Odisha sets sights on becoming top five state by 2036: CM Mohan Majhi
By Khetrabasi Mahakud & Arendra Kumar Giri
Keonjhar, Dec. 26 — Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday evening declared that the state is on course to become one of India’s top five developed states by 2036, as the government embarks on an ambitious agenda of infrastructure expansion and industrial growth.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Gonasika–Keonjhar Festival, Majhi described the initiative as the beginning of a “new construction yajna” for Odisha. He announced that the government has mobilized over Rs 65,000 crore for projects aimed at connecting every district with railways and highways, while ensuring piped drinking water and electricity reach every village by 2027 under “Mission Power.”
Highlighting rapid progress since his government took office, Majhi said Odisha has attracted investment proposals worth Rs 17 lakh crore through the “Utkarsa Odisha” program, expected to generate more than 13 lakh jobs. In less than a year, projects worth Rs 2.4 lakh crore have already been inaugurated, with another 1.5 lakh jobs projected.
A mega steel plant in Keonjhar is among the flagship projects, with its foundation stone to be laid soon. The government has also announced six-lane road networks across industrial and mining regions, a ring road in Barbil, and the transformation of the Keonjhar–Barbil–Joda belt into a major economic zone. “Golden Keonjhar will not remain just a phrase — it will become a reality for all of Odisha,” Majhi asserted.
The Chief Minister also emphasized cultural pride, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for fostering a new wave of cultural nationalism. He underscored the importance of Odia identity, noting that all Secretariat work is now conducted in Odia, and highlighted the role of tribal communities — who make up nearly one-fourth of the state’s population — in enriching Odisha’s cultural fabric.
Majhi said festivals like the Keonjhar Mahotsav serve as vital platforms to preserve heritage, promote tourism, and inspire future generations. “Unity in Diversity is the core mantra of Indian culture,” he remarked.
The event was attended by senior leaders including MP Ananta Charan Nayak, MLAs Badri Narayan Patra, Dr. Fakir Mohan Nayak, Akhil Chandra Nayak, DIG Brijesh Rai, and SP Nitin Kushalkar.
