Interview Times 
BHUBANESWAR: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday announced the state’s ambitious plans to become a significant contributor to India’s development and a key growth engine by 2047. Speaking at the inauguration of the three-day global trade show, Resurgent Odisha 2024, Majhi emphasized the state’s commitment to industrialization while maintaining a balance with its agricultural needs.
The Resurgent Odisha 2024 program, taking place from August 30 to September 1, 2024, is a landmark event organized by the Utkal Chamber of Commerce and Industry Limited (UCCIL). UCCIL, the apex industry chamber in Odisha, was established under the iconic and visionary leadership of Late Sri Biju Patnaik in 1964. Representing the three main sectors of the economy—Industry, Trade, and Services—UCCIL includes all segments from large to micro enterprises, boasting around 1,000 active members. The organization has completed over 60 years of significant contributions to the state’s economic development.
Majhi highlighted that Odisha’s economy is projected to reach ₹41 lakh crore by 2036, coinciding with the state’s centenary, with aspirations of becoming a $1.5 trillion economy by 2047. “Our focus on industrialization will not only drive economic growth but also generate ample employment opportunities for our youth,” he stated. The Chief Minister reiterated Odisha’s dedication to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Purvodaya initiative, positioning the state as a future leader in India’s eastern development.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo echoed Majhi’s sentiments, urging industries to focus on value addition within the state, particularly in agricultural products. He called for innovative approaches, including offering land leases at no cost to attract industries to Odisha, to accelerate the state’s industrial growth.
Odisha Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain outlined the state’s future goals, including securing ₹2.5 lakh crore in investments by 2029 and establishing an FDI Park targeting $2 billion in Foreign Direct Investment. He also announced plans for the Utkarsh Odisha Investors Summit, aiming to position Odisha as a leading hub for green hydrogen, semiconductors, and IT sectors.
The event also saw participation from international dignitaries, including Chinese Consul General in Kolkata, Xu Wei, who lauded Odisha’s rapid growth and stressed the importance of strengthening trade ties between China and India. He noted that bilateral trade between the two nations currently stands at $130 billion.
UCCIL President Brahma Mishra announced that a white paper based on the findings from the various workshops and seminars held during the event would be prepared and submitted to the state government for consideration. The three-day conference will feature panel discussions on Odisha’s investment potential, innovation risks and rewards, prospects in the defense sector, logistics and transportation infrastructure, and new-generation industrial and export opportunities.
The Resurgent Odisha 2024 conclave, which began on Friday, will continue until September 1, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and international delegates to explore the state’s growth prospects and opportunities.
