Governor of Odisha, Shri Raghubar Das ji, the esteemed Chief Minister of this state, Shri Naveen Patnaik ji, my cabinet colleague Shri Dharmendra Pradhan ji, Shri Bishweswar Tudu ji, other dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen!

Jai Jagannath!

Today, with the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath and Maa Biraja, a new wave of development has commenced in Jajpur and Odisha. It is also the birth anniversary of Biju Babu. Biju Babu's contribution to the progress of Odisha and the nation remains unparalleled. On behalf of all citizens, I offer my heartfelt homage and respect to the esteemed Biju Babu.

Friends,

Today, significant projects amounting to Rs. 20,000 crores have been inaugurated and their foundation stones laid here. Whether the initiatives are related to petroleum, natural gas, nuclear energy, or those concerning roads, railways, and transportation, these development projects will bolster industrial activities and foster the creation of new employment opportunities. I congratulate all the people of Odisha for these projects.

Friends,

Today, we have a government in the country that not only concerns itself with the present, but also works tirelessly towards a secure future for the country by taking a pledge to build a 'developed Bharat'. In the realm of energy, we are bolstering the capacities of states, particularly in eastern India. Significant strides are being made under the Urja Ganga project to facilitate the supply of natural gas across five major states – Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha. Today, we proudly dedicate the Paradip-Somnathpur-Haldia pipeline to serve our nation. Additionally, a unit for natural gas processing has been inaugurated at the Paradip Refinery, alongside the unveiling of a new Mono Ethylene Glycol plant. This heralds a new era for the polyester industry in eastern India, ensuring ample raw material supply for textile parks under construction in Bhadrak and Paradip.

Friends,

Today's event also highlights the significant shift in our country's work culture over the recent years. Previously, there was a lack of commitment from earlier governments in completing projects on schedule. In contrast, our government prioritizes the timely completion of projects once initiated. Since 2014, numerous projects that were stalled or delayed have been successfully completed across the country. For instance, discussions on the Paradip Refinery commenced as early as 2002, yet no progress was made until 2013-14. It was our government that ultimately executed and completed the Paradip Refinery project. Furthermore, today, I had the privilege of inaugurating the Paradip-Hyderabad Pipeline Project in Sangareddy, Telangana. Furthermore, just three days ago, a significant milestone was reached with the inauguration of a 500-kilometre crude oil pipeline from Haldia to Barauni in Arambagh, West Bengal.

Friends,

Eastern India boasts abundant natural resources, and our government is harnessing these riches, including the rare mineral wealth of Odisha, to drive development. Today, we laid the foundation stone for a desalination plant in Ganjam district, which will benefit thousands of people in Odisha. This project aims to purify 50 lakh litres of saltwater daily, ensuring access to potable water for the populace.

Friends,

To enhance Odisha's resources and bolster the state's industrial prowess, the Central government is prioritizing modern connectivity initiatives here. Over the past decade, significant strides have been made in this regard. Approximately 3,000 kilometres of national highways have been constructed in Odisha, and the railway budget has been augmented nearly twelve-fold. National Highway expansion projects are underway in districts including Jajpur, Bhadrak, Jagatsinghpur, Mayurbhanj, Khordha, Ganjam, Puri, and Kendujhar, aimed at enhancing rail, highway and port connectivity. Additionally, the newly inaugurated Angul-Sukinda railway line now provides crucial access, facilitating the expansion of the Kalinganagar industrial zone. The Central Government remains committed to accelerating development efforts in Odisha. On the occasion of his birth anniversary, I once again pay tribute to Biju Babu and extend congratulations to all for the development initiatives.

Jai Jagannath!

DISCLAIMER: This is the approximate translation of PM’s speech. Original speech was delivered in Hindi.

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DS/RT/IG/AK