New Delhi/Bhubaneswar, August 5:
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a high-level meeting to discuss the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Skill Development in the mining, logistics, and critical minerals sectors in Odisha. The meeting was attended by Union Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Jayant Singh Choudhary and Odisha Minister of Skill Development and Industries Sampada Swain.
During the discussion, Shri Pradhan emphasised the immense potential of Odisha’s mining sector to generate employment and drive robust economic growth. He noted that the proposed Centre of Excellence—the first of its kind in India—would play a crucial role in addressing the skill gap in the mining and logistics industries.
“Odisha’s mining ecosystem can become a major contributor to India’s economic progress. A globally benchmarked skilling institute will ensure our youth are trained to meet domestic and international industry standards,” said Pradhan.
Turning Odisha into a Global Skills Hub
The meeting also discussed the roadmap to transform Odisha into a global skills hub. Shri Pradhan highlighted the need for increased collaboration between the Skill Development and Technical Education Department of Odisha and the Skill India Mission.
He also informed that a National Centre of Excellence for Skill Development has already been established at the National Skill Training Institute (NSTI), Bhubaneswar.
“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is committed to equipping the next generation with future-ready skills. India’s youth are not just the workforce of tomorrow — they are global leaders in the making,” he added.
The proposed Centre will provide world-class skill development in mining technologies, logistics, and handling of critical minerals, aligning with India’s broader goals of self-reliance and global competitiveness.
Key Takeaways from the Meeting:
- Odisha’s mining sector is seen as a key driver of employment and economic growth.
- The Centre of Excellence aims to address skill shortages in mining and logistics.
- Odisha is being envisioned as a Global Skills Hub.
- Strengthened coordination was planned between state and central skill development initiatives.
The move is expected to boost local employment, support industrial expansion, and prepare youth for global opportunities in the mining and logistics industries.
