The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, MAY 15, 2025
In a significant move to foster financial empowerment and industry-ready skill development among youth, the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), the country’s premier stock exchange, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Odisha. This partnership aims to promote financial literacy, enhance investor awareness, and equip students with critical skills required for the Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) sector.
The MoU was formally exchanged between Sriram Krishnan, Chief Business Development Officer, NSE, and Prashant Kishore Mohapatra, Special Secretary, Government of Odisha, in the presence of Suryabanshi Suraj, Minister, Higher Education, Sports & Youth Services, Odia Language, Literature & Culture, during a special ceremony held in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.
Under this landmark collaboration, NSE, with support from the state government, will roll out extensive awareness initiatives including seminars, roadshows, workshops, and educational camps across Odisha. These efforts are aimed at enhancing public understanding of financial markets and improving participation in the formal investment ecosystem.
Speaking at the occasion, Suryabanshi Suraj said, “The Government of Odisha is proud to partner with NSE to drive financial literacy, investor awareness and student skilling in our region. This MoU is not just about expanding financial knowledge; it is about empowering our students with the knowledge and skills they need with respect to the financial sector. Together, we are creating a robust financial ecosystem that will pave the way for sustainable growth in Odisha.”
The MoU also introduces NSE’s flagship Student Skilling Program to the youth of Odisha. This initiative is aligned with the Government of India’s vision to unlock the potential of human capital and promote both employability and entrepreneurship. By embedding industry-relevant curriculum and training methodologies, the program is set to enhance career readiness and economic participation among students.
Commenting on the collaboration, Sriram Krishnan said, “Our collaboration with the Government of Odisha highlights our shared dedication to boosting financial literacy and empowering investors. Through initiatives like investor awareness programs and the Student Skilling Program, we are fostering a well-informed community for both seasoned and new investors. Moreover, we are also committed to equipping the youth of Odisha with the vital skills needed to thrive in today’s ever-evolving financial landscape.”
Between April 2024 and March 2025, NSE has successfully conducted 14,679 Investor Awareness Programs across all 36 states and union territories, engaging over 8 lakh participants in 14 different languages. Additionally, more than 7,500 students have already benefitted from the Student Skilling Program across various states — highlighting its growing impact and nationwide reach.
