Critical Analysis of Infrastructure Development in Gujarat: A Cause of Concern

Abstract

Economic development and infrastructure development go hand in hand and former is not possible in the absence of later. Infrastructure development has been on the top of agenda for government of India in general and government of Gujarat in particular. Critical infrastructure like railways, road, power and port are very important for development as these are the key sector leading and supporting the development of other industrial sector and also for human development. Socio Economic Review of Gujarat also emphasized on the fact that for inclusive growth better social and physical infrastructure is needed. Moreover, more finance to physical and social infrastructure is vital to raise living standards for all. Better infrastructure, transport and logistics services would facilitate manufacturing firms' access to global markets, particularly from remote and poorer regions. The Vision of Blueprint for Infrastructure in Gujarat (BIG 2020) aims to make Gujarat a globally preferred place to live in and do business through accelerated, balanced, inclusive and sustainable growth driven by robust social, industrial and physical infrastructure. In this context present paper is an attempt to evaluate infrastructure development in Gujarat. Objective of the study is to understand the trend in infrastructure development and identify the shortcoming if any. Focus of the study is on basic infrastructure like road, railway, power and port. Study also aims at presenting the status of Gujarat in terms of infrastructure development in India. Study is based on the secondary data published by government of Gujarat (Socio Economic Review) and government of India (Economic Survey). Data related to infrastructure development in the state of Gujarat will be analyzed with the help of time series analysis. Study will provide very good insight into the development model of Gujarat with special focus on infrastructure development. It will also provide important information to policy makers for infrastructure development.