Bhubaneswar: Industries, Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain has underlined the pivotal role of Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officers in projecting Odisha’s industrial growth story on the global stage. “As India’s economic diplomats, you can effectively promote the opportunities available in Odisha and encourage potential investors to tap into these prospects,” Swain said, while interacting with IFS officers Manoj Kumar Mahapatra, Amit Narang, and Gloria Gangte at Lok Seva Bhawan here Wednesday.
He added that the contribution of IFS officers is not confined to diplomacy alone, but extends to fostering economic ties that can directly benefit states like Odisha. Swain expressed confidence that the visiting diplomats could also act as facilitators in securing overseas employment avenues for the state’s skilled workforce.
Odisha, he said, has emerged as a hub of trained manpower due to sustained focus on skill development and technical education. “The ambassadors can play a key role in connecting our skilled youth with global opportunities,” he remarked. Briefing the officers on the government’s initiatives, the minister highlighted the Odisha Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR)-2022, which has brought in fast-track decision-making, an effective single-window system, transparent governance, and an investor-friendly climate. These reforms, he noted, are designed to attract investments and boost ease of doing business. Swain further pointed to Odisha’s extensive network of World Skill Centres, supported through collaboration with ITE Singapore, which have enhanced the quality of technical training in ITIs and polytechnics.
By adopting modern training modules and global best practices, the state is nurturing a workforce that is employable, globally competitive, and ready to take on entrepreneurship challenges.
