Sambalpur: Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently spearheaded a major push for industry-led skill development in Western Odisha during a series of initiatives launched by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in Sambalpur.
Minister Rural Development, Shri Rabi Narayan Naik, Senior Lawmaker, Shri Jay Narayan Mishra and others graced the occasion.
CII Odisha Chief Dr.Pradipta Kumar Mohanty graced the occasion. Shri Chandrajit Banerjee, Director General, CII, Shri Anil Kumar Singh, Chairman, CII West Odisha Zonal Council and President & Whole-time Director, JSW Steel Limited was present in the meeting.
Addressing a gathering of industry leaders and youth at the Hirakud Eco Retreat, the Minister of Education emphasized that strengthening the direct linkage between education and employment is essential for the economic growth of the region.+1
As part of a broader vision for a Viksit Bharat, Shri Pradhan inaugurated several key facilities designed to bridge the skills gap, including the CII National Kaushal Kendra in Sambalpur and a Career Lounge at the Central Library.
He also officially launched the CII Model Career Centre at the District Employment Exchange to streamline job placement services.
The Minister highlighted the government’s focused attention on developing tier-2 and tier-3 cities, noting that Sambalpur is positioned to become a significant industrial hub with plans to prepare 1,000 acres of land for future industries.+3
The impact of these skilling efforts was evidenced by the distribution of appointment letters to 120 candidates for various job opportunities across India. The Minister’s focus on global competitiveness was further reflected in the selection of 17 candidates for positions in Japan and five for roles in Denmark.
To bolster the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, the event also introduced the Odisha Entrepreneurs Development Forum and a specific project dedicated to micro and small enterprises.+3