The Government of Odisha delegation embarked on a mission to the USA to foster investment opportunities for the State, and under the leadership of Odisha CM Shri Naveen Patnaik, they engaged in a series of productive discussions with top business leaders from renowned electronics and cyber-security companies.
In a momentous meeting, the delegation visited the prestigious manufacturing site of Sanmina Corporation and had the honor of meeting its Co-founder and Chairman-cum CEO, Jure Sola, along with Senior Vice Presidents Dr. Sundar M Kamath, Michael Sparacino, and Vice President Bill Pappani. Sanmina Corporation stands as one of the world’s largest independent manufacturers of Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) and a prominent electronics services provider for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
During the meeting, the Odisha delegation presented an in-depth overview of Odisha’s flourishing industrial ecosystem to the Sanmina team, highlighting the various attractive incentives offered by the Government of Odisha to companies. The Sanmina team was highly impressed by the level of support and the generous package of incentives available, making them view Odisha favorably for expansion and diversification of their global supply base.
The Government of Odisha delegation also had the privilege of visiting Palo Alto Networks, a leading global cyber-security firm, where they met Anand Oswal, SVP and GM, and his team. Discussions revolved around collaboration opportunities, including establishing a cyber-security focused Centre of Excellence and providing assistance in developing Odisha’s Cyber Security Policy. The delegation also explored the potential for supporting Odisha Cyber Security Operations Centre through automation.
Nature conservation efforts in Odisha were also a key focus during the delegation’s visit. They met with Mr. George Jacob, President and CEO of BayEcotarium, the largest watershed conservation organization in San Francisco. Various collaboration opportunities were discussed, and BayEcotarium expressed its intent to contribute towards the establishment of a Living Oceanarium and a Sustainable Design Museum in the state. These initiatives will position Odisha as a hub for design festivals and significantly enhance nature conservation efforts in the region.
At Stanford University, the delegation interacted with distinguished professor and Rambus founder, Dr. Mark Horowitz. They briefed him on Odisha’s O-Chip program, which provides infrastructure, design, and training support to companies and start-ups. Dr. Horowitz’s advisory support will greatly aid the development of a semiconductor ecosystem in the state, fostering investments, creating high-value job opportunities, and nurturing Intellectual Property (IP) ventures.
With the Leadership of our CM Shri Naveen Patnaik and the efforts of Mr VK Pandian, these efforts will soon transform Odisha into a thriving hub for semiconductor innovation, attracting investments, generating high-value job opportunities, and nurturing the brightest minds in the industry. The heroic endeavors of the Odisha delegation set a remarkable path towards the state’s growth and prosperity.
Prasanta Patnaik