The Princely State of Nawanagar's capital, Jamnagar, was established in 1540 A.D. Historically referred to as Nawanagar (the new town), Jamnagar was one of the most significant princely realms of the Jadejas in the Saurashtra area. Jam Raval, a Jadeja Rajput lord who emigrated from Kutch, built Jamnagar. For four centuries, Jamnagar served as the seat of government for the affluent princely state of Nawanagar.

The city is home to two of India's largest oil refineries, along with other major industrial products like cement, ceramics, textiles, salt, and brass parts. Bandhani (tie-dyeing work), gold embroidery, and metalware are all well known in Jamnagar..

The bases of the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force are all located at Jamnagar. Geographically, Jamnagar supports all branches of the armed forces as it provides the Indian Navy with access to the sea and a sizable aviation base due to the city's advantageous proximity to Pakistan.

Various goods are imported and exported through the city's seven-kilometer-distance Bedi Port, an all-weather intermediate seaport.

Airport and railroad connections to Jamnagar are excellent.