Huge reward for CM Majhi as PM Modi lauds Odisha govt’s governance initiatives
By Subrat Sarangi
Bhubaneswar, April 1: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has penned an extensive letter to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, extending greetings on Utkala Dibasa (Foundation Day of Odisha) while underlining the state’s rich cultural heritage, historical legacy and its growing role in India’s development trajectory.
Opening his message with “Jai Jagannath,” the Prime Minister described Odisha as a “civilisational treasure,” citing its iconic spiritual landmarks such as the Jagannath Temple, Lingaraj Temple and Konark Sun Temple. He praised the state’s blend of devotion and artistic excellence, reflected in traditions like Odissi dance, vibrant festivals and the famed Pattachitra art.
Modi also paid tribute to Odisha’s towering historical figures, including Buxi Jagabandhu, Veer Surendra Sai and Biju Patnaik, noting that their courage and contributions continue to inspire the nation. He emphasised that the people of Odisha embody the state’s true greatness, contributing significantly across fields such as trade, academics, sports and the arts.
Recalling his long-standing association with Odisha, Modi said his engagement with Odia communities dates back to his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat. He highlighted cultural parallels between Gujarat and Odisha, particularly their shared traditions of Sun Temples and Rath Yatras.
The Prime Minister outlined a series of developmental initiatives undertaken over the past decade, asserting that Odisha has witnessed “transformative progress.” He pointed to a sharp rise in railway allocations, which have reached Rs 10,600 crore for 2025–26 compared to an average of Rs 838 crore during 2009–14, significantly boosting connectivity and logistics. Improved infrastructure, he said, will also unlock Odisha’s vast tourism potential.
Highlighting inclusive development, Modi referred to welfare initiatives targeting tribal communities, including the PM-JANMAN scheme aimed at uplifting the most vulnerable groups. He further stressed the Centre’s push to position Odisha as a major maritime and industrial hub, with port-led development around Paradip and Gopalpur, alongside emerging opportunities in fisheries and logistics.
In a forward-looking vision, the Prime Minister 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.
Addressing internal security, Modi expressed satisfaction over the government’s progress in tackling Left-Wing Extremism, noting that such efforts are crucial for states like Odisha that have historically faced developmental challenges due to Maoist violence.
The Prime Minister also commended the Majhi-led government for its governance initiatives over the past two years. He lauded schemes such as Subhadra Yojana for empowering women and noted Odisha’s achievements in creating “Lakhpati Didis.” He further welcomed the state’s industrial momentum, marked by large-scale investments and job creation.
Modi appreciated the state government’s efforts to preserve and promote Odia language, culture and identity, while also highlighting Odisha’s emergence as a sports hub. He described the selection of the state to host the 2028 World Athletics Indoor Championships as a moment of national pride.
Looking ahead to 2036, when Odisha will mark 100 years of its formation, the Prime Minister urged the state leadership to chart an ambitious roadmap for accelerated growth.
Concluding his letter, Modi reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting Odisha’s development, expressing confidence that the state will continue to achieve new milestones in line with the vision of “Viksit Odisha for Viksit Bharat.”
