Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi unveiled the ‘Go East’ platform at the CII Eastern Regional Council Meeting 2026 in Bhubaneswar, announcing major amendments to the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR)-2022 to promote balanced regional development.
The ‘Go East’ initiative, standing for Government of Odisha – Eastern Investment Accelerator and Special Task Force, aims to attract investments from eastern and northeastern states. The platform will provide facilitation mechanisms, policy support, and faster project implementation. Majhi said industries can expand operations in Odisha while retaining their base in home states.
To implement the initiative, the government will set up a Special Task Force, a dedicated Go East Cell within IPICOL, and a Go Swift digital module for real-time monitoring of approvals. The focus will be on Odisha’s border districts, where new industrial growth centres are expected to emerge, creating jobs and driving inclusive development.
Majhi also announced amendments to IPR-2022, granting ‘Thrust Sector’ status to 15 economically backward districts, including Balangir, Kalahandi, Nuapada, Kandhamal, Boudh, and Gajapati. The changes aim to encourage non-mineral-based industries and diversify Odisha’s economy.
Highlighting governance reforms, Majhi said industrial approval timelines have been reduced from nearly 400 days to less than 160 days, with a target of under 100 days. Since June 2024, Odisha has approved 477 projects worth ₹9.5 lakh crore, generating potential employment for six lakh people. Twelve projects worth ₹3.11 lakh crore are already nearing inauguration.
Majhi reaffirmed Odisha’s vision of ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’ aligned with ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, positioning the state as a leading industrial hub. Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain and senior officials also addressed the gathering.
