Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth over Rs 60,000 crore in Jharsuguda today, marking a significant milestone in Odisha’s infrastructure and digital transformation journey.
Addressing a large gathering during the auspicious Navratri festival, the Prime Minister extended greetings to the people and paid homage to the sacred land of Maa Samalei and Maa Ramachandi. He acknowledged the presence of numerous women at the event, stating that their blessings are a source of strength and inspiration.
📡 Telecom Breakthrough
A key highlight of the initiative is the commissioning of over 97,500 indigenous telecom towers, aimed at boosting mobile and internet connectivity in remote, rural, border, and Maoist-affected regions. The towers will connect 26,700 villages and serve over 20 lakh new subscribers, enhancing access to education, healthcare, and e-governance services.
🚆 Infrastructure & Innovation
PM Modi also flagged off the Amrit Bharat Express from Berhampur to Surat, inaugurated the Sambalpur City flyover, and laid the foundation stone for a semiconductor and ESDM park in Bhubaneswar. The expansion of eight IITs and the launch of a National Skill Development Programme further reinforce the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and innovation.
💡 Economic Reforms
Reflecting on the progress since the 2024 Assembly elections, Modi stated that Odisha is advancing rapidly under the “double-engine” governance model. He announced the launch of BSNL’s indigenous 4G services, positioning India among the top five nations with homegrown telecom technology.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the impact of new GST reforms, implemented nationwide from September 22, 2025, describing them as a “gift of savings” for families. He cited that households in Odisha now save Rs 15,000–Rs 20,000 annually on essential items compared to the pre-2014 tax regime.
🚜 Relief for Farmers
Highlighting Odisha’s agrarian roots, Modi noted that farmers now save Rs 40,000 on tractors, Rs 15,000 on paddy transplanters, Rs 10,000 on power tillers, and Rs 25,000 on threshers due to reduced GST rates. He affirmed the government’s commitment to lowering taxes on agricultural equipment and improving rural livelihoods.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw joined the event virtually from Surat, while Modi extended congratulations to the people of Odisha for embracing development and self-reliance.
RELATED STORY: CM Majhi Hails PM Modi’s Vision and Legacy at Jharsuguda Youth Conclave
PM Modi Lands in Jharsuguda to Launch Rs 60,000 Cr Development Drive
