The Odisha Maritime Board (OMB) is setting sail to transform Odisha’s 480 km coastline into a cornerstone of the State’s Blue Economy.
During a comprehensive review on August 11, 2025, Principal Secretary of the Commerce & Transport Department, Smt. Usha Padhee visited the newly established OMB office to assess its strategic initiatives aimed at modernising port infrastructure, boosting maritime connectivity, and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Smt. Padhee emphasised the Board’s pivotal role in harnessing Odisha’s maritime potential. “From driving investment in port infrastructure to creating jobs and enhancing trade competitiveness, OMB is poised to shape Odisha’s maritime destiny,” she stated. The Board’s roadmap aligns with global best practices, focusing on port-led industrialisation, eco-friendly shipping practices, and skill development to empower coastal communities.
Key initiatives include expanding existing ports, facilitating new port projects, and promoting marine tourism, fisheries, and renewable energy. OMB is also prioritising sustainability through environment-friendly port operations, advanced waste management, and climate resilience measures. To enhance ease of doing business, the Board is streamlining clearances, attracting private investments, and adopting digital solutions for efficient operations.
Smt. Padhee commended OMB’s proactive approach and urged the adoption of innovative financing models and global collaborations to position Odisha as a maritime hub in Eastern India.
With a vision for inclusive growth, OMB is crafting a future where Odisha transitions from a shoreline state to a global maritime powerhouse, driving economic prosperity and sustainable development.
