Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth over Rs 53,400 crore during his visit to Bhuj on May 26, 2025. Addressing the gathering, he recalled the struggles faced by the people of Kutch in earlier years and praised how the arrival of Narmada waters changed the region’s fate. He said that once a barren land, Kutch has now become a hub of agriculture, with crops like mangoes, dates, pomegranates, cumin, and even dragon fruit being exported across the world.
During the visit, Prime Minister launched several significant initiatives, including the establishment of a green hydrogen plant and major renewable energy projects like the Khavda solar complex. These efforts, he said, are key steps in advancing India’s goals in green energy and strengthening the blue economy. PM Modi highlighted that Kutch is poised to become one of the world’s largest green energy hubs, with the green hydrogen technology being fully indigenous.
Underlining the strategic importance of Kutch in India’s maritime trade, he noted that nearly one-third of the country’s sea trade flows through its ports. Expansion projects are underway at Kandla and Mundra ports, while new infrastructure, such as a modern jetty and cargo storage facility, was inaugurated to enhance port efficiency. He also mentioned the dedicated budget allocation for boosting port-led development and shipbuilding, which is expected to generate new employment opportunities, especially for youth.
PM Modi praised the rapid growth of local industries including textiles, ceramics, salt production, and food processing. He highlighted the global recognition of Kutch’s traditional handicrafts, such as embroidery, bandhani, and Ajrakh printing, which have recently secured Geographical Indication (GI) tags. These recognitions, he said, will empower tribal artisans and preserve the region’s rich cultural legacy.
Recalling the past struggles with declining groundwater levels, the Prime Minister highlighted the impact of the Kevadiya to Modkuba canal project, which has transformed Kutch’s agricultural landscape. Improved irrigation has enabled farmers to grow high-value crops, reducing migration and creating rural employment. “Earlier, youth had to leave Kutch in search of jobs. Today, they are building their futures right here,” he said.
Recognizing the tourism potential of the region, PM Modi pointed to the growing global fame of the Rann Utsav and Dhordo village, which was recently recognized internationally. He also lauded UNESCO’s appreciation for the Smriti Van Earthquake Memorial and proposed organizing a beach festival in Mandvi to attract more visitors. The upcoming Namo Bharat Rapid Rail corridor between Ahmedabad and Bhuj, he said, will further enhance tourism and regional connectivity.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister congratulated the people of Kutch for their resilience and remarkable development journey. He also extended warm wishes on the occasion of Ashadhi Beej, a festival celebrated with great reverence in Kutch, and said the region’s journey from devastation to development is a shining example for the entire nation.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel and Union Minister for Power and Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal were present at the event, along with other dignitaries.
