Odia Pride at the Heart of Growth
On Independence Day, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi delivered a spirited address outlining a bold vision for the state’s future. Rooted in Odia heritage, his roadmap placed Lord Jagannath’s culture at the centre of Odisha’s growth. “Odia pride is nothing without Jagannath culture,” Majhi declared, unveiling plans to transform Puri’s Jagannath Dham into a premier spiritual and cultural destination. The blueprint includes elevating Puri to a major city, establishing a Sri Jagannath Museum, library, study centre, interpretation centre, and a marine life park. He also stressed the need to use the Odia language in all official work to preserve cultural identity.

Mahapurush Adarsh Gram Yojana to Honour Legends
Majhi announced the Mahapurush Adarsh Gram Yojana, aimed at developing the birthplaces of eminent Odia personalities into model villages. “These great figures embody Odia pride, yet their homes have been neglected. This initiative will be our tribute to them,” he said.

Accountability and People-Centric Governance
Reaffirming his zero-tolerance stance on irregularities, Majhi said his administration had conducted 14 major public grievance meetings, resolving most of the 20,000 complaints received. “This is truly a people’s government,” he asserted, warning that no official—junior or senior—would be shielded from accountability.

Green Mission in Sync with PM’s Vision
Aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, Majhi pledged to plant 75 lakh saplings this year to mark Modi’s 75 years. He called upon citizens, especially women, to participate in the drive, framing it as a heartfelt gift to the Prime Minister.

‘36 for 36’ Plan for Economic Ascent
Envisioning the next decade as “Odisha’s time,” Majhi set an ambitious target: by 2036, Odisha should rank among the top five Indian states, with its economy growing from $50 trillion to $150 trillion by 2047. The government’s “36 for 36” initiative—36 developmental projects to commemorate 100 years of statehood—will drive progress across all sectors.

Honouring Heroes and Preserving Harmony
Majhi announced a police memorial to honour officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, recognising their role in safeguarding peace and unity. Urging responsible dissent, he warned against actions that harm the environment. Quoting an Odia proverb, he reminded citizens to remain steadfast and united for the state’s progress, calling their collective spirit “gunduchi musha.”

A Closing Prayer for Odisha’s Prosperity
Majhi concluded with a prayer to Lord Jagannath for the well-being of Odisha and its people, expressing faith that the resilient Odia spirit will continue to thrive with divine blessings.

The post Mohan Majhi’s Independence Day Vision: Odia Pride, Jagannath Culture, and a Roadmap to 2036 appeared first on Odisha Connect.