OMB to drive Odisha’s emergence as Eastern India’s Maritime Powerhouse
Bhubaneswar, Aug 12 (UNI) The Odisha Maritime Board (OMB) will adopt innovative financing models and forge global collaborations to strengthen Odisha’s position as a leading maritime
hub in Eastern India.
The OMB is pursuing an ambitious roadmap to become a key driver of the State’s Blue Economy and overall maritime growth.
Principal Secretary of the Commerce & Transport Department, Usha Padhee, on Monday reviewed the Board’s strategic plans to modernise and expand port infrastructure, enhance maritime connectivity, promote coastal shipping, and boost economic activities along Odisha’s 480 km coastline.
During the review, Padhee conducted a detailed assessment of ongoing and upcoming initiatives, stressing the importance of integrated development for port-led industries, sustainable shipping practices, and skill-building in the maritime sector.
She noted that the OMB is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the State’s maritime future, from driving investments in port infrastructure to creating jobs and improving trade competitiveness.
“We must align our efforts with national and global best practices to harness the full potential of our coastline,” she said.
The meeting also identified key focus areas, including the development of existing ports, facilitation of new port projects, capacity expansion, promotion of the Blue Economy, and encouragement of marine tourism.
Other topics discussed included fisheries, renewable energy projects, coastal community livelihoods, environment-friendly port operations, waste management systems, and climate resilience measures.
The session further examined steps to improve the Ease of Doing Business, streamline clearances, attract private investments, and adopt digital solutions for faster operations.
Formed to provide unified governance for the State’s port sector, the Odisha Maritime Board is working on a roadmap aligned with the Government of Odisha’s vision for inclusive and
sustainable growth.
With strategic planning, modern infrastructure, and policy reforms, the OMB aims to transform Odisha from a shoreline state into a maritime powerhouse, according to official sources.
