It is known for a fact that Gujarat's Patidar community is an influential and mighty group which is spread across the globe. After its display of political might in the state over the controversial reservation issue, community leaders are all set to hold the Patidar Global Business Summit, modelled on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's flagship Vibrant Gujarat. Organised by community-run Sardardham Vishwa Patidar Kendra, the event will be held at Gandhinagar's Mahatma Mandir, from January 5 to 7. Approximately 10,000 Patidar delegates are expected to be present, including industrialists, investors and businessmen from 32 different countries.
The even also expects about three lakh visitors. It is aimed at facilitating internal and global alliances of small, medium and large enterprises run by community members, support new entrepreneurs and help educate youths of the community by providing training and respectable employment. Speaking to the local media, CEO of Sardardham Vishwa Patidar Kendra, TG Jhalawadia said, “As part of this, we aim to prepare at least 100 Patidar youths to become IAS/IPS officers by setting up training centres at Sardardham campus in addition to hostel facility at nominal costs. We plan a total investment of Rs 100 Crore for this. That apart, we will help some 10,000 Patidar youths enrol in government services.” Sardardham president Gagji Sutariya stated that they have approached NaMo to inaugurate the summit. He added that the summit will have speakers like Baba Ramdev, Chetan Bhagat, Shiv Khera and BJP MP Hema Malini.
Hardik Patel and PAAS to make key topic
The summit is expected to also pose as a platform for the community to discuss the infamous Patidar reservation agitation. Held in August 2015, people of the Patidar community walked the streets of Gujarat in large public demonstrations to demand reservation. Incidents of violence and arson were marked across the state, and the government had to issue a curfew in several cities and towns. It is also reported that properties and vehicles worth Crores of rupees were damaged and destroyed.
During this time, young leader, Hardik Patel rose to prominence and became the face of the movement. The mass were supported by Sardar Patel Sevadal, and they formed the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti, making Patel their leader. Following a series of mishaps, burning, loss of lives, and misjudgement on part of the state government, the agitation came to a close. Hardik Patel however, remained fresh in everybody's minds. He received several positive and negative reactions from within his community. Many criticised Hardik and PAAS for their tactics, while others celebrated the emergence of a brand new representation.
The topic and its events are expected to be brought to light in the summit to be held this week, as leaders of the Patidar community weigh in their opinions. It won't be far-fetched to point out here that both, the agitation and the summit has the issue of youth employment as its core point.
