Bhubaneswar: On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the importance of self-reliance and supporting local products. He urged citizens to adopt the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative and support local weavers and artisans to preserve the state’s rich cultural heritage.
The CM also highlighted Odisha’s commitment to becoming a prosperous state by 2036, aligning with India’s growth trajectory under PM Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Taking to his X handle, he wrote: “Under the leadership of Honorable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi, India has become the world’s fourth-largest economy and is now moving towards becoming a developed nation. During this time, our state Odisha is also committed to becoming a prosperous state by 2036. To achieve this goal, we need to be self-reliant because only then can we contribute to the country’s and our state’s development journey. On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, I know the importance of self-reliance and Swadeshi (indigenous) products. I purchased handloom fabrics for my family from Boyanika. Inspired by the Swadeshi movement, I urge everyone to adopt the ‘Vocal for Local” initiative. Supporting local weavers and artisans is our collective responsibility, and it will help preserve our rich cultural heritage. Let’s support Swadeshi products and make Odisha strong and self-reliant.”
In a video message, Majhi said, “I remember that Modi ji delivered his first Mann Ki Baat on October 3, 2014, which coincided with the sacred Vijayadashami. In his first Mann Ki Baat, the day after Gandhi Jayanti, he appealed to the nation to wear khadi clothes. In 2014, Modi ji endeavored to explain khadi in a broader sense, where khadi represents Swadeshi, and its true interpretation is self-reliant India. During the Covid pandemic, Modi ji effectively conveyed the importance of “Vocal for Local” through the challenges of the time. The nation’s beautiful future is intertwined with khadi, Swadeshi, Vocal for Local, self-reliant India, and ultimately, a developed India. A developed India will not fear tariffs; no one will be able to intimidate us with tariffs. Our economy will be completely self-sufficient.”
Majhi lastly said, “Our Lord Shri Jagannath is the pioneer of ‘Vocal for Local’ and Swadeshi. Even today, potatoes and tomatoes are not allowed in the Sreemandir. Lord Jagannath wears only handloom clothes made by Odia people. Symbolically, I purchased handloom fabrics today. However, I urge the people of Odisha and the nation to become united in the mantra of ‘Vocal for Local’ and Swadeshi to build a developed India.”
