Odisha at the Centre of India’s nuclear and marine push: What the Budget roadmap means for the state

Odisha is emerging as a key player in the Centre’s latest Nuclear and Marine roadmap, with major announcements in the Union Budget placing the state at the heart of India’s eastern coastal development strategy. From a proposed Rare Earth Corridor to deep-sea fishing reforms and biotechnology expansion, the policy direction signals a structural shift in how Odisha’s coastal and mineral resources could be harnessed.

The developments were discussed during a meeting between Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, and Odisha’s Science and Technology Minister, Krushna Chandra Patra.

Rare Earth Corridor: Strategic and Economic Significance

One of the most significant announcements for Odisha is its inclusion in one of the four Rare Earth Corridors proposed nationwide.

Rare earth elements are critical for high-technology manufacturing, including electronics, renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, defence equipment and advanced communication systems. India currently depends heavily on imports for several of these minerals.

By positioning Odisha within a rare earth corridor, the Centre is indicating a push toward expanding mineral exploration beyond traditionally dominant southern states. For Odisha, which already has a strong mining ecosystem, this could mean:

Increased exploration and extraction activities

Investment in mineral processing infrastructure

Development of downstream manufacturing industries

Employment generation in high-value sectors

Strategically, it also enhances India’s push for mineral self-reliance, with Odisha potentially becoming a critical node in that supply chain.

Deep Sea Fishing: A Game-Changer for Coastal Communities

Another major focus is enabling policy support for deep-sea fishing within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

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For Odisha, with its long coastline and large fishing population, this reform could significantly alter the coastal economy. Deep-sea fishing allows access to high-value species beyond traditional near-shore zones, potentially increasing fishermen’s incomes.

If implemented effectively, this could lead to:

Diversification of marine catch

Increased export potential

Modernisation of fishing fleets

Strengthened marine infrastructure

The move aligns with the broader Deep Ocean Mission, under which ocean resources are being systematically mapped and explored through coordinated institutional efforts between the Centre and states.