Odisha on the way to becoming an IT hub: Minister announces ambitious plans!

On January 10, 2025, Indian Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Odisha would be developed into a prominent IT hub within the next two to three years. This came during a meeting with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in which creation of a modern IT institute in Odisha was also proposed.

The proposed IT institute will focus on advanced training in information technology (IT), artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor technology, electronics, machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT) and Industry 4.0 technologies. To boost the development of IT startups in the region, the 'Chip to Startup' initiative is being implemented at four engineering institutions: IIT Bhubaneswar, NIT Rourkela, IIIT Bhubaneswar and Parala Maharaja Engineering College, Berhampur.

Infrastructure and investments

Vaishnaw emphasized the central government's commitment to improve railway infrastructure in Odisha. Currently, projects worth over ₹73,000 crore are in progress in the region. More railway projects are also planned in the next five years, including introduction of six Vande Bharat trains and modernization of 59 stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

Chief Minister Majhi expressed his support for the initiative and assured to provide the required land and support for setting up the IT institute. Majhi also sought support in setting up a semiconductor industry in Odisha.