Odisha Selected for Infrastructure Strategy Study by Govt of India and World Bank

Bhubaneswar: Odisha has been identified as one of the four states, alongside Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Meghalaya, for a collaborative study by the Government of India and the World Bank on infrastructure strategy and recommendations for increasing private investment. The initiative aims to boost public-private partnerships (PPP) and strengthen the state’s infrastructure development.

On September 24, 2024, a five-member World Bank team, consisting of senior PPP specialists and advisors, attended a meeting chaired by Anu Garg, Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary, at Loka Seva Bhawan. The meeting was attended by secretaries from key infrastructure departments and officials from the Directorate of PPP and Finance Department, who provided insights on areas where private sector participation could be advantageous for the state.

Garg briefed the delegation about the state’s revamped PPP policy, the institutional framework for project appraisals, and recent initiatives aimed at fostering private sector involvement across various sectors, including social services. She emphasized the significance of Odisha’s Vision 2036, which is central to the state’s national and global recognition. “The growing aspirations of the state make Vision 2036 a crucial element for multifaceted development,” she stated.

The World Bank team’s visit focused on identifying the factors behind the success of past and existing PPP projects, along with addressing the challenges encountered. This analysis will help them share best practices from Odisha with other states and global partners. The team also expressed interest in providing technical advisory services for future projects, should the need arise.