PM Modi Unveils ₹18,600 Crore Projects in Odisha, Charts Bold Vision for 2047

In a historic move set to redefine Odisha's developmental trajectory, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 105 key projects across various sectors, collectively worth over ₹18,600 crore. The large-scale launch event, held at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar, not only showcased a transformative development agenda but also laid out a strategic roadmap for the state's economic and cultural resurgence leading up to 2047.

He also felicitated several people, including 'Lakhpati Didis' and others. | NDTV

Building Infrastructure for a Stronger Odisha

The newly launched projects encompass a wide range of infrastructure and public welfare domains, including healthcare, transportation, irrigation, and green mobility. One of the most notable aspects was the boost to railway connectivity. PM Modi flagged off the first passenger train service in Boudh district, a long-pending demand of the region. This was part of broader rail infrastructure upgrades, including the commissioning of third and fourth railway lines between Sarla–Sason and a fourth line on the Jharsuguda–Jamga section.

Additionally, the Prime Minister launched a fleet of 100 electric buses under the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT) initiative, aimed at enhancing sustainable urban mobility in Bhubaneswar and adjoining areas. The projects also addressed long-standing rural challenges by introducing new irrigation schemes and ensuring wider access to clean drinking water and rural road connectivity.

Odisha Vision 2036–2047: A Strategic Roadmap

Perhaps the most significant announcement of the day was the unveiling of the "Odisha Vision Document 2036–2047." Framed through months of public consultation and expert input, this document serves as a blueprint for the state’s long-term transformation. It outlines two key economic milestones: transforming Odisha into a $500 billion economy by 2036, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the state’s formation on linguistic lines, and achieving a $1.5 trillion economy by 2047, aligning with India’s centenary of independence.

The vision lays a strong emphasis on innovation-driven growth, port-led industrial expansion, agricultural modernization, disaster resilience, and the development of human capital. A unique initiative titled “36 for 36” has been introduced, integrating 36 flagship programs aligned with the 2036 vision, ensuring that the government’s developmental goals are synchronized across all sectors.

Cultural Revival Through Heritage Tourism

In addition to economic and infrastructure goals, the state is turning its attention to cultural heritage. The launch of the Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana marks a concerted effort to preserve and promote the legacy of Odisha’s great personalities. The scheme envisions transforming the birthplaces of iconic Odia figures into living museums with interpretation centers, libraries, statues, and cultural exhibits. The objective is not merely to honor the past but also to develop these locations into vibrant centers of cultural tourism, attracting visitors and scholars alike.

Empowering Women and Recognizing Grassroots Achievers

Prime Minister Modi also used the occasion to spotlight women's empowerment. Several women achievers were felicitated, particularly recipients of the “Lakhpati Didi” award, a recognition given to women from rural India who have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and entrepreneurial success. The acknowledgment of such grassroots leadership serves as a symbol of the inclusive development that the Vision Document aims to institutionalize across the state.

Mega Investments Fuel Odisha’s Industrial Future

Parallel to the central initiatives, the Odisha government has announced major investment projects across various sectors. The Vedanta Group is set to invest ₹1.28 lakh crore in Dhenkanal to establish a 3 million tonnes per annum aluminium smelter alongside a 4,900 MW captive power plant—expected to generate approximately 30,000 jobs. Additionally, major firms such as SRF, Jindal India Steel Tech, and Shyam Steel have pledged thousands of crores for manufacturing and chemical plants in Odisha, promising a new wave of industrial growth.

The state’s Special Investment Regions (SIRs) policy and focus on downstream industries, especially in metals and textiles, is attracting consistent private sector interest. These industrial corridors are expected to create over 1.5 lakh new jobs in the coming years.

Tourism as a Catalyst for Youth Engagement

With an eye on the state's rich geography and youth population, Odisha has also introduced the Adventure Tourism Guidelines–2025, designed to position it as India’s next adventure-tourism hotspot. Activities such as river rafting, parasailing, trekking, and hot-air ballooning will now be regulated under a robust safety and training framework. Youth across all districts will receive training and certification to help develop tourism as a viable career path and employment sector.

Conclusion: Odisha’s Transformation in Motion

PM Modi’s visit marks more than the inauguration of projects—it signals a vision, a direction, and a determined call for transformation. Through the synergy of state and central government initiatives, Odisha is being positioned as an industrial, cultural, and economic powerhouse of eastern India. The state’s people-first approach, blended with a forward-looking vision, sustainable mobility solutions, and monumental industrial investments, sets the stage for a bold and inclusive future.

As Odisha marches toward its centenary, the goals may be ambitious, but the foundation laid today suggests they are not far-fetched.

(Sources: NDTV, Economic Times, PIB)