Bhubaneswar: In a significant step toward strengthening Odisha’s scientific infrastructure and innovation ecosystem, Minister for Science & Technology Krushna Chandra Patra met Union Minister for Science & Technology Jitendra Singh in New Delhi to discuss key initiatives aimed at accelerating the state’s technology-driven growth.
The high-level meeting focused on aligning Odisha’s regional scientific priorities with the Centre’s national missions, charting out a collaborative roadmap for advancing the state’s science and technology sector.
A major highlight of the discussion was Odisha’s proposal to establish a world-class Science City in Bhubaneswar. The State Government has already earmarked 100 acres of land on the city’s outskirts for the ambitious project. Envisioned as an interactive and immersive learning hub, the proposed Science City will feature modern exhibits and experiential spaces designed to ignite scientific curiosity among students and youth.
The two ministers also deliberated on setting up a dedicated Space Innovation Hub in the state to promote startups and research in space technology. The initiative seeks to leverage the expertise of the Odisha Space Applications Centre (ORSAC) along with research institutions such as Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla. The proposed hub aims to position Odisha as a key player in satellite data applications and space-tech entrepreneurship.
In line with the Centre’s Bio-E3 Policy, discussions were held on rolling out Bio e-Cells in Odisha. These cells are intended to advance high-performance biomanufacturing, encourage environmentally sustainable technologies, and help academic institutions translate laboratory research into commercially viable biotech products.
Beyond these flagship proposals, both leaders explored additional avenues to promote scientific development in the state, reinforcing the importance of coordinated efforts between the State and the Centre.
Minister Patra expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for continued guidance and technical cooperation, emphasizing that strong Centre-State synergy will be instrumental in transforming Odisha into a leading scientific and industrial hub of the country.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh lauded the proactive approach of the Odisha Government and assured full support from the Centre. He stated that Odisha’s scientific progress is integral to the broader vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to providing necessary technical expertise and financial assistance to ensure the successful execution of the state’s landmark projects.
