The Gujarat government has decided to revoke the acquisition of 18,700 square metres of land valued at ₹325 crore, initially acquired for cottage industries, in the upscale Rundh area of Surat. The decision to reverse this acquisition was communicated through a letter from the Chief Minister’s Office on February 29.

The Surat Urban Development Authority (SUDA) was instructed to remove the reservation on the land acquired for cottage industries. This decision was made during a board meeting of SUDA on March 13, just before the election code of conduct came into effect.

SUDA’s board was directed to proceed with the necessary action to release the land, which was previously reserved for public use. This decision has caused a stir within the Surat civic administration.

The government’s decision to release land acquired for small-scale industries, potentially diverting it for other uses, appears to undermine the Prime Minister’s initiative. By not supporting the growth of cottage industries, which could provide employment to many, the Gujarat government’s actions suggest a disconnect between its promises and its policies.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been advocating for the promotion of small and cottage industries through his ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, the Gujarat government’s actions seem to contradict this message. 

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