The Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025 is poised to be a very important event for the state of Odisha. Scheduled for January 28-29, this two-day conclave aims to attract both global and domestic investors. It will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Bhubaneswar. The event seeks to highlight Odisha’s industrial potential while promoting its vision for inclusive and sustainable growth.
Objectives of the Conclave
The conclave has three main themes – Start-Up Odisha, Skilled in Odisha, and Women Entrepreneurship. These themes are designed to position Odisha as a global industrial hub. The event aims to facilitate discussions and collaborations among industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators. It is framed as a transformative journey rather than just an investment summit.
Participation and Global Outreach
Over 7,500 delegates are expected to attend, including more than 100 international delegates from 20 countries. Key participating nations include Singapore, Australia, and Malaysia. Delegations from Vietnam, Zimbabwe, Kazakhstan, Venezuela, the UK, the US, and Nepal will also be present. This diverse participation is set to enhance Odisha’s visibility on the global industrial map.
Key Sectors Highlighted
The conclave will focus on several key sectors. These include technical textiles, downstream petrochemicals, and specialty metals. Additionally, renewable energy and green fuels will be topics of discussion. The event aims to promote the circular economy and sustainable development, aligning with global trends.
Cultural Integration
The conclave will not only focus on business but also on Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. Performances by the Odisha Dance Academy and a medley by the Culture Department will take place during the event. The evenings will feature a spectacular Drone Show, showcasing the blend of tradition and technology.
Make in Odisha Expo
The Make in Odisha Expo will run concurrently with the conclave. It will feature nearly 150 exhibitors showcasing innovative products and solutions. While the expo is exclusive to delegates during the conclave, it will open to the general public on January 30. This provides an opportunity for local citizens to engage with the industrial developments in their state.
Future Vision
The conclave is a key step towards achieving the vision of Samrudh Odisha 2036. It also contributes to India’s national aspiration of Viksit Bharat 2047. The event aims to position Odisha as a key player in India’s industrial growth story, encouraging an environment conducive to investment and innovation.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of women entrepreneurship in driving economic growth in developing regions.
- Critically examine the role of sustainable practices in industrial development in India.
- Explain the concept of the circular economy. How does it contribute to environmental sustainability?
- What are the key challenges facing start-ups in India? Discuss with suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the significance of women entrepreneurship in driving economic growth in developing regions.
- Women entrepreneurs contribute to job creation, reducing unemployment rates.
- They enhance household incomes and improve community welfare, encouraging economic stability.
- Women-led businesses often focus on sectors like textiles and food processing, vital for local economies.
- Encouraging women entrepreneurship promotes gender equality and empowers women socially and economically.
- Access to finance and training programs can further enhance women’s participation in entrepreneurship.
2. Critically examine the role of sustainable practices in industrial development in India.
- Sustainable practices reduce environmental degradation, essential for long-term industrial viability.
- They enhance resource efficiency, leading to cost savings and improved competitiveness.
- Adopting green technologies can attract foreign investment and align with global sustainability trends.
- Government policies and initiatives promote sustainable practices, influencing industry standards.
- Challenges include the initial high costs of sustainable technologies and lack of awareness among industries.
3. Explain the concept of the circular economy. How does it contribute to environmental sustainability?
- A circular economy focuses on minimizing waste and maximizing resource use through recycling and reuse.
- It contrasts with the traditional linear economy model of “take, make, dispose”.
- By extending product life cycles, it reduces resource consumption and environmental impact.
- It encourages innovation in product design and encourages sustainable business practices.
- Implementing a circular economy can lead to reductions in carbon emissions and pollution.
4. What are the key challenges facing start-ups in India? Discuss with suitable examples.
- Access to funding remains barrier, with many start-ups struggling to secure investments.
- Regulatory hurdles can complicate business operations, stifling innovation and growth.
- Skilled talent shortages hinder start-up scalability and operational efficiency.
- Market competition from established players can limit start-up visibility and customer acquisition.
- Examples include challenges faced by tech start-ups in navigating complex compliance regulations.
