Odisha’s Mineral Wealth Must Drive Human Development, Prosperity: Governor
Bhubaneswar, Aug 25: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday said the state’s abundant mineral wealth must become a catalyst for human development, inclusive growth and prosperity across Odisha.
Addressing the Odisha Abhyudaya Conclave 2026, organised by Odia daily The Sakala and Nandighosh TV in Bhubaneswar, the Governor stressed the need to move beyond mineral extraction and focus on value addition, manufacturing, innovation, technology, entrepreneurship and the creation of quality employment opportunities.
Kambhampati called for collective efforts by the government, citizens, industry, academia, civil society and the media to build an Odisha where young people can pursue their aspirations with confidence, women can lead with dignity, children have access to quality education and development reaches the last mile.
Congratulating the organisers for bringing together a distinguished gathering, he said the two-day conclave was timely and relevant as Odisha moves towards the vision of Viksit Odisha@2036.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat, the Governor commended Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and his government for pursuing Odisha’s development in alignment with the national vision.
Education, Entrepreneurship Key Priorities
Kambhampati identified education as one of Odisha’s foremost development priorities and called for the creation of centres of excellence focused on knowledge, research, innovation and leadership.
He said Odisha’s youth should be equipped not only to seek employment but also to become entrepreneurs and generate employment opportunities for others.
The Governor also emphasised the importance of women-led development, calling for greater access for women to education, technology, finance, property ownership, entrepreneurship and leadership opportunities.
Focus on Disaster Resilience
Highlighting Odisha’s achievements in disaster management, Kambhampati said the state must now shift from a primary focus on disaster response to building long-term disaster resilience.
He stressed the need for science and technology, robust early-warning systems, resilient infrastructure and active community participation to strengthen Odisha’s preparedness against disasters.
Odisha’s Sporting Potential
The Governor also lauded Odisha’s emergence as a sporting powerhouse and called for quality sports infrastructure in every district.
He stressed the need to provide greater opportunities for children and young athletes to identify, develop and nurture their sporting talent.
Kambhampati said the progress of a developed Odisha should not be measured only through economic growth and physical infrastructure. It should also be reflected in the quality of education, dignity and empowerment of women, community resilience, citizens’ health and the confidence of the state’s youth.
Governor Calls for Constructive Role of Media
The Governor urged the media to play a constructive role by keeping citizens informed, highlighting shortcomings and showcasing inspiring stories of young entrepreneurs, innovative farmers, women entrepreneurs, athletes and scientists.
He said such stories do more than inform people as they can inspire, motivate and build confidence among citizens to create positive change.
Kambhampati said Odisha’s journey towards Viksit Odisha@2036 would require a shared commitment from all sections of society, with the state’s natural resources being converted into opportunities for inclusive and sustainable development.
