Odisha: A Rich State with Poor People - A Development Paradox

Author(s)	Mr. Uddhava Biswal
Country	India
Abstract	Odisha, an eastern India state, presents a striking paradox in development economics where abundant natural resources coexist with persistent poverty. The state is richly endowed with minerals, forests, fertile agricultural land, and a long coastline, yet historically it has lagged behind in human development indicators and per capita income. This paper examines the structural and socio-economic reasons behind this contradiction by analyzing resource distribution, agricultural dependence, regional inequality, governance issues, and human capital formation. It also introduces dietary patterns and lifestyle practices as supplementary factors influencing productivity. The study concludes that inclusive policies, improved human capital and balanced development are necessary to convert Odisha’s resource wealth into sustainable prosperity.
Keywords	Odisha Economy, Development Paradox, Resources Curse, Mineral Wealth, Human Development, Inequality, Governance, Inclusive Development and Sustainable Growth.
Field	Business Administration
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On	2026-06-02

About IJFMR Fees & Payment Current Issue Publication Archive	Submit Research Paper Track Submission Status Publication Guidelines Publication Ethics Peer Review & Plagiarism	Join as a Reviewer Editors & Reviewers Reviewer Referral Program Get Reviewer Membership Certi.	Website/Journal Policies Usage Policy Content Policies Privacy Policy

Contact Us		+91-9687-828-838	editor@ijfmr.com

International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research