(Image source from: Timesnownews.com)

Gujarat is a top business destination in India. It has produced many successful industrialists. But the prosperity extends beyond cities. Madhapar, a village in Kachchh, is known as the 'wealthiest village in Asia', with impressive economic well-being. Residents of this village near Bhuj hold fixed deposits worth ₹ 7,000 crore, showcasing their affluence. Madhapar is primarily inhabited by the Patel community, with a population that has grown from 17,000 in 2011 to around 32,000. The village hosts 17 banks, including major public and private institutions, which is highly unusual for a single village. Yet, more banks are eager to establish branches here.

The reason for this prosperity lies in the village's NRI (non-resident Indian) families. These families regularly deposit crores in local banks and post offices. Madhapar has approximately 20,000 houses, but around 1,200 families live abroad, predominantly in African countries. Gujaratis heavily dominate the construction industry in Central Africa, contributing to the region's expatriate population.

The villagers here are deeply rooted in their community, even if many work elsewhere. They choose to keep their savings in the local banks rather than where they currently reside, says Parulben Kara, the former president of the District Panchayat. The village's bank manager confirms that the substantial deposits have made the area financially thriving. It boasts essential amenities like water, sewage systems, and roads. Moreover, the village is home to both private and public schools, lakes, and places of worship, the manager adds.