Odisha is set for a transformative leap in the critical minerals sector, with new projections by the Net Zero Energy Transition Association (NETRA) released at the recently concluded Global Cleantech Expo-Odisha 2026. The study reveals Odisha’s mineral production value is expected to skyrocket from $8 billion in 2025 to $18-20 billion by 2032, with a dramatic shift in the state’s mining, processing, and manufacturing profile, from 40%-10%-5% in 2025 to 50%-40%-30% by 2032, driven by focused policy and industrial investment.
The two-day Global Cleantech Expo-Odisha 2026, held in Bhubaneswar on February 20-21, was inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Shri Gokulananda Mallik, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), MSME Department, Government of Odisha. The expo featured over 75 exhibitors from across the clean technology spectrum, including Luminous, GMR, AMAZE, Havells, MGM Green Energy, ICON Solar, Trontek, NED Energy, Navitas, Novasys, PV Blink, World Green Energy and many others. The event saw the presence of senior government officials and industry leaders from GRIDCO, OREDA, SECI, OPGC, and the Indian Wind Turbine Manufacturers Association (IWTMA), National Research Development Corporation (NRDC), Odisha Hydrogen Valley Foundation, Odisha Assembly of Small and Medium Enterprises (OASME), highlighting Odisha’s growing stature as a cleantech investment destination.
Debi Prasad Dash, Executive Director, NETRA, said, “Odisha’s rapid rise as a preferred destination for critical minerals and cleantech investment reflects the state’s progressive vision and proactive policy environment. With significant reserves of over 30 critical minerals, Odisha is uniquely positioned to anchor India’s clean energy future. Hosting Eastern India’s first cleantech expo is not just a milestone, but a clear demonstration of our commitment to building resilient supply chains and fostering value addition. Our objective is to transform Odisha into the centrepiece of India’s clean energy transition, powering sustainable industrial growth and technological innovation for the nation.”
Backed by recent discoveries, including lithium in Nayagarh and graphite, vanadium and cobalt, the state is accelerating its drive to build robust supply chains and maximise value addition. Initiatives like the Rare Earth Corridor in Ganjam and a dedicated auction calendar for critical mineral blocks are further positioning Odisha as India’s centre for solar, battery, and EV manufacturing. More than 10 leading industries, including Tata Power, World Green Energies, Himadri Speciality Chemicals, Hindalco, and Luminous, have already pledged significant manufacturing investments in the state, leveraging Odisha’s strategic port connectivity to access both domestic and international markets.
Hon’ble Minister Gokulananda Mallik stated, “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is rapidly emerging as a global cleantech powerhouse. The government’s unwavering commitment to the Net Zero goal by 2070 is driving transformative progress for MSMEs and startups. Our (State Government’s) ‘5J’ vision-Jal, Jungle, Jami, Jiba Jantu, and Jana Sadharan ensures sustainable development and ecological conservation at the heart of Odisha’s growth.”
A highlight of the Expo was the presentation of the Global Cleantech Excellence Awards – Odisha, which honoured standout contributors across the cleantech sector. Recognitions included MGM Green Energy for large-scale solar project development, Gayatri Solar for innovation in solar components, and ALFA Projects & Services as an emerging solar EPC company. The awards also celebrated leadership in clean energy for commercial and industrial usage by M/S Surendra Mining Industries Pvt. Ltd, innovation among startups by EVART Engineering and Automobiles LLP, and lifetime achievement in clean energy by Sanjay Dhawan, MD of Kalinga Commercials. Special recognition for policy advocacy went to Bibhu Charan Swain of Power Tech Consultants, while Ankita Banchhor of Windowwatt India was honoured as a leading woman entrepreneur in clean technology.
With robust port connectivity and a pipeline of more than 35 critical mineral blocks up for auction, Odisha is fast advancing India’s critical minerals drive, reinforcing its role as the nation’s emerging cleantech leader.
