In a landmark step, the Government of Odisha, in partnership with the Singapore-based Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), has launched the BharatNetra Initiative with the inauguration of the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) in Bhubaneswar.
This initiative is the state’s first large-scale global fintech capability programme and is set to position Odisha as a key player in India’s digital economy and innovation ecosystem.
The Four Pillars of BharatNetra
- Training Digital Finance Leaders
The launch of the Certificate in FinTech and InsurTech (CFI), in collaboration with NUS-AIDF and GFTN, is a five-month hybrid programme that blends coursework, projects, internships, and in-person training in Bhubaneswar. The programme aims to train 7,000 students over five years. Already, more than 2,000 applicants from 50 colleges have applied for the first 375-seat cohort, which begins in September 2025. - Odisha Joins the Global Black Swan Network
Bhubaneswar will host the Black Swan Summit (BSS) India in early 2026. The summit will link startups, innovators, and skilled talent with global job opportunities, venture capital, and international digital economy networks. This step strengthens Odisha’s role as a hub for financial inclusion, innovation, and investment. - Innovation Hub for FinTech and InsurTech Entrepreneurs
A new Centre of Excellence will be established within the Integrated Innovation Hub. It will feature an Innovation Acceleration Programme that provides incubation, mentorship, venture development, and global market access. The goal is to build a strong ecosystem for promising fintech and insurtech startups. - Global Capability Hub for FinTech Collaboration
The I-GFTCH will serve as a nearshore hub for national and international financial institutions. It will provide collaboration space for startups, corporates, and regulators while leveraging Odisha’s skilled workforce and GFTN’s global networks. The hub aims to accelerate product development, co-create solutions, and establish cross-border partnerships.
Leadership Voices
Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, said, “The I-GFTCH will shape the future of finance in Odisha and strengthen India’s leadership in the digital economy. It reflects our vision to bring the best of the world to Odisha and take Odisha to the world.”
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister of Education, Government of India, said, “BharatNetra is a nation-building mission, bridging the gap between education and employability. It lays the foundation for Odisha’s vision of becoming a USD 500 billion economy by 2036 and contributes to India’s USD 300 trillion economy goal by 2047.”
Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO, GFTN, said, “BharatNetra is a shining example of how strategic vision translates into action. By linking Odisha’s talent to world-class training and global markets, we are positioning the state as a vital gateway in the digital finance landscape.”
Dr. Tapan Singhel, MD and CEO, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, added, “Employability today is about adaptability, not just degrees. BharatNetra ensures our youth are ready for fast-evolving industries by embedding real-world requirements into learning.”
With these measures, Odisha takes a significant step in building a future-ready digital economy and establishing itself as a global hub for fintech innovation.
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