Indus Valley Times

By Pravakar Sahoo

Paradip, Nov. 5: Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi today reaffirmed Odisha’s rich maritime legacy and outlined an ambitious vision for port-led economic growth while attending the Boita Bandana Utsav 2025 at Paradip Port.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said Boita Bandana and Bali Jatra are not merely cultural celebrations but living symbols of Odisha’s maritime heritage and the courage of ancient Kalinga’s seafarers, the Sadhabas. Their adventurous spirit, he said, continues to inspire Odias to achieve excellence and resilience in the modern era.

Highlighting Paradip Port’s central role in the state’s economic transformation, Shri Majhi said the port has evolved into one of India’s premier maritime hubs, with its cargo handling capacity rising from 71 million tonnes in 2015 to 150 million tonnes in 2025. Describing Paradip as the “gateway to modern Odisha’s progress,” he said it stands as the cornerstone of the state’s economy.

Under the Maritime India Vision 2030, Paradip Port aims to handle 300 million tonnes of cargo annually, and under Viksit Bharat 2047, its capacity will be enhanced to 500 million tonnes, transforming it into a mega port.

The Chief Minister also announced major maritime projects, including a new port at Bahuda in Ganjam with an investment of Rs 21,500 crore, a shipbuilding and repair yard at the Mahanadi river mouth worth Rs 24,700 crore, and a world-class cruise terminal in Puri. These projects, he said, will boost trade, tourism, and industry, positioning Odisha as a leading maritime state.

He added that the state government, in line with national initiatives such as Sagarmala, Gati Shakti, and the National Logistics Policy, is developing Coastal Economic Zones to strengthen the port-led economy. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has entered a new era of maritime trade,” he said, referencing the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

Industries Minister Shri Sampad Chandra Swain emphasized the government’s focus on industry, infrastructure, employment, and skill development around port-based growth. MP Dr. Bibhu Prasad Tarai said Paradip will soon emerge as a hub for new industrial, educational, and transport projects.

Paradip Port Authority Chairman Shri P. L. Haranadh credited the port’s recent record achievements to capacity expansion, efficiency, and teamwork. The event concluded with a boat tour aboard TARINI by the Chief Minister and dignitaries.