A Landmark Summit for Economic Growth
The Utkarsh Odisha Conclave 2025, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marks a significant milestone in Odisha’s journey toward becoming a major business hub. Held in Bhubaneswar from January 28-29, this two-day summit is the largest business conclave in the state’s history, bringing together global investors, industry leaders, and policymakers.
The objective of the conclave is to position Odisha as the industrial and economic powerhouse of Eastern India, strengthen its global trade ties, and highlight its investment opportunities. The event serves as a platform for discussions on infrastructure, logistics, industry, and sustainability, aiming to propel Odisha into a new era of development.
Odisha: The Emerging Business Hub of Eastern India
In his inaugural speech, Prime Minister Modi emphasized Odisha’s strategic importance in India’s economic framework, stating, “Eastern India is the growth engine of the country, and Odisha will be the business hub of this region.”
The Prime Minister congratulated Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and his team for successfully organizing a business summit five to six times larger than previous editions. He highlighted how such large-scale gatherings are crucial for fostering investment opportunities and driving Odisha’s economic transformation.
Odisha: India’s Gateway to Southeast Asia
Reflecting on Odisha’s historical significance, PM Modi underscored its ancient trade connections with Southeast Asia. He referred to the Bali Yatra festival in Cuttack, which commemorates Odisha’s maritime trade with Indonesia, Malaysia, and other ASEAN nations.
He expressed confidence that Odisha is poised to reclaim its historical role as a trade and cultural hub, strengthening India’s global economic footprint. He also noted the keen interest of Singapore and ASEAN nations in revitalizing trade partnerships with Odisha.
Infrastructure and Connectivity: Key to Economic Expansion
The Prime Minister highlighted the multi-modal connectivity projects currently underway in Odisha, aimed at reducing logistics costs and enhancing trade efficiency. He spoke about massive investments in railways, highways, and port infrastructure, which will strengthen Odisha’s role in India’s blue economy.
Further, he stressed the state’s alignment with India’s green energy and sustainability goals, positioning Odisha as a leader in eco-friendly industrial development.
Unmatched Investment Opportunities: “The Right Time to Invest”
PM Modi urged investors to seize the unprecedented opportunities in Odisha’s booming industries. With participation from five to six times more investors than previous events, he described this as the “right time” for investment.
Odisha’s key sectors for growth include:
Food processing – Leveraging the state’s rich agricultural and seafood resources.
Petrochemicals & Mining – Strengthening industrial output and resource utilization.
IT & EduTech – Establishing Odisha as a digital innovation hub.
Textiles & Tourism – Showcasing the state’s cultural and economic potential.
Fisheries & Green Energy – Contributing to sustainable development.
PM Modi assured investors that Odisha’s business-friendly policies, skilled workforce, and rich natural resources make it the ideal destination for new ventures. “This is Modi’s guarantee,” he affirmed.
Odisha’s Role in India’s $5 Trillion Economy Vision
The Prime Minister reinforced India’s vision of becoming a $5 trillion economy and one of the top three global economies. He emphasized the shift from exporting raw materials to building industries that process Odisha’s abundant resources, ensuring value addition and job creation within the state.
He cited the example of seafood processing, highlighting that industries will now be set up within Odisha instead of exporting raw materials abroad. This, he said, aligns with India’s broader goal of boosting domestic manufacturing and exports.
A Promising Future for Odisha’s Growth
The Utkarsh Odisha Conclave 2025 serves as a crucial platform for transforming Odisha into a global investment hub. With robust infrastructure, growing international interest, and strong government backing, Odisha is on the path to becoming India’s leading industrial and trade center.
As PM Modi reiterated, “Yahi samay hai, sahi samay hai” (This is the time, the right time). For investors and businesses looking to expand in India, Odisha offers a golden opportunity for success and sustainable growth.
With the momentum generated by this landmark event, Odisha is set to redefine its future and re-establish its prominence on the global economic map.
(With inputs from agencies)
