By THE NEWSMAN OF INDIA.COM| Odisha’s sustained focus on reform, innovation and inclusive development has received a significant endorsement from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), with its Country Director for India, Mio Oka, expressing confidence in the state’s clear vision and execution-oriented governance under the leadership of Chief Secretary Anu Garg.

Following a productive meeting with the Chief Secretary, Mio Oka appreciated her “clear direction, strong leadership and focus on action,” underscoring the growing confidence of international development partners in Odisha’s governance model. The discussions reflected a shared commitment to deepen the ADB–Odisha partnership across several priority sectors, including Skill Development Phase II, the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradeep Economic Region (BCPPER), and disaster resilience in the energy sector.

One of the most notable examples of this successful collaboration is the World Skill Center in Bhubaneswar. Developed through the partnership between the Government of Odisha and ADB, the institution has emerged as a benchmark for industry-responsive and internationally aligned skill development. Its growing recognition and the interest it has attracted from other Indian states highlight Odisha’s commitment to preparing a globally competitive workforce.

Encouraged by these achievements, ADB has expressed its enthusiasm to expand cooperation with the state by promoting technology, innovation, climate resilience and employment generation. These initiatives are expected to further strengthen Odisha’s economic ecosystem while creating high-quality opportunities for its youth.

The Government of Odisha is also moving ahead with the ambitious Bhubaneswar-Cuttack-Puri-Paradeep Economic Region (BCPPER), envisioned as a flagship model under the City Economic Region concept. The initiative aims to accelerate integrated regional development by enhancing connectivity, industrial growth, urban planning and economic competitiveness.

The positive observations made by the ADB Country Director reflect the increasing recognition of Odisha’s governance approach, characterised by policy continuity, efficient implementation and a strong development-oriented vision. Under the stewardship of Chief Secretary Anu Garg, the state continues to strengthen partnerships with leading global institutions, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth, resilience and inclusive prosperity.

As Odisha advances its development agenda, its collaboration with ADB stands as a testament to the state’s determination to build a future-ready economy that balances infrastructure, human capital and environmental resilience. The expanding partnership is expected to play an important role in supporting Odisha’s journey towards long-term, inclusive and sustainable development.

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