#India #Bhubaneswar #GFTN #BharatNetra #Odisha

Transforming the FinTech Landscape in Odisha

On August 24, 2025, the Government of Odisha, in partnership with Singapore-based Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), launched the BharatNetra Initiative. This groundbreaking endeavor introduces the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) in Bhubaneswar, a notable first for the region aimed at establishing a global network in financial technology. The initiative illustrates Odisha's ambition to be a vital cog in India's burgeoning innovation ecosystem, aligning with the country's development goals and its vision to spearhead entrepreneurship and industry-ready skill enhancement.

A Comprehensive Strategy for FinTech Development

The BharatNetra Initiative is anchored on a meticulously crafted four-pillar strategy that targets the establishment of world-class FinTech capabilities while fostering global connectivity. Its blueprint includes cutting-edge training to cultivate a generation of professionals who are adept in both financial technology and business acumen.

Educating Future FinTech Leaders

One of the initiative's key components is a collaboration with the National University of Singapore’s Asian Institute of Digital Finance (NUS-AIDF) and GFTN to launch the Certificate in FinTech InsurTech (CFI) program. This is a five-month hybrid course combining online learning with in-person training in Bhubaneswar, designed to equip 7,000 students over the next five years with crucial skills in technology, regulation, and business operations tailored for the FinTech and InsurTech sectors. The response so far has been overwhelming, with over 2,000 applications received from more than 50 colleges, leading to an inaugural cohort of 375 students set to commence in September.

Global Collaboration for Local Growth

Bhubaneswar is also set to host the Black Swan Summit India in early 2026, a flagship event that integrates national and global discussions surrounding frontier technology. This summit, convened by GFTN, will connect local talent, startups, and businesses to global job opportunities, investment avenues, and the rapidly evolving digital economy. It aims to position Odisha as a pivotal hub for financial inclusion, technological advancement, and innovation-led economic growth.

Nurturing Innovation and Entrepreneurship

To further support local entrepreneurs, the Odisha government plans to establish a Centre of Excellence as part of the Integrated Innovation Hub. This facility will serve as a breeding ground for promising FinTech and InsurTech startups, offering incubation, mentorship, and access to market development tools. The program seeks to ensure that Odisha's entrepreneurs are not only equipped with necessary financial and technological resources but are also capable of scaling their initiatives to become competitive on a global stage.

Building Financial Technology Infrastructure

Additionally, a collaboration space linked to the global financial ecosystem will be set up, aimed at fostering partnership opportunities among startups, established corporates, and innovators. This nearshore hub will serve as a strategic point of collaboration for national and global financial firms, ensuring that Odisha connects seamlessly with the world's leading FinTech hubs.

Leadership Voices

Odisha's Chief Minister, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, expressed optimism about the new endeavor, stating, "The launch of the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub stands to redefine the financial landscape of Odisha and bolster India’s stature in the digital economy landscape."

Union Minister of Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, highlighted the initiative's role in reshaping employability for youth in India by embedding industry-relevant skills into educational programs.

Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO of GFTN, noted that the BharatNetra Initiative serves as a paradigm of impactful cooperation between Singapore and India, set to open avenues for talent and innovation.

Conclusion

As the BharatNetra Initiative sets forth, it aims to transform Odisha into a nucleus of financial technology advancement, contributing significantly to the state and national economies while ensuring a brighter future for the youth and strengthening India’s role in the global digital finance landscape. With significant backing, a visionary approach, and a collaborative spirit, Odisha is poised to become a leading destination for FinTech innovation and growth.