Gandhinagar, Sep 11 (NationPress) North Gujarat is emerging as India's next agro-dairy epicenter. The upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) in Mehsana on October 9-10 is expected to showcase significant investment avenues in agriculture, food processing, and dairy sectors, according to recent official announcements.

This two-day conference will include seminars, networking sessions, and sector-specific discussions designed to underscore the region's potential in potato cultivation, spice production, and dairy value chains. Aravalli is making a mark with its potato-derived products like fries and chips, exporting to 12 countries, along with organic spices such as fennel, methi, and turmeric.

Banaskantha, recognized as Gujarat's largest potato-producing district with 18.7 million tonnes projected for 2024-25, is also a leader in isabgol exports and hosts Asia's largest cooperative, Banas Dairy, which supports over 300,000 farmers.

Mehsana, historically significant, is now a hub for agri-processing, high-quality spices, and dairy. The Unjha Market Yard dominates India's spice trade, while Dudhsagar Dairy is expanding its presence in domestic markets.

Sabarkantha is emerging as another agro-processing center, bolstered by Sabarkantha Dairy's impressive milk production and NABARD's forecast of over 5.8 million metric tons in storage demand, paving the way for infrastructure investments. Together, these districts are propelling North Gujarat's evolution into a powerhouse of agriculture and allied industries. With robust ecosystems, modern infrastructure, and global market connections, the region is quickly becoming a hotspot for investors targeting India's food and dairy economy.

North Gujarat, which includes districts like Mehsana, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha, Aravalli, and Patan, possesses a unique socio-political and cultural identity, making it a significant player in Gujarat's political landscape.

The region's demographics are predominantly represented by the Patidar, Thakor, Rabari, Chaudhary, and other agrarian and pastoral communities, whose voting behaviors often influence electoral results at both state and national levels.

Leaders from North Gujarat, including various chief ministers and key cabinet ministers, have significantly impacted Gujarat's political dynamics, establishing it as a stronghold for power negotiations. Beyond its political significance, the region is celebrated for its cooperative movement, particularly in the dairy sector, with Amul, Banas Dairy, and Dudhsagar Dairy, which have not only invigorated rural economies but also cultivated a unique model of people's empowerment.

Historically, North Gujarat has been a hub of cultural richness, featuring Jain temples and stepwells, while its social fabric reflects resilience against drought conditions. The people of this region are characterized as hardworking, enterprising, and grounded in traditional values, enhancing its reputation as both a political pivot and a vital economic engine of Gujarat.

On September 4, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel stated that the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference, held under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will exhibit the unique industrial capabilities, economic strengths, and cultural heritage of various regions of the state on a broader platform. The Chief Minister addressed an interactive session and roadshow held in New Delhi with leading industrialists and officials from industrial organizations to promote the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conferences.