Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Sunday launched development projects worth Rs 633 crore in Subarnapur and provided interest-free loans totaling Rs 126 crore to 1,848 self-help groups, emphasising that women are key partners in Odisha’s growth and rural transformation.
Addressing a large gathering at the Subhadra Shakti Mela, Majhi said the self-help group women are not only beneficiaries but also active contributors to the state’s development. “Their hard work, discipline, and entrepreneurial spirit have brought significant changes to the rural economy,” he said.
The Chief Minister began his visit by paying homage at the Samadhi Peeth of Santha Kabi Bhima Bhoi in Khaliapali, where he interacted with members of the management committee and saints. He announced that the Samadhi Peeth, which honors the poet-saint who guided Odisha’s social and spiritual consciousness, would be developed at a cost of Rs 35 crore.
Among the Rs 633-crore projects unveiled were the construction of a river reservoir at Maraduguchha (Rs 557 crore), an open-air theatre at the Culture House (Rs 11.23 crore), renovation of Gandhi Stadium (Rs 25.28 crore), and improvement of Block Chowk Junction Road (Rs 4.23 crore).
In addition, Majhi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for 58 other developmental projects worth Rs 276 crore. Of these, 24 projects had foundation stones laid at Rs 173 crore, while 34 projects were inaugurated at Rs 103 crore. The initiatives aim to strengthen infrastructure in roads, drinking water, irrigation, education, health, rural development, and urban development.
Highlighting the role of women in the district’s progress, the Chief Minister handed over interest-free loans worth Rs 126 crore to self-help groups. “This financial assistance will empower women-led enterprises, promote self-reliance, and enhance livelihoods,” he said.
Majhi also emphasised the government’s inclusive development strategy.
“People from all walks of life—poor, tribals, women, and youth—are being empowered. In rural areas, we are improving roads, drinking water supply, irrigation, and housing facilities. In urban areas, civic amenities and public services are being strengthened. Industrial projects worth over Rs 1,000 crore have already been implemented in Subarnapur, and the district has immense potential in agriculture, handicrafts, culture, and tourism. Our government will continue its efforts to harness this potential and bring sustainable prosperity,” he said.
Birmaharajpur MLA Raghunath Jagadala lauded the Chief Minister’s initiatives, saying, “In a short time since coming to power, the CM has launched numerous projects in Subarnapur and is committed to developing agriculture, irrigation, and tourism sectors.”
District Collector Nrupraj Sahu delivered the welcome address, while District Chief Development Officer Aswini Kumar Meher proposed the vote of thanks.
