Bhubaneswar, 16 December (H.S.): Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday launched the Odisha Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Policy 2025 at the Odisha Pharma Summit 2025 held at a city hotel, asserting that the state is rapidly emerging as a major pharma hub in eastern India.

In the presence of the Chief Minister, 45 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) worth ₹6,263 crore were signed with various pharma and medical device companies, which are expected to generate around 38,406 employment opportunities. The MoUs include 32 agreements in the pharmaceutical sector, 12 in the medical devices segment, and one for a landmark industrial park proposal.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister also laid the foundation stone for a dedicated Pharma Park and a Medical Device Park in Khordha.

Addressing the gathering, Majhi said the state government is making all necessary efforts to position Odisha as investors’ preferred destination. He noted that while metals, minerals and chemicals have traditionally formed the backbone of Odisha’s industry, the government is now focusing on infrastructure development, innovation and a knowledge-based economy to ensure inclusive growth.

Highlighting recent developments, the Chief Minister said Odisha has witnessed significant industrial diversification over the past one-and-a-half years, with investments flowing into sectors such as chemicals, petrochemicals, green energy, fintech, electronics, semiconductors, textiles, tourism and now pharmaceuticals.

He said the revamped pharma policy is among the best in the country and provides comprehensive incentives for research, investment, infrastructure creation and employment generation. Expressing confidence, Majhi said Odisha’s pharma sector would scale new heights in the coming years, with its products gaining global recognition for quality, affordability and med-tech excellence.

The Chief Minister further underlined Odisha’s strong industrial ecosystem, citing its rich mineral resources, three major ports, two commercial airports, a 575-km coastline, robust rail and road connectivity, surplus power, adequate water resources and a skilled workforce, making the state well-positioned to emerge as a leading manufacturing hub in eastern India.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda