With an initial investment of about 900 crore, Nestlé India has formally started building its first manufacturing facility in eastern India in Khordha, Odisha. This significant milestone represents the company’s tenth factory across the country, demonstrating a significant extension of its “Make in India” strategy.
Make Sustainability and Local Manufacturing
Nestlé’s prepared meals and cooking tools, including well-known brands like Maggi noodles, seasonings, and mixes, will be produced in the new facility. It is expected that this local production will significantly reduce delivery times and transport costs for eastern and northeastern India.
Moreover, Nestlé plans to build the plant using digitally managed, paperless operations, and energy-efficient, water-conserving systems, making it a model for sustainable and inclusive manufacturing
Employment: Direct, Indirect, and Women-Focused
While exact numbers aren’t published, sources estimate the factory could generate several thousand jobs, both direct and indirect, with strong emphasis on gender diversity—possibly mirroring the success of the Sanand (Gujarat) plant, where women make up over 50–60% of the workforce
Additionally, the plant is covered by Odisha’s Food Processing Policy, which could improve rural livelihoods, agri-value chains, and MSME participation by sourcing flours and spices locally.
Odisha’s Strategic Significance
Eastern India, which was previously under-represented in large-scale FMCG manufacturing, is seeing a deepening of industrial growth as a result of Nestlé’s investment. With the support of policies, better infrastructure, and government incentives, the Khordha plant could make Odisha a major location for similar projects.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment | ₹900 crore initial phase; part of ₹4,200 crore planned by 2025 |
| Products | Prepared dishes & cooking aids (e.g., Maggi, mixes) |
| Jobs | Expected thousands of direct/indirect roles, strong female workforce focus |
| Policy Support | Odisha Food Processing Policy; MSME and rural Agri integration |
| Sustainability | Digital, paperless operations; water/energy efficient design |
More than just a new manufacturing facility, Nestlé’s ₹900 crore investment in Odisha is a driving force behind the region’s sustainable development, workforce diversification, and economic expansion in eastern India. More local jobs as well as a more robust industrial ecosystem that supports MSMEs and fortifies supply chains are what this means for Odisha.
Do you want to learn more about supply chain opportunities, possible job types, or the expected participation of women?
The information presented in this article is based on official announcements, media reports, and publicly available sources at the time of writing. Job estimates and operational details are subject to change based on company policies and government regulations. Readers are advised to refer to official Nestlé India and Odisha Government portals for the most accurate and updated information.
