Introduction

Western region development council comprises of the states of Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Each of these states, with its distinctive niche, potential and capabilities, has contributed significantly to the growth story of India. Abundant natural resources, industrial strengths, sound connectivity, investor friendly ambience and availability of skilled manpower make this region attractive to investors. Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra ranked among the top 10 states in India in terms of ease of doing business as per the DIPP’s Business Reforms Action Plan (BRAP) 2016 rankings prepared in association with World Bank Group. Gujarat and Maharashtra have been the frontrunners in terms of industrial development. Madhya Pradesh on the other hand has a vibrant agriculture-based economy and has recently ventured on the path to industrialisation. Goa’s economy is driven by the sectors like mining, tourism and pharmaceuticals.

The major manufacturing industries located in the region include basic iron and steel, auto & auto components, engineering, chemical & petrochemicals, gems & jewellery, textiles, agro and food processing, cement and pharmaceuticals, to name a few. The region has a thriving service sector comprising banking & financial services, legal services, transportation, tourism, entertainment and healthcare. It houses important financial institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India, the Bombay Stock Exchange, the National Stock Exchange of India, the SEBI and the corporate headquarters of numerous Indian companies and multinational corporations. Western region serves a membership base of over 2,258 direct members and a much wider base of indirect members through its 33 regional and local member associations.

In 2017-18, Western Region adopted the theme - ‘Building Competitiveness: Driving Development’. This has led to wide range of initiatives around competitiveness, skill development and affirmative action. The region hosts some of the major national and international summits, conferences, exhibitions, business missions, trade delegations, training workshops and SME development meetings.