Tharman Shanmugaratnam, the President of Singapore, commenced a two-day official visit to Bhubaneswar, Odisha, on January 17, 2025, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations with India.

During his visit, he is set to engage in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and various ministers, as well as pay tribute at the Raj Ghat memorial for Mahatma Gandhi.

The visit includes the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance collaboration across multiple sectors such as industrial parks, green hydrogen, petrochemicals, urban development, new energy, fintech, and skill development.

These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to position Odisha as a hub for innovation, growth, and sustainability, with a focus on empowering local communities, particularly women, through improved skills for better employment opportunities.

Additionally, the establishment of an Insurtech Hub Global Capabilities Centre will be initiated to enhance insurance access for rural populations through digital platforms.

Plans are also underway to create a World Centre for Information Technology in Bhubaneswar, focusing on cybersecurity, cloud computing, blockchain, and data services.

In preparation for the visit, security measures have been heightened in Bhubaneswar, with 40 police platoons deployed and traffic restrictions implemented to ensure smooth movement.

The Commissionerate Police issued a traffic advisory for Bhubaneswar and Puri, detailing diversions and restrictions on select routes.

Odisha is increasingly seen as a favorable investment destination for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), attributed to its stable law and order and investment-friendly climate.

The partnership between Singapore and India aims to support India's goal of 'Insurance for All' by 2047, enhancing access to insurance and contributing to financial security.

Tharman commended India's rapid transformation over the past decade, highlighting significant reductions in rural poverty and advancements in the digital sector.

Union Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced aspirations for Odisha to emerge as an IT hub within the next two to three years.