Bhubaneswar, March 5 (NationPress) Odisha's Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, paid homage to the iconic Biju Patnaik on Thursday, recognizing him as a beacon of Odia pride who dedicated his life to the advancement of Odisha, transcending political boundaries.

During a state-level celebration commemorating the 110th anniversary of the legendary leader's birth, CM Majhi emphasized that Biju Patnaik remains not only a historical figure but a continual source of inspiration for all Odias, serving as the architect of modern Odisha.

In his heartfelt tribute, CM Majhi remarked, “Biju Patnaik was more than just an individual; he embodied an institution and a philosophy. His life was defined by courage, foresight, and patriotism.”

He elaborated on Patnaik's aspirations for Odisha, aiming to foster industrial prosperity, create job opportunities, provide essential services to the underprivileged, empower women, and enhance the Panchayati Raj system for rural upliftment.

“The vision of ‘Samruddha Odisha’ encapsulates these aspirations. Achieving a ‘Samruddha Odisha’ is essential to realizing Biju Babu’s dreams. Our administration is devoted to fulfilling Biju Babu's vision by building a prosperous Odisha,” he asserted.

CM Majhi asserted that to actualize the visionary leader's goals, the state government is fortifying the Panchayati Raj framework and embarking on various projects to ensure access to drinking water, roads, electricity, and educational facilities in rural areas. He highlighted a historic budget allocation of ₹34,166 crore for the Panchayati Raj Department for the 2026–27 fiscal year, showcasing the state's increasing economic capacity.

Referring to Patnaik’s dream of an industrially advanced Odisha, Majhi noted that the government is now developing infrastructure to hasten industrialization.

In the past 20 months, Odisha has successfully attracted investments exceeding ₹20 lakh crore, thereby opening up vast employment avenues for the youth.

The Chief Minister underscored the double-engine government’s commitment to realizing Biju Patnaik’s vision. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, efforts are underway to transform Odisha into a pivotal industrial center in eastern India. Majhi also recounted Patnaik's significant contributions to India’s freedom movement, including his involvement during the Quit India Movement and the Kashmir crisis of 1947.

In conclusion, the Chief Minister urged everyone to work collectively towards the prosperity of Odisha and uphold the pride of the Odia community by embracing Biju Patnaik’s principles.