Odisha to Make Industrial Ecosystem More Robust: CM Majhi

Bhubaneswar, Jan 9 : Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday said the state government is focused on strengthening infrastructure, creating a conducive environment for industries, and enhancing skill development to make Odisha’s industrial ecosystem more robust.

Addressing skilled youth at the closing ceremony of the Odisha Skill Competition 2025–26, the Chief Minister said that over the last 18 months, industrial projects worth Rs 6.15 lakh crore have been approved in the state. These projects are expected to generate around 3.64 lakh employment opportunities, he added.

Majhi said the government has placed strong emphasis on skill development to meet the growing demands of industry. The Cabinet has approved the Utkarsh ITI Scheme, under which 47 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) across the state will be upgraded into Centres of Excellence, with improved infrastructure and advanced training programmes.

To promote expertise in emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, the Chief Minister said AI laboratories are being set up in nine ITIs across Odisha.

At the event, Majhi awarded gold medals to 54 participants, silver medals to 53, and bronze medals to 50. Gold medalists received a cash prize of Rs 25,000, silver medalists Rs 20,000, and bronze medalists Rs 15,000, along with certificates of merit.

Speaking on the occasion, Industries and Skill Development Minister Sampad Chandra Swain said the Odisha Skill Competition is not just an event, but a reflection of the collective aspirations of a new Odisha. He said the competition has played a key role in identifying talent, encouraging excellence, and opening doors to national and international opportunities for the state’s youth.