Odisha launches OPDC to transform state into India’s Pharmaceutical Hub

 

In a landmark initiative, the Odisha government has established the Odisha Pharmaceutical Development Cell (OPDC) under the direct supervision of the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO). Chaired by the Chief Secretary, OPDC aims to attract global investments, foster innovation, and position the state as a leading pharmaceutical hub in Eastern India.

Odisha has taken a significant step toward becoming a pharmaceutical powerhouse with the launch of the Odisha Pharmaceutical Development Cell (OPDC). Operating under the guidance of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and chaired by the Chief Secretary, OPDC is set to drive international investments, innovation, and industry growth in the state.

The state’s Chief Minister emphasized Odisha’s pivotal role in India’s pharmaceutical aspirations. “Odisha’s resilience during COVID-19 highlighted our dedication to the nation. With OPDC, we are creating opportunities for our youth while contributing to global healthcare, positioning our state as the pharmaceutical hub of Eastern India,” a statement from the CMO read.

Leadership and Objectives

Key appointments reflect the state’s commitment to structured leadership in the sector. Mamina Patnaik, Odisha State Drugs Controller, has been appointed as the Nodal Officer and Convener of OPDC, while Drugs Inspector Chandan Kumar Giri will serve as the Coordinator.

A senior official highlighted OPDC’s primary objectives like acting as a bridge between government and investors, driving collaborations and partnerships in the pharmaceutical sector, spearheading the Odisha Pharmaceutical Policy 2025, facilitating the development of a world-class Special Economic Zone (SEZ) for pharmaceuticals, infrastructure and policy developments

Under Chief Minister Majhi’s leadership, the state is aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India the "Pharmacy of the World." The recent inauguration of the Central Drugs Testing Laboratory (CDTL) and a Sub-Zonal Office of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in Bhubaneswar underscores the state’s commitment to bolstering regulatory and testing infrastructure.

The Odisha Pharmaceutical Policy 2025, currently under development, is set to provide comprehensive support for investment incentives, research and development (R&D), and skill development.

SEZ Plans and Employment Goals

One of the highlights of the strategic plan is the creation of a world-class Pharmaceutical SEZ in the Khurdha-Balasore corridor. The SEZ is expected to create over 500,000 jobs by 2036 through skill enhancement and sustainable industrial growth.

The state also aims to attract Rs. 50,000 crore in investments, with the upcoming Pharmaceutical CEO Conclave positioned as a key platform for engaging national and international pharmaceutical giants.