Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday participated in the Sindoor Yatra at Master Canteen Square, held to mark the success of Operation Sindoor.
The yatra, organized by the Mission Shakti Department, served as a powerful tribute to India’s armed forces and a celebration of women’s empowerment across the state.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Majhi stated, “Operation Sindoor is more than just a name. It is a unique fusion of the Indian Army’s valour and the dignity of Indian womanhood. Through this yatra, we honour our brave soldiers who safeguard the nation.”
The march, which began from Master Canteen and concluded at Rama Devi University, witnessed the participation of thousands of women, symbolizing collective strength, unity, and patriotism. Notable participants included Sergeant Lieutenant Commander of Indian Navy Ananya Dalabehera and Priyadarshini Acharya, wife of Pahalgaon martyr Prashant Satpathy, both of whom walked in solidarity with the cause.
The Chief Minister drew symbolic parallels between the sindoor and national pride: “When an Indian woman applies sindoor, it represents her resolve to protect her family. It symbolizes both danger to enemies and victory for our people. That is why Prime Minister Modi aptly named this mission Operation Sindoor.”
He went on to praise the role of women in the armed forces, citing the examples of Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, calling them icons of modern Indian womanhood. “I see the same courage and brilliance in all of you today,” he said, while highlighting the Odisha government’s commitment to women’s empowerment through various schemes and opportunities.
The event was graced by prominent dignitaries including Speaker Surama Padhi, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, Narla MLA Manorama Mohanty, Hindol MLA Seema Nayak, Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Mission Shakti Commissioner Shalini Pandit, Director Monika Priyadarshini, and social worker Pinky Pradhan, among others.
The Sindoor Yatra stood as a vibrant display of patriotism, respect for the armed forces, and a strong message of empowerment for women in Odisha.
