Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted on Tuesday that Odisha is experiencing unprecedented opportunities for growth, urging that now is the “right time” for investment in the state. Speaking at the Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025, PM Modi noted that this year’s event is the largest business summit Odisha has ever hosted, with 5 to 6 times more investors compared to previous editions.
“I view Eastern India as the engine driving the country’s development, and Odisha plays a crucial role in this. Historically, when India contributed significantly to global growth, Eastern India was a key player. With its large industrial hubs and ports, Odisha was central to trade in South-East Asia, acting as India’s gateway,” PM Modi explained.
He emphasized that Odisha is now working to revive its rich legacy, with recent international attention such as the visit from Singapore’s President. ASEAN countries have also shown interest in strengthening trade relations with the state. “There are more opportunities in Odisha today than ever before, more than at any time since independence,” he declared.
PM Modi encouraged investors to seize the moment, assuring them that their involvement in Odisha’s growth would lead to new heights of success. “This is Modi’s guarantee,” he said.
Speaking on India’s development trajectory, the Prime Minister noted that the country is moving forward with the aspirations of its citizens. “When people’s needs are met, their aspirations grow. The past decade has seen the empowerment of millions, benefiting the country as a whole. Odisha stands as a symbol of the optimism and innovation driving the new India,” he stated. He also highlighted key sectors such as food processing, petrochemicals, fisheries, IT, edutech, textiles, tourism, mining, and green energy, where Odisha is emerging as a leading player.
PM Modi also discussed India’s progress towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy, emphasizing that the goal of a five trillion-dollar economy is within reach. He identified two main pillars of this economic expansion: the innovative service sector and high-quality products.
“The country cannot progress by merely exporting raw materials. That’s why we are transforming our ecosystem with a fresh vision,” PM Modi added. He explained that industries related to Odisha’s resources will now be developed locally, moving away from the old model of exporting raw seafood for processing abroad.
The Prime Minister concluded by stating that the Utkarsh Odisha Conclave is a vital step in realizing the vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat).
