Bhubaneswar: The State government will set up the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor to strengthen the state’s marine biotechnology sector, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced here today.
Through this platform, a roadmap will be developed to harness the bio-potential of the Bay of Bengal along the eastern coast by bringing together various stakeholders, including academics, researchers, philanthropists, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, the CM said.
Odisha, with its rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, has immense potential for biotechnology research, particularly in the fields of bio-resources and traditional medicine, Shri Majhi said.
The government also plans to establish a network of planetariums and science centers to promote education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) across the State, he said while addressing at the Scientific Promotion and Award Ceremony – 2023, organized by the Odisha Science Academy at the Loksewa Bhawan Convention Center.
The Chief Minister said that scientific advancements should be leveraged to bring about lasting changes that benefit the common man.
“If we aspire to grow on the international stage, we must formulate long-term strategies to drive human development through scientific discoveries and innovations,” he stated.
He said that there is a need to focus on advanced knowledge, skills, and equipment innovation in agriculture, healthcare, energy, education, and environmental sectors to enhance the efficiency of development initiatives.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged India’s achievements in space science, citing successful missions such as Chandrayaan, Aditya, Mangalyaan, and Gaganyaan, which have established the country as a leading scientific power globally.
Shri Majhi noted that scientific research is evolving rapidly, with Artificial Intelligence playing a crucial role in advancing science and technology.