Union Education Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 78 development projects worth Rs 375 crore in Kuchinda, Bamra, and Jamankira on April 14, 2026.
The occasion coincided with Maha Vishuba Sankranti, Odia New Year, and the birth anniversary of Dr B. R. Ambedkar.
Pradhan inaugurated 39 projects worth Rs 108 crore and laid the foundation for another 39 projects worth Rs 267 crore. He performed the ground-breaking ceremony for a new 100-bed sub-divisional hospital in Kuchinda, costing Rs 53 crore, which will include a trauma care centre. He also inaugurated two multipurpose welfare halls worth 5.14 crore and laid the foundation for a new block office building worth Rs 6 crore.
The minister emphasised that these projects will strengthen healthcare, education, sanitation, and connectivity, bringing positive changes to local lifestyles. He highlighted the launch of new sanitation vehicles in Bamra to improve urban cleanliness and the promotion of chilli cultivation to boost farmers’ income.
Pradhan reiterated the government’s commitment to holistic development under the “double engine” model, stressing that initiatives in healthcare, education, and infrastructure will empower citizens. He also underlined the importance of women’s empowerment, citing the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and schemes like Lakhpati Didi that provide financial independence to women.
During his visit, Pradhan paid tribute to Ambedkar, offered prayers at local temples, and interacted with farmers, praising their efforts. He said the projects will strengthen rural economies, improve public services, and fulfil the vision of a developed Odisha and India.
