Odisha Targets Developed State Status By 2036
21 Aug 2025 CW Team
Odisha is open to all forms of investment that contribute to its growing economy, Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo said on Tuesday, as the state pursues its goal of becoming a developed state by 2036 and achieving a GDP of USD 1.5 trillion by 2047.
Speaking at the 4th CII East India Summit 2025, Deo, who also oversees the Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment and Energy portfolios, called on industry leaders to invest in Odisha and create more jobs locally.
“The Prime Minister has set 2047 as the target for India to become a developed nation, but Odisha aims to achieve this by 2036, coinciding with its 100th year. We intend to contribute significantly to the Viksit Bharat 2047 mission,” he said.
Deo highlighted investment opportunities in tourism, agri-food processing, steel and energy. While Odisha already has strong investments in steel, the state seeks value addition in steel products alongside new ventures in floating solar, pump storage, and battery storage projects. He also stressed the importance of developing agro-industries and reducing fertiliser use.
The Deputy CM pointed to the state’s new industrial policy, which outlines extensive support for investors, and emphasised agri-tourism as a unique opportunity where visitors can stay on farms. Odisha’s rich heritage of monuments and cultural sites further boosts its potential to attract both domestic and foreign tourists.
Deo argued that long-term investments should be encouraged through a level playing field rather than short-term incentives, which could shift with competing offers from other states. “We want employment generation schemes that allow Odisha’s people to find jobs at their doorstep instead of migrating out,” he said.
Reiterating Odisha’s strategic role in India’s growth, he urged industry leaders to “Look East,” noting that eastern India holds immense potential for sustainable development and balanced national progress.