Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted Odisha’s rapid industrialization and emphasized the importance of skill development for the state’s economic progress.
Addressing the closing ceremony of Odisha Skill Competition 2025-26, Majhi stated that the state’s goal is to achieve excellence in skill development, empowering youth and driving growth. 
Majhi awarded 54 gold, 53 silver, and 50 bronze medals to outstanding students, with cash prizes of Rs 25,000, Rs 20,000, and Rs 15,000, respectively. He outlined the three pillars of Odisha’s industrialization: infrastructure, conducive environment, and skills. The state has approved projects worth Rs 6.15 lakh crore, potentially creating 3.64 lakh jobs.
The government plans to convert 47 ITIs into Centers of Excellence and establish AI Laboratories in nine ITIs. Minister Sampada Chandra Swain described the Odisha Skill Competition as a showcase of the state’s collective aspirations, identifying talent and promoting excellence.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Development Commissioner Deo Ranjan Kumar Singh, Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra Singh Punia were prominently present on the occasion.
