Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing party workers at a gathering near Biju Patnaik International Airport on Friday, lauded their efforts in Odisha’s development and expressed gratitude to the people of the state.
The Prime Minister’s arrival was met with jubilant celebrations as thousands of BJP supporters cheered, danced, and raised slogans of “Modi Modi.” Responding with “Jai Jagannath,” Modi began his address in Odia, acknowledging the people’s love and the historic significance of Bhubaneswar, referred to as Ekamra Kshetra.
“I am indebted for the overwhelming love and affection. I see a flood of people here, and I bow to the soil of Lingaraj,” said Modi. He emphasized that although his visit was primarily for a government program, he could not miss the opportunity to meet and address the people of Odisha.
Highlighting the BJP’s recent electoral victories in Maharashtra and Haryana, Modi credited the unwavering commitment of party workers across the country. “Odisha paved the way for our winning streak earlier this year. Our karyakartas worked tirelessly in the remotest villages, even when we were not in power. This trust and effort have led to the party’s success,” he asserted.
Modi also spoke on how back to back events are being organised on the Odisha soil. "Apart from the DG-IG meet, Puri will be host to Navy Day celebrations on December 4 and then Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas in January 2025. The state will be at the centre of the entire Pacific region. It will be held with more pomp and show than the G-20 meet. Make it grand and let Odisha be an example of cleanliness and beauty for the entire world," he added.
Modi emphasised Odisha’s pivotal role in Mission Purvodaya and highlighted key initiatives driving the state’s progress.
“We have introduced transformative schemes like Subhadra Yojana for women’s empowerment, chosen a woman from Odisha as President, and included 13 tribal communities in the PM Jan Man Yojana. Ekalavya schools are empowering tribal youth with quality education,” Modi stated.
He underlined the fulfillment of his promises, citing the ₹5,800 crore sanctioned to ensure ₹3,100 MSP for farmers, boosting rural prosperity. “With the double-engine government, Odisha is witnessing unprecedented development across sectors,” he said, pointing to ₹1,000 crore in new investment proposals, a thriving startup ecosystem, and NEP implementation.
Praising Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s grassroots engagement, Modi said, “For the first time, Odisha’s villagers saw a Chief Minister visiting their communities personally. This connection has deepened trust and driven growth.”