The 84th Annual Session of the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) was held today in Bhubaneswar, bringing together a distinguished gathering of policymakers, engineers, technocrats, and thought leaders from across the nation. The event served as a premier platform for discussing the future of India’s road and transport infrastructure—a sector that forms the backbone of the country’s economic and social progress.
It was a moment of great honour for Odisha as the State hosted this prestigious national event in the Temple City of Bhubaneswar. The session was graced by the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari Ji, whose visionary leadership continues to redefine India’s approach to connectivity and infrastructure development.
Through the Odisha State Road Policy 2025 and the Odisha State Highways Authority Act 2025, we are taking decisive steps to expand and modernise our road network. With close coordination between the Centre and the State, I am confident that Odisha’s road infrastructure will… pic.twitter.com/EgrAw8K1HV
— Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) November 7, 2025
Expressing gratitude to Shri Gadkari Ji for his presence and guidance, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha extended a warm welcome to all delegates and participants. In his address, he underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between the Centre and the States in building a world-class, resilient, and future-ready road network.
Under the Vision Odisha 2036 and 2047, the State Government has set an ambitious agenda to strengthen its infrastructure foundation—viewing it not merely as a physical network but as a driver of inclusive growth and prosperity. The Chief Minister highlighted several transformative policy measures, including the upcoming Odisha State Road Policy 2025 and the Odisha State Highways Authority Act 2025, aimed at expanding and modernising the State’s road network to meet emerging economic and logistical needs.
He also acknowledged the unwavering support of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and Shri Gadkari Ji in accelerating major connectivity initiatives across Odisha. The seamless coordination between the Central and State Governments, he said, is ensuring that road development reaches every corner of the State—bridging rural-urban divides and enhancing access to markets, education, and healthcare.
Objectives of the IRC Annual Session
The Indian Roads Congress, founded in 1934, serves as India’s apex body for road engineering and transport. The primary objectives of the IRC Annual Session are:
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Knowledge Sharing: To provide a platform for experts, policymakers, and engineers to exchange ideas, innovations, and best practices in road construction, maintenance, and technology.
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Policy Dialogue: To discuss strategies for sustainable and inclusive infrastructure development aligned with India’s economic vision.
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Technology Advancement: To promote the adoption of modern engineering techniques, digital tools, and environmentally friendly construction practices.
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Collaboration: To strengthen partnerships between central and state governments, public and private sectors, and academia.
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Capacity Building: To equip engineers and institutions with the knowledge and resources needed to meet future infrastructure challenges.
A Step Forward for Odisha and India
The 84th IRC Session in Bhubaneswar symbolized not just a meeting of experts but a shared national commitment—to build roads that connect people, communities, and opportunities. As India moves toward becoming a $5 trillion economy, events like these play a crucial role in shaping the policies, technologies, and collaborations that will pave the way—literally and figuratively—for a stronger, more connected future.