The commercial capital of Saurashtra, Rajkot, is poised for a significant spotlight as it prepares to host the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) for the Saurashtra-Kutch region on January 11. The city's industrial community sees this event as a major recognition of its manufacturing legacy and a powerful platform to chart its future growth trajectory.
From Artisan Roots to an Engineering Powerhouse
Rajkot's industrial story is one of remarkable evolution. Its foundations were laid in the pre-Independence era with small, artisan-led units. A pivotal moment arrived in 1941–42 with the installation of the city's first lathe machine. The journey accelerated with the manufacture of nail-making machines in 1946, solidifying its industrial identity.
The formal structuring of this growth began with the establishment of the first industrial estate in Bhaktinagar in 1952. This was followed by the formation of the Rajkot Engineering Association and the District Industries Centre in 1978. Over the decades, Rajkot has transformed from a hub for diesel engines and basic machinery into a sophisticated center producing components for luxury automobiles, defence equipment, and even aerospace applications.
A Hub Integrated into Global Supply Chains
Today, parts manufactured in Rajkot's workshops are integral to global supply chains, supplying leading automobile and engineering firms worldwide. The district's industrial might is underscored by impressive numbers: it houses 14 operational GIDCs (Gujarat Industrial Development Corporations) and more than 2.46 lakh micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Industry estimates suggest these enterprises provide direct employment to over 11 lakh people.
The growth momentum is strong, with several major projects in the pipeline:
- A Rs 446 crore medical device park.
- New GIDCs at Khirsara and Pipardi.
- A technology hub near Gondal.
- A Rs 500 crore Amul dairy plant.
Furthermore, the recently operational Rajkot International Greenfield Airport at Hirasar is expected to significantly boost cargo movement and export connectivity for the region.
VGRC: A Springboard for Global Visibility
Industry leaders believe the upcoming conference will be a catalyst for the next phase of growth. VP Vaishnav, President of the Rajkot Chamber of Commerce and Industries (RCCI), stated that this platform will be instrumental in helping local industries connect with global markets and attract investors.
Echoing the sentiment, Narendra Panchani, President of the Rajkot Engineering Association (REA), highlighted that sustained entrepreneurship, supportive policies, and technology adoption have enabled nearly half of Rajkot's industrial units to enter export markets.
With its expanding infrastructure, skilled workforce, and deepening global linkages, Rajkot is decisively positioning itself as a key manufacturing and engineering hub not just for Gujarat, but for all of western India. The VGRC on January 11 is set to formally showcase this potential to the world.
