In a significant push towards development, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 13 public welfare projects worth approximately Rs 275 crore in Baliapada, Bhadrak district.
The event marked a milestone in the state government’s commitment to transforming Bhadrak into a leading and developed district, with announcements of a government university, a long-awaited medical college, and major industrial investments.
Of the 13 projects, nine were inaugurated, bringing immediate benefits to the region, while the foundation stones for four new initiatives were laid, setting the stage for future growth. These projects include road infrastructure, sports facilities, community health centres, a library, and a park to honour the legacy of Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab, a revered figure in Odisha’s history. The district headquarters hospital also received a boost under these initiatives, aimed at enhancing healthcare and public services for Bhadrak’s residents.
Major Announcements for Bhadrak
Chief Minister Majhi made several landmark announcements during the event. A government university will soon be established in Bhadrak, fulfilling a long-standing demand for higher education facilities. Additionally, the foundation stone for a medical college, a key aspiration of the district, will be laid in the near future, promising improved healthcare access.
Industrial development took centre stage with two mega projects announced for Bhadrak. The Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) will invest Rs 4,377 crore to establish a Technical Textile Complex, expected to generate employment for approximately 4,300 people. Similarly, MCPI Private Limited will set up an HMLS polyester manufacturing company with an investment of Rs 2,223.25 crore, creating job opportunities for 1,150 individuals. These initiatives are poised to drive industrial growth and economic prosperity in the region.
In a nod to Bhadrak’s historical significance, the Chief Minister also announced the beautification of all martyr memorials (Shaheed Peeths) in the district, honouring the sacrifices of freedom fighters and preserving their legacy.
Addressing the gathering, CM Majhi highlighted the government’s achievements since coming to power. “In the last 12 months, our government has worked tirelessly to serve the people and fulfil the promises we made,” he said. He noted that within the first 24 minutes of assuming office, the government launched the Subhadra Yojana, increased the paddy procurement rate by ₹800 per quintal for farmers, opened all four gates of the Shree Jagannath Temple, and allocated ₹500 crore to the temple’s corpus fund for enhanced services and upkeep.
“The list of our successes in these 12 months is long, and we will present a detailed account to the people on June 12,” the Chief Minister added. He emphasised that the government’s efforts in agriculture, allied sectors, and industry aim to improve the economic condition of every citizen in Odisha.
A Jab at the Opposition
Taking a dig at the opposition, CM Majhi criticised the previous 24 years of governance, stating, “In the name of world-class services, all we saw were superficial efforts and self-promotion. Real development has only begun now.” He promised a complete overhaul of primary education in the coming years, moving beyond the “painted” progress of the past 5T initiative to deliver tangible growth for Odisha.
The Chief Minister underscored the state’s industrial revolution, noting that within 120 days, projects worth over ₹80,000 crore were initiated. On June 22, an additional 10 projects valued at ₹1.65 lakh crore were approved. “Odisha’s industrial revolution will drive industrialisation in every district,” he said, highlighting Bhadrak’s role with the IOCL and MCPI projects in the textile park.
Vision for a Prosperous Odisha
“Bhadrak district will be shaped into a leading and developed region, and our efforts continue unabated,” CM Majhi declared. He reiterated the government’s vision of building a ‘Samruddha Odisha’ (Prosperous Odisha) by 2036, ensuring inclusive development for every citizen. The 13 projects launched today, valued at over ₹274 crore, reflect this commitment to comprehensive growth.
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj praised the government’s dedication, stating, “Bhadrak is a land of valour. The work done in one year reflects our government’s commitment to people’s trust and support. These development projects are a result of the unwavering backing of Bhadrak’s residents.”
The event saw the presence of notable leaders, including Bhadrak MP Abhimanyu Sethi, Basudevpur MLA Ashok Das, Simulia MLA Padmalochan Panda, and former minister Manmohan Samal. Bhadrak MLA Sitansu Sekhar Mohapatra delivered the welcome address, while District Collector Dillip Rautray expressed gratitude to all attendees.
