Odisha government to unveil investment strategy ahead of Utkarsh Odisha-Make in Odisha Conclave on Jan 28-29, 2025,focusing on under-industrialized districts
OdishaPlus Bureau
In anticipation of the Utkarsh Odisha Make in Odisha summit scheduled for January 28 and 29, the state government has resolved to formulate a detailed strategy aimed at attracting significant investments, particularly in less industrialized districts. According to sources, the challenges and advantages of these districts were deliberated during a two-day conference for collectors that concluded on Saturday.
Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain stated that a thorough, industry-friendly strategy is being developed to ensure balanced growth and to transform the economic landscape of Odisha. “This initiative will facilitate investments in underdeveloped yet resource-rich districts, thereby generating employment opportunities, enhancing livelihoods and improving the living standards of our citizens,” he remarked.
Focus on Keonjhar
The state government has established a task force led by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja to expedite industrial development within the state, particularly in Keonjhar, which is the home district of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
Keonjhar is recognized as one of the principal mineral-producing districts in Odisha, boasting significant reserves of iron ore, manganese, chromate, quartzite, bauxite, pyrophyllite and limestone. Despite the emergence of various engineering, metal-based, chemical and related industries, the district remains underdeveloped and lacks large-scale enterprises.
The task force will tackle industrial challenges and devise strategies for swift industrialization, with an emphasis on the establishment of major steel plants and other associated industries. Additionally, it will identify appropriate land parcels for industrial development within the district.
Specific Timeline
A task force consisting of ten members has been assigned the responsibility of exploring the potential of a 2,500-acre site adjacent to Odisha Tea Plantation Ltd in Keonjhar, along with 500 acres belonging to Kalinga Iron Works (KIW) in Barbil, and an additional 460-acre tract in Nayagarh. This task force will seek out and connect with potential investors, especially those keen on establishing large-scale steel manufacturing facilities. Furthermore, it will create a comprehensive plan that outlines specific timelines for various industrial initiatives.
A senior delegation from the Odisha government, headed by the Chief Minister, is scheduled to visit New Delhi on October 3 for an interactive session with business leaders. In preparation for the upcoming mega investment summit, a series of domestic and international road shows have also been organized.
