Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the state-level Nuakhai Bhetghat ceremony in Sambalpur, where he emphasised the significance of the festival as a celebration of societal love, family bonding, and prosperity. He described Nuakhai as a festival that promotes unity, peace, and cooperation, and pays tribute to the hard work of farmers.
The Chief Minister announced that the state government would take measures to develop Sambalpur and its historical sites, including the Khinda freedom struggle site. He highlighted the government’s commitment to doubling or multiplying the income of farmer families and industrialising every district in the state.
Majhi also revealed plans to develop an industrial corridor from eastern Odisha to western Odisha, which would facilitate rapid and integrated growth. Additionally, he announced the development of a special tourism area in western Odisha, focusing on the Hirakud reservoir, Debrigarh forest, and nearby attractions.
The Chief Minister emphasised that Nuakhai is not just a festival but an identity that reflects the values of respecting nature, farmers, and family unity. He also mentioned that the government had declared Nuakhai a public holiday, respecting the sentiments of the people of western Odisha.
During his speech, Majhi highlighted his government’s commitment to people’s welfare, citing the recent Sambalpur grievance hearing where 88% of the 9,377 complaints received were resolved on the spot. He assured that his government would continue to work for the people, holding cabinet meetings in various districts if necessary.