Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi marked the 78th Independence Day with a strong message of development and pride, unveiling a series of ambitious projects aimed at transforming the state. Speaking after hoisting the Tricolour and taking the salute from security forces at Mahatma Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar, Majhi emphasized Odisha’s commitment to progress while upholding its ‘Ashmita’ (pride).
“This is a very important day for Odisha as the state has embarked on a path of change, leaving behind propaganda. We are committed to fulfilling our promises and reaching new heights of development,” Majhi declared, in what was the first Independence Day celebration under the BJP-led government in Odisha.
Majhi outlined a bold vision for the state, aiming to achieve a $500 billion economy by 2036 and a $1.5 trillion economy by 2047. He highlighted plans for massive industrial development, with the semiconductor industry playing a key role, and announced the development of 500 tribal villages under the ‘Ideal Tribal Village’ scheme over the next five years.
In a major infrastructural initiative, Majhi announced the construction of a new multipurpose stadium at a cost of ₹1,000 crore. The stadium will feature an Indoor Velodrome, Mountain Biking track, Swimming Pool, Football Ground, Archery Arena, Badminton Court, and Fitness Park.
The Chief Minister also addressed employment, stating that the government will fill 1.5 lakh vacant posts and create wide-ranging job opportunities for the youth over the next five years. Additionally, Majhi announced pensions, free healthcare, and free bus passes for those imprisoned under the MISA Act during the Emergency in 1975.
As Odisha prepares vision documents for 2036 and 2047, Majhi stressed the importance of economic, intellectual, and spiritual freedom, setting the stage for Odisha to emerge as a gateway to East and Southeast Asia. He also lauded the Indian hockey team’s bronze medal win at the Paris Olympics, extending the state’s sponsorship of the team until 2036 and launching the ‘Khel Ratna Khoja Abhiyan’ to promote local sports talent.
This year’s parade featured 59 contingents, including first-time participants from the Chhattisgarh Armed Police and Indo-Tibetan Police Force, showcasing the state’s unity and strength.
