Sharpening its focus on attracting fresh investments, the state government on Friday gave its go-ahead to seven new projects with a total investment potential of Rs 2,084 crore. These include three grain-based ethanol plants by oil PSUs, along with investments in the renewable energy, logistics and tourism sectors. These are believed to generate employment opportunities for more than 2,144 people.

Officials said the state-level single window clearance authority (SLSWCA), led by chief secretary Suresh Chandra Mohapatra, which takes the calls on individual projects within Rs 1,000 crore cleared these projects.

Ethanol fuel is cost-effective and eco-friendly compared to other biofuels. It is also easily available and helps in reducing Global Warming. The ethanol fuel reduces dependence on fossil fuels. With the Centre setting a target of 10% blending of fuel-grade ethanol with petrol by 2022 and 20% blending by 2025, officials said the three approved units will surge to the existing capacity and help reduce the carbon footprint.