Bhubaneswar, February 14: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday laid the foundation for an apparel manufacturing park in Keonjhar, expected to generate 1,200 direct and indirect jobs. The park, developed by Hindalco Industries at Balabhadrapur, is part of the Aditya Birla Group's CSR initiative.

This project aims to transform Keonjhar into a garment production hub, producing nearly 2.4 million garments annually for domestic and global markets. Focused on local employment, especially for youth and women, it will also boost ancillary sectors like logistics and warehousing.

Majhi highlighted that this initiative represents a shift in Odisha’s industrial policy, fostering inclusive growth. It aligns with efforts to diversify industries beyond mining, improving incomes and livelihoods in resource-dependent areas. Hindalco's broader strategy includes similar units in Tikiri and Sambalpur, emphasizing skill training and sustainable livelihoods.