Gujarat’s ‘Madhapar’ Village Named ‘Asia’s Richest’ with Rs 7,000 Crore in Savings
New Delhi: In a country where rural areas are often associated with poverty, muddy roads, and lack of infrastructure, Madhapar, a village on the outskirts of Bhuj in Gujarat, stands as a remarkable exception. Ranked as ‘Asia’s Richest Village,’ Madhapar has redefined the perception of Indian villages. The village boasts a population of around 32,000 people, with most of them being Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), and collectively, they hold fixed deposits worth an astounding ₹7,000 crore.
Madhapar is home to 17 banks, including major public and private institutions such as HDFC Bank, SBI, PNB, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and Union Bank. This impressive number of banks serves as a testament to the village’s financial prosperity, with more banks eager to establish branches in the area. The village is equipped with all modern amenities, including well-maintained roads, water supply, sanitation facilities, schools, lakes, and temples. The presence of bungalows and other infrastructure further reflects the wealth and development of Madhapar.
The village’s prosperity is largely attributed to its NRI population, which accounts for 65% of the residents. Many villagers have migrated to countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and especially to Central Africa, where they run successful construction businesses. Despite living abroad, these NRIs remain deeply connected to their roots, preferring to invest their wealth in local banks and post offices rather than in their countries of residence.
Former District Panchayat president Parulben Kara emphasized the strong ties these NRIs maintain with Madhapar, stating that their continuous investments have played a crucial role in the village’s remarkable financial status. Madhapar’s success story not only challenges the traditional mindset of rural India but also showcases the potential for wealth and development in the country’s villages.
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