In a landmark step toward aligning economic growth with environmental sustainability, IIM Sambalpur has emerged as a key partner in shaping Odisha’s long-term economic strategy aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The new framework, developed in collaboration with the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) and the University of Maryland, outlines an ambitious vision that integrates green jobs, industrial innovation, and climate resilience.
Odisha Charts Path to a Low-Carbon, High-Growth Future
At the heart of the initiative is the Economic Transition Coalition Odisha (ETCO)—a multi-stakeholder platform that brings together academia, government, and industry leaders to steer Odisha’s shift toward a low-carbon, inclusive economy. The coalition recently released a white paper titled “A New Economic Transition Framework for Jobs, Growth, and Sustainability in Odisha”, which lays out a strategic plan for the state’s transformation.
Professor Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur, emphasized the broader responsibility of management institutes in addressing global challenges.
“Odisha is on the cusp of a historic transformation. As a leading partner in ETCO, we are working to shape policy frameworks that guide the state toward a green and inclusive future,” he stated.
Key Pillars of the Transition Plan:
The white paper outlines a five-point agenda aimed at ensuring equitable development while addressing climate concerns:
- Equitable Income Growth: Strategies to foster job creation across emerging green sectors, ensuring inclusive economic opportunities.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Emphasis on agroforestry, climate-resilient crops, and soil carbon renewal to enhance farmer income and environmental health.
- Climate Adaptation and Infrastructure: Investment in disaster-resilient infrastructure to combat risks from rising sea levels, cyclones, and floods.
- Green Industrial Development: Leveraging Odisha’s mineral reserves and coastal access to build a green manufacturing and export hub, with a focus on green steel, hydrogen energy, and carbon capture.
- Biodiversity and Ecosystem Protection: Creation of eco-corridors to reduce human-wildlife conflict and protect critical habitats.
Workforce Transition & Green Technology
One of the pivotal components of the roadmap is the transition of workers from fossil-fuel-based industries—especially coal and thermal power—into emerging green sectors. The plan proposes upskilling and reskilling strategies to support livelihoods while accelerating the adoption of green technologies.
The focus on hydrogen-based energy systems and circular economy practices signals Odisha’s intent to become a leader in future-ready green industries.
Alignment with National Priorities
The initiative is aligned with India’s broader climate commitments, including the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, and reflects the principles of the National Education Policy (NEP), which advocates interdisciplinary collaboration and real-world impact through academic institutions.
A New Role for Business Schools
IIM Sambalpur’s role in this initiative exemplifies a shift in the role of B-schools in India—from being academic hubs to becoming catalysts for systemic change. By integrating research, policy design, and industry collaboration, institutions like IIM Sambalpur are contributing to shaping a sustainable economic future for both Odisha and India at large.
As Odisha positions itself as a potential hub for green exports and innovation, this economic blueprint could serve as a model for other states navigating the complex intersection of development and decarbonisation.
