World Bank and Odisha Strengthen Development Partnership
Odisha has positioned itself as a prime destination for international investment and cooperation following a significant meeting between state leadership and global financial experts. On November 20, 2025, a high-level delegation from the World Bank visited Bhubaneswar to explore collaborative opportunities across multiple key sectors. The discussions took place at the Lok Seva Bhawan, where the visiting team met with Chief Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja and other senior administration officials.
Leading the international delegation were Johannes Zutt, the World Bank's South Asia Regional Vice President, and Regional Director Imad Fakhoury. They engaged with a robust team from the Odisha government, which included Development Commissioner Smt. Anu Garg and Principal Secretary of Agriculture Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee. The primary agenda focused on identifying areas where the World Bank could support the state's ambitious growth trajectory.
Chief Secretary Ahuja opened the dialogue by outlining Odisha's fiscal strength and its roadmap for the future. He emphasized the state’s vast potential in port-led growth, industrial expansion, and skill development. Building on this, Smt. Garg presented a detailed vision document aligned with "Developed Odisha 2036" and the national goal of "Developed India 2047". Her presentation highlighted the state's demographic advantage, mineral wealth, and long coastline while also candidly addressing challenges such as natural disaster management and the need for sustainable urban planning.
Sector-specific insights were provided by other senior officials. Dr. Padhee showcased the state's success in agricultural diversification and pest control, though he noted the persistent challenge of managing farming during natural calamities. Meanwhile, Shri Bhupendra Singh Poonia elaborated on the robust industrial ecosystem and the flow of investments into various regions.
The international delegates expressed strong appreciation for the state's strategic planning and proactive governance. They committed to offering support in critical areas including tourism, MSMEs, housing, and job creation. Furthermore, the team pledged to advocate for Odisha on global platforms, promoting it as a premier destination for tourism and capital investment.
High-Level Collaboration: World Bank executives, including the South Asia Regional VP, met with Odisha's top officials to discuss future development partnerships.
Strategic Vision Presented: State officials showcased the "Developed Odisha 2036" roadmap, highlighting fiscal stability, natural resources, and youth demographics.
Sectoral Focus: Discussions covered agriculture, industrial ecosystems, and disaster management, with specific presentations on pest control and investment flows.
Global Support Pledged: The World Bank committed to assisting with tourism, MSMEs, and urban housing while promoting Odisha internationally as a top investment destination.
