Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday outlined an ambitious roadmap to transform the state into one of India’s top five developed states by 2036, placing strong emphasis on women empowerment, quality education, healthcare access, and technology-driven growth.
The Chief Minister unfurled the national flag at Barabati Stadium during the 77th Republic Day state-level celebrations, witnessed by large crowds and colourful parades. In his address, Majhi paid tribute to India’s constitutional values and highlighted Odisha’s development journey under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Vision for a Developed Odisha by 2036
Marking 19 months of his government in office, Majhi said Odisha has actively benefited from India’s rapid national growth. He reaffirmed his commitment to building an inclusive and prosperous state where development reaches every citizen, district, and region.
“Our government is working tirelessly to fulfil the aspirations of the people, guided by the principles of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, and Sabka Prayas,” he said.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of adopting new and emerging technologies to keep Odisha competitive, while focusing on four priority groups—the poor, farmers, youth, and women.
Education Reforms and Infrastructure Expansion
On education, Majhi announced major reforms aligned with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which has been fully implemented in Odisha. He noted that over 14% of the state budget is allocated to education, focusing on infrastructure development and teaching quality.
He cited the foundation stone laying of the Godavarish Mishra Adarsh Primary School in Banpur as a milestone, stating the institution will serve as a national model ensuring rural students can compete with their urban counterparts.
Strengthening Healthcare Access
Highlighting healthcare achievements, the CM said the integration of Ayushman Bharat – PM Jan Arogya Yojana with Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana has extended world-class medical coverage to nearly 3.5 crore people across the state. He also mentioned the rollout of Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana for senior citizens.
Women Empowerment at the Core of Governance
Women empowerment featured prominently in the speech. Quoting the Sanskrit verse “Yatra Naryastu Pujyante, Ramante Tatra Devah”, Majhi said Odisha’s development is inseparable from the progress of its women.
He highlighted the immediate approval of the Subhadra Yojana in the government’s first cabinet meeting, noting that over one crore women have already benefited within eight months. The current budget allocates ₹89,862 crore—nearly 30% of total expenditure—towards women-centric initiatives, covering education, health, transport, and livelihoods.
Odisha has also emerged as a national leader in the Lakhpati Didi scheme, reinforcing women’s economic self-reliance.
Zero Tolerance on Crimes Against Women
Reiterating a zero-tolerance policy on crimes against women, Majhi pointed to a sharp improvement in conviction rates—from 9.2% in 2022 and 6.9% in 2023 to 41% in the first half of 2025, crossing 62% in June.
“Those who commit crimes against women have only one place—the jail. There will be no political protection,” the Chief Minister asserted.
