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Bhubaneswar, August 12, 2025 – Odisha took a bold step towards strengthening its blue economy as Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched the Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research and Innovation Corridor (OMBRIC). This pioneering initiative aims to unlock the state’s vast marine bio-resources while fostering environmental protection, sustainable coastal tourism, and new job opportunities for communities along the state’s 480 km coastline.
A Leap Forward in Odisha’s Blue Economy
The Odisha Marine Biotechnology Research and Innovation Corridor is more than just a research facility—it’s a vision to merge science, innovation, and sustainable livelihood. The corridor will focus on developing eco-friendly marine technologies, supporting coastal development projects in India, and attracting investments from both domestic and global markets.
Chief Minister Majhi described the project as a “turning point in Odisha’s science and technology journey”, highlighting its potential to make Odisha a national hub for marine biotechnology research in India.
Strategic MoUs for R&D Collaboration
At the launch event, the Odisha Science & Technology Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. This partnership will drive research in areas like ocean resource utilization, marine biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience.
In addition, six top academic institutions—IIT Bhubaneswar, NIT Rourkela, IISER Berhampur, Institute of Life Sciences (ILS) Bhubaneswar, Berhampur University, and Fakir Mohan University—signed MoUs to provide scientific and technical expertise. These collaborations are expected to strengthen ocean-based R&D in India and build capacity for marine biotechnology projects across the region.
Key Benefits of OMBRIC
- Employment Growth – Thousands of new jobs in marine research, biotechnology, and eco-tourism.
- Sustainable Tourism – Development of science-driven tourism models to protect fragile coastal ecosystems.
- Investment Opportunities – Encouraging private and public investments in Odisha science and technology initiatives.
- Environmental Safeguards – Innovative solutions for tackling coastal erosion, plastic pollution, and habitat degradation.
Why This Matters for Odisha’s Future
Odisha’s rich marine biodiversity and strategic location along the Bay of Bengal give it a unique advantage in marine biotechnology. Initiatives like OMBRIC not only promise sustainable coastal tourism in Odisha but also position the state as a leader in blue economy initiatives in India.
With its blend of research excellence, academic partnerships, and community engagement, OMBRIC could serve as a model for other coastal states looking to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.
