The Times Business Awards Odisha 2026, an initiative by Optimal Media Solutions, a division of The Times of India, brought together an influential mix of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. The evening reflected the momentum of a state steadily emerging as a hub of enterprise, innovation, and industrial progress.Chief Guest Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, in his keynote address, highlighted Odisha’s transition from a resource-driven economy to a knowledge-driven and manufacturing-led growth engine. He emphasised that entrepreneurs and wealth creators are central to building a self-reliant India. Referencing India’s growing economy, he underlined the role of digital infrastructure, innovation, and a young workforce in accelerating growth. Describing Odisha as a land of ‘possibilities and positivity,’ he pointed to its mineral strength, connectivity, and talent pool, positioning it as a key pillar in the Purvodaya vision.
.
The evening also saw strong participation from industry voices, reflecting on collaboration, MSME growth, and sustainability, while recognising individuals and organisations shaping Odisha’s evolving business ecosystem.This spirit of collaboration and leadership extends across sectors, each contributing uniquely to the state’s growth.
Entrepreneurs, professionals & leadership
At the heart of Odisha’s growth story are individuals whose leadership continues to inspire enterprise and innovation.
- Jasbir Singh Hura’s journey reflects self-made success, with contributions across automobiles, hospitality, and community development shaping Western Odisha’s business ecosystem.
- JB Consulting & Strategies, founded by Dr. Jagdish Chandra Rout, continues to stand out as a premium strategic communications firm, enabling organisations to navigate complex stakeholder environments with structured and insight-driven approaches.
- CA Bidhu Bhushan Nayak has strengthened financial governance frameworks across sectors through expertise in taxation and strategic advisory.
- Prof.
Soumyendu Shankar Ray , through his work in architecture and planning, has influenced Odisha’s urban design landscape by promoting functional, sustainable, and context-driven infrastructure development. - Baijayanti Sahoo represents balanced leadership across diverse sectors, integrating business growth with social impact.
Rajan Gugnani has built a strong presence in automotive retail through customer-centricity and long-term vision, with Gugnani Autocars and Honda BigWing Bhubaneswar North, both of which have elevated mobility experiences in the region.- Sampath Das represents a new generation of entrepreneurs, driving growth across manufacturing, marine, and hospitality sectors with a forward-looking mindset.
- Nirupama Biswal exemplifies leadership driven by both enterprise and purpose through diversified ventures and impactful CSR initiatives. Manjulata Nayak’s contribution to publishing reflects decades of resilience and commitment to knowledge dissemination.
Food & Agro sector
- Baba Food Processing (India) Ltd. continues to deliver high-quality food products through advanced milling technology and a strong consumer-centric approach.
- Highland Agro Food Pvt. Ltd., under Pratik Jena’s leadership, has strengthened marine exports through global standards and sustainable practices, enhancing India’s presence in international markets.
Manufacturing, industrial & core sector
Odisha’s industrial backbone continues to evolve with organisations driving scale, efficiency, and global competitiveness.
- Jindal Steel Ltd. has strengthened its position through strong stakeholder engagement and ESG integration, ensuring inclusive industrial growth while creating long-term value.
- Shri Jagannath Steels & Power Ltd. continues to reinforce Odisha’s standing as a steel hub through integrated operations and sustainable practices.
- Pranab Kumar Bhattacharyya, leading Vedanta’s alumina business, has driven transformation through operational excellence, sustainability, and strategic foresight, ensuring resilience in a dynamic global landscape.
- In the energy sector, TP Southern Odisha Distribution Limited (TPSODL) has significantly improved power distribution across rural and remote areas through technology-led efficiency, positively impacting livelihoods and regional development.
Education & Institutional excellence
Education continues to be a cornerstone of Odisha’s growth, with institutions focusing on holistic and future-ready learning.
- Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) & ITER stand out with global recognition, strong academic frameworks, and a focus on research and innovation.
- Mother’s Public School continues to nurture students through a balanced approach to academics and holistic development.
- Jupiter Public School has pioneered integrated learning by combining academic curricula with competitive preparation, ensuring strong outcomes.
- KT Global School is redefining residential education through experiential and technology-driven pedagogy.
- Indian Public School, Sambalpur, continues to build a strong foundation for students through discipline, values, and all-round development.
Real estate & infrastructure
Odisha’s urban transformation is being shaped by developers and infrastructure leaders focused on quality, sustainability, and long-term value creation.
- Metro King’s Court stands out as a premium villa township in South Bhubaneswar, blending European-inspired architecture with modern living through spacious designs and curated lifestyle amenities.
- Complementing this,
Sonsy Euphonia offers a more nature-led residential experience, focusing on open spaces, comfort, and sustainable living. - Evos Alchemy represents the next phase of high-rise urban luxury, bringing design innovation and aspirational living together.
- AcreRise continues to strengthen its position through disciplined execution and a strong pipeline, reflecting a future-ready approach to real estate development.
- Stalwart Projects Pvt. Ltd., led by Sharat Kumar Sahu, has built a trusted reputation through consistent delivery, transparency, and quality housing, contributing meaningfully to Bhubaneswar’s residential landscape.
- Jain Builders Pvt. Ltd., with over three decades of experience, continues to deliver reliable housing backed by customer trust and execution strength.
- Emperean Space Pvt. Ltd. integrates sustainability into its core philosophy, adopting green building practices and smart technologies to redefine responsible development. Supporting this ecosystem.
- Duramix Concrete India Pvt. Ltd. plays a critical role in infrastructure growth by delivering high-quality ready-mix solutions with precision and scale.
Logistics, technology & emerging innovation
Innovation-led enterprises are playing a critical role in building Odisha’s future-ready economy.
- Paradeep Parivahan Ltd. continues to enhance logistics efficiency and strengthen port-led supply chain ecosystems, supporting India’s trade infrastructure.
- Airace Technologies, through indigenous GNSS solutions, is contributing to land governance transformation and digital infrastructure development.
- Aquapulse represents the emerging deep-tech ecosystem, leveraging data-driven solutions to transform aquaculture through improved traceability, efficiency, and sustainability.
- Workmates Core2Cloud has positioned itself as a key digital transformation partner, enabling enterprises to modernise operations using cloud and AI technologies.
- WEFE Internet continues to strengthen digital connectivity for businesses, supporting the state’s growing digital ecosystem.
Retail, lifestyle & consumer brands
Odisha’s consumer landscape is evolving with brands that combine legacy, design, and modern retail experiences.
- Khimji Jewellers, with a legacy since 1936, continues to lead across gold, diamond, and silver segments, blending heritage craftsmanship with contemporary retail excellence and strong customer trust.
- Kalamandir remains a preferred destination for ethnic and wedding wear, adapting traditional craftsmanship to modern consumer preferences.
- Duhita & Manav has carved a niche in bridal couture, creating elegant ensembles that reflect timeless craftsmanship and contemporary design.
- PRAYANVI is emerging as a distinctive voice in textile retail, bringing curated sarees rooted in Indian heritage to modern audiences.
- Clay by Lingaraj Granites is redefining interior and architectural experiences through premium materials and personalised design storytelling.
Hospitality, media & services
.
The services sector reflects Odisha’s growing aspirations in lifestyle, tourism, and cultural identity.
- MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts continues to deliver immersive hospitality experiences rooted in nature and culture.
- Vivanta Bhubaneswar, DN Square blends comfort and connectivity for modern travellers.
- BIRCH Bhubaneswar has emerged as a trendsetter in nightlife, offering curated experiences and a vibrant social environment.
- Krishna Courtyard is establishing itself as a premium destination for events and celebrations.
- Dr. Souvagya Mohapatra has redefined luxury hospitality through destination-driven experiences.
- Maitreya Mishra continues to drive operational excellence with a strong focus on customer experience.
- Sidharth TV Network plays a vital role in promoting Odia culture and entertainment through diverse media platforms.
- Joyeeta Roy (Signature 24) has built a strong platform in influencer and celebrity marketing, connecting regional narratives with national brands.
- Ajanta Advertisers continues to transform outdoor media through high-impact visibility solutions.
.
The awards are based on a structured, objective research process where participants submit factual data on performance and achievements, evaluated through a merit-based framework.NOTE:The survey was conducted by an independent agency, and the publication holds no responsibility for the results. Readers are advised to exercise discretion.Disclaimer – The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content.
