Dhenkanal: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik embarked upon district visit on 22 December to start with Mahima Gadi in Dhenkanal district. 5T and Nabin Odisha Chief V K Pandian accompanied Shri Patnaik.
Keeping an eye on 2024 Elections, CM started his District Visit from a Reglious Center and he along with Shri Pandian will cover all the 30 Districts.
Chief Minister laid the Foundation Stone for the Upasana Pitha, Mahima Gadi Sunya Mandap and Peripheral Development of the Temple.
The State Government has already sanctioned Rs 112 crore for the redevelopment and renovation of the temple and the project will be completed within 3 years, CM said.
This was the first district visit of the Chief Minister accompanied by 5T and Nabin Odisha Chairman VK Pandian after he joined the Governing Biju Janata Dal (BJD).
The Mahima Gadi temple at Joronda is one of the most religious places in the state.
Shri Pandian as Secretary 5T had visited Mahima Gadi on 29 May and directed officials to prepare a Master Plan for its redevelopment and renovation.
Official sources said the Master Plan includes reconstruction of Samadhi temple, prayer house, walls, restoration of pond, repair of bus stand, reconstruction of Kaupini Dhari Mahima Samaj Pitha, construction of a primary health centre and all-round beautification of the area.
The project will also have various facilities for saints, devotees and guests, said an official.
All steps will be taken to make it a major pilgrimage and tourist centre of the district, said Prafulla Kumar Mallick, Minister Works.