Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi Invites Indian Diaspora to Invest in Odisha with New Liaison Minister

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has urged the Indian diaspora to invest in Odisha. He announced plans to appoint a nodal minister to facilitate engagement with interested NRIs and Persons of Indian Origin. This announcement was made during the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention, attended by President Droupadi Murmu.

Majhi expressed his excitement about the state's development, stating, "The Pravasis who want to engage with the state for projects, investment and others, will be supported and facilitated. I am elated to announce that my government will appoint a nodal minister from the department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture for this purpose."

Odia Diaspora's Role in Development

The chief minister highlighted the importance of the Odia diaspora as a "third engine" for Odisha's growth. He seeks their cooperation in promoting Odia culture globally. Majhi also met Ravi Kumar S, CEO of Cognizant, promising support for establishing a major campus in Bhubaneswar.

During discussions with the diaspora, Majhi assured similar support for those wishing to set up projects in Odisha. He mentioned a special policy for overseas Odias, with the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department as the nodal department.

Infrastructure and Cultural Initiatives

Majhi noted improvements in air services in Odisha with central government support. Plans are underway to start flights to Kuwait and Qatar. He described the 18th PBD as "historic," with Bhubaneswar adorned with lights and cultural events.

The state organised festivals like the sea beach festival at Puri and bird festival at Chilika. Majhi encouraged the diaspora to revisit Odisha and explore its rich heritage.

Appeals and Acknowledgements

Taking inspiration from Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal, Majhi urged the diaspora to bring foreign friends to India and Odisha. He congratulated Pravasi Bharatiya Samman award winners and thanked PM Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and President Murmu for their support.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan encouraged teaching the Odia language at home. Guests from abroad shared their experiences in Odisha during the event.

The PBD convention marked a significant step towards progress for Odisha. Majhi emphasised that successful industrialists, professionals, and technocrats among the diaspora should join this journey.