Bhubaneswar, Oct 16: As Odisha’s former Chief Minister and current Leader of the Opposition, Naveen Patnaik marks his 80th birthday today, the state reflects on the enduring legacy of a leader who shaped two and a half decades of its political and developmental journey.

Having served as the Chief Minister of Odisha for over 24 years- from March 5, 2000, to June 2024-Patnaik is credited with leading one of the most stable and reform-oriented governments in the country. His tenure, spread across five consecutive terms, was marked by administrative reforms, poverty reduction, and infrastructural growth.

Known for his simplicity, integrity, and low-profile lifestyle, Naveen Patnaik stood out in national politics as a statesman who let his work speak louder than his words. Under his leadership, Odisha transformed from a state grappling with poverty and natural disasters to one recognized for disaster resilience, fiscal discipline, and social welfare initiatives.

One of his most notable achievements was placing Odisha at the top nationally in poverty reduction, while significantly improving outcomes in health, education, and rural development. His flagship welfare schemes, such as Mission Shakti, KALIA, and Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, earned national attention and were often replicated by other states.

In a historic political shift earlier this year, Naveen Patnaik’s Biju Janata Dal (BJD) lost the 2024 Assembly elections after 24 years in power, and he assumed the role of Leader of the Opposition for the first time. Despite the change in position, he remains a towering figure in Odisha’s political landscape and a respected voice in national affairs.

As tributes pour in on his 80th birthday, political leaders across party lines have lauded his contributions to Odisha’s development and his legacy of clean governance.