Memoranda of Understanding worth Rs 85 billion were signed with 334 micro, small and medium enterprises during the district-level Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference held in Gandhidham, Kutch, highlighting growing investor interest in the region. The conference was inaugurated by Gujarat Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia at the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Convention Centre. Addressing the gathering, the minister said that despite repeated natural calamities, the people of Kutch have transformed the region into a major centre of development. He noted that, backed by government policy support, Kutch has emerged as a central industrial hub and a model of regional transformation. Once affected by water scarcity and unemployment, Kutch today attracts workers from across the country and has taken a lead role in tourism, agriculture, industry and renewable energy, while handling nearly 40 per cent of India’s cargo, the minister said. Investors were invited to partner in Kutch’s next phase of growth across sectors such as electronic components, green hydrogen, data centres and the blue economy. Highlighting the development of Dholera, Modhwadia referred to the Prime Minister’s approach of converting challenges into opportunities, citing India’s emergence as a global vaccine hub during the Covid-19 pandemic. He added that similar efforts are now underway to build self-reliance and global leadership in semiconductors and electronics, which are critical to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat. Minister of State for Higher and Technical Education Trikam Chhanga said Vibrant Gujarat, launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has evolved into a district-level movement for inclusive development. He said improved infrastructure, industrial growth and port-led expansion have reversed migration trends in Kutch and created new employment opportunities. Kutch–Morbi MP Vinodbhai Chavda said thousands of industrial units are now operational in sectors such as ports, minerals and chemicals, turning Kutch into a magnet for workers and investors from other states. He urged young entrepreneurs to align with the Make in India and Local for Vocal initiatives. Chairman of Deendayal Port S. K. Singh said Gujarat, particularly Kutch, will play a pivotal role in achieving the Viksit Bharat vision due to its strategic location and connectivity. He highlighted emerging opportunities in green hydrogen and shipbuilding and invited investors to participate in the proposed green hydrogen park in Kutch. Kutch Collector Anand Patel said district-level Vibrant Gujarat programmes and regional conferences are giving fresh direction to industrial development, positioning Kutch as a land of opportunity. Industry representatives also highlighted opportunities in renewable energy, ports, chemicals, minerals, tourism and the blue economy. The event was attended by elected representatives, senior officials, industry leaders, students and entrepreneurs, reflecting broad-based participation in Kutch’s industrial growth agenda.