Paradip to get green hydrogen hub, airport and cruise terminal: CM Majhi unveils vision at Kalinga Baliyatra

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, NOVEMBER 4, 2025

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday announced a transformative development roadmap for Paradip, declaring that the port city will soon become a green hydrogen hub and a focal point of Odisha’s industrial and tourism growth. Inaugurating the Kalinga Baliyatra at Paradip, the Chief Minister described the grand celebration as a “unique blend of business and tradition,” symbolizing both Odisha’s glorious maritime past and its dynamic economic future.

Calling Paradip the “gateway to Odisha’s economic progress,” Majhi said the state government has earmarked ₹500 crore for developing a cruise terminal on the Mangala River to bolster tourism. He also revealed that an airport will soon come up in Paradip, enhancing its connectivity by air in addition to existing road and waterway networks.

“Paradip will not only serve as a hub of trade and industry but also become a major centre for clean energy and tourism. Our government is committed to transforming Paradip into a green hydrogen hub and integrating it into Odisha’s growth story,” said the Chief Minister.

He described Baliyatra as a living testament to the courage and enterprise of Odia Sadhavas (ancient seafarers) who once sailed to distant shores across the seas to establish trade and cultural ties with Southeast Asia. “This festival reminds us that our ancestors conquered the waves, carried their ships to the Golden Islands, and built lasting relationships through trade, art, and knowledge,” Majhi said.

Highlighting Paradip’s evolution, the Chief Minister noted that the port town has today become a strategic industrial centre in eastern India, catalysing employment, trade, and exports. “Paradip Port is one of India’s most important commercial ports. It is the cornerstone of our state’s economic growth, providing direct and indirect employment to thousands,” he added.

Majhi said the state government’s focus on port-based industrialization is laying the foundation for rapid economic transformation in Jagatsinghpur district and beyond. Plans are underway to develop industrial corridors, expand tourism infrastructure along Paradip beach, and build a greenfield airport that will integrate Paradip into the proposed Bhubaneswar-Khordha-Jatni-Cuttack-Puri metropolitan corridor.

“In the coming days, Jagatsinghpur district, especially Paradip, will witness unprecedented development. The double engine government will work at double speed to ensure that industries, employment, and infrastructure expand simultaneously. The triple synergy between the Centre, the State, and local leadership is already yielding results,” the Chief Minister said.

He emphasised that global companies have already shown keen interest in investing in the region, attracted by its strategic location, industrial infrastructure, and the government’s investor-friendly policies. “With rapid industrialization, Paradip will not only strengthen Odisha’s economy but will also contribute significantly to India’s self-reliance in clean energy and manufacturing,” Majhi said.

The Chief Minister also underscored the importance of empowering local artisans and entrepreneurs, stating that events like the Paradip Bali Yatra create vast opportunities for small businesses. “This festival provides new markets for our traditional crafts and showcases the entrepreneurial spirit of our people. Empowering our artisans and traders is a top priority for the Odisha government,” he affirmed.

Industries and Skill Development Minister Sampada Chandra Swain, who joined the event, said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Majhi, Odisha is steadily moving toward a vision of “Prosperous Odisha.” He noted that the government’s commitment is reflected in its actions since assuming office, with sustained focus on industry, skill development, and cultural pride.

The event witnessed the participation of Jagatsinghpur MP Bibhuprasad Tarai, Tirtol MLA Ramakant Bhoi, and Paradip Port Authority Chairman P. L. Haranadh. District Collector J. Sonal delivered the welcome address, while Superintendent of Police Ankit Kumar Verma proposed the vote of thanks. The program was coordinated by District Information and Public Relations Officer Pratichi Tanaya Mohanty.