In a historic event marking significant strides in regional development, President Droupadi Murmu, a native of Rairangpur in Mayurbhanj district, inaugurated and laid foundation stones for multiple projects aimed at boosting education, healthcare, agriculture, and sports. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, addressing the gathering, hailed the occasion as a milestone for the district and the state, emphasising collaborative efforts between the central and state governments.
The President’s visit to her birthplace and first workplace was met with warm welcomes from locals and dignitaries. CM Majhi recalled welcoming her to the Odisha Legislative Assembly on November 27 of the previous year, where she guided public representatives on their duties. “Her presence today makes this event historic and inspirational for the people of this region,” Majhi said, extending heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the Odisha government and its residents.
The projects unveiled include the establishment of an Ayurvedic College and Hospital, a campus of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), an Information Technology campus at Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo (MSCB) University, and an Archery Academy. These initiatives, valued at substantial investments, are designed to transform northern Odisha by providing quality higher education, advanced agricultural research, IT skills, and sports training. “These are not just buildings; they are investments in human capital, especially for our youth, farmers, tribal communities, and women,” the CM stated.
Highlighting Mayurbhanj’s rich cultural and natural heritage—encompassing forests, hills, rivers, biodiversity, and vibrant tribal traditions—Majhi noted the district’s contributions to India’s leadership, freedom fighters, artists, athletes, and administrators. He assured that the President’s roots in the area guarantee focused development, addressing long-standing gaps in higher education, healthcare, and modern amenities.
In agriculture, the new OUAT campus will promote tailored education, research, and services to enhance farming practices, productivity, and farmer incomes. On healthcare, the Ayurvedic institution will strengthen infrastructure, create opportunities for students, and improve access for locals. Majhi praised the recent Union Budget for making medicines for complex diseases like cancer and diabetes more affordable, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
The event also spotlighted women’s empowerment, with provisions in the Union Budget for ‘She-Marts’ to help Self-Help Groups (SHGs) market products globally. Odisha’s SHG women and ‘Lakhpati Didis’ stand to benefit significantly, with the state already leading in creating 17 lakh such empowered women nationwide. Additionally, plans for training 1.5 lakh multi-skilled caregivers under the care economy will open new employment avenues for Odisha’s youth.
In IT and skills development, the MSCB University’s IT campus aims to equip local youth for modern industries, ensuring they are job-ready straight out of college. Sports, a source of pride for Mayurbhanj, will see a boost through the Archery Academy, fostering discipline, confidence, and unity among the youth, particularly from tribal and rural backgrounds.
Majhi reiterated that industries are “pillars of prosperity,” announcing special incentives for industrial setups in Mayurbhanj. Four CSR projects worth approximately Rs 44 crore were also foundation-laid. Environmental and cultural commitments include Rs 50 crore for Similipal biodiversity conservation and a Rs 100 crore DPR for the development and beautification of Maa Kichakeswari Temple. The government pledged no shortage of funds for the district’s holistic growth.
Further, four new medical colleges will address doctor shortages in Odisha, with expansions in Ayurveda, Homoeopathy, Dental, and Nursing sectors. Arogya Mandirs will be strengthened for 24/7 rural healthcare.
The CM thanked officials, engineers, planners, and workers for their dedication, and the people of Mayurbhanj for their cooperation and faith in the development process. The event underscores the Modi government’s focus on women’s empowerment and inclusive growth, aligning with the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).
