Bhubaneswar: In a significant move towards building a future-ready, inclusive, and globally competitive workforce, the Odisha State Cabinet has approved the Odisha Skill Development Project (OSDP) Phase II, a five-year flagship initiative to be implemented from 2025–26 to 2029–30 with financial assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
Building on the strong foundation laid under OSDP Phase I (2019–2024)—which led to the establishment of the internationally benchmarked World Skill Center (WSC), Bhubaneswar, and improved Odisha’s performance in national and global skill competitions—Phase II aims to further deepen industry linkages, expand access to future-oriented skills, and enhance global employability of the state’s youth.
Expansion of World-Class Skill Infrastructure
Under OSDP Phase II, the existing World Skill Center, Bhubaneswar will be expanded with new courses in logistics, digital animation, and healthcare, aligned with emerging industry demands. In addition, four new state-of-the-art skill campuses will be established across Odisha to decentralise access to high-quality training:
- Campus II – Bhubaneswar: Aerospace, Semiconductors, IT and ITeS
- Campus III – Berhampur: Hospitality and Marine sectors
- Campus IV – Sambalpur: Agri-tech, Renewable Energy, Retail, and Visual Merchandising
- Campus V – Rourkela: Retail and Visual Merchandising
These campuses will be designed to support high-growth and future-facing sectors, strengthening Odisha’s position in advanced skill development.
Strengthening ITIs and Industry Alignment
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The project also envisages the upgradation of five Government ITIs into ‘Utkarsh ITIs’, featuring enhanced intake capacities, introduction of new-age trades, and robust industry partnerships. A structured roadmap will further support the strengthening of all 72 Government ITIs across the state, ensuring uniform quality, relevance, and scalability.
To ensure global standards in training delivery, Odisha will collaborate with reputed international knowledge partners, including Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education Services (ITEES). These partnerships will support curriculum design, assessment systems, faculty development, institutional transformation, and the introduction of industry-recognised certifications, enhancing employability, career progression, and global mobility.
Inclusive Growth and Youth Empowerment
Once fully operational, OSDP Phase II is expected to benefit over 60,000 youth annually, with a strong focus on inclusion. Special efforts will be made to increase participation among girls, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Divyangjan (persons with disabilities), and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
The total approved outlay for OSDP Phase II stands at ₹1,140 crore, to be implemented over five years through a 50:50 funding arrangement, comprising ₹570 crore as ADB loan assistance and ₹570 crore from the State Budget.
This ambitious initiative aligns with Odisha’s long-term Vision 2036 and Vision 2047, aiming to build a modern, resilient, and industry-driven skill development ecosystem. Experts believe the expanded project will play a crucial role in addressing skill gaps in high-demand sectors while positioning Odisha as a leading hub for advanced skilling in India.
