New Delhi: Moving a step ahead in making Odisha an industrial hub, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today invited global investors to the State.
The State Government successfully hosted an interactive Ambassadors’ Meet today here at ITC Maurya, located in the Diplomatic Enclave, Chanakyapuri.
The event marked an important milestone in the lead-up to the much-anticipated Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha Conclave 2025. The meet showcased Odisha’s vibrant industrial ecosystem and highlighted new investment opportunities to a global audience.
In his keynote address, Chief Minister Shri Majhi warmly welcomed the ambassadors. He emphasized Odisha’s rich history and strategic location, which are key factors in its transformation into a leading investment destination.
The Chief Minister highlighted the state’s abundant natural resources and skilled workforce, inviting all attendees to the upcoming Utkarsh Odisha: Make in Odisha Conclave 2025, which will serve as a platform for collaboration and growth.
“Odisha, located on the eastern seaboard of India, is a state that has historically been a gateway between India and the world. Our ancestors established trade routes that connected us with Southeast and East Asia and extended further to distant regions in Europe and the Middle East,” Majhi said.
This deep-rooted tradition of global engagement continues in modern times. Odisha is now an emerging destination for investments from diverse sectors, and geographies, he said.
The CM said Bhubaneswar, our capital, is rapidly evolving into a hub of technology, innovation, and culture, while maintaining its status as the “Temple City of India,” preserving the essence of our spiritual heritage.
“We are a state of immense natural wealth. Rich deposits of minerals like iron ore, bauxite, nickel, chromite, and coal, along with vast forest and water resources, have made Odisha a key player in India’s mineral and metal-based industries. But the true strength of Odisha lies in its people.”
“We are home to a growing, highly skilled workforce that is ready to meet the demands of modern industries, supported by robust infrastructure and a responsive and forward-thinking government,” he pointed out.
Over the past few years, the state’s economy has been evolving. While the state continues to rely on minerals and metals, it has now actively diversified into new, fast-growing sectors, Shri Majhi said.
He further informed the investors that Odisha is emerging as a destination for industries that are human skill-driven and demand-focused, such as apparel, technical textiles, food processing, chemicals, petrochemicals, IT, renewable energy, green fuels and electronics manufacturing. This transition is central to our vision of becoming a leader in sustainable economic development.
At the 47th World Skills competition, 16 of the 60 members of India’s contingent were from Odisha, and they brought home 2 gold medals, a testament to the talent and potential of state’s youth, he said, adding, “this success reflects our state’s commitment to skill development, ensuring that Odisha remains a key contributor to India’s pool of skilled workforce.”
The State is also home to monuments such as the Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and vibrant cultural festivals that reflect the deep historical and spiritual legacy of our land.
The Business Conclave, scheduled for January 28th and 29th in Bhubaneswar, will be an excellent platform for global businesses to explore Odisha and witness firsthand the vast potential that the state offers.
In his concluding remarks, Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain expressed gratitude to all participants. He reinforced Odisha’s vast potential for investment across various sectors and assured the ambassadors of the government’s commitment to creating a favourable business environment.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja welcomed everyone and emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Odisha is quickly becoming a global investment destination. He spoke about the state’s strong infrastructure, rich resources, skilled workforce, and progressive policies. He invited global partners to explore the many opportunities available in industries, technology, tourism, and innovation.
Hemant Sharma, the Principal Secretary, Industries, made a presentation highlighting various sectors that are open for investment.
The event also included an interaction session where ambassadors engaged in discussions about opportunities in Odisha.
The event was attended by Ambassadors, High Commissioners, Consul-Generals, Trade Commissioners, and senior diplomats from 34 countries.
Notable nations included Indonesia, Norway, Singapore, China, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, the USA, Thailand, Vietnam, and the UK. In addition, nine foreign associations participated, reflecting the growing global interest in Odisha.