Bhubaneswar, June 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday praised the BJP-led Odisha government under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, stating that the state has entered a new era of progress and is advancing rapidly on the path of development under the double-engine governance model.
Addressing a public gathering at Rairangpur in Mayurbhanj district during the celebrations marking the completion of the Odisha government's first year in office, the Prime Minister said the state was witnessing significant transformation through welfare initiatives and development-focused governance.
“Under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Odisha is moving forward at a rapid pace. Welfare schemes aimed at uplifting the poor are bringing meaningful changes to the lives of ordinary citizens. The state is emerging as a major hub for economic activity, industrial expansion, and investment, while sustained efforts are being made to generate employment opportunities,” PM Modi said.
Highlighting the Centre’s vision for eastern India, the Prime Minister reiterated the government's commitment to the Purvodaya policy, which aims to drive national growth by developing the eastern states.
“The development of eastern India is crucial to India's overall progress. Guided by the vision of Purvodaya, we are working to unlock the region’s vast potential,” he said.
Taking a swipe at the Congress, Modi remarked that eastern India, which had long suffered from neglect and underdevelopment during previous regimes, is now emerging as a gateway to growth and prosperity. He noted that Odisha is playing a significant role in this transformation.
The Prime Minister emphasized Odisha’s strengths, including its extensive coastline, abundant mineral wealth, agricultural potential, and talented youth population. He said coordinated efforts by the Centre and the state government are helping unlock these advantages.
“Odisha is witnessing record investments in railway infrastructure. New highways and economic corridors are being developed, ports are being modernized, and substantial investments are flowing into sectors such as semiconductors, energy, green technology, and advanced manufacturing,” he said.
During the programme, PM Modi unveiled development projects worth nearly Rs 47,600 crore and said these initiatives would significantly improve infrastructure and public services across the state.
“These projects will benefit people in key sectors such as power, roads, railways, healthcare, and education. I congratulate the people of Odisha on this important milestone,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the state’s growing industrial momentum, stating that Odisha has attracted investment proposals worth nearly Rs 20 lakh crore through initiatives such asUtkarsh Odisha. He added that mega projects valued at more than Rs 3.5 lakh crore are currently under implementation.
Modi said one of the key advantages of a double-engine government is its ability to deliver development and welfare benefits directly to the people. He pointed to several flagship schemes implemented by both the Centre and the state government over the past year that have improved the quality of life for citizens.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister referred to two significant milestones on the horizon—Odisha’s centenary year in 2036 and India’s 100th year of Independence in 2047.
“The aspirations of Odisha and India are aligned. A stronger Odisha will contribute to a stronger India. I have immense confidence in the capabilities of the people of Odisha, and together we will take the state to greater heights of development,” he said.
On the occasion, PM Modi also extended birthday greetings to President Droupadi Murmu, noting with pride that the daughter of Mayurbhanj district now occupies the nation’s highest constitutional office.
