"OSDA Aims To Make Odisha Hub For Availability Of Skilled Workforce"

Can you provide insights into the strategies in place to maximize employment generation from projects and enhance skill development in the state of Odisha?

The Government of Odisha has implemented innovative strategies to address employment challenges and enhance skill development through diverse projects. To make the youth of the state employable across industries, the state has given special emphasis on skilling. The state government has also started the “Odisha Skill Development Authority” which aims to make Odisha the hub for availability of skilled ed workforce. The Skill Development and Technical Education Department, Government of Odisha through the workforce. The authority aims to upskill around 15 lakhs youth in the next 5 years and set as an example for availability of skilled and Odisha Skill Development Authority (OSDA) established the World Skill Center (WSC) which is a premier advanced skill training institute. The project of establishing the WSC (Odisha Skill Development Project), is assisted by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) with Institute of Technical Education Services (ITEES), Singapore as the knowledge partner. The WSC will impart advanced skill training in eight trades from engineering and service sectors. To provide employment to the local people and help in the upliftment of the women in the state, the state is targeting to promote employment intensive sectors with a special focus on promoting women employment. Dedicated skilling programs are being provided to make the workforce employable in the industries.

In parallel, support for small businesses and entrepreneurial endeavours streamlines growth opportunities, contributing to job creation. In essence, Odisha's comprehensive plan revolves around skill development, local employment, and readiness for contemporary job demands, bolstered by a commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic inclusivity.

Are there any plans for collaboration with private sector entities or international partners to strengthen the industrial landscape and employment generation in Odisha?

The Government has been successful in attracting investments which has contributed significantly to generating employment. This is evident from the figures of employment generation potential by the companies whose projects have been recently approved by the Government.

Additionally, Odisha is also reaching out globally, participating in trade events and meetings to bring in foreign investments and new technologies. These partnerships not only benefit local industries but also promote knowledge exchange and skill improvement. The government strongly believes in

Could you elaborate on the potential long-term benefits for the local communities and districts where these projects are being implemented?

Projects in Odisha bring long-term benefits to local communities and districts by creating jobs and boosting the economy. Local hiring and skill programs increase income, helping people improve their livelihood.

These projects focus on inclusive growth and reaching marginalized groups and aims at building more businesses which in turn creates a ripple effect of economic opportunities and empowering individuals.

Infrastructure development, like roads and utilities, not only helps the projects but also leaves a lasting impact on the area. Better connectivity attracts more investments and economic activities, making the region more vibrant.

The government's commitment to sustainable practices protects the environment and saves the natural resources for the future. Overall, these projects make positive and lasting changes in local communities, improving socio economic and environmental aspects.

Regarding the projects in textiles, mining, and renewable energy, what are the anticipated environmental impacts, and how is the government addressing sustainability concerns?

The impact of industrial operations on the environment is significant irrespective of the type of industry. The state of Odisha has always emphasized on following a sustainable approach beneficial for the environment. To support sustainable green practices across industrial units a subsidy of 25% of investment in new plant and machinery and cost of new technical civil works will be provided for green measures namely green buildings, wastewater treatment facilities, effluent treatment plant and deep-sea discharge facility. Furthermore, industries practicing at least 50% wastewater recovery through zero liquid discharge by setting up of new facilities as certified by the state pollution control board shall be provided up to 50% of capital subsidy on cost of relevant equipment.