Chief Minister Mohan Majhi Calls on Indian Diaspora to Join Odisha's Developmental Endeavor

Bhubaneswar, Jan 8 (NationPress) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi extended an invitation to the Indian diaspora on Thursday, encouraging them to view Odisha as the ideal investment destination and to participate in the state's quest to ascend to one of the top five economies in the nation by 2047.

Speaking to the attendees at the Joint Business Session organized by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Odisha government, CM Majhi highlighted that India has already achieved the status of the 5th largest economy globally and is the fastest-growing economy under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"Odisha is also determined to be part of this growth narrative. Transitioning from being the 13th largest economy in the country, our aim is to elevate ourselves to the top five economies by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of our Independence. I believe we can achieve this milestone, and Odisha will proudly showcase a $1.5 trillion economy," stated CM Majhi.

He emphasized the state's commitment to realizing the vision of Samrudhh Odisha by 2036 and Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The Chief Minister pointed out that Odisha is leading the charge in fulfilling PM Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat alongside the development of Eastern Indian states.

While outlining the attractive features of Odisha as a prime investment location, CM Majhi noted that the state is rich in mineral resources and is among the most tranquil states in India.

He also drew attention to the impressive infrastructure comprising National Highways, State Highways, well-maintained blacktop roads, and one of the busiest rail corridors.

Moreover, he highlighted the presence of three operational sea ports and two major airports, with plans for four additional smaller airports to ensure efficient connectivity. CM Majhi announced that two new major airports are in development at Puri and Charbatia.

Odisha is also equipped with a substantial pool of both skilled and unskilled labor at competitive costs compared to other industrial states.

"What more could industries ask for? You can essentially check all the boxes for establishing business here. I assure you that we are prepared to take significant steps if you choose to invest. Our only stipulation is that the local populace must benefit from it," added CM Majhi.

He further mentioned that the Union Government has approved road and railway projects totaling approximately $5 billion (Rs 40,000 crore) over the past six months, with Odisha's capital allocation being the highest among major Indian states at 6.3% of its Gross State Domestic Product.

"The vision for Odisha's transformation focuses on future-oriented sectors such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, petro-chemicals, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and bio-technology. Our youth represent an abundant source of energy and innovation, and we are committed to equipping them with necessary skills for the industry," stated CM Majhi.

He also pointed out Odisha's natural beauty, which includes green mountains, an extensive 480 km coastline, sea beaches, Asia's largest saltwater natural lake, and numerous historical and religious sites.

The Chief Minister cordially invited the Indian diaspora delegates to attend the Utkarsh Odisha-Make In Odisha conclave scheduled for January.

During the session, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the significance of the 3Ts – Trade, Technology, and Tourism – as vital components of Odisha's growth. He praised Odisha’s abundant natural and cultural assets, establishing the state as a nexus for global trade, a fertile ground for technological innovations, and a premier tourism destination.

Jaishankar stressed the state's crucial role in aligning with India's broader objectives of economic and technological self-sufficiency, urging stakeholders to capitalize on Odisha's competitive strengths to bolster global trade ties and foster innovation-led growth.

Notably, over 650 delegates participated in the joint business session, a part of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 held on Wednesday.