Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday highlighted the growing investment opportunities in Odisha, urging investors to capitalize on the state’s potential at the Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025. Addressing the largest business summit in the state’s history, PM Modi emphasized that this is the “right time” for investment in Odisha, with participation from 5-6 times more investors compared to previous events.
The Prime Minister spoke about the historical significance of Eastern India in the country’s economic growth, noting that Odisha had been a key player in trade and industry in the region. He remarked, “I consider Eastern India to be the growth engine of the country’s development, and Odisha plays a major role in this.” He also noted Odisha’s historical importance, describing its ancient ports as “India’s gateway to South-East Asia.”
In his speech, PM Modi highlighted the ongoing transformation of Odisha, stating that the state is focused on reviving its glorious past. He pointed to growing international interest, citing the recent visit of the President of Singapore and the enthusiasm from ASEAN countries to enhance trade ties with Odisha.
“This is the time, the right time,” PM Modi asserted, urging investors to take part in Odisha’s growth journey. He assured them that investing in the state would lead to success, adding, “This is Modi’s guarantee.”
The Prime Minister underscored India’s trajectory towards becoming a global economic powerhouse, driven by the aspirations of its citizens. He praised Odisha’s rise as a leading state in sectors such as food processing, petrochemicals, fisheries, IT, edutech, textiles, tourism, mining, and green energy. “Odisha stands as a symbol of the optimism and originality of new India,” he said.
PM Modi also pointed to India’s goal of becoming the third-largest economy in the world and the imminent achievement of a $5 trillion economy. He emphasized the importance of India’s innovative service sector and high-quality products in driving economic expansion. He further stressed the shift away from merely exporting raw materials, highlighting the state’s focus on establishing industries that process locally available resources.
“The trend of seafood being processed abroad and reaching global markets is changing. Industries related to Odisha’s resources will be set up here, and our government is working in this direction,” PM Modi added.
The Utkarsh Odisha Conclave 2025, taking place from January 28-29, serves as a platform for global investors, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore the investment potential of Odisha. The two-day event will feature CEOs and leaders’ roundtables, sectoral sessions, B2B meetings, and policy discussions, fostering targeted engagement with investors.
(With ANI inputs)