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Prez Murmu and PM Modi visit Pahadpur village in Odisha on President's birthday (Img-X)
Rairangpur: President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday visited Pahadpur village in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, where they paid respects to the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of tribal communities by offering prayers at the Santhali Jahera and Ho Jahera sacred groves.
The visit held special significance as it coincided with President Droupadi Murmu’s birthday, which was celebrated in her native region of Mayurbhanj. Local residents, tribal community members, students, and dignitaries joined in extending greetings and best wishes to the President during the occasion.
The President and the Prime Minister also visited the Skill Centre and Pahadpur School, interacting with students, trainers, and local residents. During the visit, they reviewed initiatives aimed at strengthening education, skill development, capacity building, and livelihood opportunities in rural and tribal areas.
The high-profile visit coincided with a major development programme in the state. Prime Minister Modi later attended a public event in Rairangpur marking the completion of two years of the Odisha government. The programme, themed “Vikas Ra Dhara, Odisha Sara”, showcased the state’s development achievements and future growth plans.
According to an official release, projects worth more than Rs 47,600 crore were inaugurated and foundation stones laid across several sectors, including energy, industrial infrastructure, road connectivity, drinking water supply, healthcare, education, tourism, and irrigation.
Among the key projects unveiled were the 600 MW Upper Indravati Pumped Storage Project and the expansion of the IB Thermal Power Station with two additional 660 MW units. The Bharat Coal Gasification and Chemicals Limited project in Jharsuguda is expected to promote cleaner utilisation of domestic coal while reducing dependence on imports.
Other major initiatives include a municipal solid waste-based compressed biogas plant in Bhubaneswar, a new bridge over the Kathajodi River connecting Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, multiple road and irrigation projects, and the construction of a 300-bed district hospital in Boudh.
The programme also witnessed the inauguration of several infrastructure projects, including bypass roads, railway multi-tracking works, sports facilities, and tribal research centres. These initiatives are aimed at accelerating inclusive growth, improving connectivity, enhancing energy security, and generating employment opportunities across Odisha.
Officials said the projects reflect the government's commitment to balanced regional development while preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Odisha’s tribal communities.
