Dec 10: Odisha is stepping into a new era of technology-led growth with an ambitious proposal to establish Tech Business Parks in nine districts — a move poised to transform the state’s digital economy. Announced by Electronics & IT Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling, this plan signals a deeper commitment to build infrastructure that supports emerging technologies, advanced IT services, and AI-driven innovation across the state.
The districts shortlisted for the new Tech Business Parks — Keonjhar, Balangir, Sambalpur, Rayagada, Puri, Jharsuguda, Cuttack, Kalahandi, and Gajapati — represent a strategic mix of industrial, tribal, coastal, and growing urban zones. The government’s vision is clear: decentralise digital growth, harness regional talent, and position Odisha as a competitive, future-ready technology hub.
21 IT Park Proposals: A Surge in Digital Ambition
Alongside the new Tech Business Parks, the government has received 21 proposals for IT parks and IT towers, reflecting rising investor confidence in Odisha’s evolving tech ecosystem. Several proposals have already been approved, while others are undergoing feasibility evaluations.
Supporting this wave of interest is the state’s robust infrastructure backbone, including over 750 acres of developed land dedicated to:
- IT Special Economic Zones (SEZs)
- Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMCs)
- Technology and R&D parks
This infrastructure is not just about office space — it is the foundation for AI labs, data centers, semiconductor assembly units, and software innovation hubs that Odisha plans to attract in the coming decade.
Tech Business Parks: Engines for the AI Era
As India accelerates toward a $1 trillion digital economy, Odisha’s new parks are expected to play a crucial role in areas such as:
1. AI & Machine Learning Innovation
The parks will be built with the intent to host:
- AI research centers
- applied ML startups
- automation and robotics companies
- AI-driven agriculture, mining, and logistics solutions
Districts like Keonjhar, Sambalpur, and Jharsuguda — with strong industrial bases — are suited for deploying AI in mining, manufacturing, and transportation.
2. Cloud Computing & Data Centers
With rising demand for cloud services, Odisha can become a preferred destination for:
- tier-3 and tier-4 data centers
- digital storage hubs
- disaster recovery centers
Availability of land, power, and connectivity gives the state a competitive edge.
3. Electronics & Semiconductor Ecosystem
Rayagada, Balangir, and Gajapati hold potential for:
- chip packaging
- electronics manufacturing
- LED fabrication units
- drone and mobility hardware startups
The existing Electronics Manufacturing Clusters strengthen this potential.
4. Remote Work & Digital Services
Tier-II cities like Puri and Cuttack can become new hotspots for:
- IT/ITeS companies
- remote work hubs
- fintech, healthtech, and edtech startups
This supports an emerging trend: talent working from home districts while contributing to global tech workflows.
Cuttack’s Strategic Push: Land Identified Across Seven Tehsils
Cuttack is projected to become a major secondary tech hub. The government has already identified land in seven tehsils to build:
- IT parks
- multi-storey IT towers
- incubation and innovation facilities
- digital infrastructure zones
Cuttack’s proximity to Bhubaneswar makes it ideal for nurturing startup clusters, AI research facilities, and training centers.
Economic and Business Impact: A Transformational Decade Ahead
Odisha’s planned Tech Business Parks are more than infrastructural projects — they are catalysts for a long-term digital transformation. Over the next 10 years, the initiative is expected to deliver:
1. Massive Job Creation
From AI engineers to cloud technicians and backend support roles, the parks will create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
2. Boost to Regional Economies
Localised tech hubs lead to:
- urban development
- real estate growth
- improved connectivity
- stronger local entrepreneurship
3. Investment Magnetism
With government support, Odisha is set to attract:
- global IT companies
- AI and automation startups
- electronics manufacturers
- venture capital networks
4. Talent Retention
The parks will help reduce migration by offering skilled opportunities within home districts.
Odisha’s Vision: Building a Smarter, AI-Enabled Future
By integrating technology parks with AI research, electronics manufacturing, and digital services, Odisha is preparing itself for the next frontier of economic growth. The state’s push for decentralised tech infrastructure represents a bold step toward:
- becoming a national leader in IT and electronics
nurturing a new generation of AI-driven innovators
positioning Odisha in the global digital economy
accelerating inclusive, district-level development
In a world shaped by automation, smart infrastructure, and intelligent systems, Odisha is not waiting for the future — it is building it now.