Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday stressed the need for collective efforts by the government, citizens, industry, educationists, civil society and the media to shape the state’s future and ensure inclusive development.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Odisha ‘Abhyudaya Conclave 2026’ as the chief guest, the Governor said Odisha must advance in a manner that enables young people to pursue their aspirations with confidence, empowers women to lead with dignity, provides children with greater educational opportunities and ensures development reaches the last person in society.
The two-day conclave, organised by Odia daily ‘The Sakala’ and ‘Nandighosh TV’, comes at a crucial juncture as Odisha moves towards the goal of Viksit Odisha@2036, he said.
Kambhampati emphasised the need to move beyond the extraction of mineral resources and focus on value addition, manufacturing, innovation, technology, entrepreneurship and quality employment. Odisha’s mineral wealth, he said, should serve as a foundation for human development and long-term prosperity.
The Governor appreciated the state government, led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, for pursuing Odisha’s development in accordance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India.
Describing education as the foremost priority for development, Kambhampati called for establishing centres of excellence dedicated to knowledge, research, innovation and leadership. He said the younger generation should be equipped not merely to look for employment but also to become job creators.
He also underlined the importance of women-led development, calling for wider opportunities for women in education, technology, finance, property ownership, entrepreneurship and leadership.
Referring to Odisha’s achievements in disaster management, the Governor advocated a transition from conventional disaster response to a comprehensive disaster management approach based on science and technology. He stressed the importance of early warning systems, resilient infrastructure and community participation in reducing disaster risks.
Kambhampati also highlighted Odisha’s growing stature in sports and called for quality sports infrastructure in every district, along with greater opportunities to identify and nurture sporting talent among children and young people.
A developed Odisha, he said, should not be judged solely by economic indicators and physical infrastructure, but also by the quality of education, dignity and empowerment of women, community resilience, public health and the confidence of its youth.
The Governor also urged the media to play a constructive role by creating public awareness, highlighting shortcomings and showcasing the achievements of young entrepreneurs, farmers, women entrepreneurs, sportspersons and scientists. Such stories, he said, can go beyond informing people and help inspire them to bring about positive change.
Rajya Sabha MP and Chairman of ‘Nandighosh TV’ and ‘The Sakala’ Manas Mangaraj and The Sakala’s printer and publisher Amit Mallick also addressed the gathering.
