When Odisha envisions the year 2036, the state isn’t just planning for its centenary year—it is shaping a future where cities become hubs of opportunity, culture, travel and enterprise. Under the ambitious Viksit Odisha 2036 Vision, the state government is redesigning the urban landscape with bold intent: to create cities that are smart, sustainable and economically thriving.
At the heart of this vision is the newly unveiled Samruddha Sahar Scheme, a ₹4,879 crore urban development mission that aims to transform Odisha’s towns into vibrant growth engines. But this initiative is more than a government programme; it is a blueprint for how cities can support thriving businesses, attract global travelers and become homes of aspiration for millions.
In an era where urban spaces shape the fortunes of nations, Odisha is doing what every forward-thinking region must—reimagining the city as a living ecosystem.
The Odisha Cabinet, presided over by Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, has approved the “SAMRUDDHA SAHAR” Scheme under the Viksit Odisha 2036 vision to transform cities into growth hubs. With a total outlay of ₹4,879.30 crore, the scheme focuses on planned… pic.twitter.com/gH4qNj9Tmj
— H & UD Dept (@HUDDeptOdisha) July 20, 2025
A New Urban Story for a New Odisha
Odisha has long been known for its ancient temples, pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage. But the state is now writing a parallel story—about modern cities brimming with innovation, hospitality, green mobility and next-generation infrastructure.
The government’s message is clear:
cities are not just places to live, but places to thrive.
Under the Samruddha Sahar plan, cities will be rejuvenated with upgraded infrastructure, smart town planning, improved transportation, safer public spaces and efficient digital governance.
For business travelers, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and tourists, this means a smoother, smarter and more welcoming urban experience.
Samruddha Sahar: The Vision Behind Prosperous Cities
Officially approved by the state cabinet and aligned with Viksit Odisha 2036, the Samruddha Sahar Scheme positions cities as engines of growth. With nearly ₹5,000 crore committed for implementation, the project focuses on five major pillars:
1. Economic Dynamism: Cities That Create Jobs & Investment
Modern cities thrive on entrepreneurship and innovation. Samruddha Sahar will:
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strengthen commercial corridors
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expand industrial clusters
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promote serviced land for enterprises
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encourage private sector investments
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generate employment opportunities across sectors
For investors and industries, this means easier access to infrastructure, better logistics and improved business environments.
2. World-Class Infrastructure
From redesigned roads to advanced drainage systems, the scheme prioritizes the backbone of urban life:
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faster mobility networks
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upgraded water and sanitation systems
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pedestrian-friendly public spaces
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improved urban aesthetics
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redevelopment of market districts
This investment supports not just residents but also tourists who often judge destinations by their convenience and cleanliness.
3. Smart, Transparent Governance
Adopting a tech-driven approach, the scheme introduces:
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digital platforms for urban services
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data-based planning
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real-time monitoring of civic systems
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simplified approvals and clearances for businesses
This will make Odisha’s cities more predictable and efficient—qualities international investors look for.
4. Climate-Resilient, Greener Cities
In response to environmental challenges, the scheme encourages:
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climate-responsive urban planning
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green mobility solutions
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expansion of parks and open spaces
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sustainable waste and water management
Odisha, with its coastline and river network, is keen on building cities that are future-proof and environmentally balanced.
5. Citizen Participation: Cities Built With Their People
One of the most human-centered parts of the scheme is its commitment to community involvement.
From neighbourhood improvement initiatives to citizen-driven monitoring, the model promotes urban pride and collective ownership.
What It Means for Residents: Better Daily Living
For everyday citizens, the transformation is more than policy—it’s personal.
Daily commuting becomes smoother
Better roads, improved transport, safer intersections and clear signage will reduce congestion.
Neighbourhoods become cleaner and greener
Waste-management upgrades and climate-sensitive planning will improve overall hygiene and liveability.
Public spaces become community hubs
Parks, waterfronts, plazas and marketplaces will become spaces for leisure, culture and connection.
Services become easier to access
Smart governance means paying bills, accessing certificates, reporting civic issues and availing schemes becomes quicker and more transparent.
In short, Odisha’s cities will reflect the aspirations of a modern population—youthful, ambitious and global.
What It Means for Business: A New Frontier for Investment
Odisha’s business ecosystem is already evolving, with strong sectors like:
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metals and minerals
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IT & ITES
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tourism
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food processing
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textiles
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startups and innovation
Samruddha Sahar aims to complement these strengths by creating:
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business-friendly urban zones
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dedicated industrial and logistics clusters
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easier regulatory frameworks
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modern commercial centres
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improved regional connectivity
For corporations, MSMEs and startups, this translates to lower operational costs and better support systems.
With improved airports, highways and tourism facilities, Odisha is positioning itself as a gateway for investment into eastern India.
What It Means for Tourism: A New Face for Urban Odisha
Odisha’s tourism is no longer limited to Puri, Konark and the Golden Triangle. With urban revitalisation, more cities will emerge as attractive destinations for:
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heritage tourism
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culinary tourism
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business tourism
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eco-tourism
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culture and festival tourism
Imagine:
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Bhubaneswar with redesigned cultural districts
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Cuttack with revitalised marketplaces
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Rourkela with integrated sports-tourism opportunities
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Berhampur with modern transit gateways
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Sambalpur with heritage lakefronts
Urban tourism often becomes a state’s identity—and Odisha is building that character with intention and style.
Connecting People, Places & Prosperity
Under the scheme, regional mobility will also improve. This includes:
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better connectivity between cities and their suburbs
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improved access to economic clusters
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enhanced public transport networks
Stronger business corridors, smoother travel routes, reduced travel time and more integrated urban ecosystems.
This is particularly important for Odisha’s emerging tech parks, educational institutions, industrial hubs and tourism centres.
A Human-Centered Urban Future
What makes Odisha’s vision stand out is its focus on people. Urbanisation is often seen as an engineering project—but here, it is a social commitment.
The transformation aims to ensure:
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jobs for youth
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dignity for migrant workers
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comfort for families
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opportunities for entrepreneurs
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inspiration for travelers
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confidence for investors
Odisha’s cities are being built not just with concrete and steel, but with intent and empathy.
Looking Toward 2036: Odisha’s New Identity
As the state approaches its centenary in 2036, its cities will define its progress.
The Samruddha Sahar Scheme signals:
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a modern identity
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a competitive economy
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a sustainable future
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a welcoming face for global visitors
From ancient architecture to smart cityscapes, the Odisha of 2036 will blend tradition with transformation—a place where the past inspires the future, and the future feels inclusive.
Conclusion: Cities That Welcome, Empower & Inspire
With Viksit Odisha 2036 and the Samruddha Sahar Scheme, Odisha is laying the foundation for cities that are more than urban settlements—they are centres of life, culture, travel and enterprise.
For residents, the change promises dignity.
For businesses, it promises opportunity.
For travelers, it promises discovery.
For India, it promises a rising state ready to lead with vision.
Odisha’s cities are not just growing—they are rising, evolving and embracing the world.