Bhubaneswar, Jan 29 (NationPress) Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi engaged in significant discussions with World Bank President Ajay Banga on Thursday regarding strategies to enhance collaboration between the state and the global financial institution in pivotal development sectors, aiming to propel the state's enduring growth and reform initiatives. The meeting, held at Lokaseva Bhavan, was attended by key officials from the Odisha government, including Chief Secretary Anu Grag, Development Commissioner D K Singh, and representatives from the World Bank.

An official release from the Chief Minister's Office revealed that the dialogue centered on expediting inclusive and sustainable growth, equipping India's youth for employment in the private sector, bolstering infrastructure, enhancing social sector outcomes, and fostering resilient and technology-oriented development.

During the discussions, CM Majhi underscored the state government's flagship programs and reform initiatives designed to stimulate growth, particularly through increased investment in infrastructure, micro, small, and medium enterprises, agriculture, allied sectors, and tourism, ultimately creating job opportunities for youth and women.

Odisha has reformed various acts and regulations to cultivate a business-friendly environment, attracting substantial investments. As of December 2025, it has achieved a remarkable investment figure of Rs 2.5 lakh crore, ranking just behind Andhra Pradesh, according to data published by CMIE.

The World Bank President commended the state's development initiatives and reform focus, congratulating Odisha for its dedication to skill development aimed at generating more private sector jobs for the youth.

A new strategic framework from the World Bank Group-India will leverage successful models such as the Central Tool Room and Training Centre (CTTC) in Bhubaneswar, contributing to India's ambitious $4 billion national initiative to upgrade Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).

Banga reaffirmed the World Bank's commitment to assist the state through technical support, policy advisory services, and financial partnerships. He also stressed the necessity of strengthening institutional capacity and nurturing public-private collaborations.

Both parties shared insights on global and regional economic challenges, emphasizing the need for cooperative strategies to tackle issues like infrastructure development, urbanization management, and sustainable resource use. They agreed to explore fresh avenues of collaboration that align with the state's development goals and the World Bank's strategic priorities.

CM Majhi also presented the Odisha vision document to the World Bank President, concluding the meeting with a mutual commitment to enhance cooperation and explore new partnerships in line with “Odisha vision 2036 and 2047: Viksit Odisha for Viksit Bharat” and the World Bank's strategic framework.