Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi graced the state-level Nuakhai Bhetghat festival in Sambalpur today, emphasising the cultural and social significance of the event.
Addressing a grand gathering, he described Nuakhai as more than a festival—it is a celebration of familial love, prosperity, and the hard work of farmers. “Nuakhai is not just a festival; it is the identity of our existence,” he stated, highlighting its role in fostering unity, peace, and respect for nature and farmers.
The Chief Minister announced several key development initiatives for Sambalpur and Western Odisha. He pledged to upgrade historical freedom struggle sites, including Khinda, to honour the region’s legacy of bravery. “Sambalpur is the land of valour, and we will ensure the preservation and enhancement of its historical sites,” he declared.
Majhi also outlined plans to transform Western Odisha into a distinct tourism hub, focusing on attractions like the Hirakud Dam, Debrigarh’s scenic forests and wildlife, and sacred sites such as the Samaleswari and Pataneswari temples. Additionally, the Harishankar-Nrusinghanath pilgrimage sites will be developed to boost spiritual tourism.
To drive economic growth, the state government is committed to industrialising every district, with a special focus on creating an industrial corridor connecting Paradip, Cuttack, Dhenkanal, Angul, Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, and Rourkela. This corridor aims to ensure seamless connectivity and rapid, inclusive development.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s dedication to farmers, stating, “Paddy is not just a crop; it embodies the sweat and dreams of our farmers. Nuakhai reminds us to honour their hard work.” He committed to multiplying farmers’ incomes, emphasising that the government is for the people, not just paperwork or publicity. Recalling his April 21 visit to Sambalpur, where 9,377 grievances were received and 88% resolved on the spot, Majhi promised to continue addressing public concerns directly, even holding cabinet meetings in remote districts if needed.
In a nod to the festival’s cultural importance, the government declared the day after Nuakhai a public holiday to honour Western Odisha’s traditions. The event saw participation from prominent leaders, including Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling, Panchayati Raj Minister Rabi Narayan Naik, and senior leader Manmohan Samal. Legislators from Bargarh, Angul, and Balangir were also present. Sambalpur MLA Jayanarayan Mishra delivered the welcome address, while former Rengali MLA Nauri Naik proposed the vote of thanks. Prior to the event, the Chief Minister and dignitaries visited the Samaleswari and Pataneswari temples to seek blessings.
