Odisha is located on the east coast of India and is a mineral-rich state that is an emerging industrial hub. Due to the geographic features of the region and its rich resources, there has been a rise of industrial towns within the state. These towns help in the economic development of the state of Odisha and they are quite important as well in the context of increasing manufacturing and exports for India. The article presents the 10 industrial towns in Odisha which are performing the best with a focus on the industries prevailing in these particular towns and their inputs towards the pedestal of economy and industries in that state.
1. Rourkela
Rourkela is an important industrial town located in the state of Odisha. It is home to the Rourkela Steel Plant, which is the largest steel manufacturer in Odisha. The plant operates under the management of the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL). Rourkela’s proximity to iron ore and coal industries contributes to its status as a key steel city in India.
The town’s economy is heavily dependent on the Rourkela Steel Plant, which plays a vital role in driving economic growth both at the state and national levels. Various supporting industries provide essential inputs for the iron and steel sector, including local machinery, fabrication, and chemical industries. Overall, Rourkela’s strategic location and abundant resources significantly enhance its industrial landscape.
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2. Kalinganagar
Kalinganagar in the Jajpur district is an industrial township which has developed as a steel manufacturing center. It has several steel manufacturing plants, including Tata Steel and Jindal Steel, which have great importance in the economy of Odisha. Kalinganagar is situated in the area under the National Investment Manufacturing Zone (NIMZ) that seeks to enhance the growth of the manufacturing sector and create job opportunities. Because of the setting up of such plants, Kalinganagar has been able to draw Inflows both from domestic and foreign sources. This region as a whole is auspicious for Industrial Development as it fosters inward investment for enhancement of infrastructure, as the region is well linked by rail, roads as well as air, making it convenient for business operations.
3. Angul
In the state of Odisha, Angul is another industrial township with vast energy resources. The availability of coal reserves at Talcher close to Angul has led to the establishment of power generation and allied heavy industries. There is established NALCO’s aluminum smelting complex that adds to the Indian aluminum economy. Angul is also on the map for steel production as many steel projects are coming up in the area. The location of the town allows it to access abundant raw materials especially, coal and bauxite, used for ore manufacturing, thereby becoming an industrial hub in Odisha.
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4. Jharsuguda
Jharsuguda, a relatively new district in the state of Odisha, is industrializing quickly and establishing itself as a center for aluminum production. It contains a significant aluminum smelter and power plant owned by Vedanta, which positions it centrally within the industrial fold of the state. The presence of Jharsuguda Airport and the expansive rail and road networks provides additional advantages to the region in terms of its industrial prospects. There is also a growing zone economy within the town, particularly focused on infrastructure investment and power construction works, further strengthening the town’s industrial position in the state of Odisha.
5. Paradeep
Paradeep is a coastal town and port located in Odisha. The town plays a significant role in trade and various industries within the state. Many industries have set up operations in Paradeep. The Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) runs an oil refinery in this strategically important area. Additionally, ArcelorMittal-Nippon Steel operates a pellet plant here. Recent initiatives are focused on transforming Paradeep into a smart city. Industrial activities and trade have seen considerable growth in this region. The port city supports the import and export of essential raw materials. Key commodities for trade include coal, iron ore, and petroleum. The port and its industries contribute significantly to the economic development of Odisha.
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6. Bhubaneswar
Paradeep is a coastal town and port located in Odisha. The town plays a significant role in trade and various industries within the state. Many industries have set up operations in Paradeep. The Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) runs an oil refinery in this strategically important area. Additionally, ArcelorMittal-Nippon Steel operates a pellet plant here. Recent initiatives are focused on transforming Paradeep into a smart city. Industrial activities and trade have seen considerable growth in this region. The port city supports the import and export of essential raw materials. Key commodities for trade include coal, iron ore, and petroleum. The port and its industries contribute significantly to the economic development of Odisha.
7. Cuttack
Cuttack is the state of Odisha’s most populated and knows many forms of industries ranging from textiles, engineering goods and many more food processing industries. Bhubaneswar’s closeness to Cuttack adds to its omnipresence and the availability of market space which in turn fuels the city’s industrialization. Also, Cuttack is engaged in silver filigree work which helps their stock of artisans as well as the economy. Due to the good infrastructural facilities and availability of skilled manpower, Cuttack has become one of the most important places for industries since industries found here do not only serve the domestic market but also the international market.
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8. Sambalpur
Sambalpur has a booming textile industry in which the production of Sambalpuri sarees is most noteworthy. This traditional garment is crafted from handloom materials. It is renowned both nationally and internationally. It has significantly contributed to the economic welfare of Sambalpur. Many people involved in the town’s textile industry have thrived. There are substantial coal reserves nearby. These reserves promote the establishment of thermal power plants. Coal-related industries are also being developed in this area. The combination of traditional and modern businesses is impressive. Sambalpur plays a crucial role in the industrialization of Odisha. This growth supports the economic advancement and development of the state.
9. Balasore
Numerous defense systems and industrial plants, as well as research laboratories, are located in Balasore owing to its position along the eastern seaboard. Plastic and polymer-based industries are also found in this town, thanks to the infrastructure-driven deployment of resources. The defensive and the industrial arms of Balasore region have been quite advanced as it has been located within the vicinity of the missile testing facility of India. Colonel Bala Sores defense establishments and ancillary industries have contributed to making it a major defense industrial hub in the state of Odisha.
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10. Berhampur
The coastal city of Berhampur in southern Odisha is recognized for its trade in seafood ingredient processing and export. Also, the key international Gopalpur port near the town is expected to promote industries in this area further. Berhampur’s seafood industry, particularly the fishery and aquaculture sector, is a growing sector contributing to the state of Odisha’s economy. Moreover, the town is transforming into an industrial center with ongoing construction works aimed at the establishment of the necessary facilities to enhance trade and manufacturing in the area.
Conclusion
Industrialized urban centers are a major driver of economic growth in Odisha. These towns effectively leverage domestic resources and available opportunities. The key industrial sectors include steel, aluminum, power, and IT. Investments in infrastructure are accelerating industrialization throughout Odisha. Well-developed industrial towns significantly contribute to the state’s economic activity.
They are instrumental in positioning Odisha as an industrial powerhouse within India. Economic initiatives and infrastructure enhancements are fueling growth. The industrial towns of Odisha are crucial to the region’s economic development. These areas attract investments, promoting sustained industrial progress. Odisha’s evolution into an industrial hub is gaining consistent momentum.
