Bhubaneswar: “There was a time when the eastern part of India, including states like Odisha, was considered backward. However, we now recognise this region as a vital engine for the country’s development. The government has prioritised the development of eastern India, leading to accelerated efforts in connectivity, health, and education throughout the region. Odisha is now receiving three times the budget from the central government compared to a decade ago, with a 30 per cent increase in the budget for its development compared to last year. The government is working swiftly across all sectors for the holistic development of Odisha,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi while participating in the ‘Odisha Parba 2024’ celebrations on Sunday evening at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi.
He stated that there is renewed hope for a bright future for Odisha, thanks to a decade of continuous efforts to elevate the state. Expressing gratitude to the people of Odisha for their unprecedented support, Shri Modi acknowledged that this has instilled new courage in this hope, and he highlighted the Government’s ambitious dreams and goals. As Odisha prepares to celebrate the centenary of its statehood in 2036, he conveyed the Government’s commitment to making Odisha one of the strongest, most prosperous, and fastest-growing states in the country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Odisha’s pivotal role in India’s development journey, emphasizing its rich legacy and future potential. He acknowledged Odisha as a symbol of women’s strength, referencing Mata Subhadra and the recently launched Subhadra Yojana to empower women.
PM Modi lauded Odisha’s maritime heritage, exemplified by the grand Bali Jatra, which celebrates the bravery of ancient sailors who expanded trade and culture across Southeast Asia. He emphasized the state’s strategic role in India’s maritime future, with planned port developments in Dhamra, Gopalpur, Astaranga, Palur, and Subarnarekha.
Highlighting Odisha’s industrial prowess, especially in mining, metals, and agriculture, PM Modi stressed the importance of promoting sectors like steel, aluminum, and seafood processing. He underscored efforts to connect Odisha’s abundant agricultural produce, such as cashew, jute, and turmeric, to global markets.
Focusing on investment, he praised the state’s proactive initiatives, including the swift approval of ₹45,000 crore in investments, fostering ease of doing business. PM Modi expressed confidence that Odisha’s strategic location and vision will transform it into a global trade and industrial hub, unlocking immense opportunities for growth and employment.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, describing it as an “abode of saints and scholars.” He praised the role of saints in bringing timeless literature like Sarala Mahabharat and Odia Bhagavat to the common people, emphasizing the extensive works on Mahaprabhu Jagannath. Sharing a story of Lord Jagannath’s humility and leadership, he underscored the lesson that divine support follows good intentions, encouraging resilience in adversity.
भारत की सांस्कृतिक समृद्धि में उड़िया साहित्य के योगदान के अनेक उदाहरण हमें देखने को मिलते हैं… pic.twitter.com/SiABRezdHd
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 24, 2024
Quoting poet Bhim Bhoi, PM Modi reflected on Odisha’s enduring ethos of sacrifice for the greater good. He lauded Puri Dham’s role in fostering national unity through “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.” Honoring Odisha’s contribution to the freedom struggle, he paid tribute to the martyrs of the Paika Rebellion and highlighted the government’s initiative in commemorating their legacy with a postage stamp and coin.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, highlighting its globally admired art forms, including Odissi dance, Pattachitra, Saura paintings, and the craftsmanship of Sambalpuri, Bomkai, and Kotpad weavers. He emphasized that preserving and promoting these arts would enhance respect for Odia culture worldwide.
ओडिशा की सांस्कृतिक समृद्धि, वास्तु और विज्ञान हमेशा विशेष रहे हैं। हमें यहां की हर पहचान को दुनियाभर में ले जाने के लिए निरंतर इनोवेटिव कदम उठाने हैं। pic.twitter.com/tEjjcWgeqn
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 24, 2024
Discussing Odisha’s architectural marvels like the Konark Sun Temple, Lingaraj, and Mukteshwar temples, PM Modi noted their scientific and artistic brilliance. He stressed the state’s immense tourism potential and the need for innovative steps to showcase Odisha’s heritage globally, suggesting initiatives like celebrating Bali Jatra Day and Odissi Day.
PM Modi highlighted Odisha’s growing prominence, citing the G-20 conference in the state and upcoming Pravasi Bharatiya Sammelan in Bhubaneswar as opportunities to promote its identity. He commended the Odia community’s dedication to preserving their language and culture, urging that Odisha’s rich heritage be harnessed for future development while maintaining its cultural essence.
Union Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, Electronics & IT, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw and Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, President of Odia Samaj, Shri Siddharth Pradhan were present on the occasion among others.
