Bhubaneswar: Odisha has taken a significant step toward positioning itself as a key aviation hub in India, with an emphasis on developing world-class Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities. A high-level stakeholder consultation was held today by the Commerce and Transport Department under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. This initiative aligns with the state’s Viksit Odisha vision, which focuses on fostering innovation, infrastructure, and industrial growth.
The consultation, chaired by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, brought together key industry players such as GMR Group, Star Air, Safran, Max Aerospace, Pritnee Aerospace, and the MRO Association of India. Senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation also participated in discussions on creating an investor-friendly policy framework under the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR) 2022, designed to attract MRO operators, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and airlines to Odisha.
Principal Secretary of Commerce and Transport, Odisha, Usha Padhee, outlined the state’s ambitious plans to leverage its strategic advantages.
“Odisha’s leadership in aluminium production and its strong industrial ecosystem make it an ideal location for MRO facilities,” said Padhee. She highlighted the state’s commitment to providing significant financial incentives, including a 30% capital subsidy for MRO investments, as part of the IPR 2022.
Additionally, Padhee emphasized Odisha’s collaboration with the Government of Singapore to adopt global best practices in aviation and MRO operations, reinforcing the state’s international aspirations.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja reaffirmed Odisha’s proactive approach to policy-making, stating, “Our vision is to establish Odisha as a leader in India’s aviation industry. With bespoke policies, substantial incentives, and a focus on skill development, we aim to foster industrial growth while empowering local talent.”
Key highlights from the consultation included discussions on:
- Global partnerships to enhance sustainability and operational efficiency.
- Skill development programs to build a highly skilled workforce.
- Strategies for integrating MRO development with existing aviation infrastructure at Jharsuguda, Bhubaneswar, and Puri airports.
With its strategic location, abundant resources, and progressive policies, Odisha is uniquely positioned to emerge as a preferred destination for MRO operators and OEMs in the eastern region. The state’s efforts to develop a robust aviation ecosystem are expected to boost India’s aviation infrastructure while creating substantial employment opportunities.
This initiative underscores Odisha’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth and its vision of becoming a globally competitive aviation hub. As Padhee concluded, “Odisha is poised to lead India’s aviation sector into a new era of innovation and excellence.”
