Focus on East India’s Growth
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Utkarsh Odisha-Make in Odisha Conclave 2025 in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, emphasizing the crucial role of East India in the country’s development. Addressing a gathering of national and international industry leaders, investors, and diplomats, Modi highlighted Odisha’s historical significance as a trade hub with Southeast Asia.
Modi Mentions Coldplay Concerts
In a unique twist, PM Modi referenced recent Coldplay concerts in Mumbai and Ahmedabad, underlining India’s growing appeal for global music events. He urged state governments and the private sector to invest in infrastructure for live concerts, calling it a promising “concert economy” that could fuel India’s cultural and economic growth.
Record Participation at the Conclave
The event, organized by the Odisha government, has drawn around 3,000 national and international business leaders, including representatives from 17 countries. With 500 foreign investors present, it is being touted as the largest investor conference in Odisha’s history.
Key Sectors and Investment Goals
The two-day event will focus on IT, renewable energy, textiles, chemicals, and food processing. The Odisha government aims to attract investments worth Rs. 5 lakh crore to transform the state into a global industrial hub. Over 100 MoUs are expected to be signed during the event.
PM’s Address Highlights
- Innovation and Research: Modi called for greater industry participation in research and innovation, supported by a government-created special fund.
- MSME Support: He emphasized building a strong domestic supply chain to reduce dependency on imports and global fluctuations.
- Service Sector and Quality Products: The PM stressed the importance of moving beyond raw material exports to establish India as a leader in quality products.
- Infrastructure Development: He highlighted India’s advancements in multi-modal connectivity and infrastructure as a significant investment attraction.
Diplomatic and Industry Presence
Diplomats from 15 countries, including Australia, Japan, and the UK, participated as focus country representatives. Prominent industrialists such as LN Mittal, Kumar Mangalam Birla, Karan Adani, and Sajjan Jindal were also in attendance.
The conclave underscores Odisha’s rising prominence as an investment destination and India’s strategic efforts to position the state as a global industrial hub.
