BHUBANESWAR: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday outlined an ambitious roadmap for Odisha’s transformation, calling the next 10 years a ‘decade of resolve’ to build a prosperous and developed state.
Addressing the state-level Utkal Divas celebrations at Suando, the birthplace of Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das in Satyabadi block of Puri district, Majhi announced a `585 crore development package for the historic place.
Describing Gopabandhu Das as a symbol of service and sacrifice whose legacy continues to inspire generations, the CM said a nation’s progress is anchored in its ‘asmita’. Development without identity would be ‘soulless’, he said.
The `585 crore plan for redevelopment of Satyabadi included `90 crore earmarked for revival of the historic Bakul Bana. The project aims to transform the area into a major cultural, spiritual and educational hub while preserving its heritage and character. Plans also include the development of a heritage corridor and upgradation of the iconic Bana Vidyalaya.
“These initiatives will reconnect the youth with the ideals of our great leaders while creating new opportunities for tourism and local development,” Majhi said, adding that the government is committed to preserving Odisha’s cultural legacy alongside economic growth.
He also outlined an ambitious roadmap for Puri district, including a proposed World Tourism Centre and a cruise terminal to position the region as a global tourism destination.
Later in the day, addressing another state-level function at OUAT campus in Bhubaneswar, Majhi extended greetings to Odias across the globe. Paying homage to stalwarts such as Madhusudan Das, Gopabandhu Das and Krushna Chandra Gajapati, Majhi said their vision laid the foundation of modern Odisha.
Setting an ambitious economic agenda for the state, the CM said Odisha aims to become a $500 billion economy by 2036 and $1.5 trillion by 2047. He termed the coming decade as a ‘decade of resolve’ for building a prosperous and self-reliant state. “Every Odia must contribute with a spirit of dedication to realise the vision of a prosperous Odisha,” he said. Majhi also inaugurated a photo exhibition on Odisha’s formation.