PM Narendra Modi unveiled strategic vision at the Odisha Parba 2024
OdishaPlus Bureau
Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Sunday that initiatives are underway to position Odisha as a powerful, prosperous and rapidly developing state by the time it commemorates its centenary of statehood in 2036.
Speaking at the concluding event of the three-day Odisha Parba 2024 in New Delhi, the Prime Minister emphasized that by harnessing Odisha’s potential effectively, the state can achieve significant developmental milestones, benefiting from its strategic location that facilitates access to both domestic and international markets.
“Historically, Odisha served as a vital trade center for East and Southeast Asia. The state’s role in global value chains is expected to grow in the future. The government is also focused on enhancing exports from Odisha,” Modi remarked. “Our goal is to establish Odisha as a preferred destination for investors. Our administration is dedicated to improving the ease of doing business in the state. Through the Utkarsh Odisha initiative, we are working to boost investment”.
In the initial 100 days of the new government, investments totaling Rs 45,000 crore were sanctioned. “Today, Odisha possesses both a vision and a strategic plan for increased investment and job creation,” stated Modi, extending his congratulations to Chief Minister Mohan Majhi and his team. He emphasized Odisha’s significant potential for port-centric industrial growth, noting that trade will be bolstered through the development of ports at Dhamra, Gopalpur, Astaranga, Palur, and Subarnarekha.
Modi highlighted Odisha’s status as a mining and metallurgical hub in India, advocating for a focus on its strengths in the steel, aluminum, and energy sectors.
He also presented initiatives aimed at boosting the export of products such as turmeric, cashew, jute, cotton, oilseeds, and seafood, along with efforts to brand these goods for international markets. He further stated, “There was a time when the eastern region of India, including Odisha, was perceived as underdeveloped. However, I view this region as the driving force behind the nation’s progress”.
Odisha is currently receiving a budget allocation that is three times greater than it was a decade ago. This year, there has been a 30% increase in the budget outlay for the development of Odisha compared to the previous year. “Our objective is to transform Odisha into a robust, prosperous, and rapidly advancing state,” he remarked.
Modi emphasized that Odisha possesses vast potential for tourism and urban development, highlighting the necessity of a multifaceted approach to realize these opportunities. “The government is dedicated to establishing numerous vibrant and well-connected cities, as well as fostering new opportunities in Tier II cities, particularly in the western districts of Odisha, where the enhancement of infrastructure can generate new prospects,” he stated.
The Prime Minister underscored the necessity of adopting more innovative measures to promote Odisha’s identity on a global scale. He suggested that ‘Bali Yatra Day’ be established and celebrated to enhance the visibility of Bali Yatra and to elevate it on an international stage.
In a similar vein, he recommended the observance of ‘Odissi Day’ to honor Odissi dance, alongside potential celebrations dedicated to tribal heritages. He praised Odisha as the ‘abode of saints and scholars,’ commending its significant contributions to Indian culture and history.
He paid homage to notable figures and remarked that the state’s spiritual essence strengthens the values of inclusivity and resilience. He referenced Saint Poet Bhima Bhoi, stating, “Let my life fall into hell, but let the world be saved”.
Furthermore, PM Modi recognized President Droupadi Murmu for her influence in initiating welfare programs for tribal communities. He also emphasized the Subhadra Yojana, which aims to empower women in Odisha through financial support. “Odisha will advance only when its women advance,” he asserted.
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