Prime Minister Modi and President Murmu to Visit Odisha for Development Initiatives
Significant Visit to Odisha
On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a visit to Odisha, accompanied by President Droupadi Murmu. This visit is poised to be a significant occasion for the state. The President and Prime Minister will explore the village of Pahadpur in the Mayurbhanj district, where they will participate in rituals at sacred sites 'Santhali Jahera' and 'Ho Jahera', as well as at a skill center and the Pahadpur school. According to an official statement, this visit aims to highlight ongoing efforts to enhance educational opportunities, skill development, and socio-economic empowerment in tribal and rural areas.
Celebrating Two Years of Odisha Government
The President and Prime Minister will also attend an event in Rayagada, marking the two-year anniversary of the Odisha government. The theme for this event is 'Stream of Development, Complete Odisha'. During this gathering, several development projects worth over ₹47,600 crores will be inaugurated and laid down. The Prime Minister is expected to address the attendees, focusing on key sectors such as energy, industrial infrastructure, road connectivity, drinking water, health, education, tourism, and irrigation.
Infrastructure Development Projects
These initiatives are anticipated to strengthen infrastructure across Odisha, improve connectivity, enhance energy security, and create job opportunities. In line with the Prime Minister's vision for inclusive and holistic development, these projects aim to accelerate growth in tribal and rural regions, ensuring that the benefits of development reach every corner of the state. Notable projects set for inauguration include the 600 MW Upper Indravati Pump Storage Project and the Stage-II expansion of the IB Thermal Power Station, which will add two units of 660 MW. These projects are expected to bolster energy security and contribute to economic growth.
Additional Projects to be Launched
Other significant projects include the establishment of a 300 TPD capacity municipal solid waste-based compressed biogas plant in Bhubaneswar, a bridge over the Kathajodi River to enhance direct connectivity between Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, and the widening and strengthening of the Dhalpur-Harbhanga road in the Boudh district. Additionally, a section of NH-353 from Nuapada to Ghatipada will be converted to a four-lane road, and the Kusumdiha Megalift Irrigation Project will be initiated. The inauguration will also feature the IGNOU Regional Center and an indoor badminton complex in Rayagada, along with a 300-bed district headquarters hospital in Boudh and 24 Atal bus stands across various districts, as well as nine automated testing stations. These projects are expected to significantly enhance healthcare and public transport infrastructure in the state.