Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has announced a significant increase in pensions for freedom fighters, recognising their sacrifices during India’s struggle for independence.
The announcement was made during the 38th Independence Fighters’ Day celebration in Bhubaneswar on 2nd January.
At the “Freedom Fighters’ Mahotsav,” held at the Swadhinata Sangrami Sadan premises, Chief Minister Majhi highlighted the invaluable contributions of India’s freedom fighters and referred to their sacrifices as the nation’s priceless treasure. The event also commemorated the death anniversary of Utkal Kesari Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab.
Shri Majhi revealed that the monthly pension for imprisoned freedom fighters would rise from Rs 10,000 to ₹20,000, while the pension for non-imprisoned freedom fighters would increase from Rs 9,000 to Rs 15,000. Additionally, those receiving the Central Government’s Freedom Fighter Pension will now be granted a monthly state-provided honourarium of Rs 10,000, up from Rs 8,000.
He further announced that individuals arrested under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) during the Emergency would also receive a monthly pension of Rs 20,000 in recognition of their bravery.
The Chief Minister outlined Odisha’s extensive plans to honour Dr. Mahatab’s legacy as part of celebrations for his 125th birth anniversary, which are being observed at both state and national levels. Initiatives include creating a biopic on Dr. Mahatab, reprinting his books in various languages, establishing a memorial at his birthplace in Agarapada, and promoting research on his life and contributions.
Referring to India’s unique freedom struggle, the Chief Minister noted that while Gandhiji’s leadership shaped the mainstream narrative, many other unsung heroes and movements across the nation also played pivotal roles. He urged the public to learn about these lesser-known contributors, asserting that a society’s history is its greatest teacher.
Shri Majhi acknowledged the initiatives by Prime Minister Narendra Modi since 2014 to honour such unsung heroes. He praised efforts such as the declaration of Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary as “Janjatiya Gaurav Divas” and highlighted plans to launch the “Shaheed Madho Singh Handicrafts Scheme” in honour of the martyr from Odisha’s Bargarh district.
The event saw the participation of descendants of freedom fighters from ten states, who were felicitated by the Chief Minister. The programme also included the inauguration of a photo exhibition by the Information and Public Relations Department, showcasing the lives and contributions of India’s freedom fighters.
Prominent figures attending the event included former Governors of Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, Shri Biswa Bhusan Harichandan; MP Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab; Opposition Deputy Leader Shri Prasanna Acharya; and several other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries reaffirmed their commitment to preserving the memory of freedom fighters and ensuring their sacrifices are honoured for generations to come.
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