The Gujarat Formation Day, also known as Gujarat Sthapana Divas is commemorated every year on May 1 to mark the creation of Gujarat as a separate state.
In 1960, two states – Gujarat and Maharashtra – were carved out of Bombay State as a result of the Bombay Reorganization Act. Since then, May 1 is celebrated in both the states with great zeal and enthusiasm.
Grand events are organised to celebrate the culture, heritage and legacy of Gujarat. A state-level program is organised to mark the occasion. Usually, these celebrations have been held in the capital Ahmedabad, but this year it will take place in Patan.
A police parade and several cultural programmes are planned for Gujarat Day this year. Bikers from different wings of the state security apparatus will exhibit stunts. Preparations for the event are already underway.
Gujarat is often described as the “Jewel of western Indian” and is a hub of business and commerce
Gujarat is India’s second-largest producer of crude oil (onshore), fourth-largest producer of natural gas, first in logistics with 42 ports and 18 operational airports, and one of the country’s most industrialised states.
Gujarat is regarded as the petroleum capital of India with several refinery units, and housing several Oil and Gas reserves in places like Ankleshwar, Mehsana, Tapti High, Hazira, Bharuch, Gandhar, Dahej, Jambusar, Palej, and Kalol.
It is the world’s largest producer of processed diamonds, accounting for 72% of the world’s processed diamond share and 80% of India’s diamond exports. Gujarat is marked as the largest manufacturer of denim in the country contributing 65 to 70 percent to India’s denim production, and the third-largest in the world. It has 60 notified special economic zones (SEZs).
Gujarat also forms India’s chemicals and petrochemicals hub with eight chemical clusters, 14 industrial estates, and three SEZs, which are primarily dedicated to the chemicals and petrochemicals industry.
Over 65% of Gujarat’s population is in the working-age group of 15-59 years and is the 9th most populated state in India, with a population strength of 60.4 mn home to 5% of the country’s total population.
Gujarat is also home to several educational institutions of higher learning comprising 3 Central Universities, 22 State Universities, 32 Private Universities, 238 Engineering Colleges (AICTE approved), 422 Industrial Training Institutes, 145 Polytechnic Institutes, 74 Pharmacy Colleges, and 4 Agricultural Universities.
Gujarat is known for its folk and cultural fairs, such as Kavant, Shamlaji, and Tarnetar, which add to the state’s splendour.