Indus Valley Times

By Nalini Sahu
Bhubaneswar, April 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded the governance initiatives of the Odisha government and its progress in curbing Left-Wing Extremism, while highlighting the state’s emergence as a key player in strategic and future-ready sectors.

In a detailed letter to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on the occasion of Utkala Dibasa, Modi commended the administration’s efforts over the past two years, noting that people-centric policies and decisive governance have strengthened public confidence. He expressed satisfaction over the decline in Maoist activities, stating that improved security conditions are vital for sustaining development in previously affected regions.

The Prime Minister also underscored Odisha’s growing importance in strategic sectors such as rare earth minerals and semiconductors, describing the state as a “promising destination” for future-ready manufacturing. He said recent policy momentum and investments reflect rising confidence in Odisha’s industrial and technological potential.

Opening his message with “Jai Jagannath,” Modi extended greetings to the people of the state and described Odisha as a “civilisational treasure” with a rich cultural and spiritual legacy. He cited iconic landmarks such as the Jagannath Temple, Lingaraj Temple and Konark Sun Temple as enduring symbols of its heritage.

He also paid tribute to eminent personalities including Buxi Jagabandhu, Veer Surendra Sai and Biju Patnaik, noting that their legacy continues to inspire generations. Modi said the people of Odisha have made notable contributions across sectors such as trade, academics, sports and the arts.

Recalling his long association with the state, Modi said his engagement with Odia communities dates back to his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, highlighting cultural similarities such as Sun Temples and Rath Yatras in both states.

The Prime Minister outlined key developmental strides over the past decade, including a significant rise in railway allocations to Rs 10,600 crore for 2025–26 from an average of ₹838 crore during 2009–14, boosting connectivity and logistics. He noted that improved infrastructure would further enhance Odisha’s tourism potential.

He also highlighted welfare measures for tribal communities, including the PM-JANMAN scheme, and emphasised the Centre’s focus on port-led development around Paradip and Gopalpur, alongside opportunities in fisheries and logistics.

Modi appreciated initiatives such as Subhadra Yojana for women’s empowerment and Odisha’s progress in creating “Lakhpati Didis,” while noting the state’s industrial growth marked by investments and employment generation.

He further praised efforts to preserve Odia language, culture and identity, and highlighted Odisha’s emergence as a sports hub, with its selection to host the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships being a matter of national pride.

With Odisha set to complete 100 years of its formation in 2036, the Prime Minister urged the state leadership to chart an ambitious roadmap for accelerated growth. He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting Odisha’s journey towards prosperity under the vision of “Viksit Odisha for Viksit Bharat.”

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Photograph:

A Moment of Reverence: A file photograph of Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi humbly seeking the blessings of Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid a massive public gathering at Janata Maidan, Bhubaneswar, on the proud occasion of completing one year in office in 2025.