New Delhi/Cuttack | July 27, 2025 – A new trade agreement between India and the United Kingdom has sparked controversy in Odisha after political leader Suparno Satpathy raised concerns over the absence of Odisha from the official export list.
The India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), also known as the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), allows about 99% of Indian exports to enter the UK market without any customs duty. Union Minister Piyush Goyal shared a list of state-wise products that will be promoted under the deal — but Odisha’s name is missing.
Suparno Satpathy’s Concern
Suparno Satpathy shared a tweet on social media expressing his disappointment. He said:
“The part of the world I come from played a key role in ending the British Raj. In 2025, that should not be a reason to leave Odisha out of this list. Hope PM Modi looks into this. May good sense prevail.”
The part of the world your’s truly comes from was the most crucial epicentre for end of British Raj in India but then in ‘2025 that shouldn’t be a reason to keep Odisha out of this list. Hope PM Shri. @narendramodi looks in…
— Shri. Suparno Satpathy (@SuparnoSatpathy) July 25, 2025
What Other States Got
According to the government’s list:
Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu will export marine products like shrimp and fish.
Punjab, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir will export Basmati rice and Pashmina shawls.
Uttar Pradesh will send leather and sports goods.
Gujarat will export Bandhani textiles, ceramics, and diamonds.
West Bengal and Tripura will send tea, sarees, and rubber.
Maharashtra will export grapes, onions, and Kolhapuri slippers.
Why Not Odisha?
Odisha has many unique products like Sambalpuri sarees, cashews, turmeric, handlooms, handicrafts, marine items, and tribal artworks. Many are now asking why these were not included in the export plan.
Opposition leaders have also questioned whether the Odisha government failed to pitch its products or if the Central government ignored the state during planning.
There is no official response from the state government yet. But with public pressure rising, many are demanding action to ensure Odisha’s inclusion in future trade promotions.
