In a landmark development to strengthen Odisha’s position in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, a mega-scale integrated electric vehicle and EV battery manufacturing project will be set up in the State.

In this regard, the JSW Group signed an MoU with the State Government to establish mega EV plants in Cuttack and Paradip. The agreement was inked in the presence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.

While at Cuttack there would be EV vehicle and component manufacturing plants; at Paradip a copper smelter and a lithium refinery would be set up, said a release from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

“This historic moment marks JSW Group’s strategic entry into Odisha, amidst competitive offers from other states,” the CMO release stated.

The ambitious project, with an investment of Rs 40,000 crore, would help create over 10,000 jobs for youths.

Further, the JSW Group’s commitment to skilling the local workforce would ensure that the benefits of this industrial growth are widespread, enhancing the employability of youths in cutting-edge manufacturing processes.

CM Naveen Patnaik said, “This day marks a great leap forward in our journey towards industrial excellence and sustainable development.” The project would catalyse the growth of MSMEs, spurring the development of a vibrant ecosystem of ancillary industries and also heralds Odisha’s significant entry into the ever-growing automobile industry sector in India, he said.

JSW Group Chairman Sajjan Jindal said JSW chose Odisha for its first EV unit due to the State Government’s unparalleled support to industries. Odisha has all the potential to become a one-trillion-dollar economy,