Odisha: On November 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering at the Odisha Parba event in Delhi, emphasizing his government’s commitment to transforming Odisha into one of India’s most prosperous and rapidly growing states by 2036, coinciding with its 100th foundation day.
He noted that Odisha, previously viewed as a backward state, possesses significant potential in various sectors, including tourism, port-based industries, seafood export, steel, and energy. PM Modi highlighted the opportunity for industrial development through ports such as Dhamra, Gopalpur, Astaranga, Pallur, and Subarnarekha, underscoring Odisha’s role as a mining and metal powerhouse, particularly in steel, aluminum, and energy.
The Prime Minister pointed out that Odisha has a substantial production of cashew, jute, cotton, turmeric, and oilseeds, and his government aims to ensure these products reach larger markets to benefit farmers. He also mentioned the potential for growth in the seafood processing industry, aiming to establish Odisha seafood as a recognized brand in international markets, while improving the Ease of Doing Business to attract investors.
PM Modi praised the Odisha government’s approval of investment proposals worth Rs 45,000 crore within the first 100 days of taking office, expressing confidence that the state’s potential can be harnessed for significant development.
He emphasized Odisha’s strategic location, which facilitates access to both domestic and international markets, positioning it as a key hub for trade with East Asia and Southeast Asia, and predicted an increase in its importance within the global value chain.
The Prime Minister highlighted the potential for urbanization in Odisha, with the central government taking steps to develop well-connected cities, particularly in western districts. He also referenced the recently concluded Bali Yatra in Cuttack, celebrating Odisha’s maritime heritage and the bravery of its sailors who historically engaged in trade across the seas.
In his remarks, PM Modi acknowledged the contributions of Odisha’s saints and scholars to India’s cultural richness, noting the significance of literature such as the Saral Mahabharat and Odia Bhagawat. He commemorated Utkal Kesari Hare Krishna Mehtab on his 125th birth anniversary, recognizing the impact of Odia literature on India’s cultural prosperity.
Concluding his address, PM Modi expressed pride in Odisha’s cultural contributions to the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ and shared his experiences at the Odisha Festival in New Delhi on social media, accompanied by photographs from the event. Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and Dharmendra Pradhan, along with the President of Odia Samaj, Siddharth Pradhan, were also in attendance.