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Odisha is poised for a transformative leap in its economic journey, with the state government approving eight major industrial projects worth Rs 1,51,239.50 crore on June 16, 2025. These initiatives, greenlit during the 41st High-Level Clearance Authority (HLCA) meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, are set to create over 60,200 jobs across six districts. Spanning sectors like aluminium, chemicals, steel, and textiles, these projects signal Odisha’s ambition to become a leading industrial hub in India.
Key Projects Approved in the 41st HLCA Meeting
The 41st HLCA meeting marked a significant milestone for Odisha’s industrial growth, approving eight projects that promise to reshape the state’s economic landscape. These initiatives, spread across Dhenkanal, Ganjam, Jajpur, Keonjhar, Khurda, and Sambalpur, reflect a strategic focus on diverse industries. Below, we highlight three flagship projects driving this transformation.
What Is Vedanta’s Aluminium Smelter Project in Dhenkanal?
Vedanta Limited is investing Rs 1.28 lakh crore to establish a 3 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) aluminium smelter with a 4,900 MW captive power plant in Dhenkanal. This project, expected to create 30,000 jobs, will strengthen Odisha’s position as a global aluminium hub. It will cater to industries like automotive and construction, boosting both local employment and national supply chains.
How Will SRF Ltd’s Chemical Plant Benefit Ganjam?
In Ganjam, SRF Limited is setting up a specialty chemicals and refrigerant manufacturing unit with an annual capacity of 2 lakh metric tonnes, backed by a Rs 10,000 crore investment. This project is projected to generate 20,000 jobs, offering significant opportunities for residents. By focusing on high-value chemicals, it will enhance Ganjam’s industrial profile and create supply chain opportunities for small businesses in the region.
Why Is Sportking India’s Textile Unit Important for Khurda?
The textiles sector is gaining momentum with Sportking India Limited’s Rs 2,055 crore investment in Khurda. This cotton and blended yarn manufacturing unit, with a capacity of 62,000 MT annually, will create 4,800 jobs. For Khurda residents, this project promises stable employment and economic growth, positioning the district as a key player in Odisha’s textile industry.
Sector-wise Breakdown of Investments
Odisha’s recent approvals cover a range of sectors, showcasing the state’s commitment to diversified economic growth. These industries are set to drive job creation and regional development. The aluminium sector is a major focus, with Vedanta’s Rs 1.28 lakh crore smelter in Dhenkanal leading the way. This project will meet growing demand in sectors like aerospace and renewable energy, reinforcing Odisha’s global standing in aluminium production. Smaller ancillary projects in metal-based industries further support this growth, creating a robust ecosystem for local businesses. The chemicals sector is expanding with SRF Ltd’s Rs 10,000 crore unit in Ganjam, producing specialty chemicals and refrigerants.
In steel, Shyam Steel Manufacturing Limited’s Rs 2,490 crore integrated plant in Keonjhar, with a 0.53 MTPA capacity, will create 2,370 jobs. These projects diversify Odisha’s industrial base, moving beyond traditional mining to high-value manufacturing. Textiles are emerging as a key sector, with Sportking India’s Khurda project and other proposals like MAS India Clothing’s Rs 885 crore fabric mill. Additionally, sectors like renewable energy and logistics are gaining traction, as seen in earlier approvals like Iron Triangle Limited’s Rs 310.75 crore battery storage system in Balangir, reflecting Odisha’s broad-based industrial strategy.
How Many Jobs Will Odisha’s Industrial Projects Create?
The Rs 1.51 lakh crore investment is set to transform Odisha’s economy, creating opportunities for residents across various districts. These projects are expected to generate over 60,200 jobs, with Vedanta’s smelter contributing 30,000 and SRF Ltd’s chemical plant adding 20,000. Other initiatives, like Sportking India’s textile unit (4,800 jobs) and Shyam Steel’s plant (2,370 jobs), will provide stable employment for skilled and unskilled workers, addressing unemployment in rural and urban areas alike.
Spanning six districts, these projects will stimulate local economies by creating demand for goods, services, and infrastructure. For example, Dhenkanal’s aluminium smelter will spur ancillary industries, while Ganjam’s chemical plant will boost small businesses. This balanced regional growth will improve living standards and infrastructure across Odisha.
What Is the Samruddha Odisha 2036 Vision?
The “Samruddha Odisha by 2036” vision aims to make Odisha a prosperous state by its centenary. These projects build on the state’s strengths in mining while expanding into chemicals, textiles, and green energy, ensuring inclusive growth for residents across districts.
By approving projects worth Rs 5.67 lakh crore across 62 initiatives since June 2024, Odisha is contributing to India’s “Viksit Bharat 2047” goal. These efforts position the state as a key player in national economic self-reliance, with a focus on job creation and industrial diversification.
What Is the Role of the High-Level Clearance Authority?
The HLCA, chaired by CM Mohan Charan Majhi, has streamlined project approvals, clearing 62 projects worth Rs 5.67 lakh crore in six meetings since June 2024. This efficient process has made Odisha a preferred destination for investors. The government is revamping the single-window clearance system, expanding land banks, and developing logistics corridors. The Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation’s Rs 229 crore investment in utility corridors further supports industrial growth, ensuring seamless project implementation.
