Suparjya Swain 
FEATURE: In the ever-disruptive world of technology and innovation, few individuals stand out as pioneers capable of shaping an entire state’s future in the industry. Manas Ranjan Panda, the former Director of Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), Odisha, and now MD of Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) and Special Secretary to the Electronics & Information Technology Department of the Government of Odisha, is one such trailblazer. His career is a testament to strategic vision, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to developing an ecosystem that nurtures growth and innovation in Odisha’s IT and electronics sectors.
A Strong Foundation in Technology and Management
Manas’s journey began with a solid educational foundation. With a degree in Electronics & Telecommunication Engineering coupled with a Management qualification, he built a unique skill set that allows him to bridge the gap between technical expertise and strategic business acumen. This dual focus has proven invaluable throughout his career, enabling him to understand and navigate the complex interplay between technology, policy, and industry needs.
His leadership at STPI, Odisha, was marked by significant strides in fostering a vibrant IT ecosystem. Manas was not just a manager of projects but a visionary who recognized the potential of Odisha as a future technology hub. His strategic thinking helped the state position itself as a major player in the IT and ITes sectors. Under his stewardship, STPI Odisha became a cornerstone for promoting software exports, particularly from the North Eastern states, which are often underrepresented in national technology discussions.
A Visionary at the Helm: Transforming Odisha’s IT Landscape
Manas’s impact on the Odisha IT landscape is profound and multifaceted. Over the years, he has been involved in a range of high-profile initiatives aimed at bolstering the state’s digital infrastructure. His role in setting up Centers of Excellence (CoEs), such as the Electropreneur Park and the Augmented and Virtual Reality (VARCoE), reflects his forward-thinking approach. These centers were designed to encourage the growth of niche areas within the tech industry, providing local startups with the resources and expertise they need to thrive.
A standout achievement during Manas’s tenure at STPI was the establishment of Odisha’s Tier III Data Center. In an age where data storage and processing are critical to every business, this facility played a crucial role in empowering local businesses, enabling them to scale rapidly while maintaining high standards of security and operational efficiency.
Moreover, Manas’s influence extended beyond the borders of Odisha. His role overseeing states like Bihar and Jharkhand at STPI demonstrates his ability to manage and influence regional growth in technology. The infrastructure projects he spearheaded, including the setting up of FAB Labs and new STPI centers, continue to support the broader goal of creating a sustainable and dynamic technology ecosystem across eastern India.
Championing Policies for Growth and Innovation
What sets Manas apart from other leaders is his ability to not only lead initiatives but also influence policy on a state and national level. As a member of several key boards and committees, including OCAC and the Odisha Startup Council, Manas has had a direct hand in drafting and implementing policies that have shaped the technological landscape of Odisha.
His work on policies such as the State ICT Policy, the Startup Policy, and the Export Policy has had a long-lasting impact. By fostering a regulatory environment that is conducive to growth, Manas helped lay the groundwork for the thriving IT ecosystem that Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is today. His vision was not limited to just attracting businesses; he focused on creating a sustainable environment where these businesses could flourish.
The implementation of policies like the BPO Policy and the e-Governance Policy underscored his understanding of the intricate relationship between technology and governance. His foresight in establishing IT parks and streamlining processes for businesses to thrive in Odisha has been instrumental in making Bhubaneswar a prominent knowledge hub in eastern India.
Nurturing Odisha’s Semiconductor and Electronics Ecosystem
One of the most exciting chapters in Manas’s career has been his recent foray into the semiconductor and electronics industries. Recognizing the untapped potential of these sectors, he has spearheaded the state’s ambitious initiatives to attract semiconductor and electronics companies to Odisha. His vision is clear: to position Odisha as a leading destination for semiconductor manufacturing and electronics design.
Under his guidance, Odisha launched a comprehensive semiconductor policy in 2023, which has been revised to offer competitive incentives for businesses in this field. These incentives include fiscal and non-fiscal support aimed at attracting semiconductor fabs, compound fabs, and packaging facilities. Moreover, the state’s policy focuses on fostering a strong design ecosystem, aiming to develop indigenous products and creating an environment where homegrown innovation can thrive.
In what could be described as a pioneering move, the Odisha government has also embarked on the Odisha Chip Program, which aims to design chips specific to the state’s needs. This initiative highlights the shift towards homegrown solutions that are attuned to the unique challenges faced by India, particularly in the electronics and semiconductor domains. Manas’s leadership in these endeavors showcases his understanding of the global semiconductor industry while staying rooted in the practical needs of the Indian market.
A Catalyst for Startups: Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators
Manas’s impact is also evident in his work with startups. He has always been a staunch advocate for nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation. The state’s focus on supporting startups, from ideation to commercialization, is largely due to Manas’s commitment to creating a comprehensive platform that provides incubator-like support. This platform offers essential resources like lab support, access to intellectual property, and advanced tools for design and chip development. Manas has created an environment where startups can thrive by collaborating with academic institutions and foundries.
Odisha’s semiconductor park launch in a public-private partnership model is another testament to his commitment to fostering innovation. This specialized park will house essential facilities such as clean rooms, common facility centres, and logistics support, providing a strong foundation for semiconductor and electronics companies to scale.
His role in encouraging startups’ participation at industry events like Semicon 2024 is a case in point. By securing a large booth for Odisha-based startups, Manas created a unique opportunity for them to showcase their innovations to industry leaders, facilitating valuable networking opportunities and increasing their visibility in the global market.
A Legacy of Transformative Leadership
Manas Ranjan Panda’s journey is more than just a career in technology; it is a saga of transformative leadership, visionary thinking, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Through his efforts, Odisha has not only become a leader in the IT and ITes sectors but is also emerging as a formidable player in the semiconductor and electronics industries. His legacy continues to inspire and shape the future of Odisha’s technological landscape. His work stands as a powerful example of how one individual can drive systemic change, creating opportunities for growth, innovation, and prosperity.
