Industry Odisha Bureau, Oct 07: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Tuesday pitched the state for another modern defence manufacturing unit. He cited the growth of the state’s metal downstream, semiconductor and IT sectors.
Speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony for the second Shakti engine production line at the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Koraput division in Sunabeda, Majhi said Odisha was working to emerge as a major industrial and defence hub. He also stressed the need for indigenous technology and greater self reliance in defence production.
He said, “It is a matter of pride and glory for the people of Odisha that the HAL Koraput Division is currently executing a project worth Rs 1,600 crore,”
Majhi said HAL Koraput had contributed significantly to the country’s security over the past six decades. The event marked the foundation of the second Shakti engine production line. It also marked symbolic handover of the 2,000th engine to the Indian Air Force.
The CM also highlighted the proposed 870-acre Odisha Silicon Valley at Naraj and semiconductor projects involving SiCSem and 3DGS. He said these initiatives would strengthen Odisha’s advanced manufacturing and technology ecosystem. Further, he also mentioned, ““The new-age industries in Odisha would facilitate the manufacturing of defence equipment.”
According to Majhi, the expansion of metal, semiconductor and IT capabilities could create a stronger base for future defence projects in Odisha
The state government, he said, remains committed to attracting investments that combine advanced technology, manufacturing and defence capabilities.
