Odisha to Rank Among Top Five Developed States: CM Majhi

Bhubaneswar, Aug 29 – Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday announced that his government will make all efforts to place Odisha among the top five developed states in the country, setting a roadmap for inclusive and technology-driven growth.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of a discussion on “Strengthening the Growth Engine of Odisha” organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), Majhi said the primary mission of his government is to transform Odisha into a developed state through sustainable use of resources and sectoral growth.

The Chief Minister emphasized that Odisha’s vast mineral resources will be harnessed to establish the state as a manufacturing hub. To achieve this, focus is being placed on mining and metals, chemicals and petrochemicals, IT, startups, agriculture and food processing, tourism, and MSMEs. “Our vision is inclusive. Development will not be restricted to any particular sector or category,” he said.

Unveiling the Developed Odisha 2036 Roadmap, Majhi described it as the “collective dream of 4.5 crore people of Odisha,” guided by three principles — People First, Prosperity for All, and Technology-Led Development. He underlined the importance of building world-class infrastructure, creating skilled human resources, generating employment, promoting technology and tourism, and positioning Odisha as a leader in green energy.

Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the CM welcomed upcoming GST reforms, stating that a reduction in GST would boost consumption, manufacturing, and job creation.

On infrastructure, Majhi highlighted that railway projects worth ₹80,000 crore and highway and road projects worth over ₹12,000 crore are already underway in Odisha with central support. The state also plans to construct 75,000 km of high-quality roads in the next five years, strengthen airport infrastructure to enhance air connectivity, and build four new ports.

Recognizing the pace of urbanization, projected to reach 60% by 2047, Majhi said Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Berhampur, and Sambalpur would be developed into modern model cities with world-class amenities, affordable housing, and smart infrastructure.

Stressing the role of MSMEs as the largest employment generators, the Chief Minister announced measures for cluster-based development, easier access to credit, and digital platforms to expand market reach.

“Our journey to 2036 will reflect the aspirations of every Odia. Together, we will make Odisha one of the top five developed states in India,” Majhi said.