In a significant visit to Ganjam district, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the centenary celebrations of Gangadahani Government High School, offered prayers at the revered Maa Taratarini Shaktipeetha, and announced a transformative Rs. 68 crore project to enhance the infrastructure of the iconic temple.
His visit, marked by inspiring speeches and development-focused discussions, highlighted Odisha’s vision for a harmonious blend of heritage, education, and progress.
As the chief guest at the centenary celebrations of Gangadahani Government Advanced High School in Khallikote, Chief Minister Majhi lauded the institution’s 100-year legacy as a “sacred place of knowledge and character.” Addressing students, alumni, and dignitaries, he emphasised that education transcends mere certification, preparing individuals for life’s challenges and nation-building.
“Education is not just a means of earning; it should be a man-made temple of humanity,” the CM remarked, urging students to use knowledge for societal good. Drawing a contrast with neighbouring Pakistan, where he noted the misuse of education in terrorism, Majhi advocated for peace and cultural pride, stating, “We want Buddha, not war; we want Jagannath, not jihad.”
He praised the school’s role in shaping generations and announced the state’s “Heritage School” initiative, which will restore over 50 century-old schools, including Gangadahani, to preserve their historical and educational significance. The CM also shared budgetary insights, noting that Rs. 31,000 crore—18% more than the previous year—has been allocated for school education, the highest among all departments.
Encouraging students to embrace struggle as the path to success, he said, “There is no shortcut to success, only hard work. You are the children of nectar, capable of making the impossible possible.” His words resonated with the audience, inspiring students to aim high and contribute to Odisha’s glory.
Transformative Development for Maa Taratarini Shaktipeetha
Before the school event, Chief Minister Majhi visited the Maa Taratarini Peeth, one of Odisha’s prominent Shakti Peeths, to offer prayers and review infrastructure development plans with local representatives.
In a landmark announcement, he unveiled a Rs. 68 crore project to elevate the temple’s facilities, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for devotees and tourists.
The project includes:
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Rs. 8 crore for immediate infrastructure enhancements, such as security and sanitation systems, an automatic cooking machine on the hill, repair of 999 stone steps, and land acquisition for parking and a helipad.
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Rs. 30 crore for advanced facilities, including a multi-storey dharmashala near Singhdwar, a food court, road improvements, security walls, lighting, signboards, five gummoots around the temple, and enhancements along the Rusikulya riverfront costing Rs. 25 crore.
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Rs. 5 crore as a fixed deposit for the ongoing maintenance of the temple and its infrastructure.
The CM emphasised that these developments aim to provide devotees with a “spiritual and cultural experience” while ensuring the temple’s long-term sustainability.
The announcement was met with enthusiasm from local leaders and devotees, who see it as a step toward boosting spiritual tourism in Odisha.
Engaging with the Community and District Administration
During his visit, Chief Minister Majhi held discussions with the Ganjam district administration and local representatives to assess infrastructure needs and plan further development. The event saw the participation of prominent leaders, including Commerce & Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, Fisheries and ARD Minister Gokulananda Mallick, and MLAs from Chikiti, Kabisuryanagar, Chhatrapur, and Khallikote.
The CM’s focus on education, heritage preservation, and spiritual infrastructure reflects Odisha’s broader development agenda. His call for peace, cultural pride, and dedication to nation-building struck a chord with attendees, reinforcing the state’s commitment to holistic progress.
As Odisha continues to balance tradition with modernity, Chief Minister Majhi’s Ganjam visit serves as a powerful reminder of the state’s rich heritage and its ambitious vision for the future.
