President Droupadi Murmu today inaugurated several major developmental projects, including the foundation stones for three crucial railway lines—Bangriposi-Gorumahisani, Badamara-Chakulia, and Badampahar-Kendujhargarh. She also launched the construction of the Tribal Research and Development Center, Dandbose Airport, and the new building for the Rairangpur Sub-Divisional Hospital at a ceremony held in Rairangpur, Odisha, near her hometown.
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu expressed her heartfelt connection to the land of her birth. She emphasized that despite her responsibilities and a busy schedule, the love of the people of Odisha continuously draws her back. “The sacred and deep affection of the people of this region always resonates in my mind,” she said, adding that her motherland is ever-present in her thoughts and actions.
The President highlighted the transformative potential of the railway projects and the new airport. The three new railway lines are expected to significantly enhance connectivity across Odisha and neighboring states, facilitating transport, commerce, and business. These projects are particularly critical for regions like Chakulia and Mayurbhanj, which have long awaited infrastructural development to unlock their economic potential.
The Dandbose Airport, once operational, is set to improve air connectivity in the region, opening doors to increased tourism and trade. Additionally, the new 100-bed hospital building at Rairangpur will strengthen healthcare infrastructure, providing better medical facilities to the local population.
President Murmu praised the Government of India’s efforts in accelerating the development of Odisha. She underscored the importance of various welfare schemes aimed at improving education, skill development, health, tourism, connectivity, and transport.
A notable highlight of her speech was the establishment of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) to uplift tribal children. President Murmu expressed her joy over the launch of more than 100 new EMRS in Odisha, including 23 in her native Mayurbhanj district. She expressed confidence that these schools would empower tribal children with quality education, enabling them to make significant contributions to society and the nation.
The inauguration of these projects marks a significant milestone in the socio-economic development of Odisha. Local residents and tribal communities have expressed hope that the enhanced connectivity, improved healthcare, and quality education will bring new opportunities and a better quality of life.
The railway projects will connect remote areas, reducing travel time and costs while promoting trade and tourism. Farmers, small business owners, and artisans in the region are expected to benefit immensely from improved market access.
The new 100-bed hospital at Rairangpur is poised to address the long-standing healthcare challenges faced by the region, offering advanced medical services and reducing the need for residents to travel to far-off cities for treatment.
President Murmu’s focus on grassroots development reflects her unwavering commitment to uplifting her homeland. The Tribal Research and Development Center, another key project, aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of Odisha’s tribal communities while equipping them with the tools to thrive in the modern era.
