Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025 and the Make in Odisha Exhibition in Bhubaneswar, marking a significant milestone in Odisha’s economic and industrial journey. This event, the largest business summit in the state’s history, has attracted 5-6 times more investors than previous editions.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister highlighted Odisha’s vital role in India’s growth story, calling Eastern India the “growth engine” of the nation. Recalling India’s historical prominence in global trade, he emphasized Odisha’s legacy as a key hub in South East Asian trade, with its ports serving as gateways to the nation. He also referenced the recent visit of the Indonesian President, who acknowledged traces of Odisha in his cultural DNA, and Singapore’s keen interest in strengthening ties with the state.
Modi urged investors to seize the opportunities emerging in Odisha, emphasizing the state’s transformation into an industrial powerhouse. “Odisha is outstanding, symbolizing the optimism and originality of New India,” he remarked, praising the skills, hard work, and integrity of its people. The Prime Minister lauded Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi and his team’s efforts in driving Odisha’s development.
The state is rapidly becoming a leader in diverse industries such as food processing, petrochemicals, fisheries, IT, textiles, tourism, mining, and green energy. Modi noted that Odisha’s progress aligns with India’s aspirations for self-reliance and sustainable growth, as the country moves closer to becoming the world’s third-largest economy.
Highlighting India’s commitment to a green future, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of green technologies, including solar, wind, hydro, and green hydrogen. He emphasized Odisha’s potential in renewable energy, with national missions and policy decisions aimed at promoting green energy industries in the state.
He also highlighted initiatives to expand Odisha’s petrochemical sector, with dedicated industrial parks and investment zones in Paradip and Gopalpur. Infrastructure development, such as dedicated freight corridors, industrial cities, and enhanced port connectivity, is underway to support Odisha’s industrial growth and reduce logistics costs.
The Prime Minister described Odisha as a model of development and heritage, with its rich history, faith, spirituality, and natural beauty. He called for tapping into Odisha’s tourism potential, highlighting its 500-kilometer coastline, extensive forest cover, and opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure tourism.
Modi also encouraged leveraging Odisha’s cultural heritage to attract global attention, referencing the success of G-20 cultural events in the state and the global recognition of the Konark Sun Temple. He emphasized emerging sectors such as the concert economy and conference tourism, urging Odisha to host major global events to boost its cultural and economic profile.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of building robust supply and value chains, supporting MSMEs, and fostering innovation. He urged industries to collaborate with the government to create a vibrant research ecosystem, providing skill development and job opportunities for Odisha’s youth.
Concluding his address, Modi reaffirmed his trust in Odisha’s potential and the resilience of its people. He expressed confidence that the investments made at the Conclave would propel both businesses and the state to unprecedented heights of success.