Surat: Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas, and CR Patil, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, will be attending the third edition of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC), scheduled on May 1 and 2, 2026, at AURO University, Surat, focusing on the South Gujarat region.

Alongside VGRC, the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Exhibition (VGRE), a vibrant platform that brings together innovation, enterprise, and opportunity, will also be held.

The VGRE will be held from May 1–5, 2026, at AURO University, Surat. Spanning 12,000 square metres, this event showcases South Gujarat’s industrial prowess, from MSMEs to global corporations. Open daily from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, the event welcomes the general public from May 3–5, offering a blend of business, cultural performances, and live demonstrations.

VGRE Timings

The exhibition is open to business visitors daily (10:30 AM – 6:00 PM), with the general public invited from May 3–5. Beyond business, the event features cultural performances, live demonstrations, and daily lucky draws to ensure an engaging experience for all.

Exhibition Highlights

• Hall 1: Industrial powerhouses and a dedicated Japan country pavilion.

• Hall 2: Focuses on grassroots enterprise, featuring a Technology Pavilion, Tribal Haat, and over 30 startup stalls.

• Hall 3: Highlights government-supported sectoral developments and interactive pop-up stages.

Key Initiatives & Events

• Udyami Mela: A one-stop platform involving 21 government departments offering mentoring, MSME loan guidance, and business support.

• Reverse Buyer Seller Meet: Organised by FIEO, connecting 45+ international importers with local sellers for over 5,000 scheduled meetings.

• Empowering Women: The Women’s Art and Craft Festival and Livelihood Pavilion showcase products from state-wide Self-Help Groups, promoting “Vocal for Local.”

• Swadeshi Haat: Features One District One Product (ODOP) displays and award-winning artisans.

• Inaugural Mango Festival: A first-time collaboration with Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation Ltd. to highlight regional agri-sector diversity.