Bhubaneswar: Odisha cabinet, chaired by chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi, on Tuesday passed a resolution congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 25 years in public office as head of govt.Addressing the media after the cabinet meeting, Majhi described Modi’s political and administrative journey as “rare and unique”, and said the cabinet lauded his contribution to the country’s development and his “special affection” for Odisha.“The people of the country have reposed unwavering faith in his leadership and spirit of service,” Majhi said, adding that the PM’s 12-year tenure since 2014 has ushered in major changes in infrastructure, industrialisation, self-reliance, social welfare and economic development.The chief minister said Modi’s focus on women, farmers, the poor and youth has helped strengthen the country and expand access to govt services in rural areas. He also credited the PM’s leadership during challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, terrorism and global geopolitical instability.Highlighting Odisha’s development under the Modi govt, Majhi said the state has received significant support in rail, road, port, airport and industrial infrastructure projects. He cited the construction of over 2,200 km of railway lines since 2014, the completion of railway electrification, progress on the Khurda Road-Balangir rail line, redevelopment of stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and the introduction of six Vande Bharat trains serving the state.He also referred to major infrastructure projects, including the Capital Region Ring Road, proposed coastal highway, development of Jharsuguda airport, a deep-sea port at Bahuda Muhana, and shipbuilding and repair cluster in Kendrapada.Majhi said Odisha remained central to the PM’s Purvodaya vision and that the Centre was extending support in sectors such as education, healthcare, technology and welfare. He also highlighted initiatives such as the establishment of IISER Berhampur, IIM Sambalpur, expansion of Rourkela Steel Plant, the proposed green data centre in Bhubaneswar and fertiliser production through coal gasification at Talcher.The chief minister said Modi has visited Odisha eight times since the BJP govt assumed office in the state and has consistently guided its development agenda.Referring to the state’s long-term planning, Majhi said the PM had supported Odisha’s Vision 2036 and Vision 2047 programmes aimed at transforming the state into a developed and prosperous region by the centenary year of its formation.“The people of Odisha are grateful for the PM’s support. His special regard for the state has strengthened our confidence in achieving the goal of a prosperous Odisha,” Majhi said.
