Bhubaneswar: Highlighting Odisha’s glorious maritime heritage, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi also outlined its ambitious future in global trade at the Boita Bandana Utsav in Paradip Port on Wednesday.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said Boita Bandana and Bali Jatra represent much more than cultural festivities. These events symbolise Odisha’s proud naval history and the fearless spirit of its ancient seafarers. These traditions continue to inspire the people of Odisha to pursue bold goals with courage and determination, he said.
Noting that Paradip Port has evolved from a regional facility into India’s premier maritime gateway, Majhi said the port handled 71 million tons of cargo in 2015. By 2025, that figure has doubled to 150 million tons. Looking ahead, the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Viksit Bharat 2047 roadmap aim to expand Paradip’s capacity to 500 million tons, transforming it into a mega port, he said.
The Chief Minister announced a Rs 46,000 crore investment package, including a new port at Bahuda in Ganjam, a shipbuilding and repair centre at the Mahanadi river mouth close to Paradip, and a world-class cruise terminal in Puri. These initiatives will accelerate Odisha’s growth in trade, tourism, and industry, he said.
Majhi also aligned Odisha’s development strategy with national programs like Sagarmala, Gati Shakti, and the National Logistics Policy. The state is actively developing coastal economic zones to strengthen port-based economies.
Industries Minister Sampad Swain highlighted Paradip’s expanding role in job creation, infrastructure, and skill development.
Paradip Port Chairman P L Haranadh credited Team Paradip’s relentless efforts for the port’s rise to the top, calling it India’s No.1 port.