How is Odisha Transforming into a Technology-Driven Economy?
Synopsis
Odisha is embarking on a transformative journey to establish itself as a leader in AI and technology. With a strategic partnership with Sarvam AI, the state aims to create a sovereign AI hub, boost job creation, and enhance public service delivery through Odia-language applications. Discover how this initiative is set to redefine Odisha’s economic landscape.
Key Takeaways
Odisha is transitioning to a technology-led economy.
Partnership with Sarvam AI aims to build a sovereign AI hub.
Investment of Rs 20,000 crore for a 50 MW AI facility.
Creation of thousands of high-skilled jobs is anticipated.
Focus on developing Odia-language applications for public services.
Bhubaneswar, Feb 11 (NationPress) Odisha is on a mission to transform into a net exporter of computing resources and to create Odia-language applications aimed at enhancing last-mile public service delivery.
In pursuit of this ambitious goal, the state government has entered into a strategic alliance with Sarvam AI, an Indian company specializing in artificial intelligence, to cultivate a sovereign AI capability within Odisha.
During a video address, Odisha's Electronics and Information Technology Minister, Mukesh Mahaling, announced that the state has formalized an MoU with @SarvamAI to establish a sovereign AI hub - a pivotal move towards India’s self-reliance in AI.
“More than just a data centre, this represents a strategic initiative to elevate Odisha as India’s foremost AI capacity provider. Transitioning from a mining-based economy to a knowledge-driven economy, Odisha is reshaping its growth path. Historically recognized for its strengths in minerals and metals, the state is now making a significant shift towards a technology-led digital economy,” Mahaling elaborated.
He emphasized that, in collaboration with Sarvam AI, the state government aims to set up a 50 MW AI-optimized facility, with an investment of approximately Rs 20,000 crore, supported by robust capital investment incentives from the state.
“This facility will accommodate nearly 25,000 GPUs, generate thousands of direct and indirect high-skilled jobs, and firmly position Odisha as a cornerstone of India’s sovereign AI and computing ecosystem, propelling the journey towards a developed Odisha and a developed Bharat,” Mahaling noted.
It is worth mentioning that on February 6, the Odisha Government signed an MoU with Sarvam as part of its ongoing efforts to create a secure, inclusive, and Odia-centric AI ecosystem aligned with Vision 2036 and Vision 2047.
This MoU was signed in the presence of President Droupadi Murmu during the recently conducted Black Swan Summit 2026 in Bhubaneswar. It aims to make AI a sustainable public capability, focusing on sovereign infrastructure, population-scale applications in the Odia language, and enduring institutional capacity within the state.
The AI Sovereign Park will position Odisha as a net producer and exporter of computing resources to other states, marking a significant milestone in today’s digital landscape.
Point of View
Odisha’s initiative to build a sovereign AI hub represents a significant step towards modernizing its economy and enhancing public service delivery. This visionary approach not only aligns with national objectives but also showcases the state's commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable growth.
NationPress
4 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main goal of Odisha's partnership with Sarvam AI?
The primary goal is to establish a sovereign AI capacity in Odisha and transition towards a technology-led economy.
How much investment is planned for the AI facility?
The planned investment for the AI-optimized facility is around Rs 20,000 crore.
What are the expected benefits of this initiative?
The initiative is expected to create thousands of high-skilled jobs, enhance public service delivery, and position Odisha as a key player in India’s AI ecosystem.
When was the MoU with Sarvam AI signed?
The MoU was signed on February 6 during the Black Swan Summit 2026.
How will this initiative impact the Odia language?
The initiative aims to develop population-scale applications in the Odia language, strengthening the local digital ecosystem.
