Bhubaneswar, Jan 26: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today hoisted the national flag at the state-level and district-level Republic Day celebrations respectively.
While Governor Kambhampati unfurled the tricolour at the state-level Republic Day celebration held at the Mahatma Gandhi Marg in Bhubaneswar, CM Majhi hoisted the national flag at the district-level celebrations in Cuttack and took the salute during the parade.
At the state-level Republic Day celebration, a spectacular parade by security forces, NCC cadets, and students of various schools and colleges, a daredevil show on motorcycles by the students of Maharishi College of Natural Law, a skating performance by Odisha Skating Academy, and folk dance performances by artistes took place showcasing bravery and cultural heritage.
Majhi stated that Odisha is poised to enter a golden era of infrastructure development over the next five years, fueled by the combined efforts of the Central and State governments.
"I am confident that the coming five years will be a golden period for Odisha's infrastructure. The double-engine government will fast-track progress, with our villages— the heart and soul of the state—at the center of this transformation," said Majhi after hoisting national flag in Cuttack.
He reaffirmed the government's dedication to rural development and announced an investment of Rs 5,000 crore under the 'Bikashita Gaon Bikashita Odisha' initiative over the next five years.
CM Majhi also highlighted the importance of agriculture, noting that nearly 70% of Odisha's population depends on the sector.
"The state government has increased the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy and provided Rs 291 crore in compensation for crop losses caused by unseasonal rains. This underscores our commitment to supporting farmers," he added.
He also discussed the rollout of the Ayushman Bharat scheme for 3.5 crore people starting next month. The health coverage program will extend benefits not only to residents of Odisha but also to Odias living outside the state.
