Kolkata/Jaipur, Oct 28 (NationPress) Rajasthan's Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma emphasized on Tuesday that the remarkable accomplishments of Pravasi Rajasthanis act as a powerful source of motivation for the youth and upcoming generations. He highlighted that even while residing far from their roots, these individuals have successfully maintained the rich culture, traditions, and values of Rajasthan.

During his address at the Pravasi Rajasthani Meet in Kolkata, Sharma announced that the state government will hold Pravasi Rajasthani Day on December 10, 2025, in Jaipur to enhance the emotional and cultural bonds between the 'Karmabhoomi' and 'Janmabhoomi' of Rajasthanis living worldwide.

“This occasion will provide a stage to honor the achievements of Pravasi Rajasthanis and strengthen their link with their homeland,” he mentioned, encouraging all expatriate Rajasthanis to attend.

The Chief Minister pointed out that the contributions of Pravasi Rajasthanis significantly impact the economic landscape of West Bengal while simultaneously preserving Rajasthan’s cultural heritage. Their achievements consistently motivate the youth of Rajasthan.

CM Sharma revealed that the Rajasthan Foundation (RF) is currently active with 26 chapters in various states and countries to foster connections with the global Rajasthani diaspora.

He underscored Rajasthan’s economic advancements, stating that the state has developed a dynamic, investor-friendly atmosphere fueling growth in industry, trade, and infrastructure. He urged Pravasi Rajasthanis to invest in sectors like education, healthcare, tourism, and renewable energy, becoming partners in the state’s development journey.

“Rajasthan has become the country’s premier textile hub, boasting over 1,500 operational factories. The state leads in production of polyester viscose yarn, cotton, and wool, ranking fourth in cotton output,” Sharma elaborated.

He also mentioned that the new Textile and Apparel Policy fosters innovation and job creation. Rajasthan is home to approximately 85 minerals, making it the country’s top producer of zinc, lead, silver, marble, and sandstone.

The Chief Minister indicated that the HPCL refinery in the state will soon commence operations, with the Rajasthan Petro Zone under development to enhance downstream industries, positioning the state as India’s emerging hydrocarbon and petrochemical hub.

Rajasthan leads in solar energy production with an installed capacity of 34,555 MW, and recent land allocations for renewable projects amount to 17 GW.

Tourism remains a key pillar of the state’s economy, with an estimated 23 million tourists expected to visit Rajasthan in 2024. The tourism and hospitality sector has been granted industry status.

“The minimum investment threshold for tourism projects has been lowered from Rs 100 crore to Rs 50 crore. A Dharmik Paryatan Circuit is being developed to connect significant pilgrimage sites such as Khatu Shyamji, Nathdwara, Pushkar, Salasar Balaji, Ranakpur, and Mount Abu,” Sharma stated.

He referred to the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit conducted last December, noting that investment agreements worth Rs 35 lakh crore were finalized, with projects valued at Rs 7 lakh crore already underway.

CM Sharma mentioned that Rajasthan has rolled out 22 new industrial policies, with 12 additional ones—including Semiconductor, Space and Aero Defence, Global Capacity Center, and Trade Promotion policies—envisioned under the Developed Rajasthan 2047 initiative.

During the event, the Chief Minister recognized Non-Resident Rajasthanis (NRRs) for their contributions to social service and unveiled a coffee table book from the Rajasthan Foundation.

The gathering included Urban Development Minister Jhabar Singh Kharra, Principal Secretary (Industries) Alok Gupta, CII Eastern Region Chairman Shashwat Goenka, Rajasthan Foundation Kolkata Chapter President Santosh Kumar Purohit, and other senior officials.