Prime Highlights:
- Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel laid the foundation for development works worth over Rs 600 crore at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University.
- The state’s first modern elevated market at Surat APMC, one of Asia’s largest, was inaugurated, improving trade efficiency for farmers and traders.
Key Facts:
- Over 15,000 people visit the Surat APMC market daily, and farmers now receive payments online through RTGS for transparency.
- The state government announced a Rs 10,000 crore compensation package for farmers to cover crop losses.
Background:
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Tuesday laid the foundation for development projects worth over Rs 600 crore at Veer Narmad South Gujarat University, boosting the city’s infrastructure. The event also saw the launch of several key projects by the Surat Municipal Corporation and Surat Urban Development Authority.
Addressing the crowd, CM Patel highlighted the scale of governance and development in the state, noting, “There was a time when even undertaking a project worth one lakh required deep thought. Today, a citizen can approach a corporator and get a project worth one crore done through their society.”
The visit also saw the opening of Gujarat’s first modern elevated market at Surat APMC, one of the biggest projects of its kind in Asia. The market has a wide 100-foot ramp that lets trucks reach the first floor directly, cutting loading time and making it easier for farmers and traders. Patel said more than 15,000 people visit the market every day, and farmers now get paid online through RTGS, ensuring transparency.
Highlighting the state’s agricultural initiatives, the Chief Minister referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 28 campaigns aimed at doubling farmers’ income and promoting natural farming. Patel assured farmers that the state government will keep supporting them and mentioned a Rs 10,000 crore package to cover crop losses.
At the All India Mayors Council, he called Surat a “mini India” because of its diversity and strong civic system, and said citizen participation is important for the city’s growth.
The event shows Gujarat’s focus on infrastructure, growth, and good governance, making Surat a key business hub.
