Odisha Gets a Boost: PM Modi Launches Projects Worth ₹68,000 Crore in Sambalpur

Odisha: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for a multitude of infrastructure projects worth a staggering ₹68,000 crore in Sambalpur, Odisha, on Saturday, February 3rd, 2024. This marks a significant step forward in the state's development journey, encompassing sectors like education, railways, roads, electricity, and petroleum.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said that today is a significant occasion for the development journey of Odisha as development projects worth approximately Rs 70,000 crores are launched today in the sectors of education, railway, roads, electricity and petroleum. PM Modi underlined that the people of Odisha belonging to the poor section, labourers, working class, business owners and farmers among all other sections of society will reap the benefits of today’s development projects. He further added that it will also create thousands of new employment opportunities for the youth of Odisha.

The Prime Minister expressed delight in announcing the government’s decision to confer the ex-deputy Prime Minister of India, Shri Lal Krishna Advani with the Bharat Ratna. PM Modi lauded the unparalleled contributions of Shri Advani as the Deputy Prime Minister, Home Minister and Information and Broadcasting Minister of India as well as decades of experience as a distinguished and loyal Member of Parliament. “Honouring Advani ji with the Bharat Ratna is a symbol that the nation never forgets those who dedicate their lives to its service”, PM Modi asserted. The Prime Minister thanked his good fortune for the love, blessings and guidance shown by Shri L K Advani upon him, and prayed for his long life as he congratulated him on behalf of all citizens.

Key Highlights:

The much-anticipated permanent campus of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur, built at a cost of ₹402 crore, was unveiled, marking a pivotal moment in Odisha's education landscape.

The Prime Minister flagged off the Puri-Sonepur-Puri weekly express train, enhancing connectivity between the coastal and western regions. Additionally, the 168 km Sambalpur-Talcher railway line doubling and the Jhartarbha-Sonepur new railway line were dedicated, boosting rail infrastructure.

The Dhamra-Angul pipeline section of the Jagdishpur-Haldia and Bokaro-Dhamra pipeline project was inaugurated, and the foundation stone for the Neyveli Lignite Corporation's Talabira Thermal power project, valued at over ₹27,000 crore, was laid virtually.

Three National Highway projects worth ₹2,110 crore were inaugurated, improving road connectivity within the state.The foundation stone for the redevelopment of Sambalpur Railway Station was laid, promising a modernized and improved travel experience.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized that these projects will significantly benefit various sections of society, including the poor, laborers, working class, business owners, and farmers. He further highlighted the creation of thousands of new employment opportunities for the state's youth.

This significant investment in infrastructure is expected to propel Odisha's development journey, fostering education, improving connectivity, boosting energy generation, and enhancing transportation networks. The establishment of IIM Sambalpur is particularly noteworthy, as it aims to empower Odisha's youth with world-class management education, potentially shaping future business leaders and entrepreneurs.

The event was attended by dignitaries like Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, and Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Ashwini Vaishnav.The Prime Minister acknowledged the challenges faced during the pandemic but commended the dedication and hard work behind the completion of IIM Sambalpur.This news can be further enriched by including specific details about the expected impact of each project on various sectors and communities within Odisha.