How Odisha's MSMEs Are Paving the Way for a Prosperous Future

Key Insights from the CII MSME Connect Series 2026

Bhubaneswar: The growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) alongside larger industries is essential for realizing the goals of 'Samruddha Odisha' and 'Viksit Bharat' by the years 2036 and 2047, according to Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, who spoke on Friday.

During his address at the 'CII MSME Connect Series 2026: Expanding Business Horizon' event, where he served as the chief guest, Swain, who also oversees Skill Development and Technical Education, emphasized that the development of MSMEs is crucial for achieving these ambitious visions.

He called for enhanced collaboration between MSMEs and larger anchor industries, as well as the mapping of industrial areas to uncover opportunities for MSMEs near major industries. The minister noted that Odisha has become the second most attractive investment destination in India, following Andhra Pradesh, under the 'Utkarsh Odisha' initiative.

At the event organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Odisha, Rashmita Panda, the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the MSME department, pointed out the robust growth of Odisha's MSME sector, with over 1.4 million MSMEs registered under the Udyam scheme.

Panda highlighted the significance of vendor development, improved industry connections, and simplifying the business environment, while also mentioning the government's focus on sectors like food processing, minerals, metals, and textiles.

Anil Kumar Singh, Chairman of the CII Odisha State Council, opened the event by discussing the vital role of MSMEs in job creation and economic development in Odisha, urging them to enhance their capabilities to take advantage of forthcoming industrial investments. Vice Chairman Manikanta Naik stressed the importance of collaboration between large industries and MSMEs to close the industrial growth gap and encouraged businesses to engage actively with industries for expansion.

Past Chairman Pradipta Mohanty emphasized the need for targeted development of MSMEs in textiles, food processing, and agriculture, along with the adoption of affordable infrastructure and technology.

Sanjay Pattnaik, another Past Chairman, pointed out the challenges MSMEs face, including issues related to land, financing, digital transformation, sustainability, and risk management.

The conference provided a platform for MSMEs to connect directly with industries such as Vedanta Ltd and Jindal Stainless Ltd, with over 200 MSMEs participating.