Bhubaneswar, August 15: Odisha joined the nation in celebrating the 80th Independence Day on Saturday, with the state-level ceremony held at Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the ceremony and unfurled the national flag. He paid tribute to the freedom fighters who made supreme sacrifices during India’s struggle for independence and addressed the people of Odisha.

In his address, Majhi said the history of India’s independence would remain incomplete without recognising the contribution of Odisha’s people’s movements. He said the sacrifices and contributions of freedom fighters would always be remembered.

The Chief Minister also highlighted India’s development journey over the past eight decades, saying the country has continued to progress since gaining independence.

Referring to the past year, Majhi said it had been an eventful period for the country. He credited the leadership and decisions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ensuring that India continues to move in the right direction.