The Government of Odisha has taken a significant step toward reshaping the state’s economic future by advancing discussions on the Bhubaneswar–Cuttack–Puri–Paradeep Economic Region (BCPPER). A high-level stakeholder consultation was recently held to review the draft economic plan for this ambitious corridor — envisioned to be a powerhouse of growth, employment, and sustainable development for the state.
High-Level Consultation on BCPPER: Leaders, Experts, and Stakeholders Align
The consultation was led by Ms. Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the Department of Water Resources and Planning & Convergence. The session was organised by Ms. Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Housing & Urban Development Department, and brought together a cross-section of decision-makers and thought leaders.
Participants included senior secretaries from key Odisha government departments, as well as representatives from industry, academia, business associations, research organizations, and think tanks — all of whom contributed valuable perspectives to fine-tune the roadmap.
Draft Economic Plan Presented by NITI Aayog
In a highlight of the session, Ms. Anna Roy, Principal Economic Adviser at NITI Aayog, presented the draft economic plan for BCPPER. The plan outlines a structured framework to transform the corridor into a USD 500 billion economic engine by 2036, with a long-term target of contributing to Odisha’s USD 1.5 trillion economy by 2047.
The plan identifies over 65 key infrastructure projects and 37 policy reforms, all focused on integrated development — ranging from port-led industrialisation in Paradip to IT and innovation hubs in Bhubaneswar, cultural tourism in Puri, and traditional commerce in Cuttack.
A Call for Timely, Collaborative Execution
In her keynote address, Ms. Anu Garg emphasized that the draft plan aligns closely with the Vision Document of the Government of Odisha — a forward-looking policy blueprint that envisions inclusive, sustainable, and identity-driven growth for the state.
She urged all departments and stakeholders to work in close coordination to ensure the timely execution of the priority projects identified in the plan. Her message was clear: collaborative governance and inter-departmental synergy are essential for BCPPER’s success.
“This plan is not just about infrastructure or industry—it’s about shaping a future where Odisha’s growth reflects our cultural pride, environmental responsibility, and people-first development,” she said.
BCPPER’s Strategic Significance
The BCPPER corridor is envisioned as one of the most dynamic economic zones in Eastern India, combining:
- Urban innovation in Bhubaneswar
- Historic trade and legal heritage in Cuttack
- Cultural and religious tourism in Puri
- Port-led industrial growth in Paradip
Together, these cities form a unique economic belt that integrates infrastructure, industry, services, culture, and sustainability into a single, scalable model of development.
Voices from the Forum: Key Recommendations
The stakeholder session was not merely a presentation — it was a vibrant forum for dialogue, where multiple ideas were proposed to enhance the plan’s impact:
- Stronger environmental safeguards and green infrastructure
- Greater investment in R&D, innovation, and skilling
- Improved urban-rural linkages and inclusive planning
- Support for traditional industries, textiles, and crafts
- Expansion of social infrastructure like healthcare and housing
- Promotion of Odisha’s identity in global trade and tourism
These recommendations will now help shape the final version of the BCPPER roadmap, ensuring that it reflects both expert insight and grassroots realities.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for 2047
The BCPPER initiative is a defining part of Odisha’s journey toward becoming a high-income, sustainable, and culturally vibrant state. With the corridor expected to contribute over one-third of Odisha’s GDP by 2047, it represents more than just economic planning — it is a roadmap for generational transformation.