrjaVikas Nigam (GUVNL).

According to an official statement, this investment will be poured to develop over 1 GW capacities in Gujarat. The IPP (Independent Power Producer) made these commitments during the first day of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015.

Mr. Vineet Mittal, Vice Chairman of Welspun Renewables, said that the company has commissioned its first clean energy project in Anjar in Gujarat.

He added that Gujarat has always been the company’s natural choice in building projects not just for conducive climatic conditions but because of its investor-friendly environment.

Welspun Renewables has commissioned 308 MW solar capacities so far.

The organization envisions developing power projects across the country with existing projects located in other high radiation zones like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Punjab.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015: Defense manufacturing and procurement in 2-3 months, says Defense Minister

January 11, 2015

Hon’ble Union Minister for Defense, Shri. Manohar Parrikar said that the Government proposes to come up with an industry friendly policy on defense manufacturing and procurement in 2-3 months, a move aimed at promoting local production and reducing imports.

Speaking at a seminar on the sidelines of Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, he said a USD 20 billion import bill for defense was not affordable. He added that such a huge import bill has undesirable consequences for the economy, development and unemployment in the country. He stressed that for strategic reasons too the country should not be dependent on defense imports.

In the light of this background, he expressed that the government hopes to come up with a document in 2-3 months on a suitable model for defense manufacturing and procurement. He said that defense manufacturing will get a major thrust in line with 'Make in India' policy.

He also stated that the Ministry would soon be in a position to decide which items should be manufactured in India and gradually that list would be increased over a period of time.

Hon’ble Minister also mentioned that the Defense Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2015 will


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will have an "industry friendly" approach for defense production. India has recently taken steps like relaxed foreign direct investment norms to boost local manufacturing.

Observing that there are some gaps in the current DPP, he explained that since we are the only consumer and the buyer so whenever you deal with anyone there has to be a guarantee of purchase from ‘Make in India’.

He hoped that with change in the business climate and setting up of new guidelines and principles, the process of local investment will start.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015: Videocon to invest INR 2,000 crore for fiberglass plant in Gujarat

January 11, 2015

Consumer durables major Videocon Group is planning to set up a 60,000-tonne per annum fiberglass plant in Gujarat at an investment of INR 2,000 crores.

Rajkumar Dhoot, Videocon Group co-promoter, said that the fiberglass plant will look to tap the growing wind energy sector in the country. The fiberglass is used as an important raw material in manufacturing turbines.

He added that the capacity of the plant will be 60,000 tonnes annually. The project will come up in Bharuch, where the company already have a plant. The group already owns 600 acres of land there. Out of which, 400 acres will be used for the plant. Group company Videocon Industries has a plant in Bharuch for manufacturing colored glass in an area of 200 acres.

Mr. Dhoot added that they plan to take advantage of the boom in the wind energy sector as fiberglass is used extensively to manufacture wind towers. He further mentioned that fiberglass will be needed to manufacture LPG gas cylinders as government is planning to introduce cylinders made out of that material.

Adani, SunEdison to invest ~INR 25,000 crore in solar PV facility in Gujarat

January 11, 2015

Adani Enterprises Ltd, the flagship company of Adani Group, India’s leading integrated infrastructure player, and SunEdison Inc., a leading solar technology manufacturer and provider of solar energy services, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a Joint Venture (JV) to build the largest, vertically integrated solar photovoltaic manufacturing facility in India with an investment of around USD 4 billion (INR 25,200 crore).

The facility will create enough solar panels to fuel substantial solar growth in India, furthering India’s goals for clean, renewable energy independence.

Mr. Vneet S Jaain, Chief Executive Officer, of Adani Power Ltd, expressed that India has embarked on an ambitious program to become a world leader in power generation from renewable technologies, and sees solar as a key


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part in realizing that goal. He added that the development of the largest integrated solar manufacturing facility is a step towards fulfilling the vision of the Prime Minister’s “Make in India” campaign.

Mr. Jaain further expressed that this facility would further integrate the Adanis’ power –Renewable business value chain and would significantly increase the socio-economic benefits.

Mr. Ahmad Chatila, President and Chief Executive Officer of SunEdison Inc., said that they are proud to be partnering with Adani Enterprises to build the largest solar photovoltaic manufacturing facility in India.

The new facility will be constructed in Mundra, Gujarat, over a three to four year period. This facility will vertically integrate all aspects of solar panel production on site, including Polysiliconrefining, ingots, wafers, cells and panels production with a broader ecosystem involving extended supply chain for raw materials and consumables.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015: US looks at USD 41 billion investments in India over 3-4 years

January 12, 2015

The US business delegation which attended the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015 are looking at a potential investment target of around USD 41 billion in India in the next 3-4 years. This was revealed in a survey done by the US India Business Council (USIBC), which is brought one of the biggest US business delegations, comprising 127 individuals and 60 firms.

It was indicated in the survey that even as firms will be scouting for doing business in other states, Gujarat tops as the preferred location for ease of doing business.

Ms. Diane Farrell, Acting President of USIBC, expressed that the ease of doing business in Gujarat has been rated high by business heads owing to it being a power-surplus state and the commitment of the Government here to engage in ‘problem solving’ for investors.

She added that US firm Westinghouse Electric Company, which builds and operates approximately half of the world’s operating nuclear plants, is attending the Summit and will be looking at setting up a plant in the state. Apart from traditional technology companies like IBM and CISCO, others like Dow Chemicals, Ford, Abbott, General Motors, Peabody Energy and Cairn Energy were a part of the delegation.

From this delegation, few smaller companies would be looking for partners for potential ventures in Gujarat and elsewhere.

Mr. Arun Kumar, Director-General of the US & Foreign Commercial Service and Assistant Secretary for Global Markets, US Department of Commerce, underlined the need to scale up business ties between the USA and India during the Summit.

He added that the US and Indian government are working very hard on the commercial aspects of the dialogue, which is one of the oldest dialogues. He stressed that they plan to intensify those dialogues.


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US CEOs and senior executives at the seminar at the Summit included Mr. Ajay Banga, Chairman, US-India Business Council and President & CEO, MasterCard; Ms. Ellen Lord, CEO, Textron Systems; Mr. Dave Farr, CEO & Chairman, Emerson; Mr. Ed Monser, President and COO, Emerson; Mr. Jaspal Bindra, CEO Asia & Group Executive Director, Standard Chartered; Mr. Chris Hagedorn, Group Executive & Chief Development Officer, Peabody Energy; Mr. David Shcoch, Group V-P & President (Asia Pacific), Ford Motors; Mr. Claude Burcky, V-P, Abbott; Graham Cable, V-P (Project Development), Westinghouse; Mr. Niren Choudhary, Group President, Yum! Brands; Ms. Kaku Nakhate, Country Head (India), Bank of America; Mr. Pratyush Kumar, President, Boeing India; Mr. Robert Feeser, Executive V-P, MeadWestvaco and Mr. Ahmad Chatila, President & CEO, Sun Edison.

Kalyani to set up defense manufacturing unit in Gujarat

January 12, 2015

The Kalyani Group will invest INR 600 crore in a defense manufacturing facility at Dholera in Gujarat. The facility is likely to employ about 2,500 people and will include the capacity to upgrade and overhaul armored vehicles, with a plan to also make defense electronics and radar.

According to a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the State Government at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015, the operations are likely to commence by 2016. Mr. Amit B Kalyani, Executive Director, Kalyani Group, said the setting up of the plant would be in line with Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi's‘Make in India’ vision.

Kalyani Group has already formed a 'Make In India' project team, with senior executives to work on an import substitution strategy.

It is targeting USD 30-40 billion worth of iron and steel products that are currently imported for the defense, energy, automotive, construction and mining equipment industries. The group is undertaking its defense business through a subsidiary called Kalyani Strategic Systems.

The land at Dholera has been offered by the State Government for putting up the plant. Kalyani Group’s annual turnover is around INR 12,000 crore and the plan is to increase the business three to four times over the next 10 years, by embracing Make in India.

Besides the forging and engineering business of its flagship company, Bharat Forge, the Group is also focusing on the non-automotive segments of the power, railway, aerospace, oil & gas and defense industries. A large part of this will be on defense and aerospace.

Essar Oil to invest INR 6,000 crore to expand Vadinar refinery in Gujarat

January 12, 2015

Essar Oil, which has a 20 million tonne per annum (MTPA) refinery at Vadinar in Gujarat, plans to pump in INR 6,000 crore to expand its capacity. The plant started commercial production in 2008. Mr. Prashant Ruia, Group CEO of Essar Oil, announced the refinery's


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expansion plans at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015.

In 2012, the refinery capacity had been expanded to 20 MTPA, with an increase in its complexity from 6.1 to 11.8 on the Nelson index, making it India's second largest single-location refinery and amongst the most complex globally.

Essar's refinery produces LPG, naphtha, light diesel oil, aviation turbine fuel (ATF) and kerosene. It has been designed to handle a diverse range of crude - from sweet to sour and light to heavy. It is supported by an end-to-end infrastructure setup, including SBM (single buoy mooring), crude oil tanker facility, water intake facilities, a captive power plant, product jetty, and dispatch facilities by both rail and road.

Vadinar refinery has processed more than 75 varieties of crude oil from across the world, including some of the toughest crudes. In 2011, Essar acquired the Stanlow Refinery from Shell, the second largest refinery in England.

CLP Holdings plans power plant in Gujarat with a projected cost of USD 2 billion

January 12, 2015

Hong Kong-based China Light & Power (CLP) Holdings Limited is planning a 2,000 MW coal-

based power plant in Gujarat at a projected investment of USD 2 billion (around INR 12,400 crore), adding to its operational gas-based 600 MW power plant in the state.

Mr. Richard Lancaster, CEO, CLP Holdings, said that the company is undertaking a feasibility study for the power plant that is most likely to be fuelled by imported coal.

He added that the gas fired power plant is nearing end of its power purchase agreement. It has come at a time when affordable gas availability is constrained. An additional capacity would be better placed with environmentally clean coal-fired power plant.

The company is also keen on developing renewable energy, especially in the form of solar and wind farms in India.

Mr. Lancaster mentioned that their main focus is on renewable energy and they plan to grow the portfolio of wind farm and solar farm. He also expressed his keenness on investing in solar farms in India. He added that the global CEO community is trying to understand how the investment environment in India will be shaping up in the near future.

He further expressed that the international community has been hearing positive messages about reforms that the new government intends to bring in and it would be interesting to see how these reforms are put into practice.

Gujarat, MasterCard sign MoU to speedup electronic payments

January 12, 2015

Gujarat and US-based payment solution provider Master Card have signed an agreement for strategic co-operation to accelerate electronic payments processes involving government,


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businesses, as well as the transit and tourism industry.

According to an official statement, the MoU aims to improve access to money and enhance transparency, and speed in payments that would benefit consumers, small businesses and craftsmen, as well as state and municipal departments. Further the statement indicated that MasterCard will kick off the collaboration by focusing on a number of strategic areas. Both parties will work together to digitize and streamline the procurement payment process in various departments, municipalities and various state Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). They will develop a mobile-based solution for thetransfer of government benefits to beneficiaries. The state and MasterCard will also seek to enhance the already robust public transportation system by creating a common transit card for travelers using metro and all state and city buses.

MoU was signed by Mr. Vicky Bindra, President, Asia Pacific for MasterCard and Mr. Anil Kumar Yadav, Director (Institutional Finance) andAdditional Secretary. Hon’ble Union Minister for Finance, Shri. Arun Jaitley, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Smt. Anandiben Patel, among others, were also present on the occasion.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015: Mehairinks pact for setting up MRO unit in Gujarat

January 12, 2015

Juhu-based company that operates seaplane services in the state, signed a deal with Gujarat Government to start the country's first maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services unit for the amphibian planes in Gujarat. According to the firm, it will also be the

first of its kind in the SAARC region.

MoU was signed during the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015. Promoters of Mehair company expressed that the new venture will provide repair and maintenance services to seaplanes from not just India, but also from nearby SAARC countries, bringing in valuable foreign exchange to the nation. The project, for which the Gujarat Government will be providing land, near Bhadardam in Amreli district, is expected to kick start within the next 18 months. It will be spread across around 10 acres and built on a budget of INR 20-25 crore.

Seaplanes can operate from land as well as on water. While the Andamans already have such a service, it was recently introduced in Maharashtra to connect different tourist and religious destinations. At present, these services operate from Juhu to Shirdi and Lonavla. Goa too will soon have seaplanes.

Mehair is presently the only company operating in India. According to Mr. Siddharth Verma, Director and Founder of Mehair, there is not a single MRO in the SAARC region catering to single-engine seaplanes. The company will also be targeting the Middle East.

There are around 20-25 seaplanes operating in the SAARC region, which is expected to go up by 10 in the next couple of years. Similarly, the


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number of seaplanes is expected to increase from around 4 to 15 in India over the next first years.

Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015: India, Israel Sign Pact for Third Phase of Agriculture Project

January 12, 2015

India and Israel have signed a joint agreement to implement the third phase of the agriculture cooperation project for next three years against the backdrop of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit 2015. According to an official statement, a joint declaration 'the Indo-Israel Agricultural Cooperation Project (IIAP) entering its thirdphase' was signed by Mr. Yair Shamir Hon’ble Agriculture Minister, Israel.

According to Indian Government officials, India and Israel have agreed to establish a 'joint team' to finalize the 'third phase' of the three year action plan (2015-2018) for further strengthening and widening the scope of bilateral agricultural development cooperation between the two countries. The joint team will submit the action plan by March this year.

In the first phase during 2008-10, five 'Centre of Excellence' for fruits and vegetables were set up in Haryana and Maharashtra, while in the second phase (2012-15), around 22 such centers are being established in different states. At these centers, experts from Israel have been training Indian officers as well as farmers in nursery management, protected cultivation, post-harvest management, use of poor quality water for irrigation, precision farming of micro irrigation and other best agricultural practices.

The joint agriculture project is being implemented as part of the agreement of agri-cooperation signed between India and Israel in January 2008. The cooperation was extended till 2015.

The Hon’ble Israeli Agriculture Minister also met Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri. Narendra Modi and discussed about strengthening agri-cooperation between two countries.

NSE, Gujarat education department inks MoU on financial literacy

January 13, 2015

India's leading stock Exchange National Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Education departmentof Gujarat signed an MoU for introduction of financial literacy course in schools and colleges.

Ms. Chitra Ramkrishna, MD and CEO of NSE, expressed that the road to fastest financial inclusion is possible through a continuous education process. She added that this MoU will play a pivotal role towards understanding the complex financial markets and its products. The programme also envisages the use of satellite-based teaching methodology across the state.

According to an official statement, the course aims at imparting basic financial knowledge at a very early stage so that children grow up to become financially responsible citizens with a secured financial future. The signing was done in the presence of Shri. Arun Jaitley Hon’ble Union Minister for Finance, Government of India and Smt. Anandiben Patel, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat.

Explore Gujarat

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Apart from the many operational golf courses, plans are already underway on many more. Golf clubs and academies are sprouting up in the state quickly to get a foothold in the rapidly growing golf industry. Leading players like JeevMilkha Singh are helping golf clubs in Gujarat join the international circuit.

There is a lot of effort in training and sponsorships and patronage for the sport. All this effort is leading to world class facilities, signature golf courses, luxurious golf clubs, plush resorts and even swanky residential complexes set around golf courses. This development israpidly altering the face of the state. Not only is the landscape changing but along with it, so is the lifestyle.

Gujarat has always been a part of the glorious history of golf. And in recent times the state has seen the emergence of a number of world-class golf courses. Gujarat is becoming a popular golf destination and keeping up with the trend many more golf courses are under construction and many more in the pipeline throughout the state. Among the many courses set to open soon is the 18-hole golf course in Smile City near Ahmedabad, and the 18-hole golf course at the new convention centre Surat.

Few people know that countless business deals by local businessmen are now being struck on the golf greens. Probably even fewer know that golf tourism in Gujarat is now coming up in a big way. The state is becoming a verdant haven with golfing options ranging from a royal palace for a backdrop to an adventurous fairway through rugged landscape.

The state is gearing up to offer the best of modern amenities set against a rich cultural heritage to become a world class golf destination to reckon with.

In recent times, there has been an increasing impetus from both public and private players, local corporates as well as multinationals to promote the sport in the state.

Golf Tourism

The golf calendar for the year is now fast filling up with events, both amateur and pro. In fact, the recently concluded third edition of the Gujarat Kensville Challenge Golf saw the strongest ever field as both the Indian Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and European Challenge season for 2013 season teed off here. The Kensville Challenge has now become a regular season-opener for both the Tours.

From night golf to virtual golfing, the state is gearing to fulfill every need of golf enthusiasts. In fact, soon many golfing enthusiasts will vouch that one of the best ways to experience Gujarat is through its numerous golf courses.

Industrial Extension Bureau

Block No 182nd Floor, Udyog Bhavan, Sector 11, Gandhinagar -382010Gujarat, India

Phone:+91 79 232 50492+91 79 232 50493+91 79 232 56592

Fax+91 79 232 50490

Mail us [email protected]

Find us on the Web:www.indextb.comwww.vibrantgujarat.com

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