Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of development works worth over Rs 60,000 crore in Jharsuguda, Odisha today. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister offered his respectful greetings to all the distinguished dignitaries present at the event. Highlighting that the festival of Navratri is currently being celebrated, Shri Modi expressed that during these auspicious days, he was fortunate to visit the sacred land of Maa Samalei and Maa Ramachandi and meet the people gathered there. He noted the presence of a large number of mothers and sisters at the event, stating that their blessings are the true source of strength, offering his salutations to the people.

Recalling that during the Assembly elections one and a half years ago, the people of Odisha had resolved to move forward with a new commitment—towards a developed Odisha, Shri Modi observed that today, Odisha is progressing rapidly with the momentum of their governments at the Centre and State. He announced the commencement of projects worth thousands of crores for the development of Odisha and the nation. Shri Modi unveiled the new avatar of BSNL, marking the launch of its indigenous 4G services. He stated that the expansion of IITs across various states is also beginning today. Additionally, he highlighted the foundation stone laying and inauguration of several projects in Odisha related to education, skill development, and connectivity. He flagged off the modern Amrit Bharat train from Berhampur to Surat, underlining the great benefit to the people. Shri Modi also acknowledged the presence of Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, Electronics & IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, who had connected virtually from Surat, Gujarat. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to the people of Odisha for all these development initiatives.

“Our government is committed to serving and empowering the poor, and our focus is on delivering basic amenities to the underprivileged, including Dalits, backward classes, and tribal communities”, stated the Prime Minister. He noted that today’s programme stands as a testament to this commitment. Shri Modi shared that he had the opportunity to hand over approval letters to beneficiaries under the Antyodaya Griha Yojana. He remarked that when a poor family receives a pucca house, it transforms not only their present but also the future generations. Underlining that their government has already provided more than four crore pucca houses to poor families across the country, the PM said in Odisha, thousands of houses are being constructed at a rapid pace, and he commended the Chief Minister Shri Mohan Majhi and his team for their commendable efforts. The Prime Minister announced that today, nearly fifty thousand families have received approval for new homes. Under the PM Janman Yojana, over forty thousand houses have been sanctioned for tribal families in Odisha, fulfilling a major aspiration of the most marginalized among them. He extended his best wishes to all beneficiary families.

Expressing his enduring faith in the capabilities and talent of the people of Odisha, the Prime Minister noted that nature has blessed Odisha abundantly. While acknowledging that Odisha has endured decades of poverty, he affirmed that the coming decade will usher in prosperity for its people. To achieve this, the government is bringing major projects to the state. He announced that the Central Government has recently approved two semiconductor units for Odisha, and a semiconductor park is also set to be established, crediting the strength and potential of the youth of Odisha. Shri Modi envisioned a future where the small chip used in phones, televisions, refrigerators, computers, cars, and many other devices will be manufactured in Odisha.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s resolve to achieve self-reliance in every domain—from chips to ships. He stated that a vast industrial corridor is being developed from Paradip to Jharsuguda. Emphasizing the strategic importance of shipbuilding, he noted that any nation aspiring for economic strength must invest in this sector, as it benefits trade, technology, and national security. Shri Modi explained that having indigenous ships ensures uninterrupted import-export operations even during global crises. The Prime Minister announced a major initiative by their government—a ₹70,000 crore package for shipbuilding in India. He projected that this would attract ₹4.5 lakh crore in investments, reaching sectors such as steel, machinery, electronics, and manufacturing, especially benefiting small and cottage industries. He highlighted that this would generate millions of new jobs and bring significant advantages to Odisha’s industries and youth.

“India has taken a significant step towards self-reliance”, exclaimed Shri Modi, recalling that when telecom services like 2G, 3G, and 4G were introduced globally, India lagged behind and remained dependent on foreign technology for these services. He emphasized that such a situation was not suitable for the country, which led to a national resolve to develop essential telecom technologies indigenously. The Prime Minister expressed pride that BSNL has successfully developed a fully indigenous 4G technology within India. He lauded BSNL’s dedication, perseverance, and expertise in creating this milestone. He further highlighted that Indian companies have now positioned India among the select five countries in the world that possess completely indigenous technology to launch 4G services.

The Prime Minister noted the coincidence that BSNL is celebrating its 25th anniversary today. On this historic occasion, he highlighted that through the dedicated efforts of BSNL and its partners, India is advancing towards becoming a global telecom manufacturing hub. He stated that it is a matter of pride for Odisha that BSNL’s indigenous 4G network is being launched from Jharsuguda, comprising nearly one lakh 4G towers. These towers are set to usher in a new era of connectivity across remote regions of the country. Shri Modi emphasized that the expansion of 4G technology will directly benefit over two crore people nationwide. He added that approximately thirty thousand villages, which previously lacked high-speed internet access, will now be connected through this initiative.

The Prime Minister stated that thousands of villages are virtually connected to witness this historic day, listening and watching through high-speed internet. He mentioned that Union Minister for Communications, Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia was also joining from Assam. 

Highlighting that BSNL’s indigenous 4G services will benefit tribal regions, remote villages, and hilly areas the most, Shri Modi affirmed that people in these regions will now have access to quality digital services. Children in rural areas will be able to attend online classes, farmers in distant locations will be able to check crop prices, and patients will find it easier to consult doctors through telemedicine. The Prime Minister added that this initiative will also greatly benefit our armed forces personnel, enabling them to communicate securely through enhanced connectivity.

Underlining that India has already rolled out the fastest 5G services, the Prime Minister noted that the BSNL towers inaugurated today are readily equipped to support 5G services as well. He extended his heartfelt congratulations to BSNL and all citizens of the country on this historic occasion.

Emphasising that a skilled youth and a robust research ecosystem are essential for building an Atmanirbhar Bharat, Shri Modi stated that this is a major priority for their government. He highlighted the unprecedented investment being made in education and skill development across the country, including Odisha. The Prime Minister announced that engineering colleges and polytechnics are being modernized, and launched a new scheme named MERITE to support this effort. Under this scheme, thousands of crores will be invested in technical education institutions. He remarked that this will eliminate the compulsion for youth to migrate to big cities for quality technical education. Instead, they will have access to modern labs, global skill training, and startup opportunities within their own towns.

The Prime Minister stated that unprecedented efforts are underway to ensure that facilities reach every sector, every community, and every citizen of the country. He highlighted that record levels of investment are being made to achieve this. Reflecting on the past, he remarked that people are well aware of the previous situation, asserting that the opposition never missed an opportunity to exploit the public.

Shri Modi stated that in 2014, when the people entrusted the government with the opportunity to serve, their administration successfully liberated the country from the exploitative system of the opposition. He remarked that under their government, a new era of double savings and double earnings has begun. He contrasted the past, noting that during the previous dispensation regime, employees and businesspersons had to pay tax even on incomes up to ₹2 lakh. In contrast, he highlighted that today, individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh annually are not required to pay even a single rupee in income tax.

Mentioning that new GST reforms have been implemented nationwide, including in Odisha, from 22nd September 2025, the Prime Minister described these reforms as a gift of savings for all, especially making kitchen expenses more affordable for mothers and sisters. He stated that the prices of most essential items have significantly reduced. Illustrating with an example, he explained that a family in Odisha spending ₹1 lakh annually on groceries and other essentials used to pay ₹20,000–₹25,000 in taxes under the then ruling government before 2014. After the introduction of GST by their Government in 2017, this tax amount was reduced and now, the tax burden has been brought down substantially, with families paying only ₹5,000–₹6,000 annually. He emphasized that compared to the opposition era, families now save ₹15,000–₹20,000 per year on such expenses.

Affirming that Odisha is a land of farmers and highlighted that the GST Savings Festival is highly beneficial for them, the Prime Minister recalled that during the opposition era, farmers had to pay ₹70,000 in tax when purchasing a tractor. With the introduction of GST, the tax was reduced, and under the new GST structure, farmers now save approximately ₹40,000 on the same tractor. He added that machines used for paddy transplantation now offer a saving of ₹15,000, power tillers ₹10,000, and threshers up to ₹25,000. Shri Modi emphasized that their government has significantly lowered taxes on numerous agricultural tools and equipment.

Noting that Odisha is home to a large tribal population, which depends on forest produce for livelihood, the Prime Minister noted that the government has already been working for kendu leaf collectors and has now significantly reduced GST on this item, ensuring better prices for the collectors. He emphasized that their government is consistently providing tax relief and increasing savings for citizens, while accusing the opposition of continuing exploitative practices. Shri Modi alleged that opposition-led governments are still engaged in looting the public. He highlighted that when the new GST rates were implemented, the tax on cement was also reduced to make home construction and repairs more affordable. He pointed out that after 22nd September, cement prices dropped even in Himachal Pradesh. However, he claimed that the ruling government in Himachal imposed an additional tax on cement, depriving people of the benefit. The Prime Minister warned that wherever the opposition party governs, exploitation follows, and urged citizens to remain cautious of the party.

Shri Modi stated that the GST Savings Festival has brought the greatest joy to mothers and sisters. He emphasized that serving women and daughters is a top priority for the government, with a strong focus on their health. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by mothers for their families, noting how they bear every hardship to shield their children and often hide their own illnesses to avoid burdening the household with medical expenses. The Prime Minister highlighted that this is precisely why the Ayushman Bharat Yojana was launched, which has significantly benefited women by providing free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh.

Emphasising that a healthy mother leads to a strong family, Shri Modi highlighted the nationwide launch of the “Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar” campaign from 17th September 2025. He informed that over eight lakh health camps have been organized across the country under this initiative, with more than three crore women undergoing health screenings. These camps are facilitating diagnosis for diseases such as diabetes, breast cancer, tuberculosis, and sickle cell anemia. He urged all mothers, sisters, and daughters in Odisha to ensure they get their health check-ups done. 

The Prime Minister reiterated that their government is continuously working to enhance the strength of the nation and its citizens—whether through tax relief or modern connectivity—by paving the way for convenience and prosperity. He noted that Odisha is reaping significant benefits from these efforts, with six Vande Bharat trains currently operational in the state and modernization underway at nearly sixty railway stations. He added that the Veer Surendra Sai Airport in Jharsuguda is now connected to several major cities across India. Odisha is also receiving substantially higher revenue from minerals and mining. Shri Modi mentioned that the Subhadra Yojana is consistently supporting the women of Odisha. He affirmed that Odisha is firmly on the path of progress and assured that the pace of development will accelerate further. He concluded by extending his best wishes to all.

The Governor of Odisha, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Minister Shri Jual Oram were present among other dignitaries at the event. Several Union Ministers and Chief Ministers from across the country were connected to today’s programme through videoconferencing.

Background

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects worth over Rs.60,000 crore in Jharsuguda. These projects span across telecommunications, railways, higher education, healthcare, skill development, rural housing sectors, among others.

In the field of telecom connectivity, the Prime Minister commissioned more than 97,500 mobile 4G towers built at a cost of around Rs.37,000 crore with swadeshi technology. This includes more than 92,600 4G technology sites commissioned by BSNL.  Over 18,900 4G sites have been funded under the Digital Bharat Nidhi which will connect around 26,700 unconnected villages in remote, border, and left-wing extremism-affected areas, serving over 20 lakh new subscribers. These towers are solar-powered, making them India’s largest cluster of green telecom sites and a step forward in sustainable infrastructure.

Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation important railway projects that will boost connectivity and regional growth. These include foundation stone for Rail Flyover at Sambalpur–Sarla, dedication to the nation of the doubling of the Koraput–Baiguda line, and the Manabar–Koraput–Gorapur line. These projects will significantly improve freight and passenger movement in Odisha and neighbouring states, strengthening local industries and trade. On the occasion, the Prime Minister will also flag off the Amrit Bharat Express between Berhampur and Udhna (Surat), providing affordable and comfortable connectivity across states, supporting tourism, creating employment opportunities, and linking key economic districts.

Prime Minister laid the foundation stones for the expansion of eight IITs—Tirupati, Palakkad, Bhilai, Jammu, Dharwad, Jodhpur, Patna, and Indore—at an investment of around Rs.11,000 crore. The expansion will create capacity for 10,000 new students over the next four years and will establish eight state-of-the-art research parks, thereby strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem and providing a strong push to research and development.

Prime Minister launched the MERITE scheme designed to improve quality, equity, research, and innovation in 275 state engineering and polytechnic institutions across the country.

Prime Minister also launched Odisha Skill Development Project Phase II which will establish World Skill Centres in Sambalpur and Berhampur, covering emerging sectors such as AgriTech, Renewable Energy, Retail, Marine, and Hospitality. Further, five ITIs will be upgraded into Utkarsh ITIs, 25 ITIs will be developed as Centres of Excellence, and a new Precision Engineering Building will provide advanced technical training.

To enhance digital education in the state, Prime Minister dedicated Wi-Fi facilities across 130 higher education institutions, providing free daily data access to benefit more than 2.5 lakh students.

Healthcare infrastructure in Odisha will also receive a significant boost during the Prime Minister’s visit. He laid the foundation stone for the upgradation of MKCG Medical College in Berhampur and VIMSAR in Sambhalpur into world-class super-speciality hospitals. The upgraded facilities will include enhanced bed capacity, trauma care units, dental colleges, maternal and child care services, and expanded academic infrastructure, ensuring comprehensive health services for the people of Odisha.

In addition, the Prime Minister distributed sanction orders to 50,000 beneficiaries under the Antyodaya Gruha Yojana. The scheme provides pucca houses and financial assistance to vulnerable rural families, including persons with disabilities, widows, individuals suffering from terminal illness, and victims of natural calamities. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring social welfare and dignity for the most disadvantaged sections of society.

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MJPS/SR