Gujarat has topped NITI Aayog’s inaugural Investment Friendliness Index 2026 among major states, according to a report issued by the Chief Minister’s Office on Saturday. The state earned 56.6 points, ahead of Maharashtra at 53.7 and Tamil Nadu at 53.3, based on an evaluation of 17 major states. The index measures performance across 84 indicators grouped under eight pillars that span the full investment cycle, such as policy and governance, infrastructure, business facilitation and fiscal management. Gujarat’s consistent policies, investor-focused administration and efficient clearance processes supported its leading position. The Industrial Extension Bureau’s single-window system and fixed timelines for approvals and certificates were noted for cutting delays. Limits on strikes in key services helped sustain industrial calm with minimal work stoppages. Key industrial areas including Dholera SIR, GIFT City, Sanand, Dahej, Jhagadia and Saykha were praised for ready-to-use facilities that speed setup and lower costs. The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit was credited with drawing investment pledges. Gujarat holds nearly 10 percent of India’s state highways, far above the national share, and leads in estimated expressway length at 635 km. It also accounts for almost 7 percent of the national railway network. Industrial power tariffs are about 29 percent below the national average, with industries receiving 23.8 hours of supply daily. The state contributes 31 percent of India’s merchandise exports and posted the third-highest GSDP growth from 2019 to 2024. Its per capita GSDP of ₹2,64,232 is 67 percent above the major-state average. A robust MSME base and strong fiscal metrics, including a 2.81 percent fiscal deficit in 2024-25 and low outstanding liabilities, were also highlighted. Gujarat has set up 614 Atal Tinkering Labs, exceeding the major-state average by 19 percent.
