In a significant step toward realising Odisha Vision 2036 and 2047, Khordha district administration organised a consultative workshop titled “Viksit Khordha for Viksit Odisha” at the Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra Odissi Research Centre.
The event brought together policymakers, intellectuals, and community representatives to gather diverse inputs for accelerating inclusive development across the state.
State Minister for Law, Works, and Excise, Prithviraj Harichandan, as the chief guest, emphasised the importance of collective participation in shaping Odisha’s growth trajectory. “Development can be accelerated only through the active cooperation and suggestions of every section of society,” he stated.
Highlighting Khordha’s unique cultural, literary, and historical significance, he called for innovative planning to preserve this heritage while fostering progress in areas like environmental protection, scientific innovation, industrial growth, and organic farming. He further stressed the need for beneficiaries to be well-informed about government schemes to achieve developmental goals effectively.
Minister for Cooperation, Handlooms, Textiles, and Handicrafts, Pradeep Balasamant, lauded the government’s efforts toward achieving Odisha Vision. As the minister in charge of Khordha, he urged stakeholders to collaborate to elevate the district to new heights of progress, ensuring grassroots-level benefits reach all citizens.
Khordha District Collector Chanchal Rana underscored the necessity of equitable opportunities and cooperative development, aligning Khordha’s contributions with Odisha’s long-term vision.
The workshop featured two key discussion sessions:
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Education, Skill Development, and Livelihood: Chaired by Shri Jagadananda of CYSD, this session included insights from former NCERT Professor P.K. Das and former Utkal University Professor Anup Das, focusing on empowering communities through education and skill-building.
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Innovation, Industry, and Tourism: Led by former OPSC Chairman Brigadier Dr. L.C. Pattnaik, this session featured Padma Shri A.P. Das, former Vice-Chancellor of Tamil Nadu Central University, and Professor Sitakant Mishra, former Director of the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management. Discussions centred on leveraging innovation and tourism to boost industrial growth.
Additional District Collector Pratap Chandra Beura and Chief Development Officer of Khordha Zilla Parishad Jyoti Shankar Sahu emphasised the need for a mindset shift to drive community-led development.
The event saw active participation from intellectuals, district officials, and representatives of non-governmental organisations, fostering a collaborative roadmap for Khordha’s growth within Odisha’s broader vision.
The workshop reaffirmed Odisha’s commitment to becoming a leading economic and inclusive state by 2036 and 2047, with Khordha poised to play a pivotal role in this transformative journey.
