Mahatma Gandhi: A Model for the World, Says Odisha CM at State-Level Gandhi Jayanti Celebrations

Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today hailed Mahatma Gandhi as the “wealth of humanity” and a “model for the world” during the state-level Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at Telengapentha, Cuttack. Addressing a gathering, the Chief Minister emphasized Gandhiji’s lifelong pursuit of truth and his profound connection to the state of Odisha.

Speaking on the significance of Telengapentha in Gandhiji’s journey, Majhi highlighted how the Father of the Nation had inspired local residents to join the fight for India’s independence, rendering the soil of the area sacred. He urged everyone to follow Gandhiji’s principles, calling his teachings on non-violence and truth timeless and vital for modern society.

The Chief Minister recalled Gandhiji’s visits to Odisha and his deep affection for the state. “Odisha is the land of my love,” Majhi quoted Gandhiji, underscoring the leader’s admiration for the state and its people. He praised Gandhiji’s courage, stating, “Gandhiji was the epitome of supernatural courage. Truth was his message. His life, sacrifice, and penance made him great and noble.” The CM also noted that Gandhiji’s unity of humanity and divinity continues to inspire generations.

Reflecting on the government’s ongoing efforts to uphold Gandhiji’s ideals, Majhi pointed to the success of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, now in its 10th year. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the government is working tirelessly to fulfill Gandhiji’s vision of cleanliness and rural development,” he said. The Chief Minister highlighted that millions of people now have access to proper sanitation, and village development has progressed with pucca roads, water, electricity, and internet reaching rural areas.

Majhi also lauded the initiatives that align with Gandhiji’s dream of self-sufficient villages. He highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-Kisan) scheme, which has benefited farmers across the nation, and the Subhadra Yojana, which provides support to one crore women in Odisha.

During his address, the Chief Minister paid tribute to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, whose birth anniversary is also celebrated on October 2nd. Majhi praised Shastri’s iconic slogan, “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” and noted that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the Agniveer Yojana has strengthened Shastri’s vision of empowering India’s soldiers and farmers.