Is Odisha Set to Become a Global Fintech Hub with I-GFTCH?
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Synopsis
The Odisha government has launched the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) to establish itself as a global hub for digital financial technologies, aiming to equip over 7,000 students with essential skills in emerging tech fields. This ambitious initiative showcases Odisha's commitment to fostering innovation and digital excellence.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha launches the I-GFTCH to boost fintech.
- Over 7,000 students to gain advanced skills.
- Collaboration with NUS for global partnerships.
- Focus on AI, blockchain, and InsurTech.
- Inauguration set for August 21, 2025.
Bhubaneswar, July 31 (NationPress) – The government of Odisha has officially unveiled the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) aimed at establishing the state as a premier global center of excellence in digital financial technologies and talent enhancement.
An official statement revealed that the launch of I-GFTCH in Bhubaneswar, in collaboration with the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), positions Odisha on the map as a significant global fintech and digital innovation center.
In the next five years, over 7,000 students from every district of Odisha will acquire advanced, job-ready skills in AI, blockchain, InsurTech, and digital finance.
This initiative is a cooperative effort between the Department of Electronics & Information Technology and the Department of Higher Education, in conjunction with the GFTN. The hub is scheduled to be inaugurated on August 21, 2025, in Bhubaneswar.
The announcement was made at a special gathering at the Krushi Bhawan Auditorium, attended by prominent figures including Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, Minister for Electronics and IT, Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister for Higher Education, Vishal Dev, Principal Secretary, Electronics and IT, and Aravind Agrawal, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Higher Education.
At the event, Mahaling remarked: "This initiative merges global academic excellence with Odisha’s evolving potential. Through partnerships with institutions like the National University of Singapore (NUS), we aspire to equip our youth for active engagement in the $1.8 trillion global digital economy. The I-GFTCH will cultivate a future-ready, innovation-driven talent ecosystem, contributing significantly to the state's GDP."
The Minister also highlighted that this program will advance world-class digital capabilities in financial technologies, propelling Odisha towards becoming a global hub for digital skills and innovation.
“This strategic partnership places Odisha on the global digital skills landscape. We are dedicated to empowering our students with cutting-edge skills to excel in the digital economy and catalyze transformational growth,” stated Higher Education Minister, Suraj.
The I-GFTCH initiative illustrates the government’s long-term vision of fusing global resources with local talent.
A vital aspect of this initiative is a five-month hybrid FinTech and InsurTech Certification Program, collaboratively offered by NUS-AIDF (Asian Institute of Digital Finance) and GFTN.
The program will comprise online learning modules, a two-week on-campus immersion in Bhubaneswar, and internship opportunities with leading firms. Targeted at students across all 30 districts, the program aims to empower over 7,000 learners with practical knowledge in financial technologies, regulatory frameworks, and business innovation.
The curriculum is designed in alignment with the National Education Policy and tailored for industry relevance and job readiness.
Point of View
The launch of I-GFTCH in Odisha represents a significant stride towards enhancing the state's digital capabilities. By fostering collaboration between global institutions and local talent, it aims to position Odisha as a leader in the fintech landscape, ultimately contributing to the nation's technological advancement and economic growth.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is I-GFTCH?
I-GFTCH stands for Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub, launched by the Odisha government to develop a global center of excellence in digital financial technologies.
How many students will benefit from I-GFTCH?
Over 7,000 students from every district of Odisha will gain skills in AI, blockchain, InsurTech, and digital finance over the next five years.
When will I-GFTCH be inaugurated?
The I-GFTCH is scheduled to be inaugurated on August 21, 2025, in Bhubaneswar.
Which institutions are collaborating on this initiative?
The initiative is a collaboration between the Department of Electronics & Information Technology, the Department of Higher Education, and the Global Finance and Technology Network (GFTN).
What is the curriculum focus of the I-GFTCH program?
The curriculum is aligned with the National Education Policy and tailored for industry relevance, focusing on practical skills in financial technologies and business innovation.
