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Bhubaneswar: In a recent review meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the importance of accelerating industrial growth in the state. He emphasized the state's goal of creating 3.5 lakh jobs over the next five years, urging officials to focus on developing modern industries that generate significant opportunities.
Boosting Employment in Key Sectors
CM Majhi pointed out that the textile and food processing sectors have great potential to create jobs. He encouraged officials to explore ways to attract more industries in these areas. He also stressed the importance of supporting Odia entrepreneurs in establishing businesses in these sectors, which would further boost local employment.
Mega Steel Plant in Keonjhar
One of the key points discussed during the meeting was the absence of a mega steel plant in Keonjhar, despite the district's rich mineral resources. CM Majhi noted that Keonjhar has all the necessary infrastructure, including land, water, electricity, and communication facilities, to support a large steel plant. He directed officials to expedite efforts to establish such a plant in the district.
To this end, a task force led by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja will be formed. This task force will work with various industries interested in setting up the mega steel plant in Keonjhar, ensuring a streamlined and efficient process.
Progress in Industrial Projects
Hemant Sharma, Principal Secretary of Industries, provided an update on the progress of industrial projects in Odisha. Since 2016, the Single Window Authority has approved 674 projects, with 989 applications received for setting up industries. So far, 352 industries have been allocated land, 183 industries have started work, and 74 industries are now operational.
Foreign Investment and Future Plans
Sharma also mentioned that there are 12 foreign investment proposals in the state, with efforts underway to implement 41 key investment proposals. This demonstrates Odisha's growing appeal as a destination for industrial investment.
Government Support and Cooperation
CM Majhi highlighted the need for speeding up all processes related to industrial development. He stressed the importance of providing appropriate opportunities to industrial organizations at the government level and ensuring cooperation between all relevant government departments. This, he believes, is crucial for meeting the needs of these industries and achieving the state's job creation goals.
Attendees and Conclusion
The meeting was attended by several key officials, including Industries Minister Sampad Charan Swain, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Additional Chief Secretary to Chief Minister Nikunja Bihari Dhal, Principal Secretary Finance Department Saswat Mishra, Managing Director of IPICOL Bhupinder Singh Poonia, and senior officials of the Industries Department.
With these concerted efforts and strategic plans, Odisha aims to become a hub for industrial growth, creating numerous job opportunities and boosting the state's economy.