Rairakhol/ Naktideul: In a major infrastructure push for western Odisha, 48 development projects worth around Rs 194 crore were inaugurated and their foundation stones laid in the Rairakhol constituency on Sunday, officials said.
Sambalpur MP and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said the projects aim to accelerate all-round development in the region by strengthening key sectors such as education, health, road connectivity and agriculture. He said the initiatives would bring significant socio-economic transformation in Rairakhol, Naktideul and Jujumura blocks in the coming years.
Addressing a public programme at Naktideul, Pradhan described Sambalpur as a land of rich cultural heritage and heroic struggle. He recalled the sacrifice of freedom fighter Madhu Gartia, who resisted British rule and laid down his life for the country. “His courage and commitment remain an inspiration,” he said.
The Minister informed that 17 projects worth Rs 9.17 crore were dedicated to the people of Rairakhol, Naktideul and Jujumura, while foundation stones were laid for 31 new projects valued at Rs 184.69 crore.
Among the key initiatives announced, the development of the ‘Bhima Mandali’ Eco Heritage Site will be undertaken at a cost of Rs 8.30 crore. A new Community Health Centre building at Naktideul, including a BPHU unit, will be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 18 crore.
To promote sports and youth engagement, a mini stadium will be developed at a cost of Rs 16.10 crore. In the transport sector, the upgradation of the Rampur–Girishchandrapur road under Rairakhol block, costing Rs 47.24 crore, is being expedited to improve regional connectivity.
Other works include the Sub-Divisional Veterinary Hospital at Rairakhol, a veterinary dispensary at Charmal, improvement of the Chhamunda–Boudh and NH-6 to Marangabahal roads in Jujumura block, and the development of new market complexes at Sarapali and Jamjori.
Calling Naktideul an agriculturally important region, Pradhan said it has been identified as an ‘Aspirational Block’ by the Government of India. He said efforts are underway to expand dairy farming, vegetable cultivation and mango farming to improve farmers’ incomes and ensure financial self-reliance.
He reiterated that the overall development of Rairakhol, Naktideul and Jujumura remains a priority. The Minister also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Odisha government for their support in implementing development projects in the region.
Odisha Rural Development, Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik and Rairakhol MLA Prasanna Acharya were also present at the programme.
