Governor of Odisha Raghubar Das ji, Chief Minister, my friend Shri Naveen Patnaik ji, my cabinet colleagues Dharmendra Pradhan ji, Ashwini Vaishnaw ji, Bishweswar Tudu ji, my Parliamentary colleague Nitesh Ganga Deb ji, Director of IIM Sambalpur Professor Mahadeo Jaiswal, other dignitaries, ladies and gentlemen!

Today marks a crucial day in Odisha's developmental journey, and I extend my congratulations to the people of Odisha for these developmental projects valued at about Rs 70 thousand crores. These projects encompass various sectors, including education, rail, road, electricity, and petroleum. The implementation of these initiatives will bring benefits to the poor, labourers, employees, shopkeepers, traders, farmers, covering all sections of Odisha's society. In addition to improving facilities in Odisha, these projects are poised to generate thousands of new employment opportunities for the youth.

Friends,

Today, the nation has chosen to confer the Bharat Ratna upon one of its distinguished sons, former Deputy Prime Minister Lal Krishna Advani. As Deputy Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Minister of Information and Broadcasting, and as a loyal, conscious parliamentarian, Advani ji has dedicated decades to serving the country, exhibiting unparalleled commitment. This recognition bestowed upon Advani ji symbolizes the nation's enduring gratitude towards those who have devoted their lives to its service. I have been fortunate to receive ceaseless love and guidance from Lal Krishna Advani ji. I extend my best wishes for his continued well-being and congratulate him on behalf of all citizens from the vibrant state of Odisha.

Friends,

We have consistently worked towards establishing Odisha as a significant hub for education and skill development. The modern institutions and educational establishments that Odisha has received in the past decade are transforming the prospects of the youth in the region. Whether it is IISER Berhampur or the Institute of Chemical Technology in Bhubaneswar, numerous such institutions have been established. The recent addition of IIM Sambalpur is further enhancing Odisha's standing as a contemporary management institute. I vividly recall laying the foundation stone for this IIM campus three years ago during the challenging times of the pandemic. Despite various hurdles, this splendid campus is now complete. And the enthusiasm in you makes me realize how lovely the campus is for you. I appreciate all those involved in its development.

Friends,

The goal of achieving a developed Bharat can only be realized when every state in the country undergoes development. Over the years, we have increasingly supported Odisha in various sectors. Due to the concerted efforts of the Central Government, Odisha is currently reaching new heights in the petroleum and petrochemical sector. In the past decade, an investment exceeding Rs. 1.25 lakh crore has been made in the petroleum and petrochemical sector in Odisha.  Odisha has been given 12 times more budget allocation than before for the development of railways. Under the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana, approximately 50 thousand kilometres of roads have been constructed in Odisha's villages in the last decade. Additionally, more than 4000 kilometres of new national highways have been built in the state. Today, three major projects related to National Highways have been inaugurated, enhancing inter-state connectivity between Jharkhand and Odisha while reducing travel distances. This region is renowned for its potential in mining, power, and steel industries. The improved connectivity resulting from these projects will foster the establishment of new industries in the region, generating thousands of new employment opportunities. The inauguration of the doubling of the Sambalpur-Talcher rail section and the new rail line from Jhartarbha to Sonepur section is also taking place today. The Puri-Sonepur Express is connecting Subarnapur or Sonepur district to rail connectivity, facilitating easier darshan of Lord Jagannath for devotees. Continuous efforts are being made to ensure that every family in Odisha has access to adequate and affordable electricity. The supercritical and ultra-supercritical thermal plants inaugurated today share the same objective.

Brothers & Sisters,

Odisha has significantly benefited from the policies implemented by the Central Government in the last decade. The state has been a major beneficiary of the reforms introduced in the field of mining. After the change in mining policy, Odisha's income has increased tenfold. Previously, the areas and states where mining activities occurred did not enjoy the benefits of mineral production. We addressed this by introducing a new policy. The Central Government under the BJP established the District Mineral Foundation, guaranteeing that a portion of the income generated from mineral resources would be allocated for development within the same area. Odisha has received over Rs 25 thousand crores from this foundation. This money is being used for the welfare of the people of the mining area. I assure the people of Odisha that the Central Government will continue to work for the development of Odisha with the same dedicated spirit.

Friends,

I need to attend a significant event at an open field, and the atmosphere there is quite distinctive. Therefore, I will not prolong my time here. However, at that event, I plan to engage in more extended discussions and will join the programme in about 15 minutes. Once again, I extend my congratulations to all of you for your development efforts, with special applause for my young friends.

Thank you very much!

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

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DS/VJ/IG/AK