THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
MAY 5, 2026
“Odisha’s progress in agriculture and energy
transition is commendable, and the United Nations stands ready to deepen its
partnership through technology transfer, capacity building, and inclusive
development initiatives,” said UN Resident Coordinator in India, Stefan
Priesner, during his courtesy meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan
Singh Deo in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.
Held at Lok Seva
Bhawan, the high-level interaction brought together senior officials including
Additional Chief Secretary (Energy) Vishal Kumar Dev and Agriculture &
Farmers’ Empowerment Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Sachin Ramchandra
Jadhav. The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the
Government of Odisha and United Nations India across key development sectors.
Deputy Chief Minister
Singh Deo underscored that India is steadily advancing towards the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, with Odisha playing
a significant role through robust growth in agriculture, industry, and renewable
energy. He reiterated that agriculture remains the State Government’s top
priority, with sustained efforts to double farmers’ income, promote
climate-resilient practices, and strengthen agricultural value chains.
Tourism and heritage
conservation also featured prominently in the discussions. Highlighting
Odisha’s rich cultural legacy, including the iconic Konark Sun Temple, both
sides explored opportunities to develop sustainable tourism around emerging
heritage destinations such as Ranipur-Jharial and Harishankar. Singh Deo
emphasized the State’s commitment to positioning Odisha as a global tourism hub
while preserving its unique tribal and cultural identity.
The dialogue further explored avenues for enhanced UN support in transforming Odisha into an intellectual hub for renewable energy, strengthening rural livelihoods, and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Priesner lauded the State’s forward-looking approach and reaffirmed the UN’s willingness to collaborate in scaling up inclusive and sustainable development initiatives.
The meeting concluded on a note of shared resolve, with both sides agreeing to deepen cooperation and work together to ensure that Odisha’s development journey emerges as a model of sustainability, resilience, and self-reliance.
