MAYURBHANJ (Odisha), 20 June (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday visited Odisha's Mayurbhanj district to commemorate the completion of two years of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in the state. During the visit, he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth nearly Rs 47,000 crore, reaffirming the Centre's commitment to accelerating Odisha's growth through infrastructure, renewable energy, industrial expansion, and tribal welfare.
The event was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union ministers, senior state leaders, and thousands of people from across the region.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister extended birthday greetings to President Murmu, describing her rise from Odisha to the country's highest constitutional office as a matter of immense pride for the nation. He praised her humility, dedication to public service, and commitment to the welfare of society, saying her achievements have brought honour to both Mayurbhanj and Odisha.
Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Modi and President Murmu visited Pahadpur village, where they offered prayers at the sacred Santali Jahira and Ho Jahira groves. The visit reflected the government's recognition of the cultural and spiritual heritage of India's tribal communities.
During his address, the Prime Minister announced that Pahadpur would be developed into a Solar Village, with every household receiving access to solar energy. He said the initiative would promote clean energy while creating a new identity for the village. Drawing a comparison with Odisha's iconic Konark Sun Temple, he said Pahadpur would emerge as a symbol of renewable energy and sustainable development.
Highlighting Odisha's economic potential, Modi said the government is focused on converting the state's abundant natural resources into opportunities for industrial growth and employment. He noted that initiatives such as the Utkarsh Odisha programme have attracted major domestic and international investments, leading to the establishment of new industries and improved economic prospects.
The Prime Minister also reiterated the government's commitment to empowering tribal communities through education and skill development. He said hundreds of Eklavya Model Residential Schools have been established across the country to provide quality education and better opportunities for tribal children, enabling them to compete on equal footing.
Speaking about his longstanding connection with Mayurbhanj, Modi said the affection shown by the people of the district has always encouraged him to return. He described the celebration of two years of the BJP government in Odisha as an important milestone in the state's development journey.
The Prime Minister also referred to Odisha's vibrant cultural calendar, noting that the state is celebrating several traditional festivals, including preparations for the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath. He said the atmosphere of festivity reflected Odisha's rich cultural heritage while the ongoing development initiatives symbolised the state's progress.
The projects launched on Saturday cover key sectors, including transport infrastructure, railways, highways, drinking water supply, renewable energy, industrial development, and public welfare. According to the government, these initiatives are expected to strengthen connectivity, generate employment, improve essential services, and contribute to Odisha's long-term economic growth.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
