Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and dedicated projects worth over Rs 68,000 crore in Sambalpur, Odisha. These initiatives span the energy sector, including natural gas, coal, and power generation, along with crucial projects in road, railway, and higher education.
During the event, PM Modi emphasized the transformative impact on Odisha’s citizens, including those in the poor, labor, business, and farming sectors. He highlighted the creation of thousands of new job opportunities for the youth of Odisha through these projects.
One notable announcement was the conferment of the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, to former Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani. PM Modi praised Advani’s extensive contributions to various ministerial roles and decades of service as a dedicated Member of Parliament.
Focusing on education and skill development, PM Modi acknowledged the efforts to make Odisha an educational hub. He mentioned the establishment of modern institutes like IISER Berhampur, Bhubaneshwar’s Institute of Chemical Technology, and the newly inaugurated IIM Sambalpur.
PM Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting Odisha’s growth in sectors such as petroleum, railways, roads, and rural development. He highlighted significant investments in Odisha’s petroleum and petrochemicals sector, substantial railway budget increases, and extensive road construction.
The inauguration of key projects, including the Dhamra-Angul Pipeline Section and Nagpur-Jharsuguda Natural Gas Pipeline Section, aims to boost the energy sector and connect Odisha to the National Gas Grid.
Projects dedicated to the nation included power initiatives like NTPC Darlipali Super Thermal Power Station, NSPCL Rourkela PP-II Expansion Project, and NTPC Talcher Thermal Power Project. These projects are poised to provide low-cost power to Odisha and neighboring states.
Coal infrastructure projects, including First Mile Connectivity projects and the Ib Valley Washery, were inaugurated to enhance the quality and supply of dry fuel from Odisha.
Additionally, the Prime Minister unveiled three National Highways projects and laid the foundation stone for railway projects, contributing to improved connectivity and economic development in the region.
The event was attended by key dignitaries, including the Governor of Odisha, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, and Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Ashwini Vaishnaw.