World Bank President Ajay Banga meets Odisha CM, discusses development and reform agenda

World Bank President Ajay Banga on Thursday met OdishaChief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, with discussions centred on the state’s long-term development priorities, economic reforms and employment generation.

During the meeting, both sides reviewed Odisha’s ongoing development initiatives and explored ways to further strengthen cooperation between the state government and the World Bank. The interaction focused on accelerating inclusive growth and enhancing institutional capacity across key sectors.

Focus on Growth and Employment

Sources said Ajay Banga lauded Odisha’s development trajectory and reform-driven approach. He stressed the importance of creating sustainable employment opportunities, particularly for youth and women. The World Bank President also expressed satisfaction over the growing number of jobs being generated in Odisha’s private sector, describing it as a positive outcome of the state’s policy initiatives.

Key Areas of Discussion

The discussions covered a wide range of areas, including skill development, infrastructure expansion and improvements in the social sector. Strengthening institutional mechanisms and promoting public-private partnerships also figured prominently during the meeting. Senior officials, including the Chief Secretary, the Development Commissioner and representatives of the World Bank, were present.

CM Highlights State Initiatives

Sharing details of the meeting on social media, CM Mohan Majhi described the interaction as productive and forward-looking. He said discussions were held on strengthening cooperation in key sectors, promoting inclusive and sustainable growth, enhancing infrastructure, improving social outcomes and skilling youth for employment.

The Chief Minister highlighted Odisha’s flagship initiatives and reforms that have attracted investments worth Rs 2.5 lakh crore, creating employment opportunities, especially for youth and women. He also noted that the World Bank appreciated the state’s focus on skill development and initiatives such as the Central Tool Room and Training Centre (CTTC).

Ajay Banga reaffirmed the World Bank’s support to Odisha through technical assistance, policy guidance and strategic partnerships, with emphasis on institutional strengthening and public-private collaboration. Both sides agreed to explore new avenues of cooperation aligned with “Odisha Vision 2036 & 2047: Viksit Odisha for Viksit Bharat”, aimed at accelerating growth and building a resilient and prosperous future for the state.