Vijay Rupani: Gujarat’s Former Chief Minister and His Latest Moves

If you’ve been following Indian politics, the name Vijay Rupani probably rings a bell. He served as Gujarat’s chief minister from 2016 to 2021, steering the state through a mix of growth drives and pandemic challenges. In this guide, we’ll break down his career, highlight the policies that mattered most, and look at what he’s up to after stepping down.

Political Journey and Achievements

Rupani started his political life with the BJP back in the early 1990s. After a stint as a municipal councilor, he moved up to become a state minister, handling portfolios like transport and industry. When he became chief minister in August 2016, his first focus was on boosting Gujarat’s manufacturing sector. He pushed the "Make in Gujarat" campaign, which attracted new factories and created thousands of jobs.

During his tenure, Rupani also emphasized infrastructure. He fast‑tracked road projects, upgraded the state's airport network, and backed the development of the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT). These moves helped the state rank high in ease‑of‑doing‑business surveys.

One of the toughest periods came with the COVID‑19 pandemic. Rupani’s government set up quarantine centers, coordinated vaccine drives, and tried to keep the economy afloat by supporting small businesses. While opinions differ on the effectiveness of some measures, the effort to balance health and livelihood was a defining moment of his leadership.

What’s Next for Vijay Rupani?

After resigning in September 2021, Rupani didn’t disappear from the political scene. He’s now working as a senior leader in the BJP’s Gujarat unit, often speaking at rallies and offering strategic advice. Rumors circulate about a possible national role, but so far he’s focused on mentoring younger politicians and staying active in his home district.

Rupani also keeps an eye on development projects he started. For example, the GIFT city expansion continues, and he frequently visits the site to push for more investment. He’s been vocal about the need for better water management in Gujarat, especially after the 2022 floods, advocating for stronger drainage systems and flood‑resilient infrastructure.

On social media, Rupani shares updates about his meetings, upcoming events, and his take on current affairs. This direct line to the public helps him maintain relevance and connect with voters who remember his time in office.

In short, Vijay Rupani’s story is far from over. Whether you’re a student of Indian politics or just curious about Gujarat’s recent history, watching his next moves offers a glimpse into how regional leaders can shape national conversations. Keep an eye on his speeches, policy pushes, and any new roles he might take – they’ll likely influence both Gujarat and the broader political landscape.