Vadodara, June 29: Central Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, stated on Monday that despite recent geopolitical events in West Asia, India has maintained its energy security and economic stability. This resilience is attributed to long-term planning, reforms in the power sector, and investments in urban infrastructure.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference in Central Gujarat, Manohar Lal emphasized that a reliable energy system, modern cities, and accountable governance form the foundation for sustainable industrial growth and investor confidence.
He highlighted that India’s preparedness has shielded the country from global uncertainties amid recent international events. “Despite geopolitical developments in West Asia, we have preserved and strengthened our energy security. Our economic stability remains intact. While many countries face instability and fluctuations, India has confidently maintained its stability,” he remarked.
The minister noted that reforms in the electricity distribution sector have improved the financial health of distribution companies, leading to better services for consumers. “We have implemented significant reforms in the distribution sector. As a result, the financial condition of long-struggling distribution companies has improved. Consumers are receiving better services, and this sector has become more economically sustainable, creating more investment opportunities for the future,” he added.
Manohar Lal pointed out that robust infrastructure is not limited to industrial areas; investors now also consider the quality of urban services. “When an investor selects a state, they look beyond incentive schemes. They assess the availability of housing, transportation, water, sewage, digital governance, and sanitation for employees,” he explained.
He mentioned that the central government has linked urban development with economic growth, viewing cities as centers of development, innovation, and employment.
Referring to the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), the minister stated that 12.7 million homes have been approved nationwide, with 9.865 million homes completed and handed over to beneficiaries. In Gujarat alone, over 1.15 million homes have been approved, with more than 1 million homes already delivered to beneficiaries. The Amrut scheme has provided Gujarat with 2.8 million new drinking water connections and 4.247 million sewage connections.
The minister also highlighted India’s urban transport network, noting that metro rail services are now operational in 29 cities. “India now has a metro network of 1,155 kilometers, making it the third-largest metro network in the world, after China and the USA,” he stated. He further mentioned that the Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System is a significant example of rapid urban mobility.
Discussing financial inclusion, he noted that under the PM Svanidhi scheme, over 7.6 million street vendors have received loans. “More than 4 million beneficiaries have repaid their loans on time and expanded their businesses. Approximately 800,000 individuals have progressed to larger schemes like PM Mudra after benefiting from all three phases of loans,” he added.
The minister emphasized that better housing, transportation, and urban services directly enhance industrial productivity. He also acknowledged Gujarat’s urban achievements, stating that Ahmedabad has been recognized as India’s cleanest large city, while Surat has excelled in the Super Cleanliness League.
Manohar Lal described Gujarat as a model for India’s development, noting that the state’s industrial policy, advanced manufacturing, MSMEs, green development, innovation, and women’s leadership make it a prime destination for investment. He invited investors to consider Gujarat, emphasizing that the relationship between the government and investors should be both formal and emotional.
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