Chief Minister Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma emphasized that Pravasi Rajasthanis, wherever they reside, promote the culture, ideas, and essence of Rajasthan. These expatriates not only excel in their careers but also engage actively in social initiatives. He mentioned that the state government has launched various groundbreaking measures to foster an investment-friendly atmosphere in Rajasthan. He urged Pravasi Rajasthanis to invest in the vast opportunities present in the state, contributing to the development of a new and advanced Rajasthan. While addressing the Pravasi Rajasthani Meet in Hyderabad, he announced that during the upcoming Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit 2024, the state government will observe Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas annually on December 10.
The inaugural celebration is planned for December 10, 2025, in Jaipur, and he invited all Pravasi Rajasthanis to join this significant event. Shri Sharma also noted that the series of Pravasi Rajasthani Meets commenced in Hyderabad, with plans to hold similar events in various locations across the country to strengthen connections with the global Pravasi Rajasthani community. A dedicated contact point has been established in every district for Pravasi Rajasthanis. He further explained that the Rajasthan Foundation has been bolstered, with 14 new chapters inaugurated in the last year and 12 existing chapters now having appointed presidents, bringing the total to 26 functional chapters.
These chapters are operational in major cities worldwide, including New York, London, and Riyadh, facilitating collaboration between the expatriate community and the state government for Rajasthan’s development. A contact point has been set up in each district for the families of expatriate Rajasthanis, with an Additional District Collector assigned as the nodal officer to address their concerns. Highlighting investment prospects in Rajasthan, Shri Sharma stated that the state is experiencing significant growth. At the Rising Global Investment Summit, MOUs totaling INR 35 lakh crore were signed, with around INR 7 lakh crore already implemented. The state aims to evolve into a 350 billion dollar economy, boasting the third-largest highway and fifth-largest railway network in India.
Rajasthan is served by seven major airports, and the largest segment of the Delhi-Mumbai Freight Corridor runs through the state. Over 20 new policies have been introduced to cultivate an investment-friendly environment, alongside the establishment of numerous new industrial zones. The Pachpadra Refinery is set to commence operations this year. He mentioned that the government has allocated land to 1,232 investors and designated 34,000 hectares for renewable energy projects with a capacity of 17 GW, underscoring its commitment to tangible investments. The state government is actively pursuing initiatives across various sectors, including energy and tourism.
The Chief Minister noted that on September 25, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a 2,800 MW nuclear power project in Mahi-Banswara, with an investment of INR 42,000 crore. The state has initiated new energy strategies, encompassing battery storage, pump storage, rooftop solar, and decentralized solar projects under PM KUSUM. He pointed out that Rajasthan has considerable tourism potential, attracting millions of domestic and international visitors annually. Every region in Rajasthan showcases its rich heritage, nature, culture, and diversity. To enhance tourism investments, the government has lowered the minimum investment threshold for land allotment from INR 100 crore to INR 50 crore, allowing more domestic and heritage, wellness, and hospitality investors to participate.
The minimum investment requirement for tourism incentives under the Standard Services Package in RIPS-2024 has also been reduced from INR 50 crore. Discussing advancements in the mining sector, Shri Sharma highlighted the launch of the Rajasthan Mineral Policy and the Rajasthan M-Sand Policy, along with an accelerated pace of mineral block auctions. He also announced the establishment of state-of-the-art Tier-4 data centers in Jaipur and Jodhpur, with a new semiconductor policy on the horizon. The state presents excellent investment opportunities across all sectors, including automobiles, electronics, engineering, textiles, medical equipment, defense equipment, and food processing.
During the event, Pravasi Rajasthanis shared their stories, and the Chief Minister recognized notable Pravasi Rajasthanis for their contributions to social causes, while also launching the Rajasthani Foundation Chapter Membership. A short film showcasing Pravasi Rajasthanis was screened, and distinguished attendees included Shri K.K Vishnoi, Minister of State, Industries and Commerce, Shri P. Ramesh, Secretary of Labour Department, Dr. Manisha Arora, Commissioner of Rajasthan Foundation, Shri Suresh M Jain, National President of All India Marwari Yuva Manch, Shri Sai D Prasad, former Chairman of CII Telangana, and Shri Pawan Bansal, Hyderabad Chapter President, along with a large gathering of Pravasi Rajasthanis.