The Times Business Awards Odisha 2026, organized by Optimal Media Solutions, a division of The Times of India, convened a dynamic assembly of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. The event highlighted Odisha's emergence as a thriving center for enterprise, innovation, and industrial advancement.
Chief Guest Address
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, the chief guest, delivered a keynote emphasizing Odisha's shift from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-driven and manufacturing-focused growth engine. He underscored the pivotal role of entrepreneurs and wealth creators in building a self-reliant India. Citing the nation's expanding economy, Pradhan highlighted the contributions of digital infrastructure, innovation, and a youthful workforce. He described Odisha as a land of 'possibilities and positivity,' pointing to its mineral wealth, connectivity, and talent pool as key assets for the Purvodaya vision.
Industry Collaboration and Recognition
The evening featured robust participation from industry voices, focusing on collaboration, MSME growth, and sustainability. Awards recognized individuals and organizations shaping Odisha's business ecosystem across various sectors.
Entrepreneurs, Professionals, and Leadership
Jasbir Singh Hura's journey exemplifies self-made success, with contributions in automobiles, hospitality, and community development in Western Odisha. JB Consulting & Strategies, founded by Dr. Jagdish Chandra Rout, excels as a strategic communications firm. CA Bidhu Bhushan Nayak has strengthened financial governance through taxation and advisory expertise. Prof. Soumyendu Shankar Ray has influenced urban design with sustainable architecture. Baijayanti Sahoo balances business growth with social impact. Rajan Gugnani leads automotive retail with customer-centricity at Gugnani Autocars and Honda BigWing Bhubaneswar North. Sampath Das drives growth in manufacturing, marine, and hospitality. Nirupama Biswal exemplifies purpose-driven leadership through diversified ventures and CSR. Manjulata Nayak's publishing work reflects resilience and knowledge dissemination.
Food and Agro Sector
Baba Food Processing (India) Ltd. delivers high-quality products using advanced milling technology. Highland Agro Food Pvt. Ltd., led by Pratik Jena, strengthens marine exports with global standards and sustainable practices.
Manufacturing, Industrial, and Core Sector
Jindal Steel Ltd. enhances stakeholder engagement and ESG integration for inclusive growth. Shri Jagannath Steels & Power Ltd. reinforces Odisha's steel hub status through integrated operations. Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya leads Vedanta's alumina business with operational excellence and sustainability. TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL) improves power distribution in rural areas via technology-led efficiency.
Education and Institutional Excellence
Siksha 'O' Anusandhan (SOA) and ITER achieve global recognition for research and innovation. Mother's Public School nurtures holistic development. Jupiter Public School integrates academic and competitive preparation. KT Global School offers experiential, technology-driven residential education. Indian Public School, Sambalpur, builds strong foundations through discipline and values.
Real Estate and Infrastructure
Metro King's Court offers a premium villa township with European-inspired architecture. Sonsy Euphonia provides nature-led living with sustainable design. Evos Alchemy represents urban luxury with design innovation. AcreRise focuses on disciplined execution and future-ready development. Stalwart Projects Pvt. Ltd., led by Sharat Kumar Sahu, delivers transparent, quality housing. Jain Builders Pvt. Ltd. offers reliable housing with over three decades of trust. Emperean Space Pvt. Ltd. integrates green building practices. Duramix Concrete India Pvt. Ltd. supplies high-quality ready-mix solutions for infrastructure.
Logistics, Technology, and Emerging Innovation
Paradeep Parivahan Ltd. enhances logistics efficiency and port-led supply chains. Airace Technologies provides indigenous GNSS solutions for land governance. Aquapulse uses data-driven solutions for aquaculture transformation. Workmates Core2Cloud enables digital transformation with cloud and AI technologies. WEFE Internet strengthens digital connectivity for businesses.
Retail, Lifestyle, and Consumer Brands
Khimji Jewellers, since 1936, leads in gold, diamond, and silver with heritage craftsmanship. Kalamandir offers ethnic and wedding wear blending tradition with modernity. Duhita & Manav specializes in bridal couture with timeless design. PRAYANVI curates sarees rooted in Indian heritage. Clay by Lingaraj Granites redefines interiors with premium materials.
Hospitality, Media, and Services
MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts delivers immersive experiences rooted in nature and culture. Vivanta Bhubaneswar, DN Square blends comfort and connectivity. BIRCH Bhubaneswar offers curated nightlife experiences. Krishna Courtyard serves as a premium event destination. Dr. Souvagya Mohapatra redefines luxury hospitality. Maitreya Mishra drives operational excellence. Sidharth TV Network promotes Odia culture and entertainment. Joyeeta Roy (Signature 24) connects regional narratives with national brands. Ajanta Advertisers transforms outdoor media with high-impact visibility.
Award Methodology
The awards are based on a structured, objective research process. Participants submit factual data on performance and achievements, evaluated through a merit-based framework.
Note: The survey was conducted by an independent agency, and the publication holds no responsibility for the results. Readers are advised to exercise discretion.
Disclaimer: The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content.
