TV
In a bold push to position Odisha as the pharmaceutical capital of India, the state government is mulling hosting a high-profile Pharma Conclave featuring leading national and international drug manufacturers.
The initiative was announced by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during the 79th Independence Day celebrations in Bhubaneswar on Friday. It is expected to attract investment from major pharma players who will be encouraged to establish manufacturing and research units in the state.
The project aims to transform Odisha’s economic landscape, creating over 2.5 lakh jobs in the sector over the coming years
Pharma Conclave To Attract Global Participation
The proposed conclave will serve as a networking and investment platform, bringing together pharma executives, policymakers, and investors.
The move aligns with Odisha’s broader healthcare strategy, which is expanding both infrastructure and accessibility, including turning several hospitals into world-class facilities such as the Cuttack SCB Medical College and Hospital and Berhampur MKCG.
Healthcare Push Underlined In Independence Day Speech
In his address, the CM highlighted Odisha’s recent healthcare gains. He announced that the state has now merged central and state coverage schemes, including Ayushman Bharat, Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana, and Ayushman Bayo Bandana for citizens above 70, providing health insurance coverage to more than 82% of the population.
He also noted that plans are underway to upgrade Berhampur Medical College to AIIMS-plus standards, alongside the creation of 2,250 budget beds at Odisha’s three largest medical colleges for patient attendants. These investments, Majhi said, are aimed at making healthcare both world-class and widely accessible.
The pharma hub initiative is seen as complementing these public health goals, with the twin benefits of boosting the economy and strengthening Odisha’s medical capacity.
