Phulbani, Jul 1: The Odisha government's decision to rename the Phulbani Government Medical College after the late Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati has been widely welcomed across Kandhamal district. Various organisations and local residents have hailed the move, describing it as a fitting tribute to the spiritual leader's contribution towards the welfare of tribal communities.

The decision, announced by the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, has triggered celebrations in the district. Several organisations, including the BJP, Bajrang Dal, Vishva Hindu Parishad, Vedanta Kesari Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati Adarsha Kandhamal Bikash Manch and Kandhamal District Paika Khandayat Kula Samaj, expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for honouring the legacy of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati.

The state government said the medical college has been renamed to recognise Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati's significant contribution to the upliftment of tribal communities and his dedicated service to the people of Kandhamal.

In addition to the renaming, the government has sanctioned ₹13 crore from the Chief Minister's Special Assistance (CMSA) Fund for the development of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati's Ashram, Ashram School and Girls' Hostel at Jalespata.

The development package includes ₹5 crore for constructing a 300-seat girls' hostel, ₹3 crore for conservation and development of the Swamiji's heritage site, and ₹60 lakh for a mega river lift water supply project to ensure uninterrupted drinking water to the Ashram, school and hostel. Funds have also been allocated for classroom construction, hostel renovation, expansion of residential facilities, compound wall construction, sanitation facilities and other infrastructure development works.

According to the state government, these initiatives aim to preserve the legacy of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati while improving educational and residential infrastructure at Jalespata. The announcement has received widespread appreciation from various sections of society in Kandhamal.