Blue Economy to Power Odisha’s Maritime Growth: Usha Padhee

Bhubaneswar: The Blue Economy is set to become a major pillar of Odisha’s future economic growth, said Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development Department, Government of Odisha and Chairperson of Industrial Development Corporation of Odisha, while addressing the Global Summit on Blue Economy 2026 in Bhubaneswar.

Padhee presented a strategic roadmap outlining how Odisha plans to harness the vast potential of its 575-kilometre coastline to strengthen ocean-based industries while ensuring ecological sustainability. She said the Blue Economy offers opportunities not only for economic expansion but also for innovation, coastal resilience and improved livelihoods for communities living along the coast.

Highlighting the state’s strategy, she said Odisha is focusing on port-led urbanisation to support the growth of Blue Economy sectors. The government plans to develop industrial hubs around major ports such as Paradip Port, Dhamra Port and Gopalpur Port. These hubs are expected to attract investments in emerging sectors like marine biotechnology, green shipping and AI-driven maritime management.

She noted that strengthening the Blue Economy ecosystem will also involve promoting innovation, digital transformation and ease of doing business to encourage global investors, entrepreneurs and startups to explore ocean-based opportunities in Odisha.

Padhee emphasised that sustainable development will remain at the core of the state’s Blue Economy strategy. Initiatives such as integrated coastal zone management, seaweed farming and eco-friendly marine tourism are being promoted to protect marine ecosystems while creating sustainable livelihoods.

She said Odisha aims to blend its maritime heritage with modern technology and policy support to emerge as a national leader in Blue Economy development, ensuring long-term economic growth and prosperity for coastal communities.