In a significant move aimed at boosting connectivity and development in Odisha’s tribal regions, President Droupadi Murmu laid the foundation stones for three major rail projects in Mayurbhanj district. The occasion was marked by speeches from senior officials, including Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, who highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dedication to the overall growth of the state.
Key Rail Projects to Transform Connectivity Inaugurated By President Murmu
On Saturday, President Murmu performed the Bhoomi Pujan for three crucial rail lines: Bangiriposi-Gorumahisani, Budhamara-Chakulia, and Badampahar-Keonjhar. The projects, which have been awaited for decades, are set to play a transformative role in the connectivity and development of tribal areas in Odisha.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared details about the projects and their financial implications. He stated, “Today, President Droupadi Murmu performed the Bhoomi Pujan for these three projects, work on them was going on for a very long time. The Bangiriposi-Gorumahisani project is worth Rs 2550 crores, the Budhamara-Chakulia project is worth Rs 2106 crores, and the Badampahar-Keonjhar project is worth Rs 1649 crores. These three projects are meant to improve connectivity in tribal areas of the region.”
Vaishnaw emphasized that these initiatives were sanctioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the state’s progress, stating, “The Prime Minister is committed to the overall development of Odisha.”
Additional Developmental Projects and Their Impact
President Murmu’s visit also marked the foundation laying for other key infrastructure projects. These included the Tribal Research and Development Centre, Dandbose Airport, and a new building for the Sub-Divisional Hospital in Rairangpur, Odisha. The new hospital building is expected to provide better healthcare services with its 100-bed facility.
Addressing the audience, President Murmu expressed confidence that the new rail projects and airport would significantly boost transportation, commerce, and business in the region. “These developments will play an essential role in improving the infrastructure and economy of our tribal areas,” she said.
President Murmu Highlights Education and Skill Development
In addition to transportation and healthcare, President Murmu also highlighted the importance of education and skill development as part of the broader development strategy. She spoke about the Eklavya Model Residential Schools being established to educate tribal children. She noted that over 100 new Eklavya schools are being set up across Odisha, including 23 schools in Mayurbhanj district.
President Murmu said, “I am happy to note that more than 100 new Eklavya Model Residential Schools are being established in Odisha, including 23 schools in the Mayurbhanj district.” She expressed optimism that these schools would empower tribal children with education that would enable them to contribute meaningfully to society and the nation’s progress.
Government’s Purvodaya Vision for Odisha
President Murmu praised the “Purvodaya” vision of the Government of India, which aims to accelerate the development of the entire region. Through various welfare schemes focusing on education, health, skill development, tourism, and transportation, the government is working to uplift the lives of people in Odisha.
She noted, “Odisha is getting benefitted from the Purvodaya vision of the Government of India. The development of the entire region is being accelerated through various welfare schemes including education, skill development, health, tourism connectivity, and transportation facilities.”
