Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched projects worth Rs 47,600 crore in Odisha on June 20, 2026, marking President Droupadi Murmu's birthday. The initiatives span infrastructure, healthcare, tribal welfare, and industrial development, aimed at converting Odisha's natural and economic resources into long-term growth opportunities.
Key Projects and Investments
The project portfolio includes a major investment of Rs 15,000 crore for a new greenfield refinery by Indian Oil Corporation in Balasore district. Additionally, Rs 10,000 crore has been allocated for the expansion of the Paradip refinery. The government also announced Rs 5,000 crore for the development of a petrochemical complex at Paradip, which is expected to boost downstream industries.
In the healthcare sector, a Rs 2,500 crore project for a new AIIMS-like hospital in Sambalpur was launched, along with Rs 1,500 crore for upgrading district hospitals across the state. The Prime Minister stated that these projects will enhance medical access for tribal communities.
Focus on Tribal Welfare
A significant portion of the investment targets tribal welfare. The PM-JANMAN (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan) scheme received Rs 3,500 crore for providing housing, electricity, and water connections to particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs) in remote areas. Under this, 1.5 lakh houses will be constructed in 75 districts, with Odisha receiving the highest allocation.
Another Rs 2,000 crore has been earmarked for the 'Solar Village' initiative, which will install solar micro-grids in 500 tribal villages, providing 24x7 electricity. This is part of the government's broader push for renewable energy in underserved regions.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Road connectivity projects worth Rs 8,000 crore were announced, including the four-laning of the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack highway and a new bridge over the Mahanadi River. The railway ministry also approved Rs 4,500 crore for doubling of the Khurda-Bolangir rail line, which will improve freight and passenger movement.
According to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office, these projects are expected to create over 2 lakh direct and indirect jobs in the state. PM Modi said, 'Our government is committed to transforming Odisha's potential into prosperity, ensuring that every district benefits from inclusive development.'
Industrial Growth and Employment
In the industrial sector, a Rs 6,000 crore investment was announced for a steel plant in Keonjhar district by JSW Group, which will produce 3 million tonnes per annum. Additionally, a Rs 4,000 crore food processing park in Khurda was unveiled, aimed at boosting agricultural exports.
The Prime Minister highlighted that Odisha's mineral wealth and coastal location make it ideal for industrial expansion. He added, 'These projects will not only boost the state's economy but also create sustainable livelihoods for the youth.'
Reactions and Significance
The launch coincides with President Murmu's birthday, who hails from Odisha and is the first tribal woman to hold the office. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi thanked the Prime Minister and said the projects would accelerate the state's development. Opposition parties, however, criticized the timing as political, though they welcomed the investments.
The event was held at Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium, attended by Union ministers, state officials, and industrialists. The projects are part of the central government's 'Purvodaya' plan for eastern India's growth.
