BHUBANESWAR: World Bank Group President Ajay Banga met Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar to discuss the state’s long-term development priorities, economic reforms and employment generation.
The meeting was attended by senior state government officials, including Odisha Chief Secretary Smt. Anu Garg, Development Commissioner Sri D.K. Singh, and representatives of the World Bank.
Discussions focused on accelerating inclusive and sustainable development, strengthening infrastructure, improving social sector outcomes, and promoting resilient, technology-driven growth. Both sides also emphasised the importance of skilling youth for private-sector employment.
The Chief Minister highlighted the state government’s flagship initiatives and reform measures aimed at boosting investment in infrastructure, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), agriculture, allied sectors and tourism to generate employment, particularly for youth and women. He said Odisha’s business-friendly reforms have helped attract investments worth Rs 2.5 lakh crore, ranking second in the country after Andhra Pradesh, according to December 2025 data published by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE).
Ajay Banga appreciated Odisha’s reform-oriented approach and focus on skill development. He noted that the upcoming World Bank Group–India strategic plan would build on successful models such as the Central Tool Room and Training Centre (CTTC), Bhubaneswar, as part of India’s $4 billion national initiative to upgrade Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).
The World Bank President reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting Odisha through technical assistance, policy advisory services and financial cooperation. He stressed the importance of strengthening institutional capacity and expanding public-private partnerships to sustain long-term growth.
Both sides also exchanged views on global and regional economic challenges, including infrastructure development, urbanisation and sustainable resource management. They agreed to explore new areas of cooperation aligned with Odisha’s development priorities.
The Chief Minister shared the state’s roadmap, “Odisha Vision 2036 & 2047: Viksit Odisha for Viksit Bharat,” and both sides expressed a shared commitment to deepen collaboration under the framework.
Odisha’s NSDP Rises to Rs 7.90 Lakh Crore, Growth Accelerates to 13.04 per cent: CM
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi stated on social media that Odisha has achieved significant economic growth, with its Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) increasing from Rs 6.99 lakh crore in 2023–24 to an estimated Rs 7.90 lakh crore in 2024–25, reflecting a growth rate of 13.04 per cent.
Citing the Economic Survey of India 2025–26, tabled in Parliament by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, the Chief Minister noted that the state’s per capita NSDP has reached Rs 1,68,966, indicating rising incomes and improved living standards.
“The Economic Survey of India reaffirms the steady progress Odisha is making towards inclusive and sustainable growth,” Majhi stated.
In a post on X, the Chief Minister highlighted the sectoral performance of the economy, emphasising that agriculture remains central to Odisha’s development strategy, with the state now ranking among the top three sunflower-producing states in the nation. He also pointed out advancements in financial inclusion, noting that bank deposits have increased to Rs 5.83 lakh crore, bolstering savings and investment across the state.
The Economic Survey of India (2025–26) affirms the steady progress Odisha is making on the path of inclusive and sustainable growth.
The State’s economy continues to strengthen. Odisha’s Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) has increased from ₹6.99 lakh crore in 2023–24 to an… pic.twitter.com/tLPbRZn7ng
— Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) January 29, 2026
Majhi further asserted that Odisha’s fiscal position remains robust, allowing for ongoing investments in infrastructure, education, and social welfare. He emphasised that improvements in education and poverty reduction reflect the government’s commitment to inclusive development.
The Chief Minister reiterated that the government is dedicated to converting economic growth into higher incomes, quality employment, and expanded opportunities for all citizens.
