Bhubaneswar: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday announced plans to develop a 1,000-acre industrial hub in Sambalpur, marking a major push to accelerate industrialisation in western Odisha.
Pradhan said the proposed industrial cluster aims to attract large-scale investments, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the region’s manufacturing ecosystem. Discussions are underway to earmark land for future industries, signalling long-term planning for industrial expansion in the region.
He also revealed proposals for the redevelopment of the Rourkela–Ranchi road corridor, which is expected to improve connectivity between industrial centres in Odisha and Jharkhand, facilitating smoother movement of goods and workforce.
Emphasising the need for industry-led skill development, the Union Minister launched several initiatives, including a Career Lounge, Model Career Centre, and an Entrepreneurs Development Forum. These platforms are intended to bridge the gap between education and employment by aligning academic training with industry requirements.
An MoU was signed to promote market-driven livelihoods, focusing on entrepreneurship, skill training, and employment-linked education models.
Officials said the initiatives reflect a broader strategy to transform western Odisha into an industrial and skill development hub, enhancing regional economic growth and youth employment prospects.
-OdishaAge
