Farm diversification, skill devpt will help Odisha become $500bn eco by 2036: CM

Time of India

19 hours ago

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As you enter the second year in office, what are your priorities?
Our primary focus will be to build upon the successful initiatives we've already established, particularly in three key areas — commitment to social development, specifically expanding farmer welfare programmes; advancing women's empowerment initiatives and creating employment opportunities for our youth.
Secondly, we're prioritising infrastructure development by strengthening healthcare facilities, improving educational institutions and enhancing transportation networks. Thirdly, we're focused on economic growth by ensuring promised industrial investments are implemented to create a robust foundation for sustainable development. We are working toward our vision of achieving a US$ 500 billion economy by 2036.
To achieve this economic dream, you need double digit growth, far more than the projected 8-8.5% this year. What is the roadmap?
I understand it's not so easy. Transforming our economy presents significant challenges. Currently, our economy relies heavily on agriculture, with 75% of the population dependent on farming, primarily single-crop paddy cultivation. To address this imbalance, we are implementing a two-pronged approach.
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First, we are promoting agricultural diversification by encouraging farmers to cultivate non-paddy cash crops.
Second, we are investing in skill development programmes to create a balanced workforce across farming, industrial and service sectors. Unlike our predecessors, we are expanding govt sector employment. They are needed to effectively implement our vision. Additionally, we are working diligently to materialise investment commitments exceeding Rs 16 lakh crore, which will further support this economic transformation.
Investment promises have failed to yield results in the past. What makes you so confident?
There is a fundamental difference between our govt and that of the predecessors. While the BJD govt engaged in vote-bank politics and showed little commitment in implementing real change, we are dedicated to turning promises into concrete actions. With strong willpower and the backing of the central govt, we are prepared to go above and beyond to achieve our goals.
Our robust mining sector serves as a cornerstone for our economy, and we plan to leverage this strength by expanding mine auctions and optimising revenue from minor minerals.
How do you plan to achieve urbanisation plan of 40% population by 2036, which is less than 20% now?
Expansion of Bhubaneswar and development of new urban centres across Odisha will be driven by strategic industrialisation and service sector growth.
Significant step in this direction is the planned satellite city at Khurda-Gothapatna, where land has already been earmarked through various schemes. In central Bhubaneswar, near Rajmahal Square, plans are underway to establish a world-class market complex and IT hub.
Additionally, 4-5 nodal cities will be developed across the state, each supported by region-specific industries.
Infra projects like a second AIIMS, another central university and a second agricultural university had been promised in the manifesto. What is the status?
Govt has been working in close coordination to ensure that promises are met.
When I said infrastructure is a focus, all these are part of that. We have already started the process to set up a second AIIMS. It will come up as promised. Besides, our govt is committed to have medical colleges in all 30 districts in a phased manner. Similarly, existing medical colleges and higher educational institutions will be improved.
There is nothing in the manifesto, which will not be fulfilled.
There is communal tension in Bhadrak while gastroenteritis has taken a toll in Jajpur...
Govt has taken both these developments very seriously, though these are isolated incidents. After BJP govt came to power, Bhadrak was only the second such communal incident after the one in Sambalpur. Our govt is committed to ensure everybody, irrespective of community, feels at home in Odisha. The govt has taken proactive steps. There were some administrative changes after the Bhadrak incident. A package has been announced for family of a youth who was killed.
Regarding diarrhoea in Jajpur, govt has deployed additional health experts to contain the situation.
Congress has termed your first year as one of deceit while BJD chief Naveen Patnaik has criticised you for making long speeches?
The Congress party's state leadership is struggling with internal divisions and lacks a clear identity. Their attempts to capture public attention seem more performative than substantive. When I speak at length, it's because I genuinely represent all Odisha residents and maintain complete transparency. Unlike some others in the past, I don't rely on prepared statements from officials. My grass-roots background has given me deep insight into the real situations people face.
Though I may not have extensive administrative experience, I have a clear vision and a thorough understanding of the challenges facing our people.
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