Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan declared that the government will take responsibility for the development of the historic Mukundadeva Peeth at Gohiratikhiri, emphasising that “without remembering history, building the future is not possible.”
During his visit to Dhamnagar on Saturday, Pradhan participated in multiple programs and laid the foundation stones for 21 projects worth ₹101 crore. He first joined a bike rally to the historic Gohiratikhiri Peeth, where he offered prayers at the sacred Arjuna tree and paid floral tributes to Utkal’s last independent king, Mukundadeva. He also reviewed the Mukundadeva Memorial Foundation project.
Later, Pradhan joined the Ekta Padayatra organised to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Thousands of people from diverse backgrounds walked from Dobal Bus Stand to Kalibazar. Addressing a public meeting at Dobal Kali Padia, Pradhan assured that the government would take steps for the overall development of Gohiratikhiri, which symbolises the valour of Utkal’s sons.
Key Projects Announced
- Education: ₹15 crore for Dhamnagar College development under Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan.
- Tourism: ₹2.46 crore for Senapatia Pond area development near Gohiratikhiri.
- Culture: ₹10 crore for Lunia Shaheed Memorial Peeth development.
- Research & Arts: ₹5 crore for Gohiratikhiri Research Centre and Art Gallery.
- Water Resources: ₹25.85 crore for 10 projects.
- Housing & Construction: ₹18 crore for 3 projects.
- Rural Development: ₹21.25 crore for 3 projects.
- Drainage: ₹4.11 crore for 2 projects.
Dignitaries Present
The event witnessed participation from Odisha Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Bhadrak MP Abhimanyu Sethi, Bhadrak MLA Sitanshu Sekhar Mohapatra, Baleswar MLA Manas Dutta, former Brahmagiri MLA Lalitendu Bidyadhar Mohapatra, and Bhadrak Collector Dilip Kumar Rautray, who delivered the welcome address. Sports Department Secretary Bijay Swain offered the vote of thanks.
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