With Saurashtra and Kutch in central focus at the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference, the state is signalling a more targeted investment strategy. Swaroop P., IAS, Industries Commissioner, Government of Gujarat, discusses in an exclusive interview with Hemangini Kanth Rajput and Nandini Jha why these regions matter, where investors should look, and how policy reforms are enabling faster and smoother project execution.

The Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference is focusing on Saurashtra and Kutch for the first time as a dedicated regional initiative. As Industries Commissioner, what is the strategic thinking behind this regional approach, and how does it differ from the broader Vibrant Gujarat Summit?

The regional approach represents an evolution in our development strategy. While the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit has been tremendously successful in attracting investments to Gujarat as a whole, we recognised that certain regions with immense potential needed focused attention and customised strategies. Saurashtra and Kutch together contribute significantly to Gujarat’s industrial output, yet there remains substantial untapped potential.

This conference allows us to deep-dive into region-specific opportunities, challenges, and solutions. Unlike the broader summit, where the focus is statewide, this platform enables granular discussions on local industrial ecosystems, available resources, specific infrastructure needs, and sector-wise opportunities unique to these regions.

It also brings together stakeholders who are specifically interested in or relevant to Saurashtra and Kutch, from local entrepreneurs and MSMEs to investors evaluating these geographies. This concentrated focus enables the creation of targeted action plans, facilitates meaningful partnerships, and ensures that development reaches every corner of Gujarat.

What specific advantages do Saurashtra and Kutch offer to investors, and which sectors do you believe have the highest growth potential in these regions?

Saurashtra and Kutch offer a unique combination of advantages that few regions in India can match. Foremost is their strategic location, with access to world-class ports such as Mundra and Kandla, providing direct connectivity to international markets. Land availability at competitive prices, robust industrial infrastructure, and a deeply rooted entrepreneurial culture further enhance their attractiveness.

In terms of sectoral potential, petrochemicals and chemicals are natural strengths, given the existing ecosystem and port connectivity. The ceramic industry, particularly around Morbi, has already achieved global scale. Renewable energy, both solar and wind, holds enormous potential due to favourable climatic conditions. Logistics and warehousing are expanding rapidly, driven by the growth of e-commerce. Food processing also offers significant scope, supported by Saurashtra’s strong agricultural base.

Emerging opportunities include green hydrogen production, leveraging renewable energy and port infrastructure; advanced manufacturing in sectors such as electric vehicle components; and a growing startup ecosystem in agri-tech and logistics technology.

Ease of doing business has been a key focus for Gujarat. What reforms and initiatives has the Industries Department implemented to make it easier for investors to set up and operate in Saurashtra and Kutch?

Ease of doing business is not merely a policy priority; it is our operational philosophy. We have implemented comprehensive reforms across the investor lifecycle. Through the iNDEXTb single-window system, investors can obtain most clearances from a single platform. Most processes have been digitised, enabling online applications, tracking, and approvals.

Time-bound clearances have been introduced, with deemed approvals if departments do not respond within stipulated timelines. For Saurashtra and Kutch specifically, regional facilitation centres provide on-ground support to investors. The land allotment process has been streamlined through transparent online auctions.

Compliance requirements have been simplified, with a shift from inspection-based regimes to self-certification for many categories. MSMEs benefit from special provisions, including reduced compliance burdens and faster approvals. We also place strong emphasis on aftercare, once an investor sets up operations, relationship managers continue engagement to resolve operational issues proactively.

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Industrial development must be balanced with environmental sustainability and social inclusion. How is the Industries Department ensuring that growth in Saurashtra and Kutch is both environmentally responsible and beneficial to local communities?

Sustainable and inclusive growth is non-negotiable. Sustainability principles are embedded within our industrial policy framework. All new projects undergo rigorous environmental impact assessments, and we actively promote green technologies and cleaner production processes. Circular economy practices are being encouraged, with mandatory water recycling, especially critical in water-scarce regions.

We are incentivising renewable energy adoption and developing green industrial corridors. On social inclusion, local employment generation is a key performance indicator. We collaborate with skill development institutions to ensure local youth are trained for industrial employment. MSME development is actively promoted, as these enterprises generate local employment and community participation.

Our cluster development approach ensures traditional industries and artisans benefit from modernisation. We also facilitate CSR initiatives that contribute to community development, and women’s participation in the industrial workforce is being actively encouraged. Our goal is for industry to integrate into local communities, creating shared prosperity.

Also Read: Kutch & Saurashtra gujarat’s gateway to global growth 

Looking ahead, how do you envision the industrial landscape of Saurashtra and Kutch transforming over the next 5 to 10 years, and what message would you give to potential investors?

The coming decade will be transformative for Saurashtra and Kutch. These regions are poised to emerge as globally competitive industrial hubs with sector-specific excellence. Kutch has the potential to become a major logistics hub serving South Asia. The ceramic cluster can further strengthen its dominance in global markets. Green hydrogen production could position Gujarat as a leader in the emerging hydrogen economy. Advanced manufacturing in aerospace, electric vehicles, and electronics is expected to grow, alongside a flourishing startup ecosystem in agri-tech and clean technology. Infrastructure development will reach world-class standards, supported by dedicated freight corridors and smart industrial parks. This regional conference plays a catalytic role by placing these regions firmly on investors’ radars and fostering platforms for collaboration. My message to potential investors is clear: Saurashtra and Kutch represent one of India’s most compelling investment destinations. They offer a rare combination of strategic advantages, a supportive policy environment, robust infrastructure, and a government that genuinely partners with industry. This is not merely about incentives, but about a governance philosophy that views industry as a partner in development. When you invest here, you become part of an ecosystem refined over two decades of Vibrant Gujarat, with the Government of Gujarat committed to supporting you at every step of your investment journey

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