Bhubaneswar, Jan 9: The State Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today approved the Odisha Skill Development Project (OSDP) Phase II, a five-year initiative to be implemented from 2025-26 to 2029-30 with assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The project aims to strengthen and modernise Odisha's skill development ecosystem in line with Odisha Vision 2036 and 2047, positioning the State as a leading hub for advanced, industry-aligned skilling. OSDP Phase II builds on the strong foundation laid under Phase I (2019-2024), which led to the establishment of the World Skill Center (WSC), international benchmarking of training programmes, leadership development of faculty, and improved performance in national and international skill competitions.
The next phase will focus on expanding advanced skilling infrastructure, deepening industry linkages, and ensuring wider access to future-ready skills.
The project involves expansion of the existing World Skill Center at Bhubaneswar with new courses in logistics, digital animation, and healthcare, along with the establishment of three new campuses including Campus II at Bhubaneswar for semiconductor, IT/ITeS, and aerospace sectors; Campus III at Berhampur for hospitality and marine sectors; and Campus IV at Sambaipur for agri-tech, renewable energy, retail, and visual merchandising.
In parallel, five Government ITIs will be upgraded as Utkarsh ITIs with enhanced intake capacity, introduction of new-age trades, and strong industry partnerships, supported by a structured roadmap for strengthening all 72 Government ITIs across the State.
To ensure global standards and quality, reputed knowledge partners such as ITEES Singapore will be engaged for mutually agreed courses, bringing internationally benchmarked expertise in curriculum design, assessment systems, faculty development, and institutional transformation.
Strong emphasis will be placed on industry partnerships and industry-recognised certifications to enhance employability, career progression, and global mobility. Once fully operational, OSDP Phase II is expected to benefit over 60,000 youth annually, with special focus on increasing participation of girls, SC/ST communities, Divyangjan, and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups.
The total approved outlay for the project is Rs 1,140 crore, to be implemented over five years through a 50:50 funding arrangement comprising Rs 570 crore as loan assistance from ADB and Rs 570 crore from the State Budget.
