Rajkot, Jan 12 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially launched the 'Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference: Saurashtra-Kutch' along with a five-day business exhibition at Marwadi University, aligning with the vision of ‘Viksit Gujarat to Viksit Bharat’.

Over the next two days, an extensive array of over 50 seminars and thematic discussions will be held, addressing sectors like industries, agriculture, fisheries, tourism, environment, startups, sustainability, and future technologies.

The five-day exhibition stands as an impressive platform to highlight innovation, entrepreneurship, and regional excellence. With upwards of 450 exhibitors, including over 160 MSMEs, 60 startups and innovators, 62 artisans, and 70 stalls from various government departments, the exhibition showcases the diverse strengths of Gujarat's economy.

Occupying six domes and spanning a total area of 26,400 square meters, VGRE has become a central hub for business networking and collaboration.

A major highlight of the exhibition is the Reverse Buyers-Sellers Meet (RBSM), which enables regional MSMEs to engage directly with more than 110 international buyers.

For the first time, cottage industries are joining forces in exclusive discussions with over 20 international buyers, paving new avenues for global outreach. The event has seen remarkable success, with over 2,200 meetings conducted in the initial two days, resulting in over 1,000 signed MoUs and an anticipated export business exceeding Rs 500 crore.

Local businesses, industry leaders, startups, academic institutions, and technical students are actively engaging in the exhibition, creating a dynamic intersection of ideas, innovation, and opportunities.

By linking entrepreneurs, artisans, and innovators with global buyers, VGRE is enhancing Gujarat's role as a premier hub for trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

The VGRC 2026 featured participation from four partner countries: Japan, Rwanda, South Korea, and Ukraine, along with 12 partner organizations.

Key developments at the exhibition included the announcement of 13 new Smart GIDC estates encompassing 3,543 acres across 7 districts, and the inauguration of the Medical Devices Park at Nagalpar in Rajkot.

Focus on MSMEs, startups, and women entrepreneurs

A special focus was directed towards MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, and startups through the Udyami Mela, facilitating access to finance, markets, skills, and institutional support. This inclusive strategy offers a platform for small enterprises and emerging innovators to connect with larger industry players and international partners.

A cultural program was also conducted on January 11 at Atal Sarovar, celebrating Gujarat’s rich heritage and diversity, thereby adding a vibrant touch to the conference.