The state government has granted in-principle approval for the initiative. Earlier, the state budget had provided for a ₹100-crore Growth Fund to support the proposed Services Commissionerate, which will be on the lines of the Industries Commissionerate.

The announcement was made during a meeting of the state Cabinet. State government Spokesperson and Minister Jitu Vaghani said the decision has been taken to promote the services sector in Gujarat. A Services Commissioner will also be appointed, similar to the Industries Commissioner.

Diversifying Into Services

While Gujarat has built strong manufacturing and industrial capabilities over the years, the government has recently focused on diversifying into services to create a more balanced and dynamic economy.

The recommendation to establish a Services Commissionerate was made by the Gujarat Rajya Institution for Transformation (GRET) to develop the services sector. The process for setting up the Commissionerate and appointing a Services Commissioner has been completed.

Support To MSMEs, Startups

The new institution will work in alignment with state and national priorities and also provide strategic support to various service industries. The ₹100-crore Growth Fund is intended to improve access to growth capital for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and startups operating in the services sector.

The Services Commissionerate is expected to create significant employment opportunities for young people in rapidly expanding sectors such as IT, tourism, and logistics. It will serve as a focal point for promoting these high-growth industries, formulating innovative policies, and attracting large-scale investments into the services economy.

Having achieved global recognition in manufacturing, Gujarat now aims to position itself as a hub for the services sector as well.