Argus News - Odisha Aims to Become Maritime Gateway of Eastern India: CM Majhi

Bhubaneswar, Nov 6: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said that the state government is making concerted efforts to ensure Odisha emerges as the gateway of Eastern India in the maritime trade sector in the coming days.

CM Majhi made this statement while inaugurating the ‘Historic Baliyatra Cuttack 2025’ at Gadagadia Ghat on the banks of the Mahanadi River here on Wednesday evening.

Boost to Baliyatra

The Chief Minister announced a significant increase in financial support for the festival, raising the allocation from Rs2 crore to Rs10 crore. He described Baliyatra as a living testament to Odisha’s rich maritime heritage and cultural resilience.

Heritage Meets Development

Majhi highlighted efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage Site status for Baliyatra and revealed plans to develop Cuttack as a hub for silver filigree craftsmanship. Under the Mahanadi Riverfront Development Plan, Rs 200 crore has been earmarked for beautifying the riverbank and enhancing heritage and religious sites along the Mahanadi.

Also Read: CM Mohan Majhi Inaugurates Historic Baliyatra Cuttack 2025

Port-Led Growth Strategy

Reaffirming Odisha’s maritime ambitions, Majhi outlined plans to expand the state’s port infrastructure. In addition to Paradip, Dhamra, and Gopalpur ports, 14 new small and medium ports are in the pipeline. Projects are underway at Subarnarekha, Astaranga, and Jatadhari river mouths.

The Bahuda Port, set to be Odisha’s second-largest, will receive Rs 21,500 crore in development funding. A shipbuilding and repair center near Paradip is also planned, with an estimated investment of Rs 24,700 crore.

CM Majhi concluded by aligning the state’s development goals with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” — development alongside heritage.

Baliyatra’s Historical Significance

Baliyatra, meaning “Journey to Bali,” honours Odisha’s old tradition of traders sailing to distant lands like Bali, Java, and Sumatra, exchanging goods, ideas, and cultural practices. The festival stirs up warm memories of Odisha’s rich heritage and continues to amaze visitors.