Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated multiple projects totaling Rs 2200 crore in Balasore district on Wednesday, marking a significant stride towards the region’s comprehensive development. The Chief Minister also dedicated the Smriti Pith of eminent personalities Manmath Das and Manoj Das at Shankhari in the district.
In a tribute to Manmath Das and Manoj Das, Chief Minister Patnaik acknowledged their profound contributions to literature and history, making the entire nation proud. He praised their enduring legacy and expressed gratitude to the families of the two luminaries for their cooperation in establishing the memorial.
During the event, Chief Minister Patnaik launched the ‘Lav’ scheme, granting community forest rights over minor forest produce to the tribals of Nilgiris. Land rights certificates were also distributed to slum dwellers of the Remuna Notified Area Council under the JAGA Mission.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Patnaik highlighted that the launched projects, valued at Rs 22 billion, were initiated based on proposals from the people of Balasore during the visit of VK Pandian, the 5T Chairman, to the district. He inaugurated a city bus service for Balasore city on this occasion.
Patnaik reiterated the state government’s commitment to the rights and welfare of the common people. He mentioned various welfare schemes, including the Biju Health Welfare Yojana, Lakshmi Bus scheme, and interest-free loans for women farmers and youths. The Chief Minister emphasized the positive impact of the Nua-O program on students, fostering enthusiasm and self-confidence.
Coordinating the program, VK Pandian, Chairman of 5T and Naveen Odisha, played a pivotal role in the successful execution of the initiatives. Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Minister Ashwini Kumar Patra praised the state government’s commitment to preserving the memory of Manmath Das and Manoj Das, considering it a historic day for the people of Balasore.
District Council President Narayan Pradhan extended a warm welcome at the event, while MLAs Kumar Das and Anant Das expressed the community’s happiness about the Chief Minister’s efforts in honoring the accomplished sons of Odisha and developing Balasore district.
Ranjita Das, a family member of Manmath Das and Manoj Das, expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for preserving the memory of these distinguished personalities. She acknowledged the state government’s investment of Rs 16 crore in their memorials and thanked the Chief Minister and the 5T Chairman for their initiatives.