Shri. P.K. Laheri, Chief Secretary to Government of Gujarat, Shri. Shyamal Sarkar from the World Bank, Mr. Alex Jorgensen from the Asian Development Bank, Shri. Ashok Saikia from the PMO, Dr. P.K. Mishra, CEO, GSDMA, eminent experts from different countries, distinguished participants from Government of India, the UN System, various states and from abroad, ladies and gentlemen,It is a momentous occasion not only for Kutch district and Gujarat, but also for the country, because all of us, including experts from different parts of the country and abroad have gathered here to share our experiences on post earthquake reconstruction. We have assembled at a place and in a district which was shattered by a massive earthquake only two and a half years ago. Leaving behind that calamity and trauma, we are here to take stock of what we have done and how we have performed in a global context. It is a unique opportunity to learn from each other's experience and prepare for future with greater confidence.

There could not have been a better time to visit Gujarat especially Kutch. The rain Gods have showered abundantly this year. We have had an excellent monsoon and expect a very good harvest.The Navratri festival, which is the most famous and colorful cultural tradition of Gujarat, is in full swing for nine nights. Every part of the
state celebrates dance and music with a spirit of warmth, friendship and devotion. The cultural elegance of Gujarat is seen everywhere.

This year we have organized the “Vibrant Gujarat : Global Investors' Summit 2003”, which coincides with the Navratri festival. The events have attracted tourists and visitors from around the world. Various programmes highlight the state's cultural heritage, industrial capability and investment potential. As a part of the Global Investors' Summit, a number of seminars on specialized areas, exhibitions and cultural activities are organized in Ahmedabad. Conventions and exhibitions on
textiles as well as on gems and jewelry are being organized in Surat. At Porbandar, the birth place of Mahatma Gandhi, a convention on Khadi, vegetarianism and Indian system of medicines will be held on the 2nd October. The present workshop on Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Experiences is in fact an integral part of the Vibrant Gujarat programme.