Union minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal informed the Rajya Sabha that six projects worth Rs 3,500 million (Rs 3,500 mn) have been sanctioned for funding under the Sagarmala scheme in Odisha. The minister said the projects are intended to improve port connectivity, strengthen logistics infrastructure and promote economic activity in the coastal region. He indicated that completion of the Sagarmala-funded projects is expected to generate about 2,000 direct and indirect jobs.\n\nIn his written reply to a question from Sasmit Patra of the BJD, the minister outlined a broader pipeline of initiatives. Authorities have identified 52 additional projects worth Rs 560 billion (Rs 560 bn) that will be implemented by agencies including Paradip Port Authority, the Fisheries Department of the Odisha government, Indian Railways, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the Container Corporation of India (CONCOR) and the Ministry of Rural Development. These 52 projects are not funded under the Sagarmala scheme but are intended to complement port and logistics development.\n\nThe minister said the larger set of projects is likely to create more than 25,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities and to catalyse ancillary economic activity across coastal districts. He added that steps are being taken in convergence with the Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) to provide maritime-sector training for local youth. The proposed training and infrastructure work are expected to enhance benefits for local communities and supply chains.\n\nOfficials will coordinate implementation across central and state agencies to align timelines and workforce development efforts. Planning for these projects will involve transport and fisheries authorities along with port operators and rural development agencies to ensure integrated delivery. The minister presented the information as part of parliamentary responses and outlined the government's approach to improving coastal connectivity.