Youth must draw inspiration from the timeless ideals of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das to play a pivotal role in building a prosperous Odisha and a developed India by 2036, stated Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the state-level birth anniversary celebration of Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das held today at Jayadev Bhavan.
Paying profound tributes to the legendary reformer, Chief Minister Majhi reflected on Gopabandhu’s sacrifices, selfless service, patriotism, and literary contributions. He emphasized that Gopabandhu was not merely an individual, but a grand institution—a living symbol of national consciousness and Odia identity (Odia Asmita).
Addressing the youth, CM Majhi urged them to adopt Gopabandhu’s spirit of service and actively contribute to nation-building. “Youth should look beyond personal achievements and recognize their obligations toward society. True fulfillment lies not in living solely for oneself, but in bringing smiles to the faces of others and dedicating oneself to the service of the state, just as Pandit Gopabandhu did,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister highlighted that Gopabandhu’s core vision was serving the poor, neglected, and last-mile individuals in unreachable areas. In alignment with these values, the state government is executing key social welfare programs, including:
- Free Education: Coverage spanning from Kindergarten to Post-Graduation (KG to PG).
- Targeted Welfare Schemes: ‘Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana’ and ‘Mukhyamantri Annapurna Yojana’ (providing an additional 5 kg of rice free of cost).
- Healthcare & Social Security: ‘Ayushman Bharat – Gopabandhu Jana Arogya Yojana’ alongside saturation-level coverage under the Madhu Babu Pension Yojana.
To preserve Odia language, culture, and heritage in line with Gopabandhu’s vision, CM Majhi announced major infrastructure and preservation projects:
- Establishment of the Odia Asmita Bhavan.
- Upgradation of the Odia University in Satyabadi.
- Bakula Bana Redevelopment: Rejuvenation project allocated at an investment of ₹90 crore.
- Satyabadi Region Development: Comprehensive infrastructural projects worth approximately ₹500 crore dedicated to Gopabandhu’s birthplace.
The event featured addresses by several key dignitaries.
Ekamra MLABabu Singh urged the younger generation to walk the path shown by Gopabandhu to foster a progressive state.
Brahmagiri MLA Upasana Mohapatra emphasized the enduring relevance of Gopabandhu’s philosophy in modern times.
Satyabadi MLA Om Prakash Mishra stated that a person’s deeds and legacy define their true identity, expressing immense pride in representing Gopabandhu’s sacred birthplace.
Pipili MLA Ashrit Pattnayak recalled Gopabandhu’s selfless dedication to the underprivileged and marginalized.
Khallikote MLA Purna Chandra Sethi expressed that Pandit Gopabandhu Das remains a source of pride not just for Puri district, but for all of humanity and Odisha.
The event witnessed the presence of numerous dignitaries, intellectuals, and media representatives. Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary of the Information & Public Relations Department, delivered the welcome address, while Dr. Bijay Ketan Upadhyaya, Secretary of the Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department, offered the vote of thanks.
