Odisha and Singapore Forge Strategic Partnerships with Landmark MoUs
Odisha and Singapore strengthened their collaboration by signing a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on Friday, aiming to drive growth across various key sectors.
These agreements focus on semiconductors, new energy, industrial parks, skill development, green hydrogen, and the development of a new city in Bhubaneswar.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
President Shanmugaratnam’s visit to Odisha is part of a broader effort to explore business opportunities and foster stronger ties ahead of the Utkarsh Odisha (Make in Odisha Conclave-2025), scheduled for January 28-29.
Welcoming Singapore’s President to Odisha
Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam was warmly received by Chief Minister Majhi and Union Minister Pradhan at the Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar.
The President later toured the World Skill Centre, including the Vertical Transportation Lab and Travelator Lab, reflecting Odisha’s commitment to technical education and innovation.
Chief Minister Majhi emphasized Odisha’s proactive approach to attracting investments.
He explained that his government had engaged with investors in Delhi and Mumbai and conducted roadshows to showcase the state’s potential.
He also highlighted his recent trip to Singapore, where he invited President Shanmugaratnam to visit Odisha.
Majhi expressed satisfaction with the results of these efforts, noting that eight MoUs had been signed in various sectors.
He added that these initiatives had been achieved within just seven months of his government assuming power, setting the stage for significant economic benefits for Odisha.
Strategic Agreements for Key Sectors
The MoUs cover a range of transformative sectors. One agreement involves the establishment of industrial parks in Odisha in partnership with Sembcorp, Singapore.
Another focuses on creating a green hydrogen corridor, a crucial step toward clean energy adoption.
In the petrochemical sector, the Odisha Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) has partnered with Surbana Jurong, Singapore, to drive growth in the state.
Additionally, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority signed an agreement with Surbana Jurong to develop a new city in Odisha, demonstrating the state’s vision for urban expansion.
The agreements also extend to the new energy sector, with Nanyang Technological University (NTU), GRIDCO, and IIT Bhubaneswar coming together to advance initiatives in renewable energy.
Meanwhile, the state’s Electronics and IT Department has collaborated with Singapore’s Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) to strengthen the FinTech ecosystem, a step aimed at transforming Odisha into a FinTech hub.
Advancing Skill Development and Semiconductors
Skill development emerged as a key focus area in the agreements. The Skill Development and Technical Education Department of Odisha signed multiple MoUs with ITE Education Services, Singapore.
These agreements aim to enhance the World Skill Centre in Bhubaneswar by introducing new courses in fields such as digital animation, artificial intelligence, aerospace technology, and renewable energy.
A dedicated initiative to foster skills in the semiconductor sector is also underway.
Singapore will assist Odisha in designing curriculum tailored to the semiconductor industry’s needs, covering areas such as wafer fabrication, integrated circuits, and cleanroom technology.
This collaboration aligns with India’s growing demand for skilled professionals in the semiconductor field.
Building a FinTech Ecosystem for the Future
The partnership with GFTN is set to establish a Global Competency Centre in Bhubaneswar, fostering collaboration in FinTech and InsureTech.
This initiative aligns with India’s vision of “Insurance for All” by 2047, aiming to ensure comprehensive insurance coverage for every citizen.
Chief Minister Majhi expressed confidence in Odisha’s potential to emerge as a global FinTech hub.
He highlighted the state’s efforts to support startups, encourage academic-industry collaboration, and attract investments.
By leveraging global expertise, Odisha aims to create a robust ecosystem for innovation and growth in the digital economy.
Odisha’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
During his visit, President Shanmugaratnam praised Odisha’s initiatives in skill development and innovation. The MoUs signed mark a significant milestone in the growing partnership between Singapore and Odisha.
Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja presented a detailed briefing outlining opportunities for collaboration in areas such as industrial parks, ports, renewable energy, information technology, and connectivity.
He emphasized the state’s readiness to embrace global partnerships for sustainable economic growth.
The agreements signed with Singapore reaffirm Odisha’s commitment to becoming a leader in sectors like renewable energy, IT, and semiconductors.
With the upcoming Utkarsh Odisha Conclave 2025, these collaborations underscore the state’s vision for a transformative and inclusive economic future.
