New Delhi: The Odisha government signed 13 MoUs, amounting to Rs 98,880 crore, with leading industries here during Chief Minister Mohan Majhi’s two-day visit to Delhi.
The projects are expected to generate around 67,000 employment opportunities, fostering regional economic growth and boosting industrial activity. Besides, 15 investment intents were received. “The total investment offers amount to Rs 1,03,090 crore creating employment opportunities for 95,915 people,” a CMO release said.
The highlight was the agreement with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) for setting up a dual-feed naphtha cracker project in Odisha, entailing an investment of Rs 58,042 crore. This project is expected to generate employment for around 24,000 people.
“Today’s MoU with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd is a landmark moment in Odisha’s industrial journey. It reflects not just a shared vision but a strong belief in the state’s potential to lead India’s petrochemical revolution from the east. Paradip, with its strategic location and evolving infrastructure, is poised to become a transformative industrial hub—much like Dahej in the west… Odisha is ready, and we invite you to invest in our bright future. Yahi Samay Hai, Sahi Samay Hai,” Majhi said at the Odisha Investors’ Meet on Tuesday.
In addition to the MoU with IOCL, agreements were also signed with Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Ltd (ISPRL) and Petronet LNG. “These partnerships reinforce Odisha’s strategic role in India’s petrochemical landscape and reflect a commitment to sustainable industrial development, import substitution, and a resilient supply chain,” a CMO release said.
The event was addressed by Minister for Industries and Skill Development & Technical Education Sampad Chandra Swain, followed by Union Ministers from Odisha – Jual Oram, Dharmendra Pradhan. Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri, who was also present on the occasion, lauded Odisha’s proactive approach to industrialisation.
It also saw a video on the chemicals sector ecosystem and a presentation by Additional Chief Secretary, Industries and MSME, Hemant Sharma, showcasing Odisha’s industrial growth strategy.
Odisha Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, and IOCL Chairman A S Sahney were also present.
Engagement with Industry Leaders
The CM had one-on-one meetings with industry leaders from various sectors during his two-day visit to Delhi. He also engaged in discussions with representatives from a diverse array of companies, including:
- Kiri Industries: Focused on setting up a specialty chemical production unit.
- Himadri Specialty Chemical Ltd.: Planning to revamp a tyres manufacturing unit in Balasore.
- SLMG Beverages Pvt. Ltd.: A leading bottler in India, expanding manufacturing capacity within Odisha.
- Chowgule Group: Exploring the establishment of a shipbuilding and repair unit in the state.
- Inox GFL Group: Looking to invest in the chemical sector, specifically after acquiring Gujarat Fluorochemicals.
- Bombay Dyeing Mfg. Co. Ltd.: Discussed potential investments in home furnishing and textiles.
“These interactions demonstrated a significant investor interest in establishing manufacturing units that would contribute to local economic development and job creation. Additionally, discussions with the Association of Indian Manufacturers of Medical Devices (AIMED), Toy Association of India, United States India Business Council, and others highlighted the growing interest in various sectors, including medical devices and apparel,” the release said.
Majhi also assured industry leaders of the Odisha government’s commitment to facilitating economic growth. He emphasised that the administration’s efforts to enhance infrastructure, streamline regulatory processes, and invest in skill development align with industry needs.
