<p>The Indian state of Odisha faced an unprecedented compound crisis in 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic coincided with the impacts of cyclones. This paper critically examines Odisha’s social protection response through the lens of Shock-Responsive Social Protection (SRSP) frameworks. We analyze how the state’s social protection system was scaled up or adapted via vertical expansion, horizontal expansion, piggybacking, and refocusing measures to address health, economic, and climatic shocks. The study draws on a literature review of SRSP and pandemic responses, as well as a systematic desk review of Odisha’s policies and schemes for the period 2020–21. The State’s interventions, ranging from cash transfers and food distribution to an urban employment guarantee, are categorized by the SRSP strategy and assessed for their effectiveness, inclusivity, and sustainability. The analysis highlights Odisha’s use of existing disaster management infrastructure and community networks, as well as the challenges of reaching migrant workers and other vulnerable groups during compound shocks. The findings recommend transitioning from ad-hoc emergency measures to inclusive, transformative social protection that can withstand future shocks.</p>