Bhubaneswar: On the occasion of the Boita Bandana Festival 2025 at Paradip Port, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted Odisha’s rich maritime heritage, the state’s economic progress, and the role of port-based development in transforming the region.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that Boita Bandana and Baliyatra are more than festivals; they symbolise Odisha’s proud maritime tradition and the adventurous spirit of its ancestors.
“This legacy continues to inspire the people of Odisha, showing that with courage and perseverance, they can reach new heights,” he added.
The Chief Minister emphasised the strategic role of Paradip Port in the state’s development.
“In 2015, the port handled 71 million tonnes of cargo. Today, in 2025, this has increased to 150 million tonnes. Paradip Port is not only the gateway to modern Odisha but also a cornerstone of its economy,” he said.
He announced that under the “Maritime India Vision 2030”, Paradip Port will be developed as a mega port with an annual cargo-handling capacity of 300 million tonnes, which could expand to 500 million tonnes under the “Viksit Bharat 2047” plan.
The Chief Minister also revealed plans for a new large port at Bahuda in Ganjam district, with an investment of Rs 21,500 crore, alongside a shipbuilding and repair center at the Mahanadi estuary worth Rs 24,700 crore. Additionally, a world-class cruise terminal will be established in Puri.
“These projects will provide new momentum to Odisha’s trade, tourism, and industrial sectors,” he said.
Highlighting Odisha’s efforts in creating a port-based economy, Majhi said the state is coordinating with the Union government’s Sagarmala, Gati Shakti, and National Logistics Policy initiatives. Coastal Economic Zones are also being planned along the state’s coastline. He added that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has entered a new era of maritime trade, and the country’s ports are set to gain global significance under the “Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.”
Industries, Skill Development & Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain said the government is giving special focus to industrial development, infrastructure, employment generation, and skill development, with Paradip Port at the center.
“Paradip is not just a port; it reflects Odisha’s vast potential and its contribution to building a new India,” he added.
Jagatsinghpur MP Bibhu Prasad Tarai said new industrial, educational, and transport projects around Paradip Port will transform the economic landscape of Jagatsinghpur and the state.
“The success of Paradip Port is a matter of pride and hope for Odisha’s future,” he noted.
Paradip Port Chairman P.L. Haranadh added that over the past four years, the port has consistently broken records, surpassing achievements of the previous fifty years.
“Improved capacity, operational efficiency, skill development, and the dedication of ‘Team Paradip’ have made it India’s number one port,” he said.
Other dignitaries present included Jagatsinghpur District Collector J. Sonal, DIG of Police CR, Cuttack Satyajit Naik, and Paradip Port Deputy Chairman Alekha Charan Sahoo.
