Odisha has accelerated its industrial growth, approving 85 projects worth nearly Rs 2.04 lakh crore in the last nine months.
Industries Minister Samapad Chandra Swain presented the figures in the Assembly, highlighting the state’s progress since the “Make in Odisha” conclave held on January 28–29, where 593 investment proposals worth Rs 16.73 lakh crore were received.
During the question hour, MLA Aravind Mohapatra asked about the industrial establishments between April and November 2024. The minister responded that the government approved 324 large and medium projects in that period, attracting investments of Rs 7.06 lakh crore and creating 4.57 lakh employment opportunities.
Replying to MLA Irasis Acharya, the minister said the new government approved 50 weaving industry projects. He added that during the Odisha Textiles Conclave 2025, the state decided to establish modern textile parks in six districts. The conclave secured MoUs worth Rs 7,808 crore, with a target of generating 49,000 jobs.
The minister also informed the House that ArcelorMittal–Nippon Steel will set up a plant at Mahakalapada in Jagatsinghpur district. The government has initiated infrastructure development, including roads and power supply, though forest and environment clearance is still pending. Once approvals arrive, the foundation stone will be laid.
Highlighting entrepreneurship, the minister stated that more than 2,000 startups have been established in Odisha over the past four years.
MLA Bibhuti Balabantray raised concerns about land issues in Khordha’s Bhagabanpur industrial area, including encroachment of government land. Other legislators, including Dhruba Sahoo and Congress leader Rama Chandra Kadam, also posed questions on industrial development.
