IIM Sambalpur leads Odisha’s new green economic framework for sustainable growth

IIM Sambalpur is taking a central role in guiding Odisha’s transition to a low-carbon, inclusive economy through a newly launched economic framework focused on sustainability, job creation, and long-term growth.

In partnership with the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) and the University of Maryland, the institute is co-leading the Economic Transition Coalition Odisha (ETCO), a collaborative platform involving academia, government, and industry.

As part of the initiative, ETCO has released a white paper titled “A New Economic Transition Framework for Jobs, Growth, and Sustainability in Odisha,” which outlines a comprehensive roadmap for reshaping the state’s development model.

“Odisha is on the cusp of a historic moment. As a leading partner in ETCO, we’re helping identify policy actions and frameworks that will prepare the state for a green and inclusive future,” said Professor Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director of IIM Sambalpur.

He emphasized that the role of business schools must go beyond conventional teaching to address larger societal and environmental challenges.

The white paper proposes a five-point agenda focused on equitable income, sustainable agriculture, climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and achieving net-zero emissions.

A major recommendation is to support workers in coal and thermal power sectors by promoting green technologies such as green steel, hydrogen energy, and carbon capture systems.

The plan also envisions using Odisha’s mineral wealth and coastline to establish a green manufacturing and export hub.

In response to climate risks, the coalition calls for investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and eco-corridors to reduce human-animal conflict and protect biodiversity.

In agriculture, the framework advocates for sustainable food systems that enhance farmer incomes through agroforestry and soil carbon renewal.

This initiative aligns with India’s net-zero ambitions and the National Education Policy’s vision of interdisciplinary collaboration.