Odisha is now focusing on the export of more finished products from the state with value addition, than raw materials like minerals. The state’s investment conclave has received a “massive response” from traditional metal industries as well as IT, semiconductors, chemicals, petrochemicals, agro-industries, food processing, textiles, port-based industries, and green energy, chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi told Prasanta Sahu. Edited excerpts.
Land acquisition is a big issue for industries. How do you plan to address this?
We are carrying out land acquisition through the Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) and Industrial Promotion and Investment Corporation of Odisha (IPICOL). We will provide suitable land for all companies to set up industry in the state. We are going to make industrial hubs where we have good infrastructure including Kalinga Nagar (steel hub), Paradip, Gopalpur and Jharsuguda among others.
How different is ‘Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave’ from earlier such conclaves?
Make in Odisha used to happen earlier also. We acknowledge the challenges in getting investments. We have done roadshows in the country as well as abroad. We are going to further finetune our policies. Odisha traditionally attracts minerals-metal-based industries. This time investment commitments are more broad-based with more companies coming forward to invest in other sectors as well. These include IT, semiconductor, chemicals, petrochemicals, agro industries, food processing, textiles, port-based industries, and green energy. We have got projects for each of the 30 districts. Odisha is now focussing on the export of more finished products from Odisha with value addition rather than minerals.
Even though Odisha is rich in natural resources and gets substantial revenues from mining, employment generation is a challenge unless factories are set up in the state. What Odisha is doing in this regard?
Odisha is focusing on industrialization to create jobs. The state promotes setting up factories by offering incentives under its industrial policies, ensuring ease of doing business, and developing industrial corridors and parks. Priority sectors like steel, aluminum, chemicals, and textiles are encouraged to maximize employment opportunities.
There is competition among states to attract private investment and foreign investment. Why should investors choose Odisha?
Odisha offers a unique mix of advantages such as abundant natural resources, modern infrastructure including ports and industrial clusters, proactive governance, and attractive policies for private and foreign investors. Its strategic location on the eastern coast allows easy access to Southeast Asian markets, making it a preferred destination.
What is Odisha’s vision for 2047 when India is aiming to become a developed nation?
By 2047, Odisha envisions becoming a leading industrial hub in India, focusing on sustainable development, world-class infrastructure, and a skilled workforce. The state aims to harness its resources to drive economic growth, promote innovation, and play a pivotal role in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation.
What is the strategy to make Odisha a hub for India’s trade with South East Asia?
Odisha plans to leverage its ports, such as Paradip and Dhamra, to strengthen maritime trade with Southeast Asia. The state is developing multi-modal logistics parks and coastal economic zones, enhancing connectivity with ASEAN countries and promoting exports through policy support and trade agreements.