In poll mode, the BJP-led Gujarat government on Wednesday made two important announcements to encourage investments in the small businesses aimed at employment generation.

Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced setting up of 16 new GIDC estates (industrial estates) across the State with the potential to generate one lakh new jobs.

Apparel policy He also announced the new Garments & Apparel Policy 2017 aiming to use the cotton crop of the State to achieve the complete value-chain of farm-to-fibre, fibre-to-fabric, fabric-to-fashion and fashion to foreign markets.

“The decision is taken to encourage new investments in garment making. The State has the advantage of being the largest cotton producer. So far, we supplied cotton to other States. It is time we encouraged our entrepreneurs to invest in garmenting,” Rupani told a press meet this morning.

The State government will also provide incentives for garment unit owners for generating employment by providing subsidy in wages. The women workers will get ₹4,000 subsidy, while their male counterparts will get ₹3,500.

Rupani stated that Gujarat already has large spinning capacity, which will add to the weaving and garmenting thereby achieving the complete value chain. “Our aim is to provide employment to women and create investment opportunities in the complete value chain from cotton to fabric to clothing.”

Industrial estates He also announced setting up of new 16 GIDC estates in the State. “These GIDCs will unlock the growth in remote areas and SMEs. Spread across 2,400 hectares in 16 villages, the GIDCs will have the potential to accommodate about 15,000 factories,” Rupani said.

Notably, a day before, on Tuesday, the State government had announced reduction in VAT on petrol and diesel by 4 per cent.

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