Odisha Signs 17 MoUs to Boost Agri Industry and Food Processing at Make in Odisha Conclave 2025

Bhubaneswar: Strengthening its position as a hub for agricultural innovation and food processing, the Odisha government signed 17 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with various investors during the plenary session on ‘Agri Industry & Food Processing’ on the second day of the Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025.

Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Singh Deo, who also holds the portfolio of Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment, marked the occasion by launching a new policy on cold storage infrastructure in the state. Emphasizing the immense opportunities in Odisha’s agriculture sector, Singh Deo urged investors to seize the moment, declaring, “This is the best time to invest in Odisha.”

Highlighting the state’s commitment to innovation in food processing, he said, “The food processing industry in Odisha has the potential to bring groundbreaking innovations. We are actively supporting farmers and entrepreneurs under the Chief Minister’s Agriculture Industry Scheme, focusing on smart farming, digital marketing, and organic cultivation.” He also called upon young entrepreneurs to take the lead in transforming the industry and assured them of full government support.

Gokulananda Mallick, Odisha’s Minister for Fisheries and Animal Resources Development, underscored the state’s untapped potential in agro-based industries and the seafood sector. “Odisha is poised to become a leader in agri-based industries. However, we are still far behind in fish production and exports. While India’s seafood market is valued at ₹60,000 crore, Odisha’s contribution is limited to just ₹2,000–3,000 crore. We need to bridge this gap,” he stated.

He also emphasized Odisha’s growing role in agri-exports, noting that the state is already exporting mangoes, dragon fruit, and turmeric. “Young entrepreneurs will be the driving force behind a developed Odisha. With the right investments, we can significantly boost production and exports,” Mallick added.

With these new agreements and policies, Odisha is set to accelerate growth in its agriculture and food processing sectors, creating new employment opportunities and positioning itself as a key player in India’s agricultural economy.