Odisha Set to Lead India’s Rare Earth & Marine Biotechnology Revolution
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh has unveiled a comprehensive roadmap positioning Odisha as a national hub for rare earth exploration, marine biotechnology, and space research.
The plan integrates Odisha’s marine resources, rare earth corridor, biotechnology ecosystem, and scientific institutions to create a science‑led development model for India’s Eastern Coastal Region.
Key initiatives include:
- Expansion of the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research & Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC), linking IIT Bhubaneswar, NIT Rourkela, IISER Berhampur, and ILS Bhubaneswar.
- Allocation of 50 acres to the Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar to strengthen biotechnology research under the Bio‑E3 framework (Economy, Environment, Employment).
- Establishment of a Space Research and Manufacturing Centre in Odisha, aligned with ISRO.
- Development of a Rare Earth Corridor, announced in the Union Budget 2026–27, for mining, processing, and advanced materials.
- Launch of the Deep Sea Fishing Mission (2026–2036) to unlock offshore fisheries potential.
- Creation of a Science City to promote public engagement and innovation.
- Participation of Odisha’s coastal districts in the ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar’ campaign for marine environment protection.
Dr Singh emphasised centre–state coordination to build a connected ecosystem across marine, mineral, biotechnology, and space sectors, making Odisha a cornerstone of India’s future scientific and industrial growth.
