Odisha Sets Ambitious Goal to Become Eastern India's MSME Hub
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Odisha Industry Conclave 2025 on Sunday, declaring the event would play a pivotal role in driving innovation within the state's MSME sector. The chief minister emphasized that Odisha has transformed into one of India's most attractive states for small and medium enterprises.
Government Initiatives Fueling Industrial Growth
During his inaugural address, CM Majhi highlighted several groundbreaking initiatives that have accelerated industrialization in Odisha. The 'go swift single window system' has emerged as a game-changer, enabling project approvals within a single day. The state has also committed an impressive 6.1% of its GDP to infrastructure development, marking the highest investment rate nationwide.
"Our state, full of immense potential, is now a preferred destination for industrial growth," Majhi stated. "This transformation was possible due to the government's commitment to turning the dreams of 4.5 crore people into reality."
MSMEs: The Backbone of Odisha's Economy
The chief minister presented compelling statistics underscoring the global and national significance of MSMEs. Globally, 90% of businesses and 50% of employment originate from the MSME sector. Within India, small businesses create seven out of every ten formal jobs, making them crucial to economic enrichment beyond mere financial contributions.
Majhi specifically praised Laghu Udyog Bharati, the organization behind the conclave, for supporting over 980 industrial units while generating employment and empowering entrepreneurs aligned with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' vision.
Grassroots Expansion and Success Stories
In a significant announcement, the chief minister revealed that Laghu Udyog Bharati will establish a new office in Bhubaneswar to strengthen industry-government collaboration at district and grassroots levels. This move supports the state's flagship program 'Viksit Odisha, Viksit Bharat', which Majhi described as "not just a slogan, but a promise."
Odisha's success stories extend across multiple sectors. Artisans from Pipili, Raghurajpur, Sambalpur and Gopalpur have gained international recognition, while the state's youth excel in IT, animation, fintech and startup ventures. Women-led Self Help Groups are exporting world-class products, supported by the Subhadra Yojana that has created 17 lakh 'Lakhpati Didis'.
MSME Minister Gokulananda Mallik reinforced the government's commitment, stating, "We are taking steps to promote indigenous products, strengthen MSMEs, support artisans and build robust local supply chains. These efforts will transform Odisha's industrial landscape in the coming days."
The conclave represents a crucial step toward realizing Odisha's ambition to become the MSME gateway of eastern India, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technological innovation to create a comprehensive industrial ecosystem.
