Gujarat is leading India’s entrepreneurial surge with over 12,000 operational startups, contributing significantly to the national economy, according to State Industry Minister Balvantsinh Rajput. Speaking at the BRICS – Youth Council Entrepreneurship Pre-Consultation event, held at the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Gandhinagar, Rajput emphasized the state’s pivotal role in industrial output, exports, and job creation.
The event, a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Global Counter Terrorism Council (GCTC), aims to provide a platform for young entrepreneurs and researchers to present their ideas.
Gujarat’s Economic Impact on India
Rajput highlighted that Gujarat contributes 33% of India’s total exports and 18% of the country’s industrial output, positioning itself as a key economic driver. The state’s share in India’s GDP stands at 8.4%, making it the highest job-generating state in the country.
According to Rajput, the number of startups recognized by the DPIIT in Gujarat surged to 26,542 in 2022. This reflects an 83% increase compared to 2020. The startup ecosystem in Gujarat is thriving across multiple sectors, including:
- Healthcare & Life Sciences: 1,343 startups
- IT Services: 1,186 startups
- Agriculture: 819 startups
“With over 60% of Gujarat’s population in the 15-45 age group, the state has created an ideal ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship,” Rajput said.
Government Policies Fueling Startup Growth
The minister attributed Gujarat’s industrial success to PM Narendra Modi’s vision. He also highlighted policies like the ‘Start-Up Policy’ that have fostered a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem. With 12,000 active startups, Gujarat plays a crucial role in India’s total 150,000 startups, setting an example for other states.
Rajput emphasized the need to equip the youth for a tech-driven future. He further stressed that research and innovation will be major drivers of India’s economic growth.
BRICS Summit to Showcase India’s Entrepreneurial Potential
The event also featured remarks from NFSU Chancellor J.M. Vyas, who urged young entrepreneurs to harness their potential as India prepares to host the upcoming BRICS Summit.
“This summit will showcase the potential of India’s young entrepreneurs, and we are working to raise awareness about BRICS through various pre-programs. NFSU is proud to be part of this initiative,” Vyas said.
GCTC Strategic Consultant Prajna Kulshreshtha also underscored the significance of this platform. She called it a “golden opportunity” for young entrepreneurs to present their innovative ideas and startup ventures on an international stage.
A Model for India’s Startup Growth
With its pro-business policies, skilled workforce, and innovation-driven initiatives, Gujarat continues to strengthen its position as a national startup hub. As India gears up for global leadership in entrepreneurship and technology, the state’s expanding startup ecosystem serves as a blueprint for economic transformation.
