Rayagada, Feb 2: Rayagada district witnessed a major push towards inclusive development and women-led growth as Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the Subhadra Shakti Mela 2026 and launched a series of development initiatives worth more than ₹600 crore.

Majhi launched 109 development projects for Rayagada district with a total investment exceeding ₹600 crore. Of these, 22 completed projects worth ₹238 crore were inaugurated, while foundation stones were laid for 87 new projects amounting to over ₹366 crore.

The projects cover key sectors including roads and bridges, healthcare, education, women empowerment and basic infrastructure, with the objective of strengthening the district’s overall development framework.

Emphasising the importance of cultural heritage and religious tourism, the Chief Minister laid the foundation stone for the development and beautification of Maa Majhighariani Temple at a cost of ₹37 crore. The project is expected to enhance amenities for devotees and give a significant boost to religious tourism in the region.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening women-led livelihoods, the Chief Minister announced major financial support for Self-Help Groups in Rayagada. This includes ₹14 crore as revolving fund support for 9,335 SHGs, ₹53.14 crore as Community Investment Fund for 164 Gram Panchayat Level Federations, and ₹37.55 crore in loans to 4,195 SHGs to expand and strengthen livelihood activities.

He further informed that during the 2025–26 financial year, nearly ₹200 crore in loans has been extended to 4,217 SHGs in the district.

Speaking on employment and future development priorities, Majhi announced that 80 per cent employment reservation for local youth will be ensured in upcoming industrial units in Rayagada.

He also stated that indoor stadiums will be developed in all blocks of the district, while education, healthcare and transport infrastructure will be further strengthened. A proposal for establishing a medical college in Rayagada is currently under consideration by the government.

Referring to the 2026–27 Union Budget, the Chief Minister described it as a women-dedicated budget with an allocation of ₹5 lakh crore for women and child development. He also highlighted plans to establish Self-Help Entrepreneur Marts to enhance grassroots-level economic participation and market access for women entrepreneurs.