Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi paid rich tributes to Shaheed Veer Baji Rout, India’s youngest martyr, during his birth centenary celebration held at Nilakanthpur village in Dhenkanal district — the martyr’s birthplace.
CM Calls Baji Rout an Inspiration for Generations
Addressing the event, the Chief Minister said that Baji Rout’s courage and patriotism continue to inspire millions.
“Baji Rout’s short life is a story of unmatched bravery. His sacrifice at just 12 years old remains a symbol of pride for every Odia,” Majhi stated.
He added that Baji Rout’s ideals should guide today’s youth in building a prosperous Odisha and a developed India.
New Welfare Scheme and Road to Be Named After Baji Rout
The Chief Minister announced that a new welfare scheme will soon be launched in the name of Shaheed Baji Rout. In addition, a road in Bhubaneswar will also be named after him to honor his memory and contribution to India’s freedom struggle.
Majhi paid floral tributes at Baji Rout’s statue and inaugurated a sand art and photo exhibition depicting the martyr’s life and legacy.
₹120-Crore Baji Rout Sports Complex Announced
During the ceremony, CM Majhi laid the foundation stone for the Baji Rout Sports Complex in Dhenkanal, with an investment of ₹120 crore. The project aims to develop Dhenkanal as a sports hub and encourage youth empowerment through sports.
He said, “This complex will boost the sporting infrastructure in the district and help nurture young talent.”
Major Industrial Growth in Dhenkanal
Highlighting Odisha’s progress, the Chief Minister said the state government is implementing a 10-year roadmap to transform Odisha by 2036, when the state will celebrate its centenary.
Dhenkanal will see industrial investments worth ₹50,000 crore, including ₹30,000 crore in solar power projects.
“These projects will make Dhenkanal a leading solar energy district and create over 26,400 direct and indirect jobs,” Majhi said. “Our goal is to ensure local youth get jobs in their own homeland.”
Odisha’s Role in India’s Development
Majhi praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making India a developed nation by 2047. He said Odisha will play a major role in realizing this dream.
“Our government is committed to building a strong, prosperous Odisha that contributes to a developed India,” he added.
Tributes to Freedom Fighters and Families
On this occasion, the Chief Minister also honoured the descendants of Baji Rout and families of freedom fighters from the Prajamandal movement.
He released the book “Amar Shaheed Baji Rout of Dhenkanal People’s Movement”, published by the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department, and unveiled a photograph of Baji Rout that will be distributed across all schools in the district.
Ministers and Leaders Attend the Ceremony
Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra recalled Baji Rout’s bravery and sacrifice, saying his spirit will always remain alive. Higher Education, Sports and Youth Services, and Odia Language Minister Surjyabanshi Suraj said that the 12-year-old martyr’s courage brought glory to the Odia community.
Dhenkanal MP Rudra Narayan Pany, MLAs Bibhuti Pradhan, Shatrughna Jena, and Seemarani Nayak also paid their respects to the young hero. The event was coordinated by Dr. Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Secretary of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department, while Dhenkanal Collector Ashish Ishwar Patil delivered the vote of thanks.
