Odisha’s SEZs Attract Over ₹22,800 Crore Investment, Create 18,000+ Jobs
Union Commerce Ministry confirms five operational SEZs, no new proposals under consideration
Bhubaneswar: Odisha currently has five operational Special Economic Zones (SEZs) that have together drawn investments worth ₹22,828.68 crore and created employment for more than 18,000 people, the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry informed the Rajya Sabha on Friday.
Replying to a question from MP Debashish Samantray, Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada stated that as of March 31, 2025, these SEZs have generated 18,321 jobs and attracted significant capital inflows. The data reflects the zones’ role as key contributors to industrial growth and employment generation in the state.
The minister clarified that the Centre has not received any new SEZ proposals from Odisha. Under the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005, new proposals must first be recommended by the respective state government before being evaluated by the Board of Approval.
Prasada also confirmed that there are no non-operational SEZs in Odisha, meaning all approved zones are currently functioning. This operational status, he noted, indicates effective utilisation of resources and infrastructure within the state’s industrial framework.
The SEZ model, established under the SEZ Act, 2005, is primarily driven by private investment, although public-private partnerships and joint ventures with central or state governments are also permitted. These zones are designed to encourage exports, enhance industrial output, and generate employment by offering policy incentives such as tax benefits, simplified procedures, and world-class infrastructure.
In Odisha, the operational SEZs span sectors including IT services, manufacturing, and metals, catering to both domestic and global markets. They are strategically located to take advantage of the state’s port facilities, mineral resources, and industrial clusters. Industry experts believe that the existing SEZs have helped diversify Odisha’s industrial base, which has traditionally been dominated by mining and heavy industries.
While the absence of new proposals might indicate a cautious approach by both the state and potential investors, officials point out that the focus remains on consolidating and expanding existing SEZ operations. Analysts suggest that sustained policy support, improved connectivity, and targeted incentives could help Odisha attract additional SEZ projects in the future.
The state’s SEZ performance is consistent with national trends, where operational zones continue to contribute to India’s export basket despite global economic uncertainties. By offering a competitive environment and fostering industry-specific clusters, SEZs remain a vital tool for regional economic development.
For Odisha, the continued success of its SEZs underscores the potential of such zones in driving industrial diversification, boosting exports, and generating high-quality jobs. The challenge ahead will be to maintain momentum, encourage fresh investment, and align SEZ development with emerging sectors such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and technology services.
