Government plans to create 350,000 jobs by 2029 and fill 150,000 vacancies, says Governor Raghubar Das.

BHUBANESWAR: Governor Raghubar Das announced on Monday that over 3.5 lakh jobs will be created by 2029 through the Make-in-Odisha initiative in order to boost employment and growth in the state. In his address to the Assembly amidst the Opposition walkout on the first day of the budget session, the Governor stated that the government will ensure recruitment to all the 1.5 lakh vacant posts, including 65,000 within the next two years. Priority will be given to fill up vacancies earmarked for SC, ST, SEBC, PwD, sportspersons, and ex-servicemen.

The state government will enhance skilling efforts and apprenticeship avenues for youth and focus on the automobile, EVs, semiconductor, and IT/ITES sectors to create more employment opportunities.

Governor Das outlined the priorities of the maiden BJP government in the state, stating that it will work on the commitment to realize the mission of ‘Viksit Odisha’ by 2036 with pro-farmer policies, employment for youth, and the empowerment of women. “The motto of the government will be to reform, perform, and transform to usher in a new era of inclusive, rapid, and sustainable development,” he said.

He announced that the government will transform the agriculture sector by introducing the Samrudh Krushak Niti, under which paddy will be procured at `3,100 per quintal, and payment will be made within 48 hours via direct benefit transfer. Governor Das also stated that the government aims to create 25 lakh Lakhpati Didis in Odisha by 2027 by establishing industrial clusters for SHGs, providing facility management for product marketing and promotion. The state government will also offer incentives for SHGs that have successfully transitioned into SMSEs.

Furthermore, the Governor mentioned that the government will revolutionize learning by introducing an AI platform in government schools. All the government engineering colleges of the state will be upgraded, and 800 government schools will be developed into PM-SHRI schools.

The government is also going to implement the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) in Odisha, and 3,000 new doctors will be appointed across the state. The government will also ensure availability of gynecologists, pediatricians, and adequate nurses in all district hospitals.

Governor Das also reiterated the commitment to promote, preserve, and propagate Odia Asmita. An Odia Asmita Bhavan, palm leaf manuscript museum, Odia Translation Academy, Paika rebellion memorial, e-library, and Odia chair at national and international universities will be set up to further such objectives. Similarly, the government will also set up new generation, transmission, and distribution facilities to strengthen energy infrastructure and ensure reliable, quality, and affordable power to consumers.