Bhubaneswar: A World Bank delegation met with Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja at the Lok Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.
The delegation, led by World Bank’s South Asia Regional Vice President Johannes Zutt and Regional Director Imad N. Fakhoury, held discussions with Ahuja on various issues.
The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg of the State Planning Commission, Additional Chief Secretary Hemant Sharma of the Industries, Information, and Public Relations Department, and Principal Secretary of the Agriculture and Farmers Empowerment Department Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, along with other departmental secretaries.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja highlighted Odisha’s growth prospects, financial management, and various development programmes to the World Bank delegation. He discussed the state’s agriculture-based economy, industrial development, skill development, and port-led development, showcasing Odisha’s vast potential.
Anu Garg of the Planning Commission presented the Vision Document for Developed Odisha 2036 and Developed India 2047. She highlighted Odisha’s geography, population, development trajectory, education, health, and natural resources, emphasizing the state’s potential for growth due to its mineral wealth, long coastline, water resources, and young workforce, alongside economic and financial stability.
The presentation highlighted Odisha’s challenges, including natural disasters, poverty, skill development, tribal empowerment, infrastructure growth, and sustainable urban development. It also covered progress in education, healthcare, and essential services. Dr Padhee discussed agriculture plans, productivity growth, diversification, and pest management, highlighting the sector’s vulnerability to natural disasters.
Bhupendra Singh Punia, Director of Industrial Policy and Promotion and Secretary of School and Mass Education, discussed Odisha’s industrial ecosystem and the development of industries and ancillary sectors in various regions, highlighting opportunities for investment.
The World Bank delegation praised Odisha’s development initiatives and future vision. They agreed to support the state in areas like skill development, agriculture, tourism, MSMEs, employment, sustainable growth, and urban housing. The delegation also expressed interest in promoting Odisha as a top tourism destination and exploring investment opportunities, committing to discuss cooperation at the international level.
