Major Investment Initiative Approved
The Odisha government has greenlit 15 new industrial projects, totalling Rs 3,353 crore in investment, which are projected to create 4,637 jobs across the state. Approved by the State Level Single Window Clearance Authority (SLSWCA) in a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, these projects span various sectors, including steel, aluminium, chemicals, renewable energy, tourism, food processing, and pharmaceuticals.
Sector-Wise Investment Highlights
Chemical and Renewable Energy Sector:
Reliance Bio Energy Limited will lead the investment in renewable energy by establishing a compressed bio-gas and organic manure plant in Puri, worth Rs 121.21 crore. This initiative is expected to create 69 jobs and contribute to the sustainable energy goals of the state.
Steel Industry Expansion:
Beekay Steel Industries Ltd. has proposed an investment of Rs 750 crore in Cuttack, focusing on enhancing its steel production capabilities with sponge iron, billets, ferroalloys, and a captive power plant. This ambitious project is expected to add 800 jobs in the area, supporting Odisha’s burgeoning steel sector.
Aluminium Manufacturing Growth:
To strengthen the downstream aluminium sector, HM Power and Cables Pvt. Ltd. will set up a manufacturing unit for aluminium conductors and power cables in Jharsuguda. With a Rs 55.72 crore investment, the project will generate 205 jobs, contributing to Odisha’s position in the aluminium production sector.
Food Processing Sector Expansion:
Food processing has attracted substantial investments, including ventures from Bhuvaneshwari Foods and Beverages, Aban Beverages, and Geofast Consumer Products. Spread across Khurda, Baragarh, and Cuttack, these projects have a combined investment of Rs 1,542.04 crore and will create over 1,358 jobs. The state’s focus on food processing reflects its commitment to harnessing agricultural potential and promoting self-reliance.
Textile and Apparel Sector:
Odisha Textile Manufacturing Private Limited plans to establish a facility in Khurda to produce recycled yarn from textile waste, a sustainable initiative in line with global trends. This Rs 51.80 crore project is expected to create 535 jobs, supporting the growth of a circular economy in the state.
Tourism Industry Enhancement:
ITC Limited will expand its five-star hotel, Welcome hotels, in Bhubaneswar, adding 240 jobs with a Rs 119.14 crore investment. Additional investments from SJ JRG Ventures LLP and Crackers India Infrastructures Ltd (LYFE Group of Hotels) will bring new hospitality services to Puri and Koraput. These tourism-related ventures aim to capitalize on Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and natural attractions, adding 380 jobs.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Expansion:
In the pharmaceuticals sector, Infunex Healthcare Private Limited will set up a second unit for manufacturing intravenous fluids in Cuttack with an investment of Rs 59.43 crore, creating 182 jobs. This expansion will help meet the growing demand for healthcare products in Odisha and beyond.
Cement Industry Growth:
Ultra Tech Cement Ltd. will expand its grinding unit in Cuttack, doubling its production capacity from 3 MTPA to 6 MTPA. With a Rs 372 crore investment, this project will add 581 jobs, boosting Odisha’s infrastructure capabilities.
A Strategic Push for Economic Development
These investments mark a significant step in Odisha’s economic development, with the state actively attracting diverse industries that generate employment while promoting sustainable practices. With job creation across sectors and in various districts, this initiative strengthens Odisha’s industrial foundation and aims to improve its citizens’ quality of life.
As these projects roll out, Odisha’s focus on sustainable growth across sectors could serve as a model for other states, signaling the start of an era focused on job creation, economic resilience, and sectoral diversity.
(With inputs from agencies)