Odisha seeks to strengthen ties with Spain: CM

In a bid to explore avenues of strategic cooperation between Spain and Odisha in key sectors such as renewable energy, metallurgy, textiles and automobiles, Ambassador of Spain to India Mr. Juan Antonio March Pujol met Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi here on Saturday.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

The vision of a $5 trillion economy is not just a numerical milestone but a pathway to lifting millions out of poverty, ensuring energy security, and fostering digital empowerment, said Dr. P. K. Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, while addressing the 9th Annual Convocation of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur on Saturday.

In his convocation address, Dr. Mishra spoke of the multifaceted global challenges India faces—ranging from disruptions in global supply chains and the rise of protectionist policies to intensifying geopolitical tensions and shifting trade dynamics.

"While we are witnessing unprecedented technological breakthroughs, global trade relationships are being redefined, and supply chains reimagined," he said, underscoring the need to adapt and innovate.

Dr. Mishra stressed that issues of climate change and sustainability have become central to global discourse, remarking that, "The future will not be inherited—it will be created."

Highlighting India's emergence as a global innovation hub, he noted the country's impressive start-up ecosystem, now home to over 100 unicorns—the third largest in the world. On the digital front, he expressed optimism, citing over 800 million internet users as a testament to India's booming digital economy. Technologies such as AI, machine learning, blockchain, and Industry 4.0, he said, have moved beyond buzzwords to become integral components of the nation's economic fabric.

India's IT exports have surpassed $200 billion, and the pharmaceutical sector continues to serve as a global lifeline, he added. However, he also pointed to the pressing need to generate 8 to 10 million quality jobs annually to sustain the country's growth momentum.