Bhubaneswar: The Budget Session of the Odisha Assembly commenced today, with Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati delivering his address, saying ‘Jai Jagannath’.
In his speech, he highlighted the state’s progress, stating that Odisha is set to become a growth engine of developed India. “By 2036, Odisha will complete 100 years of its formation. My government has undertaken several initiatives to ensure a prosperous Odisha. My government is committed to building a prosperous and empowered Odisha by that landmark year,” he said.
He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, saying it has brought significant projects to the state. “Odisha will be a semi-conductor hub in self-reliant India. The state government is modernizing roads and strengthening infrastructure,” he added.
The Governor informed the House that the state is undergoing a major road modernization drive to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic growth. Besides, the Governor announced plans for a flyover on the Jaydev Bhubaneswar-Nandankanan road and approval for the Rameshwar-Paradip coastal highway. He emphasized the government’s goal to eradicate malnutrition and anemia in the state.
The Governor highlighted the government’s focus on building robust infrastructure to drive Odisha’s long-term growth. A key project underway is the Bhubaneswar-Khordha-Cuttack Ring Road, aimed at improving connectivity, reducing urban congestion, and promoting trade and investment in the region.
The Governor highlighted Odisha’s dominance in the steel sector, stating that the state is home to 55 steel plants with an impressive annual production capacity of around 45 million tonnes, contributing nearly 23% to the country’s total steel output. He announced that Odisha is poised to significantly scale up its steel production, targeting a capacity of 100 million tonnes by 2030.
The Governor reported that reforms in the minor minerals sector have boosted transparency and revenue, with earnings rising from Rs 1,195 crore in 2022-23 to Rs 1,776 crore in 2024-25, marking a 19% annual growth and 48% increase over two years.
The Governor highlighted the success of ‘Make in Odisha’, with 85 industrial projects worth Rs 2 lakh crore underway, set to create 1.65 lakh jobs. Overall, various initiatives are expected to generate employment for 4.65 lakh people. He also lauded the government’s efforts in empowering women, stating that 16.42 lakh ‘Lakhpati Didis’ – women entrepreneurs earning Rs 1 lakh+ annually – have been created through self-help groups and rural livelihood programs.
