Rayagada: Local-Self Govt day observed with spirit and fervour

By Chandrabhanu Singh

Rayagada:  The Rayagada Municipality Auditorium witnessed a grand celebration of “Local Self-Government Day – 2025.” The programme commenced with the traditional lighting of the ceremonial lamp by  District Collector Shri Ashutosh Kulkarni, who attended the function as Chief Guest, accompanied by several dignitaries.

This year’s celebration spanned a week, from August 25 to August 31, and featured a range of activities under the Swachh Bharat Mission. Tree plantation drives and cleanliness rallies were organised to spread awareness among citizens about sustainable living and hygiene practices.

As part of the observance, various school-level competitions such as essay writing, painting, and elocution were held. Young participants showcased their creativity and skill, with winners in each category receiving trophies and certificates. All other students were awarded certificates of appreciation. In recognition of their service, senior officials of the Rayagada Municipality were also felicitated during the event.

To boost team spirit and morale among staff, sports and recreational events including cricket, volleyball, musical chairs, and the lemon-and-spoon race were conducted, and the winners were rewarded suitably.

Another highlight of the day was the distribution of work orders to 30 beneficiaries under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana 2.0. Additionally, a live broadcast from Bhubaneswar featured Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, who inaugurated multipurpose community halls across 45 municipalities of the state, including three in Rayagada.

The entire celebration was carried out under the close supervision of Executive Officer Shri Kuldeep Kumar. Notable attendees included Shri Akshay Kumar Khemundu, CDO, Rayagada; Shri P. Mahesh Patnaik, Chairman of Rayagada Municipality; Vice-Chairperson Smt. Shubhra Panda; councillors, municipal staff, and several eminent citizens of the district.