Bhubaneswar, 03 July (H.S.): In a major step towards strengthening its strategic partnership with Japan and attracting global investments, the Odisha Government on Friday signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with Japan's IHI Corporation and ACME Group for the development of large-scale clean energy and industrial projects in the state.

The agreement was signed during an Interaction with Japanese Business Delegates organised by the state government, aimed at deepening economic ties with Japan and showcasing Odisha's growing industrial ecosystem, investor-friendly policies and world-class infrastructure.

The proposed projects involve a cumulative investment of ₹67,000 crore and are expected to generate employment for nearly 7,000 people across the state. The collaboration focuses on promoting clean energy, advanced manufacturing and sustainable industrial development while facilitating technology transfer and strengthening Odisha's position as a preferred investment destination.

As part of the proposal, a 0.4 MTPA Green Ammonia Plant will be established at Gopalpur-Tata SEZ with an investment of ₹20,000 crore, creating around 3,400 jobs. The project also includes the development of a jetty-less floating terminal with an additional investment of ₹1,000 crore. Another 0.8 MTPA Green Ammonia Project has been proposed at Paradip with an investment of ₹34,000 crore, expected to generate employment for about 3,600 people. In addition, a Green Methanol Project involving an investment of ₹12,000 crore has also been proposed.

The event was attended by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Industries and Skill Development & Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, the Chief Secretary, senior state government officials, representatives of the World Bank Group, officials from the Embassy of Japan, and senior executives from IHI Corporation, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, ACME Group and several leading Japanese companies.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said Japan has been one of India's most trusted development partners, known globally for technological excellence and innovation. He described the agreement with IHI Corporation and ACME Group as a significant milestone in Odisha's industrial journey and invited more Japanese companies to invest in the state. He said the partnership would help create quality employment, encourage technology transfer and contribute to the vision of 'Samruddha Odisha 2036' and 'Viksit Bharat 2047'.

Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain said Odisha offers a highly conducive environment for global investors through progressive policies, robust infrastructure and responsive governance. He reiterated the government's commitment to providing seamless support for the timely implementation of investment projects and strengthening long-term engagement with Japanese industries.

IHI Corporation President Hiroshi Ide said Odisha's strategic location, strong industrial base, abundant natural resources and commitment to sustainable development make it an attractive destination for investment. He expressed confidence that the partnership would combine Japanese technology and engineering expertise with Odisha's industrial strengths to contribute to India's clean energy transition while creating long-term economic value and employment.

ACME Group Founder and Chairman Manoj Upadhyay said the collaboration would accelerate the development of globally competitive clean energy ecosystems by bringing together government support, advanced technology and project development expertise. He said Odisha's industrial ecosystem provides a strong foundation for next-generation green energy projects that will strengthen India's position in the global clean energy value chain.

Representatives from IHI Corporation, ACME Group, Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company and other Japanese firms appreciated the Odisha Government's proactive investment facilitation measures and expressed interest in exploring future collaborations in sectors such as green hydrogen, green ammonia, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, shipbuilding, machinery, steel, chemicals, logistics, industrial infrastructure and renewable energy.

The initiative marks another significant milestone in the growing economic partnership between Odisha and Japan and is expected to accelerate investments in clean energy and advanced manufacturing while creating new opportunities for MSMEs, ancillary industries, local enterprises and skilled youth across the state.

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda