9th June 2025: Despite ambitious plans to make Odisha a top destination for foreign direct investment (FDI), the state currently accounts for only ₹39 crore, or a mere 0.009% of India’s total FDI inflow for FY 2024-25. This stark figure contrasts with Maharashtra, which alone attracted ₹1.64 lakh crore, representing 39.16% of the national share.
Speaking on Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi reaffirmed the state’s commitment to transforming Odisha into a leading FDI hub. However, data from the Central Government reveals that Odisha is not among the top 10 or even top 20 FDI-receiving states.
India received ₹4.21 lakh crore in total FDI during the fiscal year, with the bulk of investments going to a few key states, including Karnataka, Delhi, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Telangana. In contrast, most other states received less than ₹4,000 crore.
Former Finance Minister Panchanan Kanungo attributed Odisha’s low FDI figures to a lack of focused government efforts, strategic planning, and targeted promotion. He stressed the need for the state to identify priority sectors—such as agro-based industries, pharmaceuticals, and oil-based sectors—and actively engage with foreign investors to attract meaningful investments.
To truly position Odisha as a competitive FDI destination, experts suggest the government must implement a sector-specific investment strategy, promote ease of doing business, and build strong international outreach.
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